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Museums
GREATER ASTORIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Chartered in 1985, the Greater Astoria Historical Society offers
such programs as lectures, community tours, exhibits, films,
debates, and reading series.
Inside scoop: The society is credited as an historical adviser for
the 2013 film The Great Gatsby, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
The society’s work helped director Baz Lurhman win an
Academy Award for Set Design.
Address: Quinn Building, 35-20 Broadway, Fourth Fl., Long
Island City, and www.astorialic.org.
LOUIS ARMSTRONG HOUSE MUSEUM
Louis Daniel Armstrong (1901–1971) was one of the most
famous jazz musicians of all time. Often called “Satchmo,” he
rose to prominence in the 1920s due mostly to his cornet and
trumpet skills, his enthralling gravelly voice, and his ability to
improvise on stage.
From 1943 until his death, he lived in Corona with his wife,
Lucille, who donated the property to the city for use as a museum
upon her death in 1983. The house is basically untouched, as
nobody else has lived in this national landmark. In the back is a
Japanese-inspired garden that Satchmo loved.
Inside scoop: The museum is currently undergoing a $23 million
campaign to build a 14,000-square-foot education center with
parking in a lot across the street. The center will feature a stateof
the-art gallery, a 68-seat jazz club, and a gift shop. It will also
house Armstrong’s archives.
Address: 34-56 107th St., Corona, and www.
louisarmstronghouse.org.
MOMA PS1
MoMA PS1 displays some of the world’s best contemporary
art. The museum strives to be a Mecca for emerging artists and
genres, presenting more than 50 exhibitions a year.
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