Long Island, New York, is a long stretch of land next to New York City that most travelers have seen in passing. Home to long white beaches, sand dunes, and abundant luxury, many will travel here every year. Besides offering plenty of natural scenery to take in, Long Island also hosts many attractions to keep the whole group busy during a vacation. Luckily, Long Island is home to many beautiful places worth experiencing, giving travelers the adventure of a lifetime.

For people wanting to get away from NYC's hustle and bustle, Long Island is the perfect escape!

UPDATE: 2023/09/23 13:09 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Top Attractions In Long Island

Long Island is one of New York's most sought-after summer destinations, boasting a diverse range of attractions ideal for all types of travelers. This updated article features more of the best things to do in Long Island.

Things To Do In Long Island

Visiting Long Island can be an escape into luxury or, more simply, an escape into incredible nature. To help travelers navigate their visit to Long Island, here is a guide to the best places to visit and what to do while there.

1 Old Westbury Gardens

One of the first things to see while in Long Island, New York, is Old Westbury Gardens. Here, travelers can experience a historic mansion and formal gardens or attend programs and events. This garden has an elegant feel to it, allowing tourists to take in the finer things Long Island has to offer.

Some history behind the garden: it belonged to business person John Shaffer Phipps, an heir to the Phipps family fortune, and has since been turned into a museum and outdoor event space.

• Admission: Free
• Hours: 10 am - 6 pm

Visitors should also explore the historic Old Westbury House within the Gardens and the former homestead of John Phipps and his family. Tickets cost Adults $15, Seniors & Students $13, Kids $8

Related: An Island Off Long Island: This New York Spot Is A Hidden Coastal Gem

2 Vanderbilt Museum And Planetarium

The next thing to do while in Long Island is to visit the Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium. The museum is located in Centerport on the North Shore of Long Island in Suffolk County and offers plenty to see for guests. Like the Old Westbury Gardens, this museum also features a mansion: which seems to be a common trend in the area.

Furthermore, the museum's Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium opened its doors to the public in 1971 and offers "cutting-edge programming in the most technologically advanced theater of its kind on Long Island."

• Cost: Tickets start at $10 for evening planetarium shows
• Hours: Friday (12 - 5 pm), Saturday & Sunday (10 am -5 pm)

Guests are not allowed to take photographs inside the mansion and exhibit galleries, but they are free to snap away while outside.

3 Belmont Park

Another notable thing to do in Long Island is stop by Belmont Park. This park is a major thoroughbred horse racing facility in the northeastern United States and opened in 1905. Today, it is run by the non-profit New York Racing Association and remains a must-see attraction for visitors.

• Do you have to pay to get into Belmont Park? No; access is free!

Find time to watch an exciting horserace at Belmont Stakes and try betting on a horse for those who don't mind a small risk.

4 Jones Beach State Park

Another thing to experience while in this charming part of New York, is Jones Beach State Park. Here, tourists can enjoy one of the most beautiful parks on Long Island, as well as the sandy beaches surrounding the area.

Because Long Island features many spots for catching a tan or even swimming: people can't go wrong grabbing a towel and sunscreen and enjoying the New York weather.

• Admission: Free
• Hours: 8 am - 8 pm

Jones Beach State Park is full of fun activities to occupy tourists for the whole. Bring a wetsuit to enjoy a dip or surf the gentle waves. It also has a nature center, boardwalk, fishing pier, and bayside amphitheater.

5 Planting Fields Arboretum

For those who want to explore an arboretum and state park covering over 400 acres, checking out Planting Fields Arboretum is a great way to spend the afternoon. Located in the quaint town of Oyster Bay, this arboretum hosts many photo-worthy spots, including a mansion and outdoor event and garden space.

Notably, the Coe Hall Historic House Museum is a top-rated portion of this property, which could be worth stopping at while in the area.

• Admission: Free
• Hours: 9 am - 5 pm

One of the best times to explore Planting Fields Arboretum is fall when the changing foliage transforms the surrounding into a storybook setting.

6 Montauk Point Lighthouse

The oldest lighthouse in New York State can be found on the tip of Long Island.

Montauk Point Lighthouse is situated on the perfect spot of land with great views of the surrounding coast, as that lighthouse must be viewable from far off.

