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Jamaica - Queens - NYC

I’ve only just begun my explorations of Jamaica. I will be returning in the near future for a dedicated tour of the neighborhood, so please keep checking the Updates page and my YouTube channel!

Jamaica is a major neighborhood in central Queens. To its north is Jamaica Center, while South Jamaica is on the southern border. To the west, across the Van Wyck Expressway is South Richmond Hill, while St. Albans is to the east.

Jamaica slideshow (Coming Soon):

The Neighborhood

Technically speaking, Jamaica covers a much greater area of Queens than is shown here. However, due to its size (and history) as one of the largest settlements in Queens, it is helpful to differentiate between its various sections. As such, this section of Jamaica is the true heart of the neighborhood - where its many residents live and work.

Archer Street and the Long Island Railroad are to the north and Linden Boulevard is to the south. Major north-south arteries include the the Van Wyck Expressway, Sutphin Boulevard, Guy R Brewer Boulevard, Merrick Boulevard, and Dunkirk Street.

Jamaica, Queens

Jamaica is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood located in the southeastern section of Queens, New York City. It is a major transportation hub, with access to various train lines, including the Long Island Rail Road, which provides easy and quick access into Manhattan and Brooklyn. Jamaica Avenue is the main commercial strip in the neighborhood, filled with shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling a variety of goods. There are also several parks in the area, including Rufus King Park and St. Albans Park, offering residents a place for relaxation and recreation. With its bustling streets, rich cultural heritage, and convenient location, Jamaica is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

Jamaica, Queens, one of the largest neighborhoods in New York City, has a unique history that gave it its name. Its name stems from the ancient Native American word "Yameco," which means beaver in various Algonquian languages. European settlers originally arrived in Jamaica as early as the 1650s and were attracted to the rich soil and fresh water sources. The neighborhood was a prominent farming community in the early 18th century and eventually became an important transportation hub, providing stagecoach service to Brooklyn and Manhattan. With the arrival of the Long Island Rail Road in 1836, Jamaica's population grew rapidly. Today, Jamaica remains a bustling transportation hub and a diverse residential community, with a rich history and culture that continues to thrive.

Jamaica, Queens is a diverse neighborhood located in the easternmost part of Queens. The neighborhood is named after the Jameco Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. During the colonial era, English settlers acquired the land from the Native Americans and used it as farmland. In the late 19th century, Jamaica became a hub for transportation, with the construction of the Long Island Rail Road and several trolley lines. This led to the development of commercial areas and the population of the neighborhood greatly increased. During the mid-20th century, Jamaica experienced a decline in economic activity and social issues such as crime and poverty. However, in recent years the area has undergone revitalization efforts with an influx of businesses and new residents. Today, Jamaica remains a vibrant neighborhood rich in history and culture.

Jamaica, Queens: Exploring its Landmarks and Attractions

Jamaica, Queens is a vibrant neighborhood in New York City with a rich cultural history and endless landmarks and attractions to explore. Among the top landmarks in the area is the King Manor Museum, the former home of Rufus King, an influential politician and signer of the Constitution. History buffs will also enjoy visiting the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, which features rotating exhibits and performances from local artists. For nature lovers, the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is a must-see destination, boasting over 9,000 acres of protected wetlands and home to numerous bird and aquatic species. Finally, shoppers and foodies alike will appreciate the vibrant street markets along Jamaica Avenue, offering a wide selection of food, clothing, and other goods. With so much to see and do in Jamaica, Queens, it's easy to see why this neighborhood is considered a truly unique and special part of New York City.

Jamaica, Queens has been home to several famous individuals who have made a significant impact on various industries. One of the most iconic figures is the late rapper and entrepreneur, Christopher Wallace, also known as The Notorious B.I.G. He grew up in the Bedford-Stuyvesant area of Brooklyn but was born at St. Mary's Hospital in Jamaica, Queens. Another famous personality is Jordan Peele, a comedian, actor, writer, and director who started his career on Mad TV. He is known for his work on the popular television show, Key & Peele, and his critically acclaimed films Get Out and Us. Lastly, James E. Davis, a New York City Police Officer and later New York City Council member, hailed from Jamaica, Queens. He was passionate about gun violence prevention and made efforts to create safe havens for youth in vulnerable communities. Overall, these celebrities and leaders from Jamaica, Queens showcase the diverse talent and contributions that have come out of this New York City neighborhood.

Highlight Gallery (Coming Soon)

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters