What I love about Long Island is that it is a four seasons destination where you experience culture, history, indoor and outdoor activities year round.
Winter, in particular is a great time to plan a visit to Long Island to enjoy many of the indoor points of interest, leaving the cold weather outside. If you are the outdoorsy type, there is no shortage of experiences either!
Here are 25 Reasons to take a drive or train ride to Nassau and Suffolk this Winter season whether you call Long Island home or are just visiting.
Winter, in particular is a great time to plan a visit to Long Island to enjoy many of the indoor points of interest, leaving the cold weather outside. If you are the outdoorsy type, there is no shortage of experiences either!
Here are 25 Reasons to take a drive or train ride to Nassau and Suffolk this Winter season whether you call Long Island home or are just visiting.
1. ICE SKATING
What says Winter more than ice skating?! And while I know that indoor rinks can be great for keeping warm and allow this activity in all kinds of inclement weather, I’m an old school girl and still love the outdoor skating experience!
While there are more than sixteen ice skating rinks in Nassau and Suffolk County alone, here
are two of my favorites and worth visiting:
Christoper Morley Park
500 Searingtown Rd
N, Roslyn, NY 11576
(516) 571-8113
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 6PM
What says Winter more than ice skating?! And while I know that indoor rinks can be great for keeping warm and allow this activity in all kinds of inclement weather, I’m an old school girl and still love the outdoor skating experience!
While there are more than sixteen ice skating rinks in Nassau and Suffolk County alone, here
are two of my favorites and worth visiting:
Christoper Morley Park
500 Searingtown Rd
N, Roslyn, NY 11576
(516) 571-8113
Hours: Open ⋅ Closes 6PM
photo credit: nassaucountyny.org
Christopher Morley’s outdoor ice skating rink, a community fixture since 1966,was named by News 12 Long Islandviewers as the best outdoor skating rink on Long Island. The facility, which is 200-feet by 80-feet, is used by recreational skaters and hockey teams. The ice rink opens the Saturday after Thanksgiving through mid-March (weather permitting). Ice charter rentals for parties and hockey teams are also available.
Daily fees for adults without Leisure pass is $22.00 and for children 17 and under $15.00. Skate Rental is $5.00.
Daily fees for adults without Leisure pass is $22.00 and for children 17 and under $15.00. Skate Rental is $5.00.
What I love about Tanger at the Arches is that for those individuals who are visiting New York and may not want to battle the crowds (or the prices) of ice skating in Manhattan, traveling like locals is easy, thanks to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) from Penn Station out to Deer Park (Approx. an hour).
The Arches is conveniently located a short distance from the Deer Park LIRR Train Station.
Purchase the Tanger Deer Park package at open ticket offices and ticket machines (gray or
blue). The package includes rail fare to Deer Park station, where you can board the Tanger Outlet Shuttle for a short ride to the center. Turn in the voucher stub at the Tanger Outlets Shoppers Services Center for a coupon book worth hundreds in savings. Admission is $10 and Skate Rental is $4. Children 5 and under are FREE. Skate rental for TangerClub Members is FREE with your TangerClub ID.
The Arches is conveniently located a short distance from the Deer Park LIRR Train Station.
Purchase the Tanger Deer Park package at open ticket offices and ticket machines (gray or
blue). The package includes rail fare to Deer Park station, where you can board the Tanger Outlet Shuttle for a short ride to the center. Turn in the voucher stub at the Tanger Outlets Shoppers Services Center for a coupon book worth hundreds in savings. Admission is $10 and Skate Rental is $4. Children 5 and under are FREE. Skate rental for TangerClub Members is FREE with your TangerClub ID.
Tanger Ice Rink (photo credit: patch.com)
After some fun on the ice, treat yourself to some great Long Island Factory Outlet shopping at one of two Tanger Outlets on Long Island. See below for more information on Tanger Outlet shopping.
2. Sag Harbor Harborfrost Festival
Harborfrost
1 Long Wharf
Sag Harbor, NY
February 24, 2018
Saturday, 1pm - 6pm
HarborFrost is a celebration of winter in Sag Harbor highlighting two extreme elements—fire and ice! Featuring live ice carving demonstrations, ice sculptures along Main Street, live music performances, indoor children’s activities, the Hysterical Society’s Culinary Stroll, and fire jugglers and dancers, there’s something for everyone! Spend the day shopping and dining in Sag Harbor. Don’t miss the main event: Fireworks by Grucci over the harbor!