This spot is also home to a museum, gift shop, and even tours.

Montauk Point Lighthouse offers some of the area's best views. Visiting the town of Montauk might also be fun, as it is home to plenty of shops, restaurants, hotels, and natural scenery.

7 NYCB Theatre at Westbury

NYCB Theatre at Westbury was first envisioned in 1954 when radio broadcaster Frank Ford and nightclub owner Lee Guber debated how to improve a musical performance they’d just seen in a tent.

With a bit of a push from their wives, they joined forces with Shelly Gross and raised $100,000 to lease the Devon, Pennsylvania site, and the rest is history. Today, travelers can still visit to experience incredible shows.

NYCB Theater hosts some of the leading performers in the country. Visit the website to check scheduled events, times, and ticket prices.

8 Main Beach

Travelers looking for “the beach” on Long Island to visit are probably thinking of Main Beach.

Found in East Hampton, also known as Hollywood East, the beach enjoys a great deal of support from its local community and has excellent lifeguards and other staff, keeping beach-goers safe while maintaining the beach.

Main Beach is among the most popular beaches in the area. It gets pretty flocked, so head there early to find a parking space.

9 Long Beach

This stunning beach is home to white sand and great surf. Travelers may need to purchase a pass to access this beach, but it is an incredibly pleasant way to spend a day.

Travelers will also be able to walk along the beach's boardwalk, a popular place for walkers and cyclists, to grab some snacks or something to drink.

Spare a few minutes to stroll along the picturesque 2.2-mile boardwalk at Long Beach. The views of the ocean are simply stunning.

10 Long Island Aquarium

Travelers looking for a fantastic aquarium experience should check out the Long Island Aquarium. There are tons of exhibits where visitors can get up close with animals from all over the world.

From reptiles and amphibians to butterflies (there's an indoor tropical garden) and even owls, octopuses, and moon jellies, there are many fascinating creatures to see.

• Admission: Adults $45.99. Kids $31.99
• Hours: Tue to Fri (10 am - 4 pm), Sun to Mon (10 am -5 pm)

Try to attend an animal feeding session for a more immersive experience when exploring the expansive Long Island Aquarium.

11 Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

During its heyday, Long Island was the go-to summer destination, attracting world-renowned personalities like the Kennedys. One of its most famous residents was former U.S. president Teddy Roosevelt, who owned a home here from 1885 till his death in 1919.

Aptly nicknamed the "Summer White House," Sagamore Hill is the remains of what used to be the president's abode.

The property spans 83 acres in Oyster Bay, featuring fields, woodlands, salt marshes, and beaches, so visitors will have much walking and seeing to do.

• Admission: Free, but visitors can take a ranger-guided tour for $10 per adult and $1 per child
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset

Another residence on the property worth checking out is the "Old Orchard," which belonged to Theodore Roosevelt Jr. and Elanor Roosevelt.

12 Nassau County Museum Of Art

Art aficionados will have a remarkable time roaming the Nassau County Museum of Art. The facility is housed inside a mansion by the American industrialist Henry Clay Frick, showcasing a permanent and rotating collection of impressionism art.

Besides the pieces inside the museum, guests can explore at least 40 sculptures by 30 artists in the surrounding garden. The grounds also feature an arboretum and several walking trails for tourists who don't mind a little workout.

• Admission: $15
• Hours: Tue to Sun (11 am - 4:45 pm)

If interested, vacationers can sign up for an on-site art class or workshop, which is an excellent family activity. Prices vary depending on the chosen class.

13 Long Island Children's Museum

Tourists with kids can take their brood to the Long Island Children's Museum for a fun-filled adventure. The facility hosts several other attractions that guarantee to impress any innocent soul, including the Garden City, where kids can jump on a giant bubble to their heart's desire.

Other highlights include the Animal Diner, a theater, interactive exhibits, and the wildly popular Nunley's Carousel.

• Admission: $17
• Hours: Weekdays (11 am - 3 pm), Weekends (11 am - 5 pm)

The area dedicated to toddlers at the museum fills up relatively quickly, so parents should reserve a spot for their kids upon arrival.

14 Shelter Island

Located a short boat ride from Sag Harbor, Shelter Island is a secluded locale ideal for tourists who prefer to skip the crowds. Its laid-back vibe, refreshing coastal breeze, and stunning sea vistas draw locals and visitors alike.

