Long Island, NY

There's no better time to sample a new local brew than National American Craft Beer Week. That's why our REALTORS® have put together a list of our favorite breweries in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

1. Oyster Bay Brewing Company — 36 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay, NY 11771
   In the past, Oyster Bay Brewing Company has been recognized as the best craft beer brewery on Long Island, and it's easy to see why. This amazing brewery has tons of tasty selections, with their famous honey ale and Barn Rocker session ale topping the list. They take great pride in Long Island's nautical history and are dedicated to producing the highest quality beer available. Their wonderful selection also includes a summer brew, pumpkin ale, hard seltzers, and more.
   
   
2. Barrage Brewing Company — 32 Allen Blvd. Unit E, Farmingdale, NY 11735
   The Barrage Brewing Company has perhaps the most unique history in all of Long Island. What started with just two taps in a family room has transformed into over two dozen beers. They continue to test recipes with hops, yeasts, and other ingredients to create more varieties. Some of the best include a porter made with cappuccino and tiramisu milk, salted caramel and fudge porter, and their infamous brown ale known as the Yada Yada Yada. 
   
   
3. Lost Farmer Brewing Company — 63 E. 2nd St. A, Mineola, NY 11501
   Locals just can't decide whether they prefer the Lost Farmer Brewing Company's delicious beer, tasty pizzas, or steaming hot Bavarian pretzels. Oh, who are we kidding? Of course, it's the beer! Not only that, but the place is dripping with '80s and '90s music that will keep everyone entertained. There's only one large table inside if you have a big group, but there's plenty of indoor and outdoor seating for friends and family.
   
   
4. Blue Point Brewing Company — 225 W. Main St., Patchogue, NY 11772
   This unique brewing company has developed a cult following thanks to their amazing selection of tasty craft beers that feature local ingredients such as seaweed, oysters, and beach plums. Many locals and visitors swing by the Blue Point Brewing Company to try their flagship beer known as the Toasted Lager, the proud winner of two World Beer Cup medals. And for the past few years, customers have enjoyed their new facility down the street that includes a restaurant and has a 60,000-barrel capacity.
   
   
5. Montauk Brewing Co. — 62 S. Erie Ave., Montauk NY 11954
   Take a quick jaunt to the local beaches during the summer, and you'll be sure to see people guzzling down the signature blue cans of Montauk Summer Ale. Although the Montauk Brewing Company hasn't been around as long as others on this list, it's quickly become one of the favorites of many locals and travelers. Their taproom may be small, but you'll find a relaxing outdoor patio and picnic tables that project the area's mellow vibe.
   
   
6. Sand City Brewing Company — 60 Main St., Northport, NY 11768
   The Sand City Brewing Company, near these Northport homes for sale, is another brewer who's only been around for a few years but has enjoyed great success with residents and tourists. Many people in the area feel that their IPAs are the best on Long Island, so feel free to try a few and tell us what you think. When you arrive, you'll be greeted with a welcoming sign hung up between two buildings that will lead you to the tasting room, where you'll always find pints, flights, and growlers ready to be enjoyed.

If you're searching for Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, our agents can help. Contact us to find your dream home.

May 6th is National Space Day. What better way to celebrate than by checking out the tremendous innovations in space exploration we've made over the years? Or by experiencing the beauty of space for yourself? There are great options to do both right in your new neighborhood. If you're looking at Nassau County homes for sale, you can pay a visit to the Cradle of Aviation Museum. Or if you're looking at Suffolk County homes for sale, you'll want to see the Vanderbilt Planetarium.

• Cradle of Aviation Museum - Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City, NY 11530
  Near these Garden City homes for sale, the Cradle of Aviation Museum is all about flight, from kites and hot air balloons all the way to the rockets that have taken us into space. Among the exhibits is a replica of the first liquid-fuel rocket ever built, the Goddard A-Series, in the 1920s.
  
  Of course, not all the exhibits are just replicas. There are also a number of real space modules, such as the Rockwell Command Module 002, which flew to the moon and back in 1966, and the Grumman Lunar Module LM-13, built for the canceled Apollo 19 mission. There's also a Grumman Lunar Module simulator built to help astronauts prepare for the journey.
  
  The museum also has a planetarium with a wide array of space shows and exhibits. There's an exploration of the night sky, a trip through the asteroid belt, an exploration of what humans' first mission to Mars will be like, and much more. Plus, go with Big Bird and Elmo on an exploration of the stars and constellations in One World, One Sky.
  
  The Cradle of Aviation Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am-5 pm. Tickets are $21 for adults 13 and up, or $19 for children and seniors. There are also private bookings available for parties and other events.
  
