Jamaica Walking Tour Planned For Sept. 11

Experience Jamaica as never before. A free two-hour walking tour through Jamaica gives visitors unique and unparalleled insights into New York City’s living history.

Stops along the route include access to the breathtaking and meticulously restored former Loew’s Valencia Theater – a 4,000 seat ‘Wonder Palace’ built in the 1920s – and a visit to Prospect Cemetery, a hidden and serene 350-year old burial ground right in the heart of Jamaica Center. The walk concludes with refreshments and a private tour of the newly-restored Chapel of the Sisters.

The tour is led by renowned guide and Queens Historian Jack Eichenbaum. Along the way, Eichenbaum weaves the story of Jamaica Center’s evolution – from farmlands and pioneers to its current incarnation as a transportation, government and retail hub. Brimming with architectural landmarks spanning 350-years, visitors will gain new insight to Queens’ rich past while experiencing the vibrant energy of Jamaica today.

Eichenbaum is a native of Queens with fond memories of the borough stretching over seven decades. He holds a Ph.D in Geography from the University of Michigan and uses that discipline to interpret the city. Eichenbaum leads many educational walking tours throughout the City – especially in Queens.

The Jamaica Center walking tours are sponsored by the Jamaica Center Business Improvement District (BID). In operation for more than 30 years, the Jamaica Center BID is a non-profit organization providing services and programs that help make Jamaica Center a clean, safe and vibrant place to shop, work, live and visit. To learn more about the Jamaica Center BID or for directions, visit jamaicacenter.org.

The tours will be held Saturday, Sept. 11, and Saturday, Oct. 9, both from 1-3 p.m. Meet at King Manor Museum’s front porch in Rufus King Park, Jamaica Avenue between 150th and 153rd Street.

Space is limited. To RSVP, call (718) 526-2422 or email info@jamaicacenter.org. For more information, visit jamaicacenter.org.