Harborfrost
1 Long Wharf
Sag Harbor, NY
February 24, 2018
Saturday, 1pm - 6pm
HarborFrost is a celebration of winter in Sag Harbor highlighting two extreme elements—fire and ice! Featuring live ice carving demonstrations, ice sculptures along Main Street, live music performances, indoor children’s activities, the Hysterical Society’s Culinary Stroll, and fire jugglers and dancers, there’s something for everyone! Spend the day shopping and dining in Sag Harbor. Don’t miss the main event: Fireworks by Grucci over the harbor!
3. Watch The Polar Bear Club
1029 W Park Avenue
Long Beach, NY
February 4, 2018
Long Beach Polar Bear Super Bowl Splash
(Riverside Boulevard & Broadway)
Watch the most hardcore people jump into the freezing Atlantic Ocean on Super Bowl Sunday when the Long Beach Polar Bear Club raises money for charity. Maybe you’ll even want to join them!
Festivities start at noon, ocean plunge at 1:30 pm
1029 W Park Avenue
Long Beach, NY
February 4, 2018
Long Beach Polar Bear Super Bowl Splash
(Riverside Boulevard & Broadway)
Watch the most hardcore people jump into the freezing Atlantic Ocean on Super Bowl Sunday when the Long Beach Polar Bear Club raises money for charity. Maybe you’ll even want to join them!
Festivities start at noon, ocean plunge at 1:30 pm
4. Visit Long Island's Air and Space Museum
The Cradle of Aviation Museum
Charles Lindbergh Blvd.
Garden City, NY
(516) 572-4111
Highlighting Long Island's contributions to flight, The Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City aims to get kids excited about the science and beauty of flying planes. It's also a fascinating day visit for adults as well! Make a day of it by stopping by the nearby Historic Nunley’s Carousel (see below).
The Cradle of Aviation Museum
Charles Lindbergh Blvd.
Garden City, NY
(516) 572-4111
Highlighting Long Island's contributions to flight, The Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City aims to get kids excited about the science and beauty of flying planes. It's also a fascinating day visit for adults as well! Make a day of it by stopping by the nearby Historic Nunley’s Carousel (see below).
****Spotlight on Cradle of Aviation Museum****
 Old aviator suit (c) travelincousins.com A few months ago, I was fortunate enough to be a chaperone on Kelsey's 6th Grade trip to the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City. I had never been there and it was clear, I was the most enthusiastic kid out of everyone in the class! Having done a great deal of research about the Hempstead Plains prior to my visit, for other articles I've worked on, I was quite familiar with Roosevelt Field, formerly Hazelhurst Field, and the tremendous contributions made to the aviation industry right here on Long Island. But, visiting the museum was no less interesting and in fact, it was that much more captivating to learn so many of the details and see original and replica flying machines. If you are not familiar with just how instrumental Long Island was in transforming aviation from a dangerous sport to a viable means of transportation, you need to visit this museum. In addition, a large portion of the nation's aerial arsenal in time of war was produced right in the area. According to the museum's website: "The many record-setting and historic flights that transpired here, and the many aviation companies that developed here made aviation the integral part of our world that it is today." One of the factors that made Long Island an ideal location for aviation, was that geographically it was a natural airfield. First, being situated at the eastern edge of the United States, and at the western edge of the Atlantic Ocean, it was an ideal focal point for most transatlantic and transcontinental flights. Secondly, the central area of Nassau County, known as the Hempstead Plains, was the only natural prairie east of the Allegheny Mountains. Possessing a flat, treeless area that was very sparsely populated, aviators, businesses and the United States government chose this area as the scene of intense aviation activity for over fifty years.  (Photo credit: cradleofaviation.org) The Museum showcases many original and replicas of the "flying machines" of the early 20th Century. Many do not realize just how dangerous this new "sport" was, nor the fearless bravery these aviation pioneers possessed. The Museum website states, "By 1896 the first recorded aircraft flight took place on Long Island, when a Lilienthal-type glider was flown from the bluffs along Nassau County's north shore. By 1902 gasoline-powered airships were flown over Brooklyn. Powered flight had come to Long Island to stay." The Golden Age of aviation in the 1920's and 1930's witnessed expansion and record setting in the areas of flying speed and distance here on Long Island, as well as the establishment of major aviation manufacturers including Curtiss and Sikorsky in Garden City, Sperry and Fairchild in Farmingdale, and Brunner-Winkle in Queens. Undoubtedly, the most famous flight to have occurred on Long Island at this time was Charles Lindbergh's historical flight from Roosevelt Field to Paris in 1927. I was truly awe-struck by the information to be garnered at the Cradle of Aviation and highly recommend it as a family experience for all. ******** |  (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelicousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com |
5. The Long Island Puppet Theatre
10 Heitz Place
Hicksville NY
516-932-5469
The Long Island Puppet Theatre in Hicksville gives your kids a taste of entertainment you probably enjoyed all the time as a kid. The shows use both marionettes and traditional hand puppets. Craft workshops are also available.
