Travel Tips

5 min read

Long Island Unveiled: 30 Epic Finds to Fuel Your Wanderlust

Imagine uncovering Long Island's best-kept secrets, from hidden bays to buzzing boardwalks. Pack your curiosity and let's unravel 30 unexpected gems that'll make your travel buddies green with envy!

Tobi Miles
June 7, 2023

Historically, affluent families preferred Long Island as their summer holiday destination instead of Ibiza or Lake Como. When they lived at the renowned Grey Gardens mansion on Lily Pond Lane, Jacqueline Kennedy's family, the Bouviers, sought sanctuary on Long Island.

Later, Martha Stewart's gorgeous home base was located on the same street. The Hamptons, a portion of an Island in New York State, continue to be a playground for the affluent. Long Island is more enticing now since most of the Jazz Age houses still dot the landscape but are now museums.

If summer vacations and weekend getaways were a competition, Long Island would undoubtedly win. Even now, boutique hotels on Montauk or Fire Island and historic inns on Shelter Island can be booked solid weeks or months in advance.

The optimal time to travel to Long Island and enjoy everything it has to offer—from aquariums and art museums to wine and oysters—is unquestionably during the summer.

Looking for something to do in Long Island, New York, for a day, a weekend, or longer? Discover the top 30 activities in Long Island, New York, for everyone from golfers to boisterous kids, by reading on.

1. Adventure Park at Long Island

Credit: My Adventure Park

Map It: 75 Colonial Springs Rd, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798  ‍

Phone: 631 983-3844 

‍ Website 

Hours: Monday: 10 A.M. – 6 P.M. Tuesday: 10 A.M. – 6 P.M. Wednesday: 10 A.M. – 6 P.M. Thursday: 10 A.M.  – 8 P.M. Friday: 10 A.M. – 10 P.M.  Saturday: 9 A.M. – 10 P.M. Sunday: 9 A.M. – 8 P.M.

 Entrance: Adults; $68, Children (7-13) $58

Adventure Park, the premier location for recreational rock climbing and ziplines, is situated in Wheatley Heights, about 40 minutes from Manhattan.

This location offers aerial activities for the most fearless adults and apprehensive children. It features a spectacular tree-to-tree, self-guided, climbing experience that has more than with 185 platforms, as well as a variety of zipline courses.

The Double Black Diamond course offers a difficult challenge but is still a popular favorite for visitors. It is a must for the adventurous family experience, a trip to remember!

Here are a few helpful hints to make your excursion go smoothly; every climber is required to fill out an electronic waiver prior to enjoying the course; for those under 18 years of age, the parent or legal guardian will complete this on their behalf.

This waiver can be filled out online when you access your reservation email. Be sure that any minors have this filled out in advance!  The Park also requires closed-toe shoes for all climbers, regardless of the weather, so be sure to have the proper footwear on.

2. Long Island Aquarium

Credit: ilovenewyork.com

📍Map It: 431 E Main St, Riverhead, NY 11901  

‍ Phone: (631) 208-9200  

 Website 

 Hours: Weekdays 10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.  Weekends & Holidays 10 A.M. – 5 P.M. 

Entrance: Adults (13-61) $42.99; Seniors (62+) $31.99; Children (3-12) $29.99; Children 2 & Under FREE

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions on Long Island with animals, educational presentations, Dive-in movies, and hands-on activities for learning about everything under the sea.

In its more than 100 exhibits, the Long Island Aquarium has an extensive and diversified variety of animals, including a magnificent environment for the Amazon Rainforest and a beautifully constructed shark exhibit for the Lost City of Atlantis.

You can get a unique perspective on the enormous Pacific octopus at the New York Aquarium.  Spellbinding Moon Jellyfish will light your way and entrance the entire family as you wander through the exabits.

Want to see a Dive-in movie? The Sea Lion Stadium hosts movies that are fan favorites under the stars! The doors to the stadium open 45 minutes before the showing so be sure to arrive early to get a good seat.

Snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, are available for purchase.  Movies are free, but seating is limited and must be reserved in advance.

