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Lies east of New York City is Nassau County, a suburb lined with sandy beaches, historical and cultural buildings, sprawling gardens, and many fun outdoor activities on Long Island that everyone can enjoy.
This charming suburb is one of the most centralized counties within the New York Metropolitan Area, making it accessible and easy to travel for everyone interested in experiencing all the exciting activities in Nassau County.
Wondering what else this county has to offer? Let’s look at the list of the best things to do in Nassau County, NY.
20 Best Things To Do In and Near Nassau County, NY
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Seasides Away from the Big City
Sometimes, we need to take a break from the crowded places of the city. With the salty air and the sound of the waves, Nassau County comes with its seaside escapes. Head out to these beaches for a sun and sandy experience!
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Long Beach
Long Beach, well-known as the “City by the Sea,” is an oceanfront city in Nassau County. It is located on the southern shore of Long Island, just minutes away from New York City. Explore this beach by surfing the waves, eating at one of its restaurants, shopping at its local stores, or just walking on its 2.1-mile beach walk.
Jones Beach State Park
On Montauk Point, Long Island, Jones Beach stretches for 17 miles of fun. If you are into swimming, this place is definitely a go-to! But wait, this is not only what it offers. It is also ideal for fishing, boating, and diving.
You can play sports in its designated areas, bring food for a picnic, or snack at the snack bars on the beach walk. You can also enjoy an outdoor amphitheater with your friends or family.
Top-Notch Restaurants and Bars
Like any other place in New York, you should not miss out on the restaurants in Nassau County. It just doesn’t take pride in its food but also in its décor and ambiance. Explore these top-notch restaurants in the city and unleash the foodie in you!
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Copperhill
Copperhill is situated at 234 Hillside Avenue, Williston Park, NY 11596. It’s a 125-year-old renovated Victorian farmhouse with a porch and taproom. It also has function rooms to cater special events.
Garden Social
If you’re just around East Meadow, head on to 1964 Hempstead Tpke, East Meadow, and check out Garden Social’s wide selection of beers. Socialize with your friends or family inside the rustic décor building with an outside beer garden. You may also check out their menu for simple yet superb comfort foods.
Gatsby's Landing
This restaurant has an elegant ambiance with a serene view of the pond. You may also feast on your food on outdoor seating. If you want to experience fine dining, check out Gatsby’s Landing at 1362 Old Northern Blvd in Roslyn Village.
Ethereal Landscape Gardens
Stroll on the breathtaking landscapes preserved in the outstretch of Nassau County. Take a picture of its sprawling gardens and appreciate nature at its finest.
Bailey Arboretum
Bailey Arboretum is a stunning arboretum found in Locust Valley, New York. It has a collection of rare and unique trees, an 18th-century farmhouse, and flower beds. There are also hiking trails and educational programs for the public.
Old Westbury Gardens
Old Westbury Gardens is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a mansion surrounded by gardens, landscapes, woodlands, ponds, and lakes. The Westbury House itself is furnished with English antiques and arts from the more than fifty years of the family’s residence. Take a quick ride on this historical garden at 71 Old Westbury Road.
Historical and Cultural Buildings
One of the attractions that Nassau County is famous for is its historical and cultural buildings. Learning history can also be fun by exploring different museums and galleries around the city. Some of the distinct Nassau County attractions are perfect for history buffs and art geeks.
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Sands Point Preserve
The Sands Point Preserve, also known as Hempstead House or Gould-Guggenheim Estate, embodies the grandeur and elegance that define the Gold Coast period of the early 20th century.
It is being maintained and operated by the Sands Point Preserve Conservancy. It provides year-round educational and cultural programs, seasonal celebrations, mansion tours, fitness activities, private/corporate event services, and film/TV location facilities. Visit this castle-like building on the North Shore of Long Island in Nassau County, New York.
Sagamore Hill
Sagamore Hill is one of Nassau County’s famous historical buildings. It was the home of Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the U.S.A, from 1885 until he died in 1919. Learn more about him by taking an educational tour around his home in Cove Neck, NY.
Long Island Children's Museum
The Long Island Children is found on the campus of Mitchel Field in Garden City, New York. This museum offers interactive exhibits, a live theater, art spaces, and daily activities for hours of discovery. A trip to the Long Island Children’s Museum is one of the best things to do in Nassau County for families!