10 Heitz Place
Hicksville NY
516-932-5469
The Long Island Puppet Theatre in Hicksville gives your kids a taste of entertainment you probably enjoyed all the time as a kid. The shows use both marionettes and traditional hand puppets. Craft workshops are also available.
6. Seal Watching in Freeport
Captain Lou Fleet
28A Woodcleft Avenue
Freeport, NY
(516) 623-5823
Go on a seal cruise on the Captain Lou Fleet. You'll start out in Freeport and cruise through Hempstead Bay in search of harbor seals and other winter visitors to the waters around Long Island. A naturalist is on board
to discuss biology and behavior of seals and other marine life encountered. There is a heated cabin and warm beverages available.
Captain Lou Fleet
28A Woodcleft Avenue
Freeport, NY
(516) 623-5823
Go on a seal cruise on the Captain Lou Fleet. You'll start out in Freeport and cruise through Hempstead Bay in search of harbor seals and other winter visitors to the waters around Long Island. A naturalist is on board
to discuss biology and behavior of seals and other marine life encountered. There is a heated cabin and warm beverages available.
7. Romantic Bed & Breakfast Weekend
Long Island, particularly, Suffolk County has more than thirty cozy and romantic bed and breakfasts.
Many of these are historic and have spectacular water views. Some offer spa services for a relaxing time. Though known for its Summer appeal and activities, the north and south fork of Long Island can be one of the most relaxing and romantic destinations for a tranquil getaway.
Click Here to check out BedandBreakfast.com's list of Long Island Bed and Breakfasts.
Long Island, particularly, Suffolk County has more than thirty cozy and romantic bed and breakfasts.
Many of these are historic and have spectacular water views. Some offer spa services for a relaxing time. Though known for its Summer appeal and activities, the north and south fork of Long Island can be one of the most relaxing and romantic destinations for a tranquil getaway.
Click Here to check out BedandBreakfast.com's list of Long Island Bed and Breakfasts.
Back view of the Chelsea Mansion on the Muttontown Preserve (photo credit: long island.com)
8. Cross Country Skiing at Muttontown Preserve
Jericho-Oyster Bay Road
East Norwich, NY
(516) 571-8500
Comprising 550 acres of fields, woodlands, ponds and estate grounds, Muttontown is Nassau County's largest nature preserve and one of the most beautiful settings on Long Island. When enough snow is on the ground, you can cross-country ski across the preserve's ski trails. Located on the northern end of the preserve is Chelsea Mansion, which was build in 1924 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places.
Jericho-Oyster Bay Road
East Norwich, NY
(516) 571-8500
Comprising 550 acres of fields, woodlands, ponds and estate grounds, Muttontown is Nassau County's largest nature preserve and one of the most beautiful settings on Long Island. When enough snow is on the ground, you can cross-country ski across the preserve's ski trails. Located on the northern end of the preserve is Chelsea Mansion, which was build in 1924 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places.
(photo credit: pga.com)
9. Winter Golf
For the determined souls who will not let Winter stop them from playing golf, Nassau and Suffolk counties both have countless public golf course, with only a handful of exceptions, that keep their doors open through the winter. Managers and staff work hard to find the right balance between maintaining the quality of their courses and allowing offseason players to hack away. Overall, Long Islanders with a golf itch on a 30-degree day in January or February will almost always be able to find a place to play.
No matter your location, you'll find 18 holes and stunning views close by.
Click Here for Golf on Long Island website for winter golf.
For the determined souls who will not let Winter stop them from playing golf, Nassau and Suffolk counties both have countless public golf course, with only a handful of exceptions, that keep their doors open through the winter. Managers and staff work hard to find the right balance between maintaining the quality of their courses and allowing offseason players to hack away. Overall, Long Islanders with a golf itch on a 30-degree day in January or February will almost always be able to find a place to play.
No matter your location, you'll find 18 holes and stunning views close by.
Click Here for Golf on Long Island website for winter golf.
