East Meadow

Day Trips

Wake up with the sun and head to Eisenhower Park for a lakeside stroll among dewy grasses and chirping birds. Grab a freshly brewed coffee at the park’s concession stand and soak in the serene surroundings as joggers begin their morning laps around the pond. The crisp air and tranquil scenery set the perfect tone for a day of exploration.

Rent a kayak or paddleboard from the boathouse to glide across the shimmering lake and spot turtles sunning themselves on floating logs. After paddling, challenge friends to a friendly game of tennis or disc golf on the park’s well-maintained courts and courses. Stop by the Rollercade rink for a nostalgic spin around the wheels before grabbing a casual lunch at the picnic pavilion.

As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot on the Great Lawn for an outdoor concert or theater performance during the summer season. Treat yourself to a burger and fries from a nearby food truck while local bands fill the air with live music. Gaze up at the stars to cap off an enchanting evening in this sprawling green oasis.

Begin your day with a warm pastry and cappuccino at a charming café in East Meadow Village, where friendly baristas greet you by name. Wander through boutique shops filled with handmade crafts, vintage records, and artisanal goods that capture the town’s creative spirit. Neon signs and local art murals make every street corner feel like an open-air gallery.

Head to the East Meadow Farmers Market to sample organic cheeses, freshly baked bread, and seasonal fruits from local producers. Chat with farmers about heirloom tomatoes or pickup a jar of lavender honey as a delicious memento. Follow the aromas to a cooking demonstration tent and learn how to transform simple ingredients into gourmet bites.

Dine at a family-run Italian trattoria where recipes have been passed down for generations and the tomato sauce simmers all day. Sip a glass of robust red wine as warm bread knits together lively conversations among patrons. After dinner, catch a live acoustic set at a nearby coffeehouse before strolling back through the softly lit village square.

Push off early to Bethpage State Park and tee off at the world-renowned Black Course, where towering pines line every fairway and the challenge awaits seasoned golfers. Enjoy a quick breakfast sandwich and fresh-squeezed juice at the clubhouse café overlooking rolling greens. The misty morning air and perfectly manicured landscape make for an unforgettable start.

Explore the park’s network of walking trails weaving past ornamental gardens, open meadows, and hidden groves of wildflowers. Pack a picnic lunch of gourmet sandwiches and crisp apples to enjoy beside the tranquil pond near Round Swamp. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like herons fishing at the water’s edge.

Return to the clubhouse terrace for a casual dinner special featuring local grass-fed beef burgers and hand-cut fries. Share stories of birdie putts and near misses with fellow golfers under twinkling patio lights. Cap the day with a nightcap by the fire pit—a perfect end to a laid-back country retreat.

Set off for the Field of Dreams Sports Complex, where manicured diamonds and immaculate fields promise an action-packed morning of baseball or softball. Warm up with catch on the outfield grass while breathing in the fresh morning air. If baseball isn’t your game, try your hand at batting cages boasting state-of-the-art pitching machines.

Gather friends for a friendly tournament on one of the soccer or lacrosse fields, or rally together for a round of bubble soccer that will have everyone laughing. Refuel with hearty sandwiches and protein-packed smoothies at the on-site snack bar. Then challenge each other to cornhole tournaments under shaded gazebos.

Stick around for an evening under the lights as local leagues compete in spirited matches that draw enthusiastic crowds. Enjoy concession favorites like hot dogs and local craft sodas while soaking up the electric atmosphere. After the final whistle blows, celebrate with your team at a nearby sports bar for wings and victory cheers.

Drive to the Hofstra University campus for an immersive cultural tour led by knowledgeable student guides who reveal hidden art installations and historic landmarks. Start with a visit to the David S. Mack Student Center for a café latte and browse the rotating exhibits in the student gallery. The campus gardens are in full bloom, offering a peaceful backdrop for morning photos.

Attend a midday performance at the Hofstra University Museum’s auditorium, where world-class musicians and theater troupes bring diverse stories to life. After the show, join a workshop in the nearby education building to create your own art inspired by the performance. Lunch at the student diner serves fresh salads and ramen bowls right by sunny atrium windows.

Sip a cocktail at a chic lounge in the University’s alumni center while enjoying panoramic views of the campus skyline. Engage in a casual Q&A with visiting professors and artists talking about their latest research or creative projects. The intellectual buzz and elegant ambiance make for an unforgettable evening.