With a variety of thrilling behind-the-scenes excursions available, featuring diving experiences that enable you to swim alongside sharks and rays, you can't go wrong.

Related Read: 40 Best Hiking Trails in Long Island

3. Long Beach Boardwalk

Credit: New York Times

Map It: Boardwalk, Long Beach, NY 11561 

Hours: Lifeguards on Duty 9 A.M. – 6 P.M. 

Entrance: Non-Resident Daily Pass - $15

Long Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit for anyone wishing to spend a few hours on the white sand beaches listening to the waves. With the lengthiest boardwalk in New York State and routine entertainment, this rarely crowded jewel is a hidden treasure for you and your family to enjoy.

Visitors can rent bicycles, rollerblades, or just leisurely stroll with an ice cream along the more than two and a half miles of beachside activity, all while admiring the many restaurants and exceptional shops along the way.

Grab takeout from one of the many local restaurants and enjoy a peaceful outdoor dining experience on one of the numerous picnic tables along the Boardwalk.  You might even see whales, eagles, and shorebirds during your picnic, so be sure to bring your camera!

Along with spectacular panoramic views, there are interpretive displays to teach visitors about the history and environment.

If you find your stroll along the boardwalk ends too soon, there is a lovely Discovery Trail that goes beneath the boardwalk, running south to Ilwaco and north to a sculpture of Clark’s Tree.

Tip: If you're traveling from NYC, think about purchasing a Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) combo ticket that includes beach access.

4. Old Westbury Gardens

Credit: Terry Ballard, Flickr

📍Map It: 71 Old Westbury Road Old Westbury, NY 11568  

Phone: (516) 333 0048 

Website 

Hours: Wednesday - Monday 10 A.M. – 6 P.M. ; Closed all day Tuesdays and for lunch 1:00 P.M. – 1:30 P.M.  

Entrance: Adult $14; Senior (62+) $12; Child (7-17) $8

The Old Westbury Gardens mansion is a historical site and architectural wonder that has long been regarded as one of Long Island's most treasured sights!  This gem is certain to entertain and fascinate the whole family.

Old Westbury Gardens, the former property of John Shaffer Phipps (the steel fortune's heir), is now a fascinating museum and boasts a remarkable collection of historical elements both inside and out.

There is plenty of history Zxand beauty to take in on a leisurely stroll. It has its structured European gardens—complete with statuary, boxwood hedges, fountains, and decorative urns that add color all through the summer. There's also its distinctive Collyweston slate roof, and nearly 200 acres of woodlands, ponds, and lakes.

Related Read: 10 Best Waterfalls in Watkins Glen

5. The Long Island Museum

Credit: Wikipedia

📍Map It: 1200 NY-25A, Stony Brook, NY 11790   

Phone: (631) 751-0066

Website 

Hours: Thursday – Sunday 12 P.M.  – 5 P.M. 

Entrance: Adults $10; Senior (62+) $7, Children (6-17) $5 (under 6) Free

The permanent collection at The Long Island Museum includes more than 50,000 pieces from over 300 years, making it ideal for art lovers and budding artists alike.

The prestigious museum, officially known as the Museum of American Art, History, and Carriages, is situated in the center of Stony Brook and features a variety of American Indian artifacts in addition to fine and decorative arts. It has one of the most varied and diverse collections found in New York State, with 200 distinctively unique horse-drawn vehicles as its centerpiece.

The Long Island Museum offers an Interactive Museum Map online to help visitors make the most of their time.  This aerial map can be found on their website.

6. Adventureland

Credit: adventureland.us

📍Map It: 2245 Broadhollow Rd, Farmingdale, NY 11735 

Phone: (632) 394-6868 

Website 

Hours: 11 A.M. – 10 P.M. 

Entrance: Guests (2-24) $41.99; Guests (25+) $31.99

Calling all thrill-seekers: Adventureland is Long Island's most infamous theme park and features splash rides, heart-pounding roller coasters, a haunted mansion, bumper cars, and much more.  This family friendly location has something to captivate everyone!

