Things To Do
in Riverhead
Riverhead sits at the gateway to Long Island’s North Fork, blending a small-town atmosphere with access to coastal scenery and farm country. Rich in history, it serves as a hub for commerce, culture, and family-friendly attractions like the Long Island Aquarium. The town offers a walkable downtown, seasonal farmers markets, and easy drives to vineyards, beaches, and seafood shacks.
In all seasons, Riverhead pairs waterfront charm with rural vistas that define Long Island’s North Fork.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with breakfast at a local café, savoring freshly brewed coffee and pastries. After your meal, visit the Long Island Aquarium to explore its diverse marine life and interactive exhibits. Spend some time taking photos with the family-friendly exhibits, setting a joyful tone for the days ahead.
Enjoy lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, indulging in the catch of the day accompanied by scenic views of the Peconic River. Afterward, stroll through the Riverhead Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and artisanal goods. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Wind down your first day with a leisurely walk along the riverfront. Enjoy a casual dinner at a charming bistro known for its locally sourced ingredients. Take in the beautiful sunset as you end your day reflecting on the experiences so far.
Begin your day with an invigorating hike at the nearby Indian Island County Park, where lush green trails await you. The fresh air and stunning nature views provide a perfect opportunity for birdwatching. Pack a breakfast picnic to enjoy amidst the serene landscape.
After exploring the trails, head to the Suffolk County Environmental Center for a guided educational program about the local wildlife. Lunch can be had at a scenic picnic area, where you can recharge for the next adventures. Spend your afternoon kayaking or canoeing on the Peconic River, soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.
Return to Riverhead and enjoy a cozy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with views of the river. Relax with some live music entertainment to enhance your dining experience. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the picturesque downtown area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $50-90 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $150-260 |
| 🍷Bottle of wine at a restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Long Island’s North Fork wine country and seafood
- Family-friendly attractions and a walkable downtown
- Close to scenic beaches, farms, and countryside
- Nightlife is relatively low-key compared to urban areas
- Summer weekends can bring heavier traffic and crowds
- Some attractions require car travel between towns
Places to Visit in Riverhead
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic storefronts, clean sidewalks, and seasonal storefront displays provide classic Small Town America photo opportunities.
A scenic riverside path with gentle water views, docks, and boats; ideal for golden hour photography.
Colorful marine exhibits and underwater scenes offer vibrant subjects and reflections for close-up and wide shots.
Rolling fields, farmstands, and barn exteriors create rustic portrait and landscape images, especially in spring and autumn.
Food in Riverhead
Riverhead Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic Long Island style with tender lobster meat, minimal mayo, and a buttered bun—often found at seaside shacks and casual eateries along the North Fork.
Must-Try!
Sweet, small bay scallops typically prepared seared or in light chowders, a North Fork specialty highlighted at many seafood spots.
Seasonal corn and bright tomatoes tossed with herbs, often finished with local olive oil or a tangy vinaigrette.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, baked goods, honey, preserves, and prepared foods from nearby farms and vendors.
A short drive away, this market features regional produce, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat street snacks during peak season.
Casual seaside snack options along the ferry routes and harbors; look for fried clams, lobster rolls, and seasonal seafood bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite, friendly greetings are common; a simple 'hello' or 'good morning' goes a long way.
Be mindful of queues at markets and eateries; be courteous and patient during busy periods.
Carry out trash, respect farmland and wildlife, and follow local guidelines when visiting farms and vineyards.
Safety
Tipping in Riverhead
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip around 15-20% at restaurants; for bar staff, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the bill; consider tips for service providers like guides and taxi drivers.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; many venues also take mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay).
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming orchards; great for garden and countryside photography, plus early winery events.
Warm and humid with peak beach-going crowds; beaches, harbors, and outdoor markets are in full swing; expect longer days and sunset sessions.
Harvest season with vibrant foliage and wine-tasting events; perfect for scenic drives along the North Fork and photo walks.
Cool to cold with occasional snow; fewer crowds but cozy farm-to-table dining and festive markets provide indoor atmosphere.
Riverhead at Night
Hiking in Riverhead
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal woodlands and rolling shorelines with several easy-to-moderate loop trails near Lloyd Harbor.
Dune and forest trails with scenic views of Long Island Sound suitable for a relaxed hike.
Marsh edge and dune routes offering marshland scenery and potential wildlife sightings near Westhampton Beach.
Airports
How to reach Riverhead by plane.
Islip, NY – local regional airport with domestic flights; about a 45-60 minute drive from Riverhead depending on traffic.
New York City area major international hub; about 1.5-2 hours by car or transit from Riverhead depending on traffic.
New York City area airport; approx. 1.5-2 hours from Riverhead by car or transit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families take advantage of schools, parks, and kid-friendly attractions in Riverhead and the North Fork.
Retirees appreciate the slower pace, scenic surroundings, and community activities.
Seasonal visitors and part-time residents populate the area, especially in the summer and fall harvest seasons.
Many residents commute to jobs across Long Island and New York City, taking advantage of the LIRR and road access.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common local pastime, with youth leagues and community games throughout the region.
Popular among families and clubs; fields accessible in parks and schools.
Common in schools and varsity programs, reflecting Long Island’s strong lacrosse culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Riverhead.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many North Fork restaurants emphasize farm-to-table produce; look for vegetable-forward mains, salads, and dairy-free options; ask about egg, dairy, and gluten ingredients to tailor dishes.