Some Free Things to Do in Long Island
Long Island is a beautiful and diverse region in New York, with plenty of attractions and activities for all ages and interests. Whether you are looking for nature, culture, history, or entertainment, you can find something to enjoy on Long Island without spending a dime. Here are some of the best free things to do in Long Island that you can try on your next visit.
Watch the Sunset on the Beach
Long Island has some of the most stunning beaches in the country, and watching the sunset over the ocean is a relaxing and romantic way to end the day. You can choose from many beaches on the North Shore or the South Shore, such as Long Beach, Port Washington, or Cold Spring Harbor. Most beaches are free to access before Memorial Day and after Labor Day, and usually after 5 or 6 p.m. during the peak season.
Visit Long Island Wine Country
Long Island is famous for its wine production, and there are over 60 wineries and vineyards on the North Fork and the South Fork. You can visit some of these wineries and vineyards for free, and enjoy the scenic views of the vineyards, the tasting rooms, and the live music and events. Some of the wineries that offer free admission are Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Macari Vineyards, Raphael Winery, and Sparkling Pointe Vineyards & Winery12.
Take a Hike
If you love nature and wildlife, you can explore some of the many hiking trails and nature preserves on Long Island. You can find trails for all levels of difficulty and length, from easy and short to challenging and long. Some of the best places to hike on Long Island are Garvies Point Preserve, Mashomack Preserve, Shadmoor State Park, and Avalon Park & Preserve34. You can also see some of the native animals and plants, such as butterflies, birds, frogs, salamanders, and flowers.
Visit the Big Duck
The Big Duck is one of the most iconic and quirky landmarks on Long Island. It is a large, white duck-shaped building that was built in 1931 as a shop for selling ducks and duck eggs. It is now a museum and a gift shop that sells duck-related souvenirs and memorabilia. The Big Duck is located in Flanders, and it is free to visit and take pictures with5.
Enjoy the Nautical Mile
The Nautical Mile is a waterfront strip in Freeport that offers a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions. You can stroll along the Nautical Mile and enjoy the views of the boats, the marina, and the canal. You can also visit some of the historic markers and monuments, such as the Woodcleft Canal, the Hurricane of 1938 Memorial, and the Freeport Memorial Library. The Nautical Mile is free to access and explore, but you may want to bring some money for the food and drinks6.
Visit a Museum
Long Island has many museums that cater to different interests and tastes, from art and history to science and technology. Some of these museums are free to visit, or have free admission days or hours. For example, you can visit the Vanderbilt Museum, which is a mansion and a museum that showcases the life and collections of William K. Vanderbilt II, a wealthy explorer and philanthropist. The museum has free admission on the first Saturday of every month from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. You can also visit the Nassau County Museum of Art, which is a museum and a sculpture park that features works by local and international artists. The museum has free admission on the first Friday of every month from 11 a.m. to 4:45 p.m78.
These are just some of the free things to do in Long Island that you can enjoy on your next trip. There are many more options for you to discover and experience, such as free concerts, festivals, farmers markets, and more. Long Island is a place that has something for everyone, and you don’t have to break the bank to have fun.