The Long Island institution has been a family favorite for more than 60 years, with numerous kid-friendly rides and attractions, that now offers even more fun with an arcade filled with all the classic games a gamer could want.

The Adventureland 3Generations Sweet Shop (a haven for those with sweet tooth's), and regular events!  Be sure to add this stop your trip for a fun family adventure!

7. Shark Dive Montauk

Credit: sharkdivemontauk.com

📍Map It: 352 W Lake Dr. Montauk, Ny 11954 

Phone: (631)335-6323 

Website 

Hours: vary by booking 

Entrance: Shark Dive Regular Trip $320; Extended Day Shark Dive $400; Private Shark Charter (1-6 passengers) $1,600; Private Suba Charter (1-6 passengers) $1,200; Cageless Shark Dive $280

Do you believe you possess the skills necessary to coexist among some of Mother Nature's most powerful predators? Shark Dive Montauk gives you the chance to prove it to your friends and family!

You can get up-close and personal with a number of the biggest ocean animals at Shark Dive Montauk; it's thrilling, terrifying, and completely unforgettable.

These safety-focused swims provide an exhilarating variety of cage diving interactions for everyone from experienced pros to beginners, allowing you to swim alongside Mako and Blue sharks.

Aside from sharks, you might also encounter whales, porpoises, cute sea turtles, stingrays, and of course a variety of fish!  Experience life under the sea with this unique diving opportunity.

Related Read: 30 Best Hiking Trails in Hudson Valley

8. Nassau County Firefighter’s Museum

Credit: Michele Catalano, Flickr

📍Map It: Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Uniondale, NY 11553  

Phone: (516) 572-4177 

Website 

Hours: Open every day 10 A.M. – 5 P.M. 

Entrance: $5

This first responder’s museum is devoted to honoring and displaying local firefighter history, educating visitors with exhibits that showcase equipment used in firefighting through the ages in addition to some pretty amazing antique vehicles. It is positioned inside the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Uniondale (only half an hour from Manhattan).

There are numerous authentic artifacts from the 1800s to the present day on display throughout the indoor facility, and there are also plenty of kid-friendly hands-on activities. This Museum is a true monument to firefighters throughout history!

9. Planting Fields Arboretum

Credit: James Robertson, Flickr

📍Map It: 1395 Planting Fields Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771 

Phone: (516) 922-9210 

Website 

Hours:  9 A.M. – 5 P.M. 

Entrance: $8 per car, $75 per bus, Ticket Tours Adults: $10, Seniors (62+) $9, Youth (7-17) $5, Kids (6 and under) Free

Inside Planting Fields Arboretum, you will find another outstanding Long Island treasure, the 115-year-old Coe Hall Historic House Museum is located at the center of the 400 acres of exquisitely landscaped grounds that make up Planting Fields Arboretum.

Amongst the 65 rooms of Coe Hall you will find, Mai Coe’s bedroom and dressing room, the breakfast room, reception room, dining room, gallery, and den. There is even a secret door to a small room equipped as a bar!

Planting Fields Arboretum, one of the most well-liked activities on Long Island, is a true paradise for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, and it's open year-round, so don’t forget to pack your cameras!  After your visit, think about quenching your thirst at the neighboring Oyster Bay Brewing Company.

10. Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Credit: Onasill-Bill Badzo, Flickr

📍Map It: 20 Sagamore Hill Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771  

Phone: (516) 922-4788 

Website 

Hours: Sunrise–Sunset

Entrance: Theodore Roosevelt Home - $10.00; Park Entrance and Old Orchard Museum – Free

This National Historic Site, another Long Island institution that is typically only known to locals, is the location of Theodore Roosevelt's, America’s 26th President, preserved summer home. To tour this historic home, tickets must be purchased in advance online. Tours last 45 minutes and are both indoor and outdoor.

Over 80 acres of picturesque woodland, trails, and gardens can be found on the Sagamore Hill property in Oyster Bay. Guided tours are offered for a more comprehensive and thorough look at the former president's home and life.

President Roosevelt often wrote of birds and with over 100 species of birds in the fields, forests, mashes, and beaches along Sagamore Hill, it is no wonder he was so fascinated with are avian friends.

