American history resides in a beautiful setting at Sagamore Hill, the home of Theodore Roosevelt for over 30 years. While he was the 26th President of the United States, this mansion was known as the "Summer White House". Now, visitors can explore the home and the beautiful surrounding area as well as participate in the small traditions of the place, such as the Sunday Afternoon Flag Folding. Entrance to the house is only permitted by guided tour, but the surrounding grounds are free to explore. Sagamore Hill is a wonderful place to learn about American history and culture or local nature and science for students of all ages. Children can participate in a Junior Park Ranger Program to earn badges and a patch.
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization offers many attractions to visitors and locals in Stony Brook, NY. The educational and cultural center provides children and adults an opportunity to learn about the history of Stony Brook, as well as participate in fun attractions like a visit to the Stony Brook Grist Mill, Discovery Wetlands Cruises and shows and concerts put on at the pavilion. Ward Melville is responsible for the restoration of Stony Brook and for giving the land to the state of New York for the prestigious university.
Rebuilt in 1751, after the original mill was washed away in a powerful flood, The Stony Brook Grist Mill continues to operate and shed light on the way life used to be in the sleepy Long Island town. Since it's construction, the mill has been owned by over two dozen people but now is in the hands of The Ward Melville Heritage Organization. It is free to visit and easy to walk around.
Marsh Botanical Garden is situated within the precincts of Yale University. Its name pays tribute to Othniel Charles Marsh, who bestowed this property upon the university. Beatrix Farrand planned the landscape of the garden that houses a wide variety of plant species. Faculty, students, nature lovers, researchers and many other visitors head to this botanical gardens that has four greenhouses, perennial beds, seasonal plants and much more.
Waveny Park or Waveny House is a scenic park that boasts of beautiful ponds and trails. The structure, namely, Castle further adds to its beauty and attracts visitors from all over.
With a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of daring, this local brewery whips up brews that will awaken the optimist in you. The Half Full Brewery offers a range of craft beers that are a rare and pleasing blend between complexity and approachable taste. While most craft beers tend to be so bitter, you have to really love beer with a passion to enjoy them, the brews whipped up at Half Full are created using a special brewing method that keeps the bitterness of the hops in check and allows the more subtle flavors of the beer to shine through. From coffee flavored and pumpkin spiced ales, to more classic varieties, the brewery and its creations are a delight for all those who enjoy beer and a touch of experimentation. On the third Wednesday of every month, Half Full hosts Rare Beer Night. Small batch, rare, seasonal and experimental brews are offered alongside delicious food pairings; a real treat for ardent beer lovers. On Fridays, you can simply walk into the brewery for samples and growler refills, while guided tours can be enjoyed on Saturdays and Sundays. Private events can also be hosted at the brewery.