Overview

At 1401 square miles, Long Island is the largest island in the continental US. It's comprised of parts of four counties: Nassau, Suffolk, Queens and Kings (which includes Brooklyn). The island's towns and villages blend historic charm and modern day amenities, all set alongside the striking beauty of parks and shoreline. The convergence of so many desirable features means that Long Island is densely populated, with over seven million residents, but you'd never guess it. The urban feel of New York City is largely absent.

Nevertheless, visitors are pleased and often somewhat surprised to find such an array of things to do and see. The proximity of New York City ensures an ample supply of performing arts, but there's no need to make the commute when Long Island itself has its own theater companies, philharmonic orchestra, and ballet and opera companies. If music is your thing, Long Island has plenty to offer. Excellent local bands play everywhere from hole-in-the-wall bars and mega-clubs to church basements and public libraries, not to mention the slew of cultural festivals held in virtually every town. Alternatively, the summer concert series at Jones Beach State Park features big name acts, as do several performing arts centers and coliseums.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, options for sports enthusiasts are plenty. In fact, you can see a game of some sort no matter what time of year it is - check out the Mets (baseball), the Islanders (hockey), or the Roller Rebels (roller derby). Outdoorsy pursuits are a big tourist draw, too. You'll find picturesque beaches presided over by historic lighthouses, parks bursting with wildflowers, meandering trails for bicycling and walking, even kiteboarding. Places like the Sweetbriar Nature Center plan a full schedule of engaging and educational programs for kids, families and individuals.

Long Island also harbors tons of restaurants, ranging from mom-and-pop pizza joints to fine dining establishments with world-class chefs. Food-related festivals are popular: strawberries are feted in the early summer, while oysters and the island's best pizza are celebrated in October. February marks the arrival of the Winter Wine Festival. But there's no need to wait to experience what most people consider the prettiest part of the island, the wine country, also known as the North Fork. Numerous vineyards are concentrated here, some 3000 acres' worth. You can spend a day touring wineries and sampling vintages before collapsing under a fluffy comforter at a B&B. Who needs California when you've got Long Island?

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