You might also observe spotted salamanders, box turtles, damselflies, and dragonflies, including the rare Comet Darner! This property is a great find for history buffs, animal lovers, and families alike.

11. Hudson River Cruise

Credit: hudsonrivercruises.com

📍Map It: 40 Rondout Landing, Kingston, NY 12401 

Phone: (845) 340-4700 

Website 

Hours: Monday 9 A.M. – 9 P.M.Tuesday-Sunday 9 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.  

Entrance:  Adults $34; Seniors (65+) $32; Children (4-11) $22

Wanting a break from the tourist-flooded Hudson, East River and Manhattan crowds? Get ready to unwind with the Hudson River Cruises!  They offer private, intimate, secluded boat tours designed to allow weary tourists a pleasant and tranquil day on the river.

These sailing tours, which explore the Long Island Sound are sure to dazzle with stunning views of Manhattan’s skyscrapers in the distance, waterfront mansions, lighthouses, and offer a truly spectacular and romantic views of the sunset.

Wanting an exciting weekend activity? Book a special event cruise and dance the night away! Be sure to share this wonderful experience with your family and friends!

Related Read: 15 Romantic Getaways in New York

12. Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park

Credit: Robyn Lee, Flickr

📍Map It: 3059 W 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11224 

Phone: 718 372-2592 

Website 

Hours: Monday – Friday 12 P.M. – 10 P.M.  Saturday – Sunday 12 P.M. – 11 P.M. 

Entrance: Free, Tickets are needed for rides.

Deno's Wonder Wheel Park is a Long Island legacy and a well-loved family attraction located on Coney Island. It is a unique Coney Island experience filled with excitement and fun-filled activities for people of all ages.

This amusement park, which is distinguished by the 150-foot-tall Ferris wheel that dominates Coney Island's coastline and has been operating for over a century, offers 16 different rides for children, and 6 designed with parents in mind.

Tip: On Friday nights, the Park hosts a spectacular show with free fireworks!

13. Montauk Point Lighthouse

Credit: Angel Madison, Flickr

📍Map It: 2000 Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY 11954  

Phone: (631) 668-2544 

Website 

Hours: 5/23-9/2 Open Daily 10:30 A.M. – 5:30 P.M.  9/6 – 10/10 Open Daily 10:30 A.M. – 4:30 P.M.  

Entrance:  Adults $13; Seniors (62+) $8; Children (under 12) $5

The iconic historical Montauk Point Lighthouse is located in the hamlet of Montauk at the easternmost point of Long Island. Its longest surviving lighthouse in New York State, which George Washington ordered and finished in 1797.

It served as a symbol of hope and was the first thing that millions of immigrants saw as they made their way to the free world. The military later converted it into a fire control tower during World War II.

The walking paths on these canine-friendly grounds lead you past the structures and down to a rocky beach. For sweeping views, visit the peak of the lighthouse, or go to the museum located in the Keepers' home built in 1860.

Tip: This lighthouse has a Documentary: First Light: Montauk Point Lighthouse (Video 2006) for those interested in a cinematic experience of the history of this iconic structure.

14. Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve

Credit: Michael Ebert, Flickr

📍Map It: 25 Lloyd Harbor Rd, Lloyd Harbor, NY 11743  

Phone: (631) 423-1770 

Website 

Hours: Sunrise – Sunset 

Entrance: Car $8, Commercial Buses $75; Permits for fishing, Environmental Programs, and skiing available for additional fee.

On the North Shore of Long Island, the picturesque Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve is perched on a lovely peninsula that projects into Long Island Sound. The park offers miles of paths for walking and running, in addition to opportunities for horseback riding, cross-country skiing during the winter, and hiking.

The state of New York purchased this 1,520-acre park in the 1960s, and ever since then, it has offered Long Island residents and tourists a diverse topography of woods and marshland to explore.

Before being turned into a state park, it was the Marshall Field III estate, which was constructed in the 1920s. Field built his spacious estate, which included a country club, house, and hunting preserve, on over 1,700 acres of land. It was a self-sustaining venture as well, with a separate water and power supply.

