Bethpage Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, and tips for exploring Bethpage, including hiking routes and cultural landmarks. Find out where to stay and what to eat in this Long Island gem.


Introduction to Bethpage

Nestled in the heart of Nassau County, Bethpage is a quaint hamlet that beckons travelers with its rich history, gorgeous parks, and cultural landmarks. This Long Island gem is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs.

List of Places to Visit in Bethpage

Whether it is exploring the museums and historical places or the outdoor adventures and scenic views, Bethpage has something in store for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bethpage boasts of a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. Here are the top cultural landmarks to visit in Bethpage:

  • Bethpage Village Restoration - a living history museum that educates visitors about the lifestyles and architecture of Long-Islanders in the 19th century.
  • Old Bethpage Historical Park - a sprawling 209-acre park where visitors can watch live demonstrations of how early settlers worked, cooked, and entertained themselves.
  • Water Mill Museum - a historic museum that showcases the history of the water-powered mills and the local economy.

Natural Attractions of Bethpage: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

There is no shortage of beautiful parks, nature reserves, and outdoor experiences in Bethpage. Here are a few must-visit spots:

  • Bethpage State Park - a sprawling 1,477-acre park that features five golf courses, tennis courts, hiking trails, picnic areas, and bridle paths.
  • Massapequa Preserve - a 423-acre nature reserve that offers bird watching opportunities, hiking, and biking trails.
  • Trail View State Park - a scenic park that boasts of miles of hiking trails, fishing ponds, and camping facilities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bethpage

Bethpage is a paradise for hikers and bikers alike. Here are a few picturesque routes to explore:

  • Bethpage State Park Greenbelt Trail - a 6.8-mile trail that starts at the parking lot of the Bethpage State Park Polo Field and meanders through forests, grasslands, and ponds.
  • Massapequa Preserve Trail - a 4.5-mile loop trail that passes through streams, wetlands, and wooded areas.
  • Trail View State Park - a 7-mile scenic trail that leads visitors through forests, meadows, and wetlands.

Best Things to Do in Bethpage: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours that will make your stay in Bethpage unforgettable.

  • Take a Helicopter Tour of Bethpage - get a bird’s eye view of the town on a helicopter tour and see the natural wonders and historical landmarks from a unique perspective.
  • Visit the Bethpage Air Show - held annually at the Bethpage State Park, this air show features aerobatic performances from top pilots from around the country.
  • Go Fishing at Massapequa Lake - rent a boat and fish for bass, catfish, and crappie in the serene waters of Massapequa Lake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bethpage

If you have a week to explore Bethpage, here is a perfect itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Bethpage Village Restoration
Day 2 Hike the Bethpage State Park Greenbelt Trail
Day 3 Take a helicopter tour of Bethpage
Day 4 Visit the Old Bethpage Historical Park
Day 5 Go fishing at Massapequa Lake
Day 6 Explore the Massapequa Preserve Trail
Day 7 Attend the Bethpage Air Show at Bethpage State Park

Food and Drink Scene of Bethpage

Bethpage’s culinary scene offers a diverse range of options, from casual cafes to upscale bars.

Must-Try Dishes

  • New York-style pizza - Bethpage is famous for its delicious New York-style pizza, which is available at several local pizzerias.
  • Clam Chowder - a regional New England soup that is made with potatoes, bacon, and quahogs.
  • Hot Dogs with Sauerkraut - another popular regional dish that is a must-try for foodies.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee Milk - a drink that originated in Rhode Island and is made with sweet coffee syrup and milk.
  • Long Island Iced Tea - a potent cocktail made with several spirits, including vodka, gin, and rum, and sweetened with fruit juice.
  • Craft Beer - Long Island’s craft beer scene is booming, and visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of beer styles at several local breweries.

Where to Stay in Bethpage: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bethpage offers several accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxurious hotels.