10. New York Islanders Game, Barclay's Center
620 Atlantic Avenue
Brooklyn, NY
The New York Islanders have a long history as a part of Long Island sports culture. Although the team is currently playing in Brooklyn at the Barclay's Center, as a new arena is being built in Elmont near Belmont Park, taking in an Islanders Game is a great way to connect with local New Yorkers for a night of hockey
620 Atlantic Avenue
Brooklyn, NY
The New York Islanders have a long history as a part of Long Island sports culture. Although the team is currently playing in Brooklyn at the Barclay's Center, as a new arena is being built in Elmont near Belmont Park, taking in an Islanders Game is a great way to connect with local New Yorkers for a night of hockey
photo credit: facebook.com/caffe portofino
11. Hot Chocolate Crawl
If you are new to my blog, you may not be aware that I am addicted to hot chocolates! No matter the season, you will see me with my daily (and sometimes twice daily) dose of the warm chocolately beverage.
For most normal folks, Winter is the ideal time to enjoy the comfort of a hot chocolate.
Nothing to do? Grab the kids, your significant other or just go solo and check out some of the best-rated hot chocolate joints on Long Island!
According to Jackie Venuti at Long Island Pulse magazine, here are seven of her favorite picks:
1. Caffe Portofino, Northport
2. The Witches Brew, West Hempstead
3. Toast Coffeehouse, Port Jefferson & Patchogue
4. Fresco Crêperie & Café, Long Beach & Williston Park
5. Aldo’s Café, Greenport
6. North Fork Roasting Company, Southold
7. The Cup Coffeehouse, Wantagh
If you are new to my blog, you may not be aware that I am addicted to hot chocolates! No matter the season, you will see me with my daily (and sometimes twice daily) dose of the warm chocolately beverage.
For most normal folks, Winter is the ideal time to enjoy the comfort of a hot chocolate.
Nothing to do? Grab the kids, your significant other or just go solo and check out some of the best-rated hot chocolate joints on Long Island!
According to Jackie Venuti at Long Island Pulse magazine, here are seven of her favorite picks:
1. Caffe Portofino, Northport
2. The Witches Brew, West Hempstead
3. Toast Coffeehouse, Port Jefferson & Patchogue
4. Fresco Crêperie & Café, Long Beach & Williston Park
5. Aldo’s Café, Greenport
6. North Fork Roasting Company, Southold
7. The Cup Coffeehouse, Wantagh
(photo credit: New York Times)
12. Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center of Nassau County
Welwyn Preserve
100 Crescent Beach Road
Glen Cove, NY 11542
(516)-571-8040
Celebrating over twenty years on Long Island, The Mission of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County is to teach the history of the Holocaust and its lessons through education and community outreach. The center’s state-of-the-art museum chronicles in heart-wrenching detail the atrocities of the Holocaust and offers numerous educational initiatives and events.
Welwyn Preserve
100 Crescent Beach Road
Glen Cove, NY 11542
(516)-571-8040
Celebrating over twenty years on Long Island, The Mission of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County is to teach the history of the Holocaust and its lessons through education and community outreach. The center’s state-of-the-art museum chronicles in heart-wrenching detail the atrocities of the Holocaust and offers numerous educational initiatives and events.
(photo credit: wiki.org)
13. Learn the History of Whaling
The Whaling Museum & Education Center
279 Main Street
Cold Spring Harbor, NY
(631) 367-3418
Formerly known as The Whaling Museum, The Whaling Museum & Education Center is a maritime museum located in Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island dedicated to exploring the local history and impact of the whaling industry, the maritime heritage of Long Island, and the relationship between people and the ocean.
There are permanent and special exhibits year round for families!
The Whaling Museum & Education Center
279 Main Street
Cold Spring Harbor, NY
(631) 367-3418
Formerly known as The Whaling Museum, The Whaling Museum & Education Center is a maritime museum located in Cold Spring Harbor, Long Island dedicated to exploring the local history and impact of the whaling industry, the maritime heritage of Long Island, and the relationship between people and the ocean.
There are permanent and special exhibits year round for families!
14. Legendary Sunday Brunch at The Garden City Hotel
45 Seventh Street
Garden City Long Island, NY
(516) 747-3000
The award-winning Sunday Brunch has become almost as legendary as The Garden City Hotel itself. The culinary feast ranges from traditional favorites like made-to-order omelets and carved meats to more eclectic fare, including a raw bar and fresh sushi. A sumptuous display of fresh fruit, cheese platters, salads, fresh-baked muffins, pastries and decadent desserts is a fitting finish.