15. Fire Island

Credit: Oldeastsidr, Flickr

📍Map It: Fire Island 

Website 

Hours: Sunrise - Sunrise 

Entrance: Free

Fire Island appears to be a universe away from the bustling concrete jungle of New York City, thanks to its miles of charming beaches and small villages that are surrounded by sand dunes and unspoiled wilderness. This small barrier island runs parallel to Long Island on the South Shore; the Great South Bay divides it at its westernmost point, which starts at the well-known Robert Moses State Park.

A nature trail leads to the Smith Point Visitor Center and Fire Island Lighthouse from Robert Moses Beach. Spend the night on Fire Island either at Watch Hill's campground or through renting a house on the beach, but make sure to reserve a spot well in advance of the season. Take some time to stroll leisurely along the elevated boardwalk in the shade of a maritime holly forest as you explore the Sunken Forest.

The Robert Moses Causeway connects you to the state park on this car-free island, where the William Floyd Parkway connects you to the eastern end and the William Floyd estate. From Bay Shore, Patchogue, and Sayville, you can take a boat or ferry to the 26-mile-long Fire Island National Seashore.

16. Planting Fields Arboretum and Coe Hall

Credit: James Robertson, Flickr

📍Map It: 1395 Planting Fields Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771  

Phone: (516) 922-9200 

Website 

Hours: 9 A.M. – 5 P.M. 

Entrance: Car $8, Buses $75

The main draw of this well-liked Oyster Bay property on the North Shore is Coe Hall, the former property of Standard Oil mogul Mai Rogers Coe as well as her husband William Robertson Coe. A tour of the Tudor Revival mansion displays original furnishings, artwork, priceless antiques, and intricate handcrafted details. It still retains its elegance from the 1920s.

The Planting Fields, a 409-acre area surrounding the estate, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With its blooming flowers, formal gardens, expansive lawns, and greenhouses it is a true masterpiece.

The Planting Fields Foundation hosts its annual festival in April to honor Arbor Day. It features a variety of entertaining events, such as tree climbing with a harness, Smokey Bear planting ceremonies, and live performances by Peat Moss & the Fertilizers and Johnny Herbert.

There are arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, and book readings for children.  Planting Fields Arboretum and Coe Hall are a must for any tourist visiting the area!

17. Oheka Castle

Credit: Catherine Walker, Flickr

📍Map It: 135 W Gate Dr, Huntington, NY 11743 

Phone: (631) 659-1400 

Website 

Hours: Tours by reservation 

Entrance: Adults $30; Seniors (55+) $25; Children (10 and under) $10

Visit Oheka Castle, situated in the city of Huntington on the peak of Long Island, to step back in time to the Gilded Age on Long Island. This French chateau-inspired structure has hosted numerous wedding ceremonies thanks to its expansive lawns and beautifully landscaped gardens, which were developed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who also laid out Central Park.

Built in 1919, at an estimated $11 million ($158 million in today’s economy) the former estate of philanthropist and businessman Otto Herman Kahn hosted a number of lavish and extravagant parties during the Roaring Twenties.

The castle's name is derived from the initials of its previous owner.  18-hole golf course, tennis courts, Formal French Garden, and a sizable greenhouse complex, in front of the house are all on the property.

The home changed hands several times after Kahn's passing; the most recent owner, Gary Melius, undertook a thorough renovation and converted the second-largest private home in America into a five-star hotel. The top floors of the estate are home to 32 guest rooms and suites for this member of Historic Hotels of America. The location also features a conference center, an events space, and offers mansion tours.

18. Brooklyn Bridge

Credit: Sky Zheng, Flickr

📍Map It: Brooklyn Bridge, New York, NY 10038 

Website 

Hours: Sunrise – Sunrise 

Entrance: Free

The Brooklyn Bridge, which spans the East River to connect Manhattan and Brooklyn, has been a landmark of New York City since 1883 with its long steel cables and enormous granite towers.