  
• The Vanderbilt's Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium - 180 Little Neck Rd., Centerport, NY 11721
  The Charles and Helen Reichert Planetarium is part of the Vanderbilt Museum. It provides a variety of different shows and events to teach children and adults alike about the wonders of space. Open Friday through Sunday, there's an ever-rotating schedule of daytime and evening shows, plus live lectures on the stars and planets.
  
  Current shows include Stars, narrated by Mark Hamill, about the birth, life, and death of everything from pulsars to black holes, and Dynamic Earth, which explores the oceans, atmosphere, climate, and more. Plus, the Vanderbilt Planetarium is also playing One World, One Sky, the Sesame Street-helmed exploration of the stars.
  
  The planetarium even has a rooftop observatory, where visitors can get a guided tour of the real night sky via their powerful Meade reflecting telescope. The observatory is open every Friday night, and, as it happens, National Space Day falls on a Friday.
  
  Plus, if you like to hike, you might check out the Solar System Hiking Trail, a mile-long loop that includes a scale model of the solar system. Hikers start at the sun and walk around to all eight planets. Note that the trail is only for experienced hikers.
  
  Daytime shows are $16 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, or $13 for children under 12. Evening shows are $10 for adults, $9 for students and seniors, or $8 for children. There are also laser shows featuring a dazzling display of flashing, colorful lights set to music.

Wherever you're looking to move to, our REALTORS® can help you find a house that meets your needs and show you some of the fun and interesting things to do around the neighborhood. Contact us today and let us get you into your dream home.

Sweet, savory, filling, and satisfying, acai bowls are a favorite breakfast choice for some of our REALTORS®. Not only are acai bowls tasty, they have loads of health benefits. Acai berries have strong antioxidant properties, and when adding extra fruit, oatmeal, or peanut butter, you can also get some extra protein, fiber, and Vitamin C in your diet.

Because acai bowls often have many ingredients, making them at home isn't always convenient. However, if you're lucky enough to live in an urban area like Long Island, you can easily find several great local smoothie shops that make some fantastic acai bowls. Here are some of our favorites.

• Bare Naked Bowl - 2565 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY 11554
  One of the top Long Island destinations for acai bowls, Bare Naked Bowl uses fresh, organic ingredients and gives you the option to customize your bowl any way you like it. They offer six bases, four types of granola, and 23 superfood toppings. If you don't feel like customizing, you can easily choose from one of their six signature bowls. The menu also features smoothies, snacks, and coffee. On your way home, make sure to check out these Nassau County homes for sale.
  
  
• Food For Thought - 154 7th St., Garden City, NY 11530
  This health food cafe is just down the street from some beautiful Garden City homes for sale and also happens to serve some of the best acai bowls around. Try the Original AB, The Dynamic Duo, Mango Madness, or create your own acai bowl. There are tons of toppings to choose from. Looking for something different? The menu at Food For Thought also features tons of other healthy eats.
  
  
• Acai Beach Bowls - 917 W. Beech St., Long Beach, NY 11561
  Acai Beach Bowls is a great spot on Long Island for a healthy snack. Choose from organic acai, banana, or apple juice for the base of your acai bowl and add in your favorite toppings. There are five pre-made variations on the menu if you need some inspiration. You'll also find some great Rockville Centre homes for sale not too far away.
  
  
• Brekky - 2 Sound Rd., Wading River, NY 11792
  Brekky is a small cafe with a large number of healthy food options. Choose from 13 acai bowls or create your own. We recommend the Yoga Bowl, acai, Greek yogurt, granola, coconut, honey, and any three toppings. 
  
  
• Bango Bowls - 199 Main St., Setauket-East Setauket, NY 11733
  You can find some of the tastiest acai bowls on Long Island at Bango Bowls. Choose from an acai, pitaya, or green base, add in oats & honey, vanilla nut, or chocolate granola, and choose from over 25 toppings. The menu also features poke bowls, warm bowls, and salads. If you like the area, there are some beautiful Stony Brook homes for sale nearby.
  
  
• Sarikopa Coffee and Tea - 226 Riverleigh Ave., Riverhead, NY 11901
  Sarikopa Coffee and Tea might be known for their brewed beverages, but they make a great acai bowl as well. Top your both with strawberries, blueberries, banana, coconut flakes, and granola. They also have a fantastic breakfast menu. Afterward, be sure to swing by these amazing Suffolk County homes for sale.

Acai is known as the superfood of superfoods, so it's not surprising these delicious bowls have become so popular in recent years. Luckily, they're easy to find around Long Island. Contact us today for more local recommendations.

March 30 is Take a Walk in the Park Day, and with winter's ice grip finally beginning to loosen, our REALTORS® are excited to do just that. Luckily, we have a lot of great places to go for a hike here on Long Island. 

Walk in the Park in Nassau County

Located just a short drive from New York City, Nassau County offers some lovely parks and trails on western Long Island. These great hiking spots are also convenient to many Nassau County homes for sale.