45 Seventh Street
Garden City Long Island, NY
(516) 747-3000
The award-winning Sunday Brunch has become almost as legendary as The Garden City Hotel itself. The culinary feast ranges from traditional favorites like made-to-order omelets and carved meats to more eclectic fare, including a raw bar and fresh sushi. A sumptuous display of fresh fruit, cheese platters, salads, fresh-baked muffins, pastries and decadent desserts is a fitting finish.
 (photo credit: garden city hotel) |  (photo credit: garden city hotel) |
Included are Mimosas, Bloody Marys and coffee or tea. Sunday Brunch Seating Is At 11:00am, 11:30am, 2:00pm, 2:30pm. Reservations are required.
(photo credit: custerobservatory.org)
15. Visit the Oldest Observatory on Long Island
The Custer Institute
1115 Main Bayview Road
Southold, NY
(631) 765-2626
The Custer Institute in Southold was established in 1927, and is the oldest observatory on Long Island. Nestled in the residential area of Southold with low light pollution, the visibility of the night sky is excellent. If you are just looking to stargaze, they are open from dusk until midnight every Saturday during the winter (weather permitting). They also hold also events at the observatory, including a Starlight Cabaret on Valentine’s Day and a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner. For more details, call the observatory or check out the events page on their website.
The Custer Institute
1115 Main Bayview Road
Southold, NY
(631) 765-2626
The Custer Institute in Southold was established in 1927, and is the oldest observatory on Long Island. Nestled in the residential area of Southold with low light pollution, the visibility of the night sky is excellent. If you are just looking to stargaze, they are open from dusk until midnight every Saturday during the winter (weather permitting). They also hold also events at the observatory, including a Starlight Cabaret on Valentine’s Day and a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner. For more details, call the observatory or check out the events page on their website.
(photo credit: vimeo.com)
16. Winter Wine Tasting
Sparkling Pointe Winery
39750 Route 48, Southold, NY
(631) 765-0200
When most people think of visiting a winery, they have visions of warm summer days. But, that doesn't have to be the case. Sparkling Point winery on the North fork of Long Island in Southhold is open year round. There are a variety of events to enjoy at the winery, including cupcake and wine pairings on Valentine’s Day weekend, wine and cheese tastings on Saturdays in March and ‘Live on the Vine’ music and wine on Sunday afternoons from late February through March.
Reservations are recommended and advanced reservations can secure a great deal on admission, which also includes a cheese plate and reserved dining.
Sparkling Pointe Winery
39750 Route 48, Southold, NY
(631) 765-0200
When most people think of visiting a winery, they have visions of warm summer days. But, that doesn't have to be the case. Sparkling Point winery on the North fork of Long Island in Southhold is open year round. There are a variety of events to enjoy at the winery, including cupcake and wine pairings on Valentine’s Day weekend, wine and cheese tastings on Saturdays in March and ‘Live on the Vine’ music and wine on Sunday afternoons from late February through March.
Reservations are recommended and advanced reservations can secure a great deal on admission, which also includes a cheese plate and reserved dining.
17. A Day at the Planetarium
Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium
180 Little Neck Road
Centerport, New York
(631) 854-5579
Eagle’s Nest was the sumptuous Long Island mansion of William Kissam Vanderbilt II.
In addition to the museum and planetarium, if the weather is nice, you can stroll the grounds which provide an incredible view of the Long Island Sound.
Pictures from my visit back in 2014 with Kelsey and nephew, Julian.
Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium
180 Little Neck Road
Centerport, New York
(631) 854-5579
Eagle’s Nest was the sumptuous Long Island mansion of William Kissam Vanderbilt II.
In addition to the museum and planetarium, if the weather is nice, you can stroll the grounds which provide an incredible view of the Long Island Sound.
Pictures from my visit back in 2014 with Kelsey and nephew, Julian.
18. Snowboarding and Sledding
Bethpage State Park
99 Quaker Meeting House Road
Farmingdale, NY
Wow - I remember going to the golf courses with the sleds growing up in Queens! Why should today be any different. How about trying the slopes at Bethpage State Park, (otherwise known as the "greens" of several golf courses in warmer weather) where there is even an onsite restaurant.
Bethpage State Park
99 Quaker Meeting House Road
Farmingdale, NY
Wow - I remember going to the golf courses with the sleds growing up in Queens! Why should today be any different. How about trying the slopes at Bethpage State Park, (otherwise known as the "greens" of several golf courses in warmer weather) where there is even an onsite restaurant.