The bridge's 1,595.5-foot main span made history when it was finished as the world's first steel-wire suspension bridge. After being built as a pedestrian and non-motorized vehicle bridge, it now provides trains, cars, and bikes with safe passage.

Millions of tourists and commuters have already crossed it. Among the most recognizable aspects of the city skyline, it continues to dominate the New York landscape. The elevated walkway across the bridge is and extremely memorable experiences for visitors.

19. Harmony Vineyards

Credit: Just Wine

📍Map It: 169 Harbor Rd, St James, NY 11780 

Phone: (631)291-9900 

Website 

Hours: Thursday 5 P.M. – 9 P.M. Friday 5 P.M. – 10 P.M. Saturday 12 P.M. – 10 P.M. Sunday 12 P.M. – 7 P.M. 

Entrance: varies by event

A Long Island vineyard with a focus on sustainability, Harmony Vineyards aims to produce wines of the highest caliber while achieving harmony between people and the environment. The vineyard's tasting room is located inside a waterfront home that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was renovated in 1904 by Archibald M. Brown, a renowned New York City architect.

It is only three minutes by taxi from the St. James LIRR Station. Throughout the week, customers can sample the company's Chablis-style Chardonnays and Bordeaux-style red wine blends, as well as exclusive farm-to-table Sunday brunches that can be reserved in advance. There is also a carefully chosen selection of beers made on Long Island.

20. Brooklyn Museum

Credit: Time Out New York

📍Map It: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238  

Website 

Hours: Wednesday- Sunday 11 A.M. – 6 P.M. 

Entrance: Adults $16; Seniors (65+) $10; Children (19 and under) Free

The Brooklyn Museum, which houses an impressive collection of more than 1.5 million works of art, is the third biggest art museum in New York City. The museum has 560,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor gallery space and is close to Flatbush, Prospect, and Crown Heights.

The museum, which was established in 1895 and is housed in a stunning beaux arts structure created by McKim, Mead, and White, was initially intended to be the largest art museum on the planet.

The most notable museum collections are the more than 3,000-year-old Egyptian antiquities, as well as artifacts from Europe, Africa, Oceania, and Japan. Beginning with the colonial era, there is a collection of American art that is well-represented. The collection includes works by several well-known artists, including Edward Hopper, Mark Rothko, Max Weber, Georgia O'Keeffe, Norman Rockwell, and Winslow Homer.

21. Lieb Cellars

Credit: Lieb Cellars

📍Map It: 13050 Oregon Rd, Cutchogue, NY 11935 

Phone: (631) 734-1100

Website 

Hours: 2 P.M. 7 P.M. daily

Lieb Cellars, which was founded in 1992, now has 85 acres of vines, a crush winemaking facility called Premium Wine Group, and a pleasurable tasting room that is housed in a former barn.

Dry, clear, and fruit-forward wines are Lieb Cellars' signature wine style. The Reserve Pinot Blanc, which is made with fruit from 30-year-old vines, is the highlight of their portfolio.

They were named one of the "Top 12 Wines in America" by The Wall Street Journal for their 2013 Reserve Pinot Blanc. The fruit from the estate is used to make all of the wines made by Lieb. Their vineyards are hand-tended and sustainably farmed.

22. Jones Beach State Park

Credit: Keith Michael, Flickr

📍Map It: 2400 Ocean Parkway Wantagh, NY 11793 

Phone: (516)785-1600

Website 

Hours: Sunrise - Sunset

Entrance: Car $10

On steamy summer weekends families can find a nice place to spend the day with the kids on over 6 miles of fine sand at Jones Beach State Park.  In this entertaining park, which Robert Moses created in the 1920s with an ocean liner theme, there's always something to do.

Swimming and sunbathing, people-watching, strolling along the well-known boardwalk, sampling the treats at one of the many delicious food stands, fishing, playing basketball, mini-golf, or shuffleboard are all possibilities.

The Jones Beach Nature Center focuses on teaching about the marine ecosystem and nearby endangered species, while the Jones Beach Theater presents plays and concerts. There are additionally special events throughout the summer, including the Bethpage Air Show, softball and volleyball competitions, and so much more.

