Things To Do
in Elmont
Elmont is a small, diverse hamlet on Long Island just east of Queens. It blends residential neighborhoods with world-class entertainment at Belmont Park, home to major horse racing and events at nearby UBS Arena. The area offers easy access to New York City via regional rail and major highways, while maintaining a relaxed suburban pace.
Visitors can enjoy sports, dining, and green spaces within a short ride of NYC's cultural offerings.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Elmont Memorial Library, where you can explore local history and the community's rich past. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the Elmont Memorial Park, observing the beautiful landscapes and historic monuments.
Head to the bustling Elmont Plaza for lunch, where you can find a variety of eateries offering diverse cuisines. Afterward, visit some local shops to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts that reflect the area's culture. Spend the afternoon at the Belmont Park, enjoying the sights and perhaps catching a horse race if the timing is right.
As the evening sets in, find a restaurant along Elmont Road that serves delicious food, featuring local favorites. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the neighborhood. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the park, appreciating the calmness of the evening air.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a popular local diner, known for its generous portions and friendly service. After breakfast, visit the nearby Queens Museum to appreciate its impressive art collections and exhibitions. Spend some time exploring the surrounding Flushing Meadows Corona Park, taking in the iconic Unisphere and beautiful gardens.
For lunch, stop by a food truck or casual eatery within the park, sampling some multicultural street food options. Afterward, make your way to the New York Hall of Science to engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the wonders of science. Spend your afternoon enjoying the hands-on activities that are perfect for both kids and adults.
As the sun sets, return to Elmont for dinner at a well-reviewed Italian restaurant, where you can indulge in authentic pasta dishes. After dinner, consider catching a movie at a local theater for some entertainment. Wrap up your day with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🥪Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment monthly rent | $1,800-2,800 |
| 🚌LIRR monthly pass | $180-600 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to NYC and easy access to major transit
- Belmont Park and UBS Arena provide major events and entertainment
- Limited nightlife within Elmont itself
- Primarily suburban with fewer large-scale attractions onsite
Places to Visit in Elmont
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic sweeping views of the track and grandstands, especially dramatic at sunrise or during events.
Modern glass facade and arena lighting provide striking reflections, especially on clear evenings.
Serene water reflections and tree-lined banks ideal for nature photography.
Quiet, classic Long Island streets with manicured lawns and seasonal foliage.
Access points to gentle trails offering greenery and wildlife habitats.
Food in Elmont
Elmont Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic New York breakfast pairing locally sourced bagels with smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and onions; available at neighborhood bagel shops.
Must-Try!
A hearty cured meat sandwich on rye bread, a staple at local delis and Jewish-Italian eateries.
Popular in diverse north shore eateries offering Caribbean and Mediterranean flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and ethnic foods in nearby towns.
Food trucks and seasonal stalls around Belmont Park during events and racing days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line and wait your turn, especially for food markets or transit.
A simple hello and please/thank you goes a long way; New Yorkers appreciate direct but courteous communication.
Residential areas value quiet evenings; avoid loud behavior after 10pm in quiet streets.
Safety
Tipping in Elmont
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax bill; for counter service or takeout, tipping is optional but appreciated if service is good.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always handy; some places may add a service charge for large groups.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and budding greenery; April showers are common, so bring a light umbrella.
Warm, humid days with highs often in the 80s F; plan for outdoor events and frequent thunderstorms.
Comfortable temperatures and vibrant fall foliage; ideal for hikes and outdoor dining.
Cold, with potential snow and icy conditions; indoor activities and warm venues are popular.
Elmont at Night
Hiking in Elmont
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails around a tranquil park setting in Valley Stream.
Scenic trails and green spaces within a short drive, plus the famed golf courses.
Airports
How to reach Elmont by plane.
Southern tip of Queens; about 15-25 miles from Elmont, depending on route; accessible by car or public transit.
Northern Queens airport; around 20-25 miles away; accessible via road or transit.
In Newark, NJ; about 40-50 miles away; best reached by car or long-distance rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Caribbean, African American, Asian, and Hispanic residents, along with long-standing Italian-American families.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Belmont Park hosts major races and events.
Islander games at UBS Arena near Belmont Park.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Elmont.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many options in Nassau County offer vegetarian pasta, salads, veggie burgers, and clearly labeled dishes; ask servers about meat-free preparations and cheese options.