Top Rated Attracties in Long Island

The Harold Malkmes Wildlife Education and Ecology Center is a wildlife preserve and educational center that is managed and maintained by the Town of Brookhaven. Located on a former landfill site, the area had to be completely revamped and repurposed. It is a treasure for all those who have keen interest in wildlife and ecology. Featuring a wildlife center, several greenhouses, and a petting zoo, it is an ideal place for younger children to learn about animals and the environment. You can also enjoy tours that take you through the entire park. Please note that visitors are expected to follow rules and regulations for safety reasons and for the protection of the animals.

Fire Island National Seashore is a unique environment of barrier island beaches which host a wide variety of native flora and fauna, including flocks of human beach-goers during summer months. The peaceful surroundings of waves and dunes, ancient forests and timid wildlife, are a welcome respite from the chaos of nearby New York City. To the west, historic Fire Island Lighthouse is always worth a visit, along with the mansion and grounds of the 18th century William Floyd Estate. Tours are conducted year-round (weather permitting), and activities, programs, and workshops are offered particularly for students and teachers.

The erstwhile estate of Marshall Field III was the genesis of the Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve. Various bird species have made this land their habitat making it an ideal location to observe birds in their natural surroundings. The park provides outdoors enthusiasts with a range of adventure choices.

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.

Best known and best loved for a gorgeous series of beaches that stretch for five miles (eight kilometers) along the Atlantic Ocean, Robert Moses State Park is a great spot to swim, fish, picnic, surf, or simply to relax on a day off. It is the oldest park on Long Island, having celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2008, welcomes millions of visitors each year. The park also features an 18-hole golf course, volleyball courts, playgrounds, concession stands, and plenty of other treasures.

Encompassing a historic mansion, natural history museum, and a Planetarium with a 60-feet (18.28 meters) domed Sky Theater, the Vanderbilt is a Suffolk County attraction well worth the drive. Take a "living history" tour through the 24-room mansion, view the specimens and exhibits of the museum, and round out the day with a show as big as the sky - the Planetarium features educational explorations of outer space throughout the year and several times each day. At night, however, the show turns musical: Laser showings of classic Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Led Zeppelin songs draw fans of all ages for an unbeatable experience.