5 Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Long Beach to Medford
Long Beach, New York and Medford, New York may not be the most popular tourist destinations in the state, but the journey between them is one worth taking. It's a drive that will take you through charming towns, picturesque villages, and scenic landscapes. In this article, we'll share with you five unexpected places to stop along the way and what to expect at each location.
Halfway Point: Lindenhurst, NY
Before we dive into the five stops, we have to mention the halfway point: Lindenhurst, NY. It's a small village situated on the south shore of Long Island. The village is a great place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and admire the beautiful views of the Great South Bay. The village has plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.
1. Oyster Bay, NY
Oyster Bay is a historic town located on the north shore of Long Island. The town is known for its stunning waterfront views, antique shops, and museums. Visitors should make time to stop at the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, the former home of President Theodore Roosevelt. The guided tours of the mansion and grounds are impressive and educational. For lunch, visitors can head to 2 Spring, a cozy farm-to-table restaurant that serves delicious seafood and sandwiches.
2. Port Jefferson, NY
Port Jefferson is a picturesque waterfront village that should be on every traveler's itinerary. The village has a bustling main street filled with unique shops and eateries. Visitors can take a stroll through Harborfront Park and admire the views of the Long Island Sound. The Port Jefferson Maritime Explorium is a fun place to learn about the area's nautical history. For lunch, visitors can stop by The Fifth Season, a contemporary American restaurant that offers a range of seasonal dishes.
3. Stony Brook, NY
Stony Brook is a charming hamlet that's home to a top-ranked university and a host of interesting sites. The historic three village area is a popular destination for history buffs and features a number of 18th-century homes. Visitors should make time to stop at Avalon Park and Preserve, an expansive nature preserve that has over 140 acres of trails and wildlife. For lunch, visitors can head to The Country House, a cozy restaurant that serves classic American fare.
4. Riverhead, NY
Riverhead is a small town with a surprisingly large number of attractions. Visitors should make time to visit the Tanger Outlets and the Riverhead Raceway. The aquarium in Riverhead is also a fun place to stop, especially for families with kids. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Twin Stills Moonshine distillery, which produces award-winning spirits. For lunch, visitors can head to Turkuaz Grill, which serves delicious Turkish cuisine.
5. Patchogue, NY
Patchogue is a vibrant town situated on the south shore of Long Island. It's home to a range of cultural venues, shops, and eateries. Visitors can take a stroll down the main street and explore local galleries, boutiques, and cafes. For a cultural experience, visitors can stop by The Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts and see a live show. For lunch, visitors can head to Rudi's Bar and Grill, a casual spot that serves classic pub food.
Conclusion
Long Beach and Medford may not be the most famous destinations in New York, but this drive along the south shore of Long Island is one of the state's hidden gems. The five stops we've highlighted offer a mix of history, culture, and nature that's sure to make any road trip memorable. So why not load up the car, hit the road, and see for yourself?