  • Bethpage Motel - a budget-friendly motel that offers clean rooms and basic amenities.
  • The Inn at Fox Hollow Hotel - a luxurious hotel that features spacious suites, a heated pool, and a fitness center.
  • Oyster Bay Hotel - a charming guesthouse that boasts of elegant rooms and personalized service.

What to Buy in Bethpage: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bethpage offers several unique souvenirs and products that visitors can take home as a memento of their trip.

  • Bethpage Black Golf Course Souvenir - Bethpage State Park’s Black Course is one of the most famous golf courses in the country, and visitors can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia from the gift shops.
  • Peanut Butter Chews - a classic candy that originated in New York and is made with molasses and peanut butter.
  • Hoo Rag - a versatile headwear that can be worn in multiple ways, making it an ideal gift for outdoor enthusiasts.

Local Culture and Customs of Bethpage

Bethpage’s locals are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. Visitors should keep in mind the following customs and cultural nuances:

  • Tipping - tipping is customary in the U.S., and visitors should tip a minimum of 15% at restaurants and cafes.
  • Politeness - Bethpage’s locals value politeness, and visitors should greet locals with a smile and a friendly nod.
  • Small Talk - striking up a conversation with locals is an excellent way to learn about the local culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Bethpage

The best time to visit Bethpage is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and conducive to outdoor activities. Visitors can also attend the several festivals and events that take place during these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bethpage

Here are a few things to keep in mind while exploring Bethpage:

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs.
  • Keep the environment clean and tidy.
  • Explore the town’s history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the parks and natural reserves.
  • Engage in any activities that harm or exploit wildlife.
  • Disrespect the laws and regulations of the town.

Safety and Health

Bethpage is a relatively safe town that takes the safety and health of visitors seriously.

Safety in Bethpage

  • Visitors should keep their wallets and valuables secure while exploring the town.
  • Visitors should avoid walking alone in secluded areas, especially after dark.
  • Visitors should follow all the safety guidelines while engaging in outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Health in Bethpage

  • Visitors should stay hydrated and well-rested while exploring the outdoors.
  • Visitors should use sunscreen and insect repellent when venturing outdoors to prevent sunburn and tick bites.
  • Visitors should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms or feel unwell during their stay.

Getting to Bethpage: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bethpage is easily accessible from several nearby cities and towns.

Airports Near Bethpage

  • John F. Kennedy International Airport - 26 miles from Bethpage
  • LaGuardia Airport - 28 miles from Bethpage
  • Long Island MacArthur Airport - 30 miles from Bethpage

Bus Stations Near Bethpage

Several local and regional bus operators run services to Bethpage, including:

  • Nassau Inter-County Express (NICE)
  • Suffolk County Transit

Other Options

  • Car Rentals - visitors who prefer the flexibility of a car can rent one from several car rental agencies located near the airports.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services - several taxi companies and ride-sharing services operate in Bethpage and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Bethpage

Visitors can explore Bethpage on foot, bike, or car.

  • Walking - The scenic parks and trails in Bethpage are perfect for walking and hiking enthusiasts.
  • Biking - Bethpage’s several biking trails and bike-friendly streets make it an ideal destination for bike enthusiasts.
  • Car Rentals - Visitors can rent cars from several car rental agencies located near the airports.

Where to Go Next from Bethpage: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bethpage’s enviable location makes it the perfect base for exploring nearby destinations and excursions.

  • New York City - The Big Apple is just an hour’s drive away from Bethpage and offers a plethora of attractions, including the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.
  • Fire Island National Seashore - The pristine beaches, hiking trails, and scenic views of Fire Island make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • The Hamptons - A collection of fashionable beach towns located on the eastern end of Long Island, the Hamptons offer luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and designer shopping.

Conclusion

Bethpage offers an unforgettable experience to visitors, combining natural beauty, rich history, and cultural landmarks. Explore this Long Island gem and discover why it is a must-visit destination for travelers.

Bethpage State Park Bethpage State Park