23. Hamptons

Credit: Kelxc26, Flickr

📍Map It: Hamptons 

Website 

Hours: Sunrise – Sunrise

The Hamptons, which are found directly on the eastern shores of Long Island, are a central part of any discussion of New York without mentioning the city itself.

The Hamptons also have reputation for affluence as the residence to fabulously wealthy celebrities, and it's you can observe the wealth reflected in everything from its upscale restaurants to its bizarre architecture perched on top of white sand beaches.

However, there are other areas of the Hamptons that are open to common travelers, such as beaches, national monuments, museums, shops, and cafes. You don’t have to be wealthy to go sightseeing or to enjoy the tourist attractions of the area.

Even though the Hamptons are among the most renowned tourist destinations in New York, anyone can visit them with equal ease. The next time you're in Long Island, schedule some time to visit this famous location!

24. Lavender By the Bay

Credit: Michael Horton, Flickr

📍Map It: 7540 Main Rd, East Marion, NY 11939 

Phone: (631) 477-1019

Website 

Hours: 9 A.M – 6 P.M daily 

Entrance: $8 per person

Have you ever imagined yourself strolling through scented purple fields as your fingers traced the petals of the flowers? Consider going on a shopping trip for essential oils, bath bombs, and dried lavender sprigs.

At Lavender By The Bay, the premier lavender farm on Long Island, you can have an experience like this. With their soft petals and pastel colors, its fields resemble a cotton candy dream.

Even though they only bloom in the early summer, their short lives only serve to enhance their beauty. Once you've had your fill of the farm's sights, you can visit the store to pick up a variety of mementos.

These consist of body butters, massage oils, bath salts, and soaps. The soft, lingering aroma of lavender permeates everything. Being on Long Island makes Lavender By The Bay, one of New York's most beautiful tourist destinations, all the more fortunate. Schedule a tour for an unforgettable experience among the blossoms!

25. Huntington Village Farmer’s Market

Credit: Local Harvest

📍Map It: NY-25A, Huntington, NY 11743 

Website 

Hours: Sunday, 7:30 A.M. – 12 P.M.  

Entrance: Free

There's nothing wrong with going all out while you're in New York, but there's also nothing wrong with going to the Huntington Village Farmer's Market to bring things back to earth.

The market showcases the top Long Island regional vendors and is full of handcrafted and locally made goods. In terms of food, everything is from locally sourced produce and fish to artisanal meats and cheeses.

26. Blue Moon

Credit: Open Table

📍Map It: Blue Moon, 26 N Park Ave, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 

Phone: (516) 763-4900

Website 

Hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 12 P.M. - 10 P.M; Sunday: 12 P.M. - 9 P.M; Closed Mondays. 

Visit Blue Moon in Long Island if you're hungry. Blue Moon is an amazing place that isn't in travel guides because it is family-owned and -operated. However, if you ask around, every resident will advise you where to find the greatest pizza in Long Island.

What gives their pizzas such great flavor? In addition to being tossed large and thinly in true New York fashion, they are also cooked in coal ovens, which adds a special something to their unique flavor.

These pizzas will have your mouth watering as when you walk into the front door due to smoked cheese and hearty meats.  You can also sample other menu items like garlic bread, paninis, salads, and cheesecakes if pizza isn't what you're in the mood for.

Pasta dishes made in the traditional Italian style are also available. It's one of the best things to do in New York, and a plate of meatball parmigiana will make you believe you are in Venice. You'll see why New Yorkers are so enthusiastic about Blue Moon!

27. Oyster Bay Oyster Festival

Credit: 10times.com

📍Map It: 1 West End Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771

Website 

Hours: 10/16/2022 – 10/17/2022 11 A.M. – 6 P.M.

Are you planning a fall trip to Long Island? Do you desire to consume all the oysters and other seafood your stomach can hold? If so, the yearly oyster festival will delight you.

The Oyster Festival honors its namesake every year in October. Everything, including food, drinks, activities, rides, games, and more, has an oyster theme. Even oyster eating and shucking competitions with substantial cash prizes exist! Even when you're stuffed to the gills, you can still enjoy other events and activities, such as pirate shows and ship displays.