There are enough activities to keep newcomers occupied, such as hiking Mashomack Preserve, playing golf at Shelter Island Country Club, or biking around the modest town.

Several restaurants on the island serve scrumptious meals, and popular spots like the Pridwin Hotel and SALT Waterfront Bar & Grill are a must-visit.

15 Best Time To See Long Island

Travelers looking to visit Long Island usually make the trip between June and October. Long Island follows the usual summer pattern for the northeastern United States, with the peak occurring between Memorial Day and Labor Day Weekends.

Related: Start Planning A Long Island Trip (With These Beaches In Mind)

The warm weather helps with the enjoyment of the region, but there is some flexibility. There are several weeks of good weather before Memorial Day and after Labor Day that travelers can take advantage of. The crowds and the costs will be greatly reduced too.

Some are even known to prefer to visit Long Island during the winter, particularly around the holidays.

16 Best Ways To Get Around Long Island

Travelers will find that having a car is strongly recommended for Long Island. However, it isn’t the only option available. Travelers not looking to go too far will find traveling by foot and bicycle or by bus as reasonable too.

By Car

It is generally recommended to get around Long Island by car. It is a 118-mile stretch of land with many pockets that are simply more convenient to reach by car.

It is recommended, but not a necessity, for travelers to rent a car during their visit to Long Island.

• Many small towns on Long Island are worth a visit but may require a car for easy access.

By Foot or Bicycle

Long Island is home to Charming towns like Greenport, Port Jefferson, and Montauk, which are perfectly walkable and ridable. However, if travelers are looking to move between towns, then the distances become longer the accessibility becomes less.

By Public Transit

Travelers looking to head out along Long Island by train will be able to take the LIRR directly to towns like Montauk and Greenport. For travelers looking to bus around, it is recommended that they check out the Jitney busses that can take them around Long Island.

Traveling by train and city buses is a great way to cut down on transportation costs while in Long Island. Rideshare and taxis can become expensive over time, so try to utilize public transportation as well.

By Taxi, Uber, or Lyft

Travelers will be able to take advantage of Uber and Lyft rides while on Long Island, as well as their traditional taxi services. The prices for rides are significantly lower than those in and around New York City, so travelers shouldn’t feel trepidation about the cost.

17 Where To Eat On Long Island

Being the popular upscale travel destination that it is, travelers will find Long Island to be loaded with dining options. So, to help travelers out, here is a look at three dining destinations they must check out.

Harvest on Fort Pond

Found in the Montauk neighborhood just past the Hamptons, Harvest on Fort Pond is a top-rated restaurant that travelers should be sure to check out.

The Executive Chef, Jake Williams, prepared home-style Italian cuisine that takes advantage of the area's incredible seafood. It is also a great destination for cocktails.

• Address - 11 S Emery St, Montauk, NY 11954
• Contact - (631) 668-5574
• Cost - $$-$$$
• Fan-Favorite - Skirt Steak

Jerry & The Mermaid

Found near Atlantis Long Island Aquarium, Jerry & The Mermaid provides delicious seafood to its patrons year-round and seven days a week. Travelers can stop by in their car or via boat, taking advantage of Jerry's complimentary docking slips.

• Address - 469 E Main St, Riverhead, NY 11901-2556
• Contact - (631) 727-8489
• Cost - $$-$$$
• Fan-Favorite - The Jim Bissett Steam Dozen

Rumba Island Bar & Grill

Rumba Island Bar & Grill may spice up Long Island’s waterfront in the evening hours. However, it is also a great destination for brunch too! They are popular for their handcrafted rum libations, happy staffers, reggae, and relaxed vibe.

• Address - 43 Canoe Place Rd, Hampton Bays, Southampton, NY 11946-1702
• Contact - (631)594-3544
• Cost - $$-$$$
• Fan-Favorite - Tres Leches French Toast

18 Where To Stay On Long Island

Long Island is home to an array of accommodation options ranging from the incredibly lavish to the more budget-friendly. To help travelers navigate their accommodation selection, here is a look at three of the most highly recommended hotels.

