Things To Do
in Uniondale

Uniondale is a residential and commercial hamlet in Nassau County on Long Island, New York, adjacent to Hempstead and near Hofstra University. It blends suburban neighborhoods, shopping strips, and pockets of cultural diversity with easy access to the Long Island Rail Road and major roadways. The area is known for community events, proximity to Nassau Coliseum/entertainment venues, and convenient links to New York City.

Visitors can expect a practical base for exploring Long Island beaches, parks, and the broader NYC metro area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Uniondale, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant murals. Visit the nearby Uniondale Historical Society to learn about the town's rich heritage and community stories.

afternoon
:

For lunch, enjoy a meal at one of the town's popular diners, where you can indulge in classic American fare. Afterward, head to the Uniondale Public Library, a beautiful building filled with local history exhibits and cozy reading nooks. Spend some time exploring the library's collection or attending a scheduled workshop or event.

evening
:

As the sun sets, make your way to a local eatery known for its farm-to-table menu, where you can enjoy fresh, seasonal ingredients. After dinner, take a short walk to a nearby park for some fresh air and relaxation, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Conclude your evening by catching a live performance at a local theater, immersing yourself in the local arts scene.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a waterfront café, where you can enjoy views of the ocean. After eating, grab your beach gear and head to the nearby Jones Beach State Park, known for its beautiful sandy shores. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or trying out beach volleyball with other visitors.

afternoon
:

For lunch, pack a picnic or grab a bite from a beachside food truck offering delicious seafood options. Spend the afternoon participating in water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, with rentals available right on the beach. Enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze as you explore the coastline from the water.

evening
:

As evening approaches, unwind with a beachside barbecue, grilling some fresh fish or veggies while enjoying the sunset. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, collecting seashells and enjoying the evening tranquility. Cap off the night by gathering around a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee (regular)$3-5
🚖Taxi start / short ride$5-15
🚌Public transit one-way$2.25-7.00
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$120-220

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to New York City with convenient transit and road links
  • Good base for exploring Long Island beaches, parks, and cultural sites
  • Diverse local dining options and family-friendly amenities
  • Limited late-night nightlife compared with NYC
  • Traffic and parking can be challenging during events or rush hour
  • Weather can be unpredictable in shoulder seasons

Places to Visit in Uniondale

Visit one of these nice places.

Hofstra University Campus

Architectural buildings, manicured lawns, and seasonal foliage make the campus a pleasant spot for portraits and wide-angle shots.

Eisenhower Park

Lakes, bridges, and open fields provide varied natural scenes and sunset opportunities close to Uniondale.

Nearby Shorelines (Jones Beach area)

A short drive away, beaches and boardwalks are ideal for sunrise and seascape photography.

Neighborhood Street Scenes

Local commercial strips, diners, and community events offer candid street-photography moments reflecting suburban Long Island life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Uniondale

Uniondale's food scene reflects Long Island's suburban mix: classic New York delis and pizzerias, multicultural family-run restaurants, and chain eateries. Proximity to Hofstra and nearby towns means a variety of quick bites, comfort food, and some regional seafood options.

Uniondale Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

New York-style Pizza

Large, thin-crust slices with foldable slices; find great options at local pizzerias and neighborhood Italian spots.

Must-Try!

Deli Sandwiches

Hearty, overstuffed sandwiches (pastrami, corned beef, tuna) available at classic Long Island delis—perfect for a quick, filling meal.

Seafood Specials

Local restaurants offer Long Island staples like fried clams and crab cakes; seafood is fresher and commonly featured at nearby coastal towns.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Delis and Bodegas

Small neighborhood delis and bodegas serve breakfast sandwiches, coffee, and grab-and-go items—great for an affordable local meal.

Nearby Farmers Markets

Seasonal farmers markets in neighboring towns and Hempstead offer fresh produce, baked goods, and occasional prepared foods during warmer months.

Climate Guide

Weather

Uniondale has a humid subtropical to continental-influenced climate: warm, humid summers and cool to cold winters with occasional snow. Spring and fall are transitional with moderate temperatures and variable rain. Coastal proximity moderates extremes somewhat, but nor'easters and winter storms can impact travel in colder months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendly but Direct

People in Uniondale are generally friendly and pragmatic; politeness and short greetings go a long way, but conversation can be direct and efficient.

Respecting Property and Noise

Keep noise levels reasonable in residential neighborhoods, especially at night, and follow posted rules in parks and public spaces.

Tipping and Service

Tipping is expected for service jobs—observe local norms and tip accordingly for good service.

