North Hempstead Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, eat, and get around in North Hempstead - an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs.


Introduction to North Hempstead

Located in Nassau County, Long Island, North Hempstead is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With its picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, top-notch museums, and mouth-watering food and drink scene, there is something for everyone in North Hempstead.

From biking and hiking trails to scenic parks and beaches, nature lovers will find plenty to explore here. For history buffs, North Hempstead boasts a rich cultural heritage dating back to the colonial days. It has a plethora of museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, including homes of some of the Founding Fathers.

List of Places to Visit in North Hempstead

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Sands-Willets House Museum: Built-in 1735, this Dutch Colonial home has been restored and is now a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into what life was like during the colonial period in Long Island.
  2. Roslyn Grist Mill: Once a working mill, this historical landmark provides tours and insights into the Long Island milling industry.
  3. Hempstead House: A magnificent Tudor-style mansion that was once the home of Howard Gould, the son of Jay Gould. Guided tours offer a peek into the world of the rich and famous during the Gilded Age.
  4. Nassau County Museum of Art: This unique museum sits on a beautiful 145-acre property that includes a sculpture garden and Vanderbilt mansion. The museum showcases art from regional and international artists, as well as hosts concerts, lectures, and workshops throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of North Hempstead: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. North Hempstead Beach Park: This beautiful beachfront park has a fishing pier, outdoor pool, picnic areas, and plenty of space to relax or play games.
  2. Old Westbury Gardens: An English-style garden spread over 200 acres, the Old Westbury Garden has rare plant varieties, beautiful fountains, and lovely vistas.
  3. Silvermine Preserve: Sprawled over 130 acres, this nature preserve has trails that wind through meadows, woodlands, and freshwater ponds. The preserve is perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and spotting wildlife.
  4. Sands Point Preserve: With its stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Sands Point Preserve offers visitors a glimpse of the glamour of the Roaring Twenties era. The property was formerly the home of millionaires Howard Gould and Daniel Guggenheim, and has a 50-room mansion that is open for tours.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Hempstead

  1. Port Washington North Dock: A stunning 11-mile biking trail that takes you along the shoreline with views of the Long Island Sound.
  2. Hempstead Harbor Trail: A 6.5-mile hike through woods, meadows, and wetlands with panoramic views of the harbor.
  3. Hicks Nurseries Christmas Tree Farm: A family-friendly hike that takes you through the Christmas tree farm and garden center. The 1.5-mile trail is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

Best Things to Do in North Hempstead: Activities and Tours

  1. Cruise to the Statue of Liberty: Departing from Glen Cove, this 2.5-hour cruise takes you around New York City’s famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Brooklyn Bridge.
  2. Helicopter Tour of New York City: Take in the spectacular views of Manhattan on a 12-15 minute helicopter tour from Westchester County Airport.
  3. North Hempstead Beach Park: With a variety of activities such as swimming, fishing, indoor & outdoor basketball courts, and well-manicured playgrounds, North Hempstead Beach Park has something for everyone.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Hempstead

| Day | Activity | | — | — | |1|Hike the Hempstead Harbor Trail and visit the Roslyn Grist Mill| |2|Take a guided tour of Hempstead House and Sands Point Preserve| |3|Visit the Nassau County Museum of Art and film at the Gold Coast International Film Festival| |4|Explore the Port Washington North Dock and bike along the Long Island Sound| |5|Spend the day at North Hempstead Beach Park, enjoying a BBQ, swimming, and walking the beachfront| |6|Visit the Old Westbury Gardens and enjoy an outdoor concert| |7|Take a Statue of Liberty Cruise from Glen Cove or a helicopter tour from Westchester County Airport|

Food and Drink Scene of North Hempstead

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Hot Dog: The Nathan’s Famous hot dog stand in Oyster Bay serves some of the most delicious hot dogs in the area.
  2. Chicken Parmesan: La Piazza in Merrick has an amazing Chicken Parmesan that is cooked to perfection.
  3. Bagel: Bagel Boss in Roslyn Heights is a must-visit for their delicious bagels and cream cheese.

