I had a conference at St Johns University so I had the option of either staying in Central Manhattan and commuting for the 3 days or staying at Cindy's and travelling into Manhattan to sightsee. I decided to stay near the venue and didn't regret the decision yes there's no nightlife and nearest pub was 30 mins walk but who wants to stay with tourists!!
Amenties are basic with no kitchen but again I am not cooking whilst away - even in Fresh Meadows there's loads of places to eat (pizza and burgers - not chain ones!!)
The Local express bus to Manhattan (QM5 or QM6) took 45 mins and I grabbed a bus pass for $63 for 7 days and did the sightseeing. The last direct bus was at 2300hrs but the E and F trains still ran.
When I go back to NYC I will do the same again, although may do my conference first then walk around Manhattan - got the dreaded Disney rash! But did walk 40miles in 4 days so it's to be expected.
Uber costs roughly $35 from the Airport which isn't too bad.