• Hempstead Harbor Shoreline Park - Port Washington, New York
  Overlooking the southwest side of Hempstead Harbor, Hempstead Harbor Shoreline Park is a great place for a hike on a crisp spring day. The park features a 2-mile trail with easy terrain and great views of the water, with benches and gazebos along the way where you can stop and enjoy the scenery. It's just minutes from these Port Washington homes for sale. 
  
  
• Manhasset Valley Park - 461 Maple St., Manhasset, NY 11030
  A picturesque park that spans the valley separating the Great Neck and Cow Neck peninsulas, Manhasset Valley Park is a beautiful green space within walking distance of many Manhasset homes for sale. The park spans 26 acres and includes well-manicured walking paths that wind among woods, meadows, ponds, and streams. 
  
  
• Hempstead Lake State Park - Eagle Avenue, West Hempstead, NY 11552
  Hempstead Lake State Park is one of the largest parks in Nassau County and a hub for all kinds of outdoor recreation. This 737-acre park includes 8 miles of hiking trails, including a picturesque 3-mile path that encircles Hempstead Lake. The park is also popular for fishing, kayaking, and horseback riding and is only a short drive from these Rockville Centre homes for sale. 

Walk in the Park in Suffolk County

Suffolk County encompasses the eastern two-thirds of Long Island. In addition to these lovely Suffolk County homes for sale, you'll find some truly perfect places for a leisurely stroll or an energetic hike in Suffolk County. 

• Blydenburgh County Park - Veteran's Memorial Highway, Smithtown, NY 11788
  Encompassing 627 acres of wooded hills and valleys surrounding Stump Pond, Blydenburgh County Park is one of Long Island's best-kept secrets. A 5.7-mile loop trail traverses the pond's shoreline, and the Long Island Greenbelt Trail Conference often offers guided hikes. The park is just minutes from numerous Smithtown homes for sale and also offers camping from April through November. 
  
  
• West Meadow Wetlands Reserve - 44 W. Meadow Ln., Stony Brook, NY 11790
  Featuring a mile-long beach and 88 acres of tidal marshes, wetlands, and maritime forests, West Meadow Wetlands Reserve is a perfect place to enjoy the scenery overlooking Long Island Sound. The reserve is walkable from many of these Stony Brook homes for sale and is a great place to spot dozens of native shorebird and songbird species that frequent the area. 
  
  
• West Hills County Park - Sweet Hollow Road, Huntington Station, NY 11747
  West Hills County Park is a beautiful park spanning 800-plus acres, with well-groomed hiking trails that meander among dense woodlands. It's one of the best places on Long Island to immerse yourself in nature, despite being near many Huntington Station homes for sale. A highlight of the Park is the Walk Whitman Trail, which crosses the highest point on the island. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Nassau and Suffolk counties. When you're ready to find your dream home on Long Island, our agents are here to help every step of the way. 

Pi Day is observed on March 14, but instead of trying to remember exactly what pi stands for, it's a great excuse to stop by a local bakery for some pie. The Long Island area is home to many bakeries worth visiting on Pi Day or any other.

Our REALTORS® suggest taking a tasty trip to one of the bakeries around Long Island to enjoy pie on Pi Day.

Nassau County

• Buttercooky Bakery - 217 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001
  Buttercooky Bakery, located near Floral Park homes for sale, is a third-generation family business that's served up delicious sweets for over 50 years. This location is the bakery's original flagship store, and its success has allowed the family to add two more locations. Whether you want a small pie all to yourself or a larger one to share, you'll be able to choose from 4-, 8-, and 10-inch pies. Available flavors include pecan, lemon meringue, brownie, and several apple, cherry, and blueberry variations.
  
  
• SugarBerry Bakery - 312 Sunrise Hwy., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
  With the goal of being an ambassador of the European art of baking, SugarBerry Bakery uses the highest quality ingredients to create its pies and other sweets. The bakery, located just around the corner from Rockville Centre homes for sale, is a cozy space where you can select desserts directly from a beautiful gallery. Pie flavors include apple, blueberry, cherry, coconut, custard, and chocolate mud.
  
  
• Whistle Stop Desserts - 3424 Lawson Blvd., Oceanside, NY 11572
  Whistle Stop Desserts has made treats in Nassau County for over 40 years. The bakery got its start with cheesecake and has since expanded to pies and other sweets, with fine-tuned family recipes forming the basis for most of its offerings. Choose from a selection of coconut custard, pecan, chocolate pecan, and fruit pies, including key lime and banana caramel creme, made with no added sugar.

