Gourmet Tea for tea tastings. Or catch the bubble tea wave at branches of international powerhouses such as CoCo, Kung Fu, and Happy Lemon.

Flushing, beyond the well-known Main Street, is truly a wonder to explore. Take an afternoon to walk around the neighborhood, making stops in Murray Hill to try an array of authentic Korean BBQ dishes at Hahm Ji Bach, or the Hindu Temple Society of North America, whose Temple Canteen is a well-kept secret for delicious dosas. In fact, Flushing has a rich history of multicultural diversity. As the birthplace of religious freedom, it is home to many houses of worship representing almost every faith. When you emerge from the Main Street station, marvel at the iconic St. George’s Episcopal Church with more than 300 years of history. Close by is the Quaker Meeting House – the oldest house of worship in New York City and a National Historic Landmark. Break the other direction and explore the magnificent Free Synagogue of Flushing with its beautiful dome and stained glass windows. Across the street from the Meeting House is Flushing Town Hall, once the center of government for an independent town, now an important center for the diversity and interweaving of immigrant arts.

History buffs will be pleased to discover seven historic houses, many of which are within walking distance from one another. Stop by the Bowne House, Kingsland Homestead (the headquarters for the Queens Historical Society) and the Voelker Orth Museum, which has a beautiful Victorian garden and bird sanctuary. Another beloved landmark, the Lewis H. Latimer House Museum, celebrates the legacy of the African- American inventor who worked with Alexander Graham Bell on the telephone and Thomas A. Edison on the lightbulb. Come December, celebrate the festive season with an annual holiday historic house tour where each historic house offers tours, activities, crafts, seasonal displays and decorations.

Apart from fascinating historic architecture and cultural programming, visitors come from around the region to shop for unique products and services. Roosevelt Avenue is well-known for beauty shops lining the streets. Flushing is a one-of-a-kind destination that brings people from all walks of life together to create a truly international vibe.

For more recommendations and hidden gems, check out www. flushingfantastic.nyc.

Editor’s note: The neighborhood’s fantastic restaurants, hotels, performance arts venues, and historic houses are in other sections.

64 QUEENS IN YOUR POCKET • www.itsinqueens.com