Cradle of Aviation Museum
This aerospace museum is in Garden City, New York on Long Island. The Cradle of Aviation Museum was built to commemorate Long Island’s part in aviation history.
Nassau County Museum of Art
The Nassau County Museum of Art (NCMA) is located east of New York City. The main museum building is filled with art collections and was named and honored by art collectors and certain philanthropists. Outside the museum building lies the Sculpture Park, garden, and marked walking trails.
African American Museum
This museum was opened to exhibit local and national African American artists. You can learn more about the role of African Americans in Long Island’s history at 110 North Franklin Street in Hempstead, New York. Let’s go while the admission fees are free!
Shopping Centers and Malls
Need I say more? Enjoy and go on a shopping spree at one of the renowned shopping centers in and around Nassau County!
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Broadway Commons
Broadway Commons, more famous by its former name Broadway Mall, is a large shopping mall in Hicksville, New York, United States. This was originally an open-air shopping center but is now enclosed with 98 various stores.
Americana Manhasset
Americana Manhasset is situated along the stretch of Northern Boulevard. It is an upscale shopping mall with an open-air environment.
Green Acres Mall
Green Acres Mall is famous in Nassau Country because it is accessible by many Nassau Inter-County Express routes. It is an indoor mall found in South Valley Stream, New York.
Other Outdoor Facilities
Watch out as we take you on other outdoor activities that you may find enjoyable around Nassau County, Long Island!
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Eisenhower Park
Eisenhower Park, also known as Salisbury Park, is a public park located in East Meadow, New York. It is one of the largest public spaces in New York, open for recreational activities.
NYCB Live Arena
NYCB Live Arena, formerly known as Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, is an indoor arena in Uniondale, New York. You may check on their upcoming events for tickets to entertainment, sports, or even concerts.
Freeport's Nautical Mile
Freeport’s Nautical Mile is located in the village of Freeport, 300 Woodcleft Avenue. This is a waterfront attraction, best for family and friends. It has local stores, restaurants, cruises, and much more. There’s also a waterfront park and mini golf designed for every age.
Hempstead Lake State Park
Hempstead Lake State Park is located in West Hempstead, encompassing the largest freshwater lake in Nassau County. You can do various things in this state park, including having a fun picnic, playing sports, hiking or biking, and even catching fish!
Conclusion
Nassau County is full of hidden gems, from old-fashioned attractions to the sandy beaches along the South Shore. Whether you want a relaxing getaway or a fun entertainment activity, this region offers a stretch of activities that anyone can enjoy.
When you visit Long Island, cross off your bucket list of these best things to do while in Nassau County, NY! For other assistance or if you would like to know about the lovely neighborhoods in Nassau County, please feel free to contact me at 347-228-8145 for a hassle-free adventure.
You can also follow me on my social media accounts below to receive the latest updates about Nassau County.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best attractions and activities in Nassau County, NY?
The best things to do in Nassau County, NY come in variations. You can go to Eisenhower Park or Hempstead Lake State Park if you want outdoor activities. If you are looking for relaxation, hop onto its famous seasides, such as Jones Beach State Park and Long Beach. Chilling with your family in malls, gardens, or museums can also be your go-to activity in Nassau County.
What are the best restaurants and bars in Nassau County, NY?
There are a lot of famous restaurants in Nassau County. For a casual ambiance, you may visit Copperhill, but if you opt to eat in a fine dining restaurant, then go straight to Gatsby’s Landing. Socializing with friends with a beer in your hand is also warm on Garden Social with its cozy atmosphere.
What are the best shopping destinations in Nassau County, NY?
Among the most famous shopping destinations around Nassau County are Broadway Commons, Americana Manhasset, and Green Acres Mall. Visiting these can give you a lot of shopping options to choose from.
What are the best neighborhoods in Nassau County, NY?
If you are planning to settle down in Nassau County, consider looking at these lovely neighborhoods in the area:
What are the best schools in Nassau County, NY?
Based on the combined math and reading proficiency score ranking, the top public schools in Nassau County are John F Kennedy High School, Sanford Calhoun High School, and Valley Stream Central High School. As for the private schools, the top-ranked are Friends Academy, Portledge School, and Waldorf School of Garden City.
