Tour the Gardens During Historic Jackson Heights Weekend

It encompasses the country’s first planned garden and cooperative apartment community. It’s the birthplace of Scrabble. And it’s the setting for the TV show Ugly Betty.

It’s also the place to be on Saturday and Sunday, when the Jackson Heights Beautification Group celebrates the 25th annual Historic Jackson Heights Weekend.

On Saturday, the fun kicks off with an exhibition of vintage photographs and memorabilia at the Community United Methodist Church. At 10:45 am and 12:15 am, there will be slide presentations on the neighborhood’s history. Then, a self-guided garden tour (using maps provided upon ticket purchase) will allow participants to visit at least 15 private gardens. These block-long, park-like gardens are only open to the public one day a year.

On Sunday at noon, guides will take walkers through the historic district, highlighting the apartments, private homes, and commercial and civic buildings that distinguish Jackson Heights.

Details: Historic Jackson Heights Weekend, Community United Methodist Church, 81-10 35th Street, Jackson Heights. June 13, slide lectures at 10:45 am and 12:15 am, free; garden tours from noon to 4 pm, $10. June 14, tour at noon, $10. Click here for ticket information.

Photo by Jackson Heights Beautification Group