Kick off the day at Long Island’s pioneering craft brewery located just minutes from East Meadow, sampling early-release seasonal ales straight from the tanks. Learn about the art of brewing from the head brewer as you tour the fermenters and mash tuns. Pair a crisp IPA with artisanal pretzels brewed in collaboration with a local bakery.

Stroll over to a nearby gastropub that sources ingredients from local farms for a farm-to-table lunch of roasted root vegetables and house-smoked chicken. Afterward, take part in a brewing workshop to blend your own custom beer recipe under expert guidance. Sip your creation while relaxing on the sun-dappled beer garden patio.

Make reservations at a popular seafood restaurant renowned for its fresh clam chowder and pan-seared scallops. Wash down the meal with a flight of brewery favorites or a craft cider. End the night with a leisurely walk through the twinkling lights of the nearby boardwalk, savoring the gentle hum of conversation and clinking glasses.

Arrive at Hempstead Lake State Park for a sunrise kayak tour across the placid water blanketed in morning mist. Spot beavers and herons along the reeds as the world wakes up around you. Pack a lightweight picnic of yogurt parfaits and fresh fruit to enjoy lakeside.

Hike the park’s winding trails through forests and meadows, taking in expansive views from the stone overlooks. Lay out a blanket and dive into a captivating nature guidebook to identify wildflowers and migratory birds flitting among the treetops. Cool off with a swim in the designated area or a leisurely paddle around the lake’s cove.

Settle around a communal fire pit at the park’s campsite, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under a canopy of stars. Listen to the gentle lapping of the lake while sipping cocoa or a local craft brew. The serenity of the night sounds brings a peaceful close to your day in the wilderness.

Head to the Cradle of Aviation Museum to marvel at vintage aircraft and interactive space exhibits that celebrate Long Island’s aerospace legacy. Take a guided tour of the planetarium for a mind-blowing journey through the solar system. Grab a bagel sandwich and local brew from the museum café before hitting the next exhibit.

Drive to the quaint downtown area of Garden City for boutique shopping along tree-lined avenues. Sample cupcakes at a famous bakery known for its inventive flavors and Instagram-worthy frosting swirls. Pause at the LIRR station’s historic clock tower to learn about the town’s railroad heritage.

Toast to a day of discovery at an upscale bistro featuring farm-fresh dishes and elegant plating. Order a signature cocktail infused with locally foraged herbs as soft jazz fills the dining room. Conclude the evening with a leisurely stroll through a public rose garden illuminated by moonlight.

Begin at one of America’s largest malls, Roosevelt Field, opening its doors to early-bird shoppers hunting for the best deals. Sip a freshly squeezed juice as you weave through flagship stores and exclusive boutiques. Hunt for hidden gem accessories in specialty shops tucked away on the upper level.

Refuel at the international food court where temptations range from Korean barbeque tacos to Italian gelato. Take a break on a sunlit terrace overlooking the parking lot and map out your next retail conquest. Don’t miss the artisan pop-up stalls featuring craftspeople from Long Island and beyond.

Dine at a sleek steakhouse inside the mall complex, where prime cuts and gourmet sides await. Share a Deconstructed Caesar Salad and decadent molten lava cake for dessert. If the mall is hosting an evening event or runway show, grab a seat front and center for some fashion inspiration.

Drive east to Jones Beach State Park for the ultimate coastal escape, kicking off with a yoga session on the sandy shore as the waves lap at your feet. Snack on overnight oats and fresh berries prepared the night before for an energizing breakfast picnic. Collect seashells along the shoreline as the beach comes alive around you.

Rent a stand-up paddleboard for a serene glide over the Atlantic or join a beach volleyball game in one of the lively public courts. Cool off with a scoop of saltwater taffy-inspired ice cream from a historic boardwalk stand. Spend some downtime lounging under a striped umbrella with a gripping summer read.

Witness a breathtaking sunset paint the sky in hues of pink and orange as locals gather for the nightly fireworks display (seasonal). Warm up with a beachside clam bake or fresh lobster roll from a pop-up eatery near the water. Finish the trip sipping a chilled rosé while listening to the soothing soundtrack of crashing waves.