While Long Island is best known for its summer beaches and over-the-top Hamptons homes, the North Fork is the perfect fall getaway for families. An easy drive or ride on the Long Island Rail Road from New York City, this quaint and charming area will call you back again and again. Go beyond its famous vineyards with these autumn activities kids will love.
Mitchell Park is out on the water and beautiful for picnics or a walk along the harbor. Plus there’s an old school glass-encased carousel where if you can grab one of the brass rings you can receive a free ride.
This museum harkens back to Greenport’s heritage as a charming old sea town. They also host the annual East End Maritime Festival (September 22–23, 2018) where there’s a big parade down Main Street along with different kids’ activities, food vendors, contests and more.
This roller rink just reopened in Spring 2018 for its first public skate in over a decade. They have a DJ and the works so it’s definitely a good time for a family outing.
Hit up The All Star for old-fashioned family fun. It’s a bowling ally with food, drinks and arcade games off the main road drag.
The North Fork has many farms, but this one has livestock — including some beautiful Icelandic Sheep — for kids to meet. The farm itself is family owned and they’re incredibly involved with every aspect of the day-to-day so you can really see the love and hard work that goes into it. The farm also has a food truck where you can find some of the best breakfast sandwiches in town.
This old-school ice cream shop is located on the main drag of downtown Greenport near the water. They blend Oreo, Captain Crunch and other favorites mixed into their homemade soft serve ice cream.
At this family-owned farm, you can pick apples and pumpkins and visit nearby corn mazes. Bonus for parents: You can sample some fresh hard ciders in their tasting room.
The Sound View hotel is ideal for families looking to do more than a day trip. But even if you aren’t staying at the property, take a break from all the activity and stop in at their delicious restaurant for brunch or dinner. Not only are the views unbeatable, but they also source fresh, local ingredients. On weekends through the fall you can also hit the piano bar for live musical performances in collaboration with The Public Theater in New York City.
