Nassau County Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and more in Nassau County, Long Island, New York with this extensive travel guide.
- Introduction to Nassau County
- List of Places to Visit in Nassau County
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Nassau County
- Best Things to Do in Nassau County: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Nassau County
- Food and Drink Scene of Nassau County
- Where to Stay in Nassau County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Nassau County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Nassau County
- Best Time to Visit Nassau County
- Do’s and Don’ts of Nassau County
- Don’s:
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Nassau County: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Nassau County
- Where to Go Next from Nassau County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Nassau County
Located in Long Island, Nassau County is one of the four counties in New York that make up the Island. It borders Queens County to the west and Suffolk County to the east. The county is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. There are plenty of opportunities to explore and discover the natural beauty and rich history of Nassau County.
List of Places to Visit in Nassau County
If you’re looking for a fun and adventurous vacation, Nassau County won’t disappoint. Here is a list of some of the top places you should check out:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Cradle of Aviation Museum: This museum is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs. You’ll find exhibits on the history of aviation, space exploration, and Long Island’s contributions to the field.
- Old Westbury Gardens: Take a tour of the magnificent mansion built in the early 20th century or explore the 200-acre landscape garden.
- Sagamore Hill National Historic Site: This was the home of the 26th US President, Theodore Roosevelt, and is now a National Historic Site. Visitors can explore the house and grounds to learn about the life of the former president.
Natural Attractions of Nassau County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Hempstead Lake State Park: This park offers visitors an array of activities, including fishing, hiking, biking, and picnicking while enjoying the serene beauty of nature.
- Jones Beach State Park: This sandy beach is an iconic destination for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the Long Island Sound.
- Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park: This park has over 400 acres of gardens and habitats with beautiful collections of trees, conifers, flowers, and more.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Nassau County
Nassau County offers plenty of biking and hiking trails that are perfect for all skill levels. Here are some of the best routes:
- Bethpage State Park: You can choose from four different routes ranging from three to eight miles in length.
- Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve: You can go for a leisurely hike or bike six miles to explore the natural beauty of the preserve.
- Eisenhower Park: This park has about three miles of bike and walking trails that gradually meander through fields and woodlands.
Best Things to Do in Nassau County: Activities and Tours
Apart from sightseeing and enjoying the natural beauty, there are also other fantastic activities to indulge in in Nassau County. Some of them are:
- Adventureland: You can have a fun-filled day at this amusement park, including screams on the roller coasters and family-friendly rides.
- Tackapausha Museum and Preserve: This nature preserve is a great spot to go creek walking or explore the butterfly exhibit and wildlife refuge.
- Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours: Nassau County has some of the best whale watching tours available with dolphin sightings a regular occurrence.
Week-Long Itinerary for Nassau County
If you’re planning to spend a week in Nassau County, here’s an itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:
Food and Drink Scene of Nassau County
No trip is complete without immersing oneself in the local food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:
Must-Try Dishes
- Bagels: You must try traditional Long Island Bagels, which are boiled and baked to perfection.
- Long Island Clam Chowder: This rustic dish is made from Long Island Sound Clams, potatoes, and bacon.
- Gourmet Burgers: Nassau County has so many burger joints that serve a variety of burgers ranging from the classic to the exotic.
Local Beverages
- Blue Point Brewing Company: This award-winning brewery produces some of the best craft beers on Long Island.
- Wölffer Estate Vineyard: This vineyard has some fantastic Long Island Wine tastings while watching the sunset over the endless beautiful vineyards.
- Saratoga Sparkling Water: This fizzy drink has been a Long Island favorite for over a hundred years and is perfect for people looking for a non-alcoholic beverage.
Where to Stay in Nassau County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are plenty of options for accommodations in Nassau County, whether you’re looking for luxury or budget options. Here are some recommendations:
- The Garden City Hotel: This hotel offers its guests a luxury experience, including a world-class restaurant and attentive staff.
- The Freeport Inn and Marina: This is a budget-friendly option with its own marina and an ocean-view restaurant.
- The Manor Haven Inn: A charming guesthouse featuring a breakfast buffet, outdoor pool, and quaint rooms.
What to Buy in Nassau County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you’re looking for unique souvenirs to take home, Nassau County has a few options, such as:
- Hofstra University Bookstore: Here you can find college-themed apparel and other Long Island-specific items.
- Americana Manhasset: An outdoor luxurious shopping mall with streetside windows that allow for window shopping. You can find designer items and souvenirs to bring back home.
- Broadway Mall: This mall has some non-touristy shops for locals as well as gift shops that sell affordable souvenirs and items.
Local Culture and Customs of Nassau County
Long Island’s rich coffee and bagel culture is a must-taste. It’s also a good idea to learn about the local accent and slang words. Nassau County’s beaches play an important role in its culture.
Best Time to Visit Nassau County
Summer is the most popular time to visit Nassau County (June to August) because of the warm weather, but spring and fall (May to June and September to October) can be more mild and have better prices and fewer crowds.
Do’s and Don’ts of Nassau County
Do:
- Visit any of the parks in the area for a relaxing afternoon under the Long Island sun.
- Try surfing or paddle-boarding in Long Beach.
- Visit the Cradle of Aviation Museum if you have any interest in aviation history.
Don’s:
- Don’t leave your car parked overnight on the street unless stated otherwise.
- Don’t forget to tip at restaurants and bars.
- Don’t hesitate to try things that may seem unfamiliar; it’s the best way to learn about the local culture.
Safety and Health
Safety in Nassau County
Nassau County is generally safe, but you should still be cautious. Here are some safety tips:
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Keep your car doors locked and valuables out of sight.
Health in Nassau County
Nassau County has several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies if you need medical care during your visit. It’s also important to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated during summer heatwaves.
Getting to Nassau County: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Nassau County
- John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
- Long Island Mac Arthur Airport (ISP)
All of these airports have transportation options such as ride-sharing apps, taxis, and public transportation to get to Nassau County.
Bus Stations Near Nassau County
- Greyhound (1 Railroad Avenue, Roslyn)
- Nassau Inter-County Express (1 Newbridge Rd, Hempstead)
Several bus services that connect to many locations in the county are available.
Other Options
- Taxis and Ride-sharing apps
- Automobile rental services such as Enterprise, Avis, Hertz, etc.
How to Get Around in Nassau County
- Long Island Rail Road: This rail service connects Nassau County to New York City and other towns in the area.
- Nassau Inter-County Express: Also known as NICE, a network of buses that serve areas in Nassau County.
- Ride-Sharing and Taxis: You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to get to locations not covered by public transportation.
Where to Go Next from Nassau County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you have some extra time, here are some other fantastic places in the area worth exploring:
- New York City: Just a quick train ride away and is a great place to go for entertainment, shopping, food, and culture.
- Fire Island: This barrier island boasts gorgeous beaches, scenic beauty of nature, and small-town quirky charm.
- Shelter Island: This quiet island is a perfect retreat for some quiet relaxation while still enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Conclusion
Nassau County is an ideal destination for people who want to escape the bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty and rich history of Long Island. With so many fantastic things to do and places to see, Nassau County is a perfect vacation spot for all.
