Long Island: 5 Nature Preserves & Gardens to Enjoy the Great Outdoors

A short getaway to experience nature can help you feel refreshed while also allowing you to get in a bit of exercise along the way. Nassau and Suffolk counties on Long Island have several spots that serve as an oasis where you can get away in gardens and nature preserves that are conveniently close by.
  
Our REALTORS® suggest visiting the following destinations to help you enjoy the great outdoors in Long Island.    

1. Centennial Gardens – 251 Floral Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11001  
   Centennial Gardens contains eight different gardens, allowing you to experience several types within the same location. Situated near Floral Park homes for sale, the gardens range from formal planted settings to individual plantings and gardens in a more natural setting. And since walking paths include ones that are hilly and provide a good workout, and those that can easily be navigated with strollers or wheelchairs, you can choose the ones that best suits you. As you explore the gardens, you can also enjoy a waterfall as well as a beautiful wooden walking bridge.
     
2. Champlin Creek Nature Preserve – 50 Irish Lane, East Islip, NY 11730   
   Champlin Creek Nature Preserve flows between Islip and East Islip and is home to a fish and wildlife habitat that's about 3.5 miles long. Located near East Islip homes for sale, the creek is a free-flowing freshwater stream bordered by wet forest land in some areas. It's known for having conditions favorable to brook trout, and brown and rainbow trout are also stocked in the stream.
     
3. Elderfields – 200 Port Washington Blvd., Manhasset NY 11030  
   Elderfields is not only a nature preserve but also a historic museum and farm, so it has plenty to see and do. It comprises four acres and is located near Manhasset homes for sale. You'll find a walled garden on the property, which is also home to the Hewlett-Munson-Williams House from the 17th century, making it one of the oldest existing homes in the area. Elderfields also houses an arts center with a museum of antique decorative arts, studio space, arts classrooms, and more. Art shows are regularly scheduled at the center.
     
4. Muttontown Preserve – 25A West of Jericho-Oyster Bay Road, Muttontown Lane, East Norwich, NY 11732  
   Nassau County's largest nature preserve, Muttontown Preserve has marked trails that stretch for miles and is located near East Norwich homes for sale. Before you start, pick up a map and brochure that include descriptions of the areas along the trails. You'll be able to see wildflowers, trees, and birds along the way and may also spot some mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
     
5. Islip Meadows County Nature Preserve – 350 Bayview Ave., East Islip, NY 11730  
   If you're looking for a bit of untouched nature, head to Islip Meadows County Nature Preserve, which comprises over 87 acres. It includes tall grasses, wetlands, and a small beach to enjoy. You can also walk 1.75 miles of trails and see wildlife, including waterfowl, along the way at this preserve.

Contact us if you'd like to see Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. We can help you find one that's near the destinations you'll most enjoy.