Long Island, with its stunning coastline, vibrant communities, and rich history, offers a full range of attractions beyond the well-known tourist spots.
While many visitors flock to its famous beaches and wineries, there's a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From offbeat museums to scenic hikes, and water parks and cultural experiences, here are 25 unique things to do in Long Island that you may never have considered.
Port Jefferson: Beyond its charming waterfront, Port Jefferson boasts hidden culinary gems and quaint boutiques, offering a delightful blend of coastal allure and small-town charm.
Sagamore Hill: The former home of President Theodore Roosevelt, Sagamore Hill offers a glimpse into the life of the 26th President of the United States, surrounded by beautiful grounds perfect for exploration.
Belmont Park: Experience the thrill of horse racing at Belmont Park, one of the country's most iconic racetracks, where the excitement of the track meets the elegance of thoroughbred racing.
Jones Beach State Park: From its iconic boardwalk to its pristine beaches, Jones Beach State Park offers endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, including swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Nassau County: Explore the diverse attractions of Nassau County, from charming villages and historic landmarks to world-class shopping and dining destinations.
Lobster Roll: Indulge in a culinary delight with a classic lobster roll, a quintessential Long Island dish that combines fresh lobster meat with buttery bread for a taste of coastal luxury.
George Washington: Long Island's rich history includes a visit from George Washington himself, who famously stayed at several locations across the island during the Revolutionary War.
Museum Row: Discover the cultural treasures of Museum Row in Garden City, home to a collection of world-class museums and galleries showcasing art, history, and science.
Visit the William Floyd Estate: Step back in time at the William Floyd Estate in Mastic Beach, a National Historic Landmark that was once home to one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Explore the estate's beautifully preserved grounds and learn about colonial life in the 18th century.
Explore the Lavender Fields at Lavender by the Bay: Escape to the picturesque Lavender by the Bay farm in East Marion, where rows of fragrant lavender stretch as far as the eye can see. Wander through the fields, take stunning photos, and shop for lavender-infused products at the farm store.
Discover Fire Island Lighthouse: Take a ferry to Fire Island and climb the 182-step spiral staircase to the top of the Fire Island Lighthouse in Robert Moses State Park. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding barrier island landscape.
Go Horseback Riding on the Beach: Experience the thrill of horseback riding along the shoreline with a guided beach ride offered by several equestrian centers on Long Island's North and South Forks. Feel the wind in your hair as you trot along the sandy beaches and take in the stunning coastal scenery.
Tour the Long Island Pine Barrens: Embark on a guided tour of the Long Island Pine Barrens, one of the largest preserved wilderness areas in the Northeast. Explore winding trails, observe diverse wildlife, and learn about the unique ecology of this ancient forest.
Attend a Shakespearean Performance at the Vanderbilt Mansion: Enjoy an evening of classic theater at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum in Centerport, where Shakespearean plays are performed in the elegant courtyard of the historic Vanderbilt Mansion during the summer months.
Take a Seaplane Tour: See Long Island from a new perspective with a thrilling seaplane tour that takes off from various locations along the coast. Marvel at the island's pristine beaches, lush vineyards, and iconic landmarks from the air.
Explore the Whaling Museum and Education Center: Learn about Long Island's maritime heritage at the Whaling Museum and Education Center in Cold Spring Harbor. Discover artifacts from the whaling era, explore interactive exhibits, and even try your hand at scrimshaw carving.
Go Birdwatching at Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge in Queens. Grab your binoculars and spot a diverse array of bird species, including ospreys, egrets, and herons, in this urban oasis.
Indulge in Gourmet Dining at Oheka Castle: Treat yourself to a luxurious dining experience at Oheka Castle in Huntington, one of the country's most prestigious historic estates. Dine in opulent surroundings and savor gourmet cuisine prepared by award-winning chefs.
Explore the Montauk Point State Park: Journey to the easternmost tip of Long Island and explore Montauk Point State Park, home to the iconic Montauk Lighthouse. Hike scenic trails, picnic overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, and spot seals basking on the rocks in the winter months.
Take a Sunset Cruise: Relax and unwind on a sunset cruise departing from ports across Long Island. Cruise along the tranquil waters of the Great South Bay or the Long Island Sound, sip cocktails, and watch the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of color.
Wander Through Planting Fields Arboretum: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay. Explore formal gardens, stroll along tree-lined paths, and admire the stunning architecture of the historic Coe Hall mansion.
Go Kayaking in Shinnecock Bay: Paddle through the serene waters of Shinnecock Bay on a guided kayak tour led by experienced naturalists. Discover hidden coves, observe marine life, and learn about the unique ecosystem of this coastal estuary.
Explore the Cradle of Aviation Museum: Delve into the history of aviation at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, home to an impressive collection of vintage aircraft and interactive exhibits. Climb aboard historic planes, simulate a flight mission, and learn about Long Island's contributions to aviation history.
Discover the Long Island Aquarium: Dive into an underwater world at the Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead, where you can marvel at colorful marine life, touch stingrays, and watch thrilling shark feedings. Don't miss the interactive butterfly exhibit and the sea lion shows.
Attend a Concert at Jones Beach Theater: Experience live music in a breathtaking outdoor setting at the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh. From rock and pop to country and hip-hop, the amphitheater hosts an eclectic lineup of concerts throughout the summer season.
Get Going
In the hustle and bustle of Long Island, hidden treasures await those willing to venture off the beaten path. Whether you're exploring the charming streets of Port Jefferson, stepping back in time at Sagamore Hill, or savoring a lobster roll by the sea, Long Island offers a wealth of unique experiences waiting to be discovered. So, pack your sense of adventure and embark on a journey to uncover the island's best-kept secrets.
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