19. Outlet Shopping Anyone?
Tanger Outlets (Deer Park and Riverhead)
Looking for quality merchandise and brands at significant savings? Try a day at the outlets! With two outlet locations on Long Island - one in Deer Park and one in Riverhead - Tanger has the top names in retail in all product categories. Both outlet centers have lovely settings for a full day of shopping, eating and even relaxing.
Tanger Outlets (Deer Park and Riverhead)
Looking for quality merchandise and brands at significant savings? Try a day at the outlets! With two outlet locations on Long Island - one in Deer Park and one in Riverhead - Tanger has the top names in retail in all product categories. Both outlet centers have lovely settings for a full day of shopping, eating and even relaxing.
 Tanger Outlets Riverhead (c) travelincousins.com |  The water fountains are working again!! (c) travelincousins.com |  Relaxing in the sunshine at Tanger Outlets writing my blog last summer (c) travelincousins.com |
Conveniently located via car or train. Click Here for more information on Tanger Outlets.
For package and train information, or call 718-217-LIRR
For package and train information, or call 718-217-LIRR
20. A Southampton Museum Day
The Parrish Art Museum
279 Montauk Highway
Water Mill, NY 11976
(631)283-2118
Most people think of the Hamptons for its beaches and fun summer enjoyment, but with less traffic and gorgeous winter scenery, it can be exceptionally fun in the off season as well! If you love art, make a day for yourself at The Parrish Art Museum. Originally built in 1897 to house the extensive Italian Renaissance art collections of Samuel Longstreth Parrish and his many reproductions of classical Greek and Roman statuary, today the museum's holdings have expanded and include American art, with special attention to artists associated with Eastern Long Island, as well as modern and contemporary artists. In total, The Parrish Museum's works now consist of more than 2,600 works ranging from early nineteenth-century landscape paintings through American Impressionism and into the twentieth- and twenty-first centuries.
The Parrish Art Museum
279 Montauk Highway
Water Mill, NY 11976
(631)283-2118
Most people think of the Hamptons for its beaches and fun summer enjoyment, but with less traffic and gorgeous winter scenery, it can be exceptionally fun in the off season as well! If you love art, make a day for yourself at The Parrish Art Museum. Originally built in 1897 to house the extensive Italian Renaissance art collections of Samuel Longstreth Parrish and his many reproductions of classical Greek and Roman statuary, today the museum's holdings have expanded and include American art, with special attention to artists associated with Eastern Long Island, as well as modern and contemporary artists. In total, The Parrish Museum's works now consist of more than 2,600 works ranging from early nineteenth-century landscape paintings through American Impressionism and into the twentieth- and twenty-first centuries.
(photo credit: jerichocider.com)
21. Visit A 150 Year Old Cider Mill
Jericho Cider Mill
213 Jericho Oyster Bay Road
Jericho, NY
(516) 433-3360
For a real treat, visit the Jericho Cider Mill, which has a history dating back over 150 years here on Long Island. The cider at the mill is natural and contains no preservatives and as a result, people come from all over to buy the fresh cider. With a menu of homemade pies, this is one delicious winter day!
Jericho Cider Mill
213 Jericho Oyster Bay Road
Jericho, NY
(516) 433-3360
For a real treat, visit the Jericho Cider Mill, which has a history dating back over 150 years here on Long Island. The cider at the mill is natural and contains no preservatives and as a result, people come from all over to buy the fresh cider. With a menu of homemade pies, this is one delicious winter day!
(c) travelincousins.com
22. Visit The Home of America's 26th President - Teddy Roosevelt
Sagamore Hill
12 Sagamore Hill Road
Oyster Bay, NY 11771
(516) 922-4788
Sagamore Hill was the home of Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, from 1885 until his death in 1919. I can honestly say, this is one of my favorite places to visit on Long Island! Teddy Roosevelt was one of our most interesting and colorful presidents! During Roosevelt's time in office, Sagamore Hill was his "Summer White House" and was the focus of international attention.
Part of the National Parks Department, Sagamore Hill is National Historic Site and offers a wide variety of activities for all ages. The Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard, home of Theodore Roosevelt Jr., features films and exhibits about Theodore Roosevelt. The grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk.