If you're unsure of what to do in Long Island in autumn, think about attending the Oyster Festival for everything. Afterall, how frequently in your life will you get to have such a unique Oyster experience?

28. Macari Vineyards

Credit: Macari Vineyards

📍Map It: 150 Bergen Ave, Mattituck, NY 11952 

Phone: (631)298-0100 

Website

Hours: Reservation only

Entrance: Varies by tasting

One of Long Island's most attractive attractions is the Macari Vineyards, which is located on a picturesque, sparkling waterfront. It's also among the finest for getting drunk as well!

Prior to getting harvested for upcoming wines, the grapes have been carefully grown on rolling hills. The good stuff has already been bottled and is waiting just for you in their barrel cellar tasting room. The vineyard offers a variety of experiences.

Many guests choose a tasting that encompasses a variety of wines, breads, and cheeses, served on a lovely patio using charcuterie boards. Others sign up for tours of the vineyard and cellar or request catered lunches prepared by the on-site chef. The cost of different experiences varies; as you might anticipate, the more expensive experiences.

But no matter what type of adventure you decide to go on, Macari Vineyards is sure to be a blast. Put this location on your short list if you're trying to decide How to spend your weekend and experience the finest of Long Island.

29. Roosevelt Field

Credit: Wikipedia

📍Map It: 630 Old Country Rd, Garden City, NY 11530  

Phone: (516) 742-8000 

Website 

Hours: Monday - Thursday 10 A.M. - 8 P.M., Friday - Saturday 10 A.M. – 9 P.M., Sunday 11 A.M. – 7 P.M.  

Entrance: Free

When you visit Roosevelt Field, you'll have the chance to shop 'til you drop. It's not simply one of the largest malls in the US, but also the biggest with in state of New York.

Numerous well-known stores as well as Long Island-only local favorites are housed there. With stores like Ann Taylor, Bloomingdales, Build-a-Bear, Game Stop, Coach, Hollister, and so much more, there is something for everyone at Roosevelt Field.

The clothing boutiques and jewelers will appeal to fashionistas, and with stores like Claire's and Ethan Jordan Jewelers, there is something to fit every budget!

The dining court offers a wide variety of options for foodies, including American, French, Cuban, Japanese, Mediterranean, Italian, Asian, and many other delectable dishes.

Film enthusiasts can catch a movie at the AMC theater, and tourists who want to pick up a souvenir will have a blast browsing the zany shops selling "I Survived Long Island" t-shirts and key chains.

There is something for everyone because the brands available range from LEGO to Louis Vuitton and with a free family fun play area, restless children have a chance to burn off excess energy with parents refresh themselves with a smoothie.

You can also look at their calendar to see if any entertaining events like luncheons, performances, or book signings that are coming up. There is no better location for shopping in New York than Roosevelt Field.

Make it one of your favorite Long Island experiences while you're there you are sure to have a blast and come home with something special for everyone on your list!

30. MTK Cruises

Credit: cruisemontauk.com

📍Map It: 59 Star Island Rd, Montauk, NY 11954

Phone: (631) 668-8079 

Website 

Hours and Fees: Vary by booking

Every journey must come to a close, so if you're nearing the conclusion of your trip and unsure of how to bid Long Island farewell, think about signing up for a cruise with MTK Cruises. Every day, MTK departs from the coast of Montauk in a variety of boats, including pontoons and catamarans.

The captains take you on a variety of excursions, including thrilling afternoon tours with multiple stops for swimming as well as water trampolining on the sunset cruises.

For a day of fun and leisure on the water, you bring your favorite adult beverage and playlists. If you're leaving Long Island, this may be a memorable way to do it. Shout your farewells to the entire bay instead of straining to see out a tiny plane window.

Even though MTK Cruises isn't the only provider of sea excursions in New York, it's certainly the best, so it's worth giving them a call, you certainly will not regret a peaceful and relaxing Cruise from MTK!  With their assistance, you can make a stylish exit.

Tobi Miles
Article updated:
January 5, 2024
A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.
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