Safety Guide

Safety

Uniondale is a typical suburban/urban mix—like many communities, some areas are safer than others. Stay aware of your surroundings, secure valuables, park in well-lit areas, and avoid isolated places at night. Check local police updates or community resources for neighborhood-specific safety information; as a visitor, use common-sense precautions and keep emergency numbers handy.

Tipping in Uniondale

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary in the U.S.: typically 15–20% at sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and 10–15% for takeout or delivery drivers depending on service and order size.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are increasingly common. Carry some cash for small purchases at bodegas or tips, but most places accept cards or mobile pay.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm and humid with temperatures often in the 70s–80s°F (20s–30°C); beaches and outdoor events are popular—bring sun protection and expect busy weekends.

Fall

Crisp, pleasant weather and colorful foliage at parks and preserves; great time for outdoor walks and lower humidity.

Winter

Cold with occasional snow and icy conditions; temperatures commonly range from the 20s–40s°F (-5–5°C). Dress in layers and check for weather-related travel delays.

Spring

Mild and increasingly green with seasonal blooms; variable conditions mean bringing a light jacket and umbrella for showers.

Nightlife Guide

Uniondale at Night

Nightlife in Uniondale is low-key compared with Manhattan: casual bars, neighborhood pubs, and occasional live music at nearby venues. Nearby towns and the wider Nassau County offer more dining and entertainment options, and many people travel into NYC for late-night scenes and larger concerts. On event nights at larger venues like Nassau Coliseum, expect increased activity and late-night dining options.

Hiking in Uniondale

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hempstead Lake State Park

Nearby park with relatively flat trails, lakeside scenery, picnic areas, and birdwatching—good for easy hikes and family outings.

Massapequa Preserve

Wetland preserve with boardwalks and trails through marshy environments—ideal for nature walks and seasonal wildlife viewing.

Eisenhower Park Trails

Large park with walking paths, sports fields, and waterfront views—convenient for short hikes and recreation near Uniondale.

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve

A bit farther north on the peninsula, offering woodland and coastal trails, historic landscapes, and scenic views of the Long Island Sound.

Airports

How to reach Uniondale by plane.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Approximately 20–30 miles away with direct road and public-transit connections; major international flights and convenient for accessing NYC and Long Island.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Closer for domestic flights (20–30 miles); accessible by car and shuttle services, with increasingly improved terminal facilities.

Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)

Located in Suffolk County (Islip), about 30–40 miles east—smaller regional airport with some domestic flights and a quieter alternative.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Across state in New Jersey (30–60 miles depending on route); another major international airport option with rail and road connections to Long Island.

Getting Around

Walkability

Uniondale is moderately walkable in small commercial zones and around Hofstra University, but many points of interest are spread out—having a car or using rideshares and local buses makes getting around easier. Sidewalks exist in residential and commercial areas, but suburban distances mean walking between neighborhoods is often impractical.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families and Suburban Residents

A large portion of the population consists of long-term suburban families and commuters who work in nearby towns or NYC.

Students and University Community

Hofstra University and nearby educational institutions bring students, faculty, and campus-related activities to the area.

Diverse Immigrant Communities

Uniondale and neighboring Nassau County have diverse populations including Hispanic/Latino, Caribbean, African American, South Asian, and other immigrant communities contributing to the cultural mix.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

College Sports (Hofstra University)

Hofstra fields NCAA teams (basketball, soccer, lacrosse) and draws local fans—college sports are an active part of community life.

Baseball and Little League

Youth baseball and softball leagues are popular community activities throughout Long Island.

Beach and Water Sports

Proximity to the coast makes paddleboarding, surfing, and recreational boating common in warmer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy during weekday rush hours and around major shopping centers or event venues. Main arteries and parkways (like the Southern State Parkway and Meadowbrook State Parkway) see frequent congestion. Public transportation options include buses and nearby LIRR stations—useful for commuting and trips into NYC, though service frequency varies by line.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Uniondale.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most diners and many ethnic restaurants offer vegetarian options (salads, pasta, veggie sandwiches). Inform staff and ask for substitutions—vegetarian-friendly choices are readily available.

Vegan

Vegan options are less ubiquitous than in big-city centers but available at some cafés and health-focused spots; plant-based requests at delis/pizzerias (salad, veggie pie) often work.

Gluten-free

Some restaurants provide gluten-free pasta or pizza crusts, but cross-contamination can occur; inquire about preparation if you have celiac disease.

Halal/Kosher

Halal and kosher options exist in the broader Nassau County area; check nearby neighborhoods and specialty eateries for certified establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access is solid with nearby clinics, urgent care centers, and hospitals in Nassau County. Major medical centers and specialists are a short drive away; for serious emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Visitors should have travel or health insurance and know the location of the closest hospital.

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