Chartered in 1985, the Greater Astoria Historical Society is a never-ending source of guest speakers, tour guides, slide presentations, and rental space. The nonprofit runs the gamut between preserving and remembering the past while promoting and preparing for the future. The society makes frequent presentations to groups at its 750-square-foot, 75-guest-capacity lecture hall, but members also speak in schools and at parties. Discussion topics can be as varied as local beer gardens, the Abolition Movement, the Queens waterfront, and the Stock Market Crash of 1929.

Inside scoop: The society provided photos and advice during the filming of The Great Gatsby (2013), starring Leonardo DiCaprio.