Local Beverages

  1. Wine: Visit the Tasting Room of Gatsby Wines and sample their signature White Foxtrot wine - a crisp and refreshing white wine blend of chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, and pinot gris.
  2. Craft Beer: the Oyster Bay Brewing Company produces a variety of craft beers, including St. Rogue Irish Red and the Barn Rocker Ale.

Where to Stay in North Hempstead: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. The Roslyn Hotel: A boutique hotel located in a historic building near Roslyn Village. Rooms are spacious, stylish, and comfortable, and the hotel provides excellent service.
  2. The Andrew Hotel: A European-style hotel located in the heart of Great Neck. The hotel offers high-end amenities such as velvet bedding and an on-site spa.
  3. The Inn at Great Neck: A historic luxury hotel with elegant rooms and modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi and parking.

What to Buy in North Hempstead: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Gold Coast T-Shirt: A classic souvenir from the Gold Coast region of Long Island.
  2. Craft Beer: The Oyster Bay Brewing Company produces a variety of craft beers that make for a tasty souvenir.
  3. Holiday Wreath: Hicks Nurseries creates beautiful wreaths that are perfect for the holiday season.

Local Culture and Customs of North Hempstead

North Hempstead is a diverse community that welcomes people from all walks of life. The area prides itself on its rich history, cultural heritage, and commitment to preserving the environment. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and traditions, and to be mindful of the natural surroundings.

Best Time to Visit North Hempstead

The best time to visit North Hempstead is during the spring and summer seasons when the weather is mild, and the natural flora and fauna are in full bloom. Fall is also a great time to visit when the air is crisp and refreshing, and the trees are ablaze with color.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Hempstead

Do:

  1. Respect the environment and natural surroundings.
  2. Take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities, including biking, hiking and watersports.
  3. Visit the area’s museums and historical landmarks.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage natural resources.
  2. Trespass on private property.
  3. Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in North Hempstead

North Hempstead is considered a safe community with low crime rates. Visitors are advised to exercise basic safety precautions, such as locking their cars and securing their valuables.

Health in North Hempstead

North Hempstead has a variety of hospitals and medical facilities within easy reach. Visitors are advised to carry proof of health insurance.

Getting to North Hempstead: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Hempstead

  1. LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
  2. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
  3. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Bus Stations Near North Hempstead

  1. Long Island Bus
  2. MTA Bus

Other Options

  1. Train: The Long Island Rail Road services North Hempstead, with the Port Washington line offering the most direct routes.
  2. Car: Visitors can rent cars or use ride-sharing services to get around North Hempstead.

How to Get Around in North Hempstead

Visitors can get around North Hempstead by car, ride-sharing services, or public transportation, such as the Long Island Rail Road or Long Island Bus.

Where to Go Next from North Hempstead: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. New York City: The Big Apple is just a short drive or train ride from North Hempstead, where visitors can explore world-famous landmarks, museums, and attractions.
  2. Montauk: This scenic destination on the eastern tip of Long Island offers breathtaking ocean views and opportunities for surfing, fishing, and hiking.
  3. Fire Island: With its pristine beaches, charming villages, and scenic lighthouse, Fire Island is a popular summer destination for visitors of all ages.

Conclusion

North Hempstead is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With its beautiful landscapes, historic landmarks, top-notch museums, and mouth-watering food and drink scene, North Hempstead has plenty to see and do for all ages. So plan your trip today and experience the best of what this Long Island gem has to offer.

Hempstead House in Sands Point Hempstead House in Sands Point Cedarmere in Roslyn Harbor Cedarmere in Roslyn Harbor Old Westbury Gardens Old Westbury Gardens North Hempstead Town Hall in 2021. North Hempstead Town Hall in 2021.


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