Sagamore Hill
12 Sagamore Hill Road
Oyster Bay, NY 11771
(516) 922-4788
Sagamore Hill was the home of Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States, from 1885 until his death in 1919. I can honestly say, this is one of my favorite places to visit on Long Island! Teddy Roosevelt was one of our most interesting and colorful presidents! During Roosevelt's time in office, Sagamore Hill was his "Summer White House" and was the focus of international attention.
Part of the National Parks Department, Sagamore Hill is National Historic Site and offers a wide variety of activities for all ages. The Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard, home of Theodore Roosevelt Jr., features films and exhibits about Theodore Roosevelt. The grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk.
***Spotlight on Sagamore Hill ***
 (c) travelincousins.com One of my all-time favorite historic places on Long Island is Sagamore Hill, the former home of Teddy Roosevelt. My most recent visit was just last week and I couldn't have asked for a more lovely winter day. Although the temps were in the thirties and it was chilly, the sun was brightly shining, making it a perfect day to stroll the grounds of the former home of the 26th president of the United States. Arriving early morning on a weekday was a good decision, since we found ourselves part of an intimate group on the house tour and feeling as if we had the grounds all to ourselves when walking around. History of Sagamore Hill Located in Cove Neck, near Oyster Bay, the history of this former "summer white house" began when young Theodore Roosevelt purchased 155 acres of land in the area in 1880 at the age of twenty-two. He paid $30,000 for the land which would be equal to about $700,000 today. In 1884 Teddy Roosevelt hired the New York architectural firm Lamb & Rich to design a shingle-style, Queen Anne home for the property. The twenty-two room home was completed by John A. Wood and Son, of Lawrence, Long Island in 1886 for $16,975 (equal to $462,349 today), and Roosevelt moved into the house in 1887. Although a Manhattan native, Roosevelt spent many summers during his youth on extended vacations with his family in the Oyster Bay area. His original plan was to name the house "Leeholm" after his wife Alice Hathaway Lee Roosevelt. However, she died in 1884 giving birth to their daughter, Alice. After remarrying in 1886, he decided to change the name to "Sagamore Hill". Sagamore is the Algonquin word for chieftain, the head of the tribe. The house was expanded in 1905 with the addition of the "North Room," the largest room in the house. Furnished with trophies from the former president's hunts and gifts from foreign dignitaries, alongside pieces of art and books from the Roosevelts' collection, this room is the most impressive in the whole house. What is so wonderful about Sagamore Hill is that it contains original items and furnishings owned and used by the Roosevelt family, unlike many other historic homes and sites. When you first walk in, Roosevelt's library is to the right, filled with very masculine furnishings and his original desk. The former president was a voracious reader and the author of over 30 books. There are over 8000 books throughout the house! Across from his study and to the left upon entry to the house is Mrs. Roosevelt's private study and sitting room, where many guests were entertained before meeting with Roosevelt. Sagamore Hill took on its greatest importance when it became known as the "Summer White House" during the seven summers (1902–1908) Roosevelt spent there as President. It played host to numerous visits from foreign dignitaries and peace talks that helped draw an end to the Russo-Japanese war. Unfortunately, picture taking was not allowed inside the home, which was so disappointing because there are so many treasures and personal affects on display. Lucky for me, I was able to secure a few photographs of the interior, garnered from an article by William Grimes, featured in his New York Times article Theodore Roosevelt’s Sagamore Hill Home Cries ‘Bully!’ on July 9, 2015 at the opening of the museum after a four year restoration effort. Roosevelt died at Sagamore Hill on January 6, 1919, and was buried at nearby Youngs Memorial Cemetery. On July 25, 1962, Congress established Sagamore Hill National Historic Site to preserve the house as a unit of the National Park Service. As with all historic areas administered by the National Park Service, Sagamore Hill was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966. The Theodore Roosevelt Museum at Orchard Hill The Sagamore Hill residence provides a glimpse into the personal and private life of Teddy Roosevelt, whereas the Museum, as short walk from the house, offers a tribute to the life and career of this great American. The Old Orchard home, built in 1938 by Theodore Roosevelt Jr. on a four acre parcel within the family's historic fruit orchard, was his family's home until his wife Eleanor's death in 1960.Today the Old Orchard home hosts the Theodore Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard as well as the park's administrative headquarters. The museum traces Roosevelt's life and career in wall displays and artifacts. Perhaps the most impressive is the uniform he wore as a Rough Rider, which he had custom made by Brooks Brothers. About the Grounds Sagamore Hill is also a place of natural beauty throughout the eighty three acres of forested areas, meadows, salt marsh and beach are home to birds, small mammals, turtles, frogs and insects. Paths and a nature trail provide a wonderful place to walk around. Pets are also welcome on the grounds with the requirement to clean up after your furry friend.  