Babylon (town, New York) Travel Guide

Explore the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to buy, and more in Babylon (Town, New York) in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Babylon (Town, New York)

Babylon is a charming town located on Long Island, in Downstate New York. It is a popular destination among tourists, offering both natural and cultural attractions, as well as a bustling food and drink scene. Whether you’re looking to explore museums and historical places, hike or bike through scenic routes, or simply relax on the beach, Babylon has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Babylon (Town, New York)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Babylon Historical Society Museum: A must-visit for history buffs, this museum houses a collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Babylon’s rich history.
  • The Fire Island Lighthouse: Located within Fire Island National Seashore, this lighthouse is a significant historical landmark and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • The Argyle Park and Preserve: A scenic park that features a playground, boat launch, picnic areas, walking trails, and a duck pond.
  • The Touro Synagogue: Built-in 1756, this temple is the oldest synagogue in North America and now serves as a museum.

Natural Attractions of Babylon (Town, New York): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Fire Island National Seashore: A serene and picturesque beach that stretches for over 26 miles, offering scenic views, wildlife sightings, and surfing opportunities.
  • Belmont Lake State Park: This park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and features a lake for boating and fishing, a playground, picnic areas, and a network of hiking and biking trails.
  • Captree State Park: A popular spot for fishing and boating, this park offers stunning views of the Great South Bay.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Babylon (Town, New York)

Babylon is home to several scenic hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the town’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • The Argyle Park Loop Trail: A beautiful trail that starts at the park’s playground and takes you through wooded areas and along the shoreline of the pond.
  • The Massapequa Preserve Trail: A well-maintained trail that offers an easy hike or bike ride through wooded areas, streams, and ponds.
  • The Robert Moses State Park Trail: A challenging but rewarding trail that takes you through dunes and offers stunning views of the beach and shoreline.

Best Things to Do in Babylon (Town, New York): Activities and Tours

Babylon offers a wide range of activities and tours, catering to different interests and preferences. Here are a few must-try experiences:

  • The Babylon Village Farmers Market: A weekly farmers market that features a variety of fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal products, and live music.
  • The Babylon Carriage House Art Gallery: An art gallery that features the works of local and regional artists, with rotating exhibits throughout the year.
  • The Babylon Village Arts Council Cultural Walking Tour: A guided walking tour that takes you through the town’s historic district, highlighting its cultural and architectural treasures.
  • The Babylon Village Ghost Tour: A spooky but fun tour that takes you through the town’s haunted spots, with tales of ghostly apparitions and supernatural occurrences.

Week-Long Itinerary for Babylon (Town, New York)

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Babylon, here’s a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Explore the town’s Historical Places and Museums Day 2: Hike and bike through one of the scenic routes of the town. Day 3: Spend a relaxing day on the Fire Island National Seashore Day 4: Visit the Argyle Park and Preserve and enjoy a picnic by the duck pond. Day 5: Take a guided walking tour around the town’s historic district Day 6: Try some local cuisines and beverages from the restaurants and bars around the town. Day 7: Shop for souvenirs at the local shops and boutiques.

Food and Drink Scene of Babylon (Town, New York)

Babylon has a burgeoning food and drink scene with a variety of options available for every taste and budget. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls from Nautical Mile: A famous seafood dish served in local restaurants, this dish is a must-try.
  • Pizza from Gino’s Pizzeria and Restaurant: One of the best places for a slice of pizza.
  • Seafood and Pasta from Tres Palms: A local favorite that serves delicious seafood and pasta dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Blue Point Brewing Company Beers: A local brewery that offers delicious ales, stouts, and lagers.
  • Wine from The Lenz Winery: A family-owned winery that produces award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Babylon (Town, New York): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Babylon offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Some of the best places to stay in Babylon are:

  • The Babylon Beach House: A charming guesthouse that offers stunning views of the ocean and excellent amenities.
  • The Houseboat: A unique and cozy option for those looking for a waterfront accommodation.
  • The Gateway Inn: A budget-friendly accommodation option that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Babylon (Town, New York): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Babylon is known for its thriving arts and culture scene, and visitors can find a variety of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Some of the best places to shop for these items are:

  • The Babylon Village Arts Council Arts and Crafts Fair: A yearly outdoor fair that features the works of local artisans.
  • The Village Pharmacy: A local pharmacy that sells unique gifts and souvenirs.
  • The Argyle Cheese Factory: A local cheese factory that produces high-quality, artisanal cheeses.

Local Culture and Customs of Babylon (Town, New York)

Babylon is a friendly and welcoming town with a strong sense of community. Visitors are expected to be respectful of the town’s cultural and social norms, which include:

  • Greeting people with a smile and a friendly hello.
  • Dressing modestly while visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.
  • Respecting the town’s laws and regulations, such as no smoking in public places.

Best Time to Visit Babylon (Town, New York)

Babylon is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are plentiful. The town also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, making it a vibrant and exciting place to visit any time of the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of Babylon (Town, New York)

When visiting Babylon, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the town’s historic and cultural sites.
  • Take a guided walking tour to learn about the town’s history.
  • Try some local cuisines and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the town’s natural areas and attractions.
  • Disrespect the town’s cultural and social norms.
  • Smoke in public places where it is prohibited.

Safety and Health

Safety in Babylon (Town, New York)

Babylon is a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as keeping their valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Babylon (Town, New York)

Babylon has several healthcare facilities and hospitals, including Southside Hospital. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage.

Getting to Babylon (Town, New York): Transportation Options and Logistics

Babylon is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including buses, trains, and cars. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Babylon (Town, New York)

  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) (38 miles away from Babylon)
  • LaGuardia Airport (LGA) (37 miles away from Babylon)

Bus Stations Near Babylon (Town, New York)

  • Greyhound Bus Lines (6 miles away from Babylon).
  • Suffolk County Transit: Offers bus services connecting various parts of Long Island.

Other Options

  • The Long Island Railroad: Offers train services connecting Babylon to various parts of New York City and Long Island.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing services are available in Babylon.

How to Get Around in Babylon (Town, New York)

Babylon is a walkable and bike-friendly town, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can also use public transportation options such as buses and trains to get around the town and its neighboring areas.

Where to Go Next from Babylon (Town, New York): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Babylon is surrounded by several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, such as:

  • Montauk: A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers, located at the eastern end of Long Island.
  • The Hamptons: A collection of towns and villages known for their upscale beaches, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • New York City: The city that never sleeps needs no introduction, located just an hour away from Babylon.

Conclusion

Babylon (Town, New York) is a beautiful town with a variety of cultural and natural attractions, outdoor activities, and a vibrant food and drink scene. Whether you’re looking to explore its history and culture, hike through scenic routes, or simply relax on the beach, Babylon has something to offer. Plan your visit today and experience the best of this charming town.