Budget:

Hyatt Place Long Island/East End

Hyatt Place Long Island/East End is a great choice for travelers looking for incredible value. Located on the waterfront in the heart of downtown Riverhead, this hotel is close to major attractions like the Long Island Aquarium, making it a great home base during a trip to Long Island.

All of this, along with the hotel's wonderful accommodations, make it a highly-rated choice.

• Accommodation: Hyatt Place Long Island/East End
• Address - 451 E Main St, Riverhead, NY 11901-2556
• Amenities - Free parking, free high-speed internet (Wi-Fi), pool, fitness center with gym/workout room, free breakfast, bicycle rental, highchairs available, shuttle bus service
• Cost - $

Viana Hotel and Spa, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

The Viana Hotel and Spa, found in Westbury, is not only highly rated, but it is also a certified green hotel dedicated to maintaining a sustainable living environment for its guests. This hotel is still very much a luxury hotel with a peaceful and calm atmosphere that pairs well with a visit to its spa.

• Accommodation: The Viana Hotel and Spa
• Address - 3998 Brush Hollow Rd, Westbury, NY 11590-1739
• Amenities - Free parking, free High-Speed Internet (Wi-Fi), pool, fitness center with gym/workout room, bar/lounge, game room, billiards
• Cost - $

Mid-range:

Marram

The Marram, a truly unique waterfront experience, can be found near the coastline of Montauk.

This luxury hotel invites travelers to relax along their sandy shore and to dine at their restaurant. This luxury boutique is one of the most ideal locations to stay while visiting Long Island.

• Accommodation: Marram
• Address - 21 Ocean View Ter, Montauk, NY 11954-5356
• Amenities - Free parking, free high-speed internet (Wi-Fi), pool with a view, yoga classes, restaurant, beach, bicycles available, meeting rooms
• Cost - $$

Kimpton Hotel Eventi

• Address: 851 Avenue of The Americas, New York, NY 10001
• Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Valet parking, Business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Cable or satellite TV
• Cost: $$

Luxury:

Topping Rose House

• Address: 1 Bridgehampton Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton, NY 11932
• Amenities: Private beach, Outdoor pool, Spa and wellness center, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Valet parking,Free parking
• Cost: $$$

The Quogue Club

• Address: 47 Quogue Street, Quogue, NY 11959
• Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Flat-screen TV, Cable or satellite TV, Free toiletries
• Cost: $$$

19 Popular Neighborhoods On Long Island

Travelers may think of Long Island as a singular entity; however, it is divided into distinct neighborhoods. Here is a look at them and what they offer travelers.

Nassau County

Nassau County is a dynamic and lively place to visit. It is just minutes from New York too. Travelers can look forward to enjoying the county's natural beauty, prolific history, and many of its exciting attractions. Less than 20 miles from Town Square, Nassau Country is quite easy to get to.

Suffolk County

Suffolk County is famous for its white sand beaches, world-class shopping, championship golf courses, Gatsby-era Gold Coast Mansions, and the aesthetically pleasing Montauk region.

Related: Meet The Long Island Town Responsible For 'The Great Gatsby'

The Hamptons and Fire Island are also part of this incredible country. Travelers should be prepared to devour some incredible seafood during their time here.

The Hamptons

Perhaps the most well-known destination along Long Island, the Hamptons, has been featured in Hollywood movies, reality TV shows, and so much more. A visit here is the ultimate chance to unwind and enjoy the white sand beaches of the Hamptons.

20 Tips For Visiting Long Island

Travelers visiting Long Island may not want to break the bank during their trip, and they won’t have to. Here is a look at three tips for budget-minded travelers to Long Island.

Aim for Weekday Arrivals

Arrive when the hotels are at their cheapest. This can be during the week, Monday to Thursday.

It can also be just before and just after peak travel season. This would be before Memorial Day or after Labor Day.

Eat Out Less

Prep meals, especially lunches, for the week. Prepping meals isn’t only cost-effective, it's convenient. If travelers are spending time out in nature, they won’t need to reroute to the closers place to grab food once they get hungry. Instead, they can spend a bit longer in Long Islands' aesthetic natural beauty.

Visit for Birthdays

Plan a trip to Long Island during someone on the Traveler’s group’s birthday.

Many restaurants in Long Island offer discounts and even free dinners or other extras on a person’s birthday.