The Eel Creek with Cold Spring Harbor in the background. (NPS Photo) Roosevelt Family Fortune The Roosevelt family acquired their wealth through the efforts of Teddy's grandfather, Cornelius Van Schaack "C.V.S." Roosevelt, who had numerous businesses including hardware importer, plate glass manufacturer and eventually real estate owner in Manhattan. By 1840, he was one of the five richest men in New York. Teddy's father, Theodore Roosevelt Sr. was also a businessman and great philanthropist who started the Children's Aid Society and was committed to helping orphans He also founded the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the American Museum of Natural History, and the New York Children's Orthopedic Hospital. He is the man admired most by Teddy Roosevelt and he is quoted as saying that every major decision he made, he would first contemplate what his father would do. ******** |  (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com  The library at Sagamore Hill displays rugs and mounted trophies from Roosevelt’s many hunting expeditions. ( Photo Credit: Byron Smith for The New York Times)  The North Room, which was added in 1905. (photo credit Byron Smith for The New York Times)  The Master Bedroom (photo credit: Byron Smith for The New York Times)  The Theodore Roosevelt Museum at Orchard Hill (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com  Roosevelt's Rough Rider uniform custom made by Brooks Brothers (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com  (c) travelincousins.com |
(photo credit: cradleofaviation.org)
23. Go For A Carousel Ride
Nunley's Historic Carousel
Charles Lindbergh Blvd,
Garden City, NY 11530
Take a step back in time with 41 horses and a lion on this legendary, 100+ year old, beautifully restored carousel. Created in 1912, this painstakingly restored carousel was installed on the Brooklyn waterfront in Canarsie’s Golden City Park where it was known as “Murphy’s” carousel and operated for 26 years. In the Spring of 1940, it reopened as Nunley's Carousel in Baldwin NY until Nunley’s closed in 1995. The Carousel found its new and current home in 2009, in its own building adjacent to the Cradle of Aviation Museum on Museum Row in Garden City.
Nunley's Historic Carousel
Charles Lindbergh Blvd,
Garden City, NY 11530
Take a step back in time with 41 horses and a lion on this legendary, 100+ year old, beautifully restored carousel. Created in 1912, this painstakingly restored carousel was installed on the Brooklyn waterfront in Canarsie’s Golden City Park where it was known as “Murphy’s” carousel and operated for 26 years. In the Spring of 1940, it reopened as Nunley's Carousel in Baldwin NY until Nunley’s closed in 1995. The Carousel found its new and current home in 2009, in its own building adjacent to the Cradle of Aviation Museum on Museum Row in Garden City.
24. The Long Island Aquarium
431 East Main Street
Riverhead NY
631.208.9200
Long Island Aquarium is located in downtown Riverhead, Long Island, on 3.2 acres along the scenic Peconic River. The Long Island Aquarium opened on June 15, 2000, becoming the first large-scale Aquarium to open in New York State in more than 35 years. It is home to one of the Western hemisphere’s largest all-living Coral Reef display as well as one of the largest living insect exhibitions in North America!
431 East Main Street
Riverhead NY
631.208.9200
Long Island Aquarium is located in downtown Riverhead, Long Island, on 3.2 acres along the scenic Peconic River. The Long Island Aquarium opened on June 15, 2000, becoming the first large-scale Aquarium to open in New York State in more than 35 years. It is home to one of the Western hemisphere’s largest all-living Coral Reef display as well as one of the largest living insect exhibitions in North America!
(photo credit: glowgolfgalleria.com)
25. Indoor Mini Golf
GlowGolf
Roosevelt Field Mall - Space 0503-A
630 Old Country Road
516-747-3282
Don't let the cold weather stand in the way of you playing a leisurely game of mini golf! And to make it more fun, GlowGolf is a glow-in-the-dark miniature golf facility! There are 27 unique holes that are played completely under black lights.
Here's to a fun Winter on Long Island!!
-E
GlowGolf
Roosevelt Field Mall - Space 0503-A
630 Old Country Road
516-747-3282
Don't let the cold weather stand in the way of you playing a leisurely game of mini golf! And to make it more fun, GlowGolf is a glow-in-the-dark miniature golf facility! There are 27 unique holes that are played completely under black lights.
Here's to a fun Winter on Long Island!!
-E
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