Suffolk County

• Torte Jeff Pie Co. - 218 E. Main St., Port Jefferson, NY 11777
  Not surprisingly, pies take center stage at Torte Jeff Pie Co., located near Port Jefferson homes for sale. Choose from apple crumb, toasted coconut, pecan, lemon meringue, key lime, and chocolate cream, as well as vegan options like apple, blueberry, and strawberry rhubarb. You'll also find savory pies like chicken and brisket pot pie.
  
  
• Kerber's Farm - 309 W. Pulaski Rd., Huntington, NY 11743
  Kerber's Farm has the distinction of being one of the last remaining working farms in Huntington. It's also the site of a shop that sells pies, among other things, and the business has been featured in national publications, including Oprah magazine and The New York Times. You'll find its shop near Huntington homes for sale and can order a small or large apple, apple crumb, strawberry rhubarb, banana cream, s'mores, and more. 
  
  
• Copenhagen Bakery & Cafe - 75 Woodbine Ave. A, Northport, NY 11768
  Copenhagen Bakery & Cafe uses no preservatives or fillers in its pies and other offerings, and some ingredients are even imported from Denmark to provide an authentic flavor. Located near Northport homes for sale, the friendly bakery has tables inside and outside by the water where you can relax and chat. Customer favorite pies include raspberry peach, coconut custard, and blueberry crumb.

Contact us to see Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. We've served Long Island's real estate needs for 65 years, earning a reputation for experience, finesse, and a deep commitment to our agents, community, and people who are drawn to live on Long Island. 

National Wedding Planning Day is March 1, so if you're a bride-to-be, it's the perfect time to start planning the wedding of your dreams. One of the most important elements to decide on is your bridal gown, and you'll find many shops in Nassau and Suffolk counties that can help you turn your dreams into a reality.

Our REALTORS®  suggest visiting one of the following Long Island shops to find the perfect dress for your Big Day.

Nassau County

• The Wedding Plaza - 216 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001
  If you're looking for a designer wedding gown, stop by The Wedding Plaza, located near Floral Park homes for sale. The shop, serving area brides since 1988, has a large selection of dresses from designers including Kitty Chen, Pronovias, and Justin Alexander. And if you have a specific designer you love, schedule a visit during one of the shop's frequent trunk shows that highlight their collection. 
  
  
• Blossom Brides - 230 Sunrise Hwy., Rockville Centre, NY 11570
  You'll find the latest in bridal looks and accessories at Blossom Brides, located just around the corner from Rockville Centre homes for sale. And when you find a gown to love, you can have the shop employ some of their original and unique customization options to create a one-of-a-kind look. Custom tailoring and design work are offered, and after your big day, the shop can even clean and preserve your gown for you.
  
  
• Karen Sabag New York - 1685-87 Northern Blvd., Manhasset, NY 11030
  If you're a bride-to-be who will be in the area looking at Manhasset homes for sale, schedule an appointment with Karen Sabag New York to discuss the vision you have for your gown. The atelier will work closely with you from design conception to completion to take your gown from sketch to reality, reflecting hundreds of hours of work as various artisans create your dress.

Suffolk County

• Angel Bridals - 39 W. Main St., East Islip NY 11730
  For over 30 years, Angel Bridals, located just around the corner from East Islip homes for sale, has helped brides get ready for their big day. Couture bridal gowns are available from sizes 2 to 32, and you'll also be able to find everything you might need to accessorize your gown, including custom headpieces, jewelry collections, and undergarments. The shop also offers expert alterations, gown restoration, and customizing, which is their forte. 
  
  
• Blu Rayne Bridal Boutique - 3 Crooked Hill Rd., Commack, NY 11725
  No matter your style, you're likely to find the right bridal gown at Blu Rayne Bridal Boutique. Located near Commack homes for sale, the boutique carries traditional gowns as well as those in styles such as boho chic. For a fun experience, gather friends and family to accompany you on Princess Package at the shop, including champagne, stylists, light snacks, and a credit toward a bridal gown purchase.
  
  
• Bridal Salon of Dix Hills - 1870 E. Jericho Turnpike, Huntington, NY 11743
  Bridal Salon of Dix Hills, a full-service bridal boutique located near Huntington homes for sale, aims to make your fairytale wedding a dream come true. The shop carries dresses in sizes 2-32W and specializes in figure-flattering gowns for any bride. Their experienced staff will guide you through the process of finding the perfect gown for you.

Contact us to see Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale. Since 1954, our brokerage has helped clients who have been drawn to live on Long Island find their dream homes, and we'd love to help you as well! 

It's crunchy. It's chewy. It's cheesy! What could be better than pizza? Many people share our opinion of pizza because there's a national holiday dedicated to this food. National Pizza Day is February 9th, 2022, and our REALTORS® have some awesome pizza restaurants to recommend in honor of the occasion. 

• Rustica Brick Oven Cafe: 1 Nassau Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530
  Rustica Brick Oven Cafe is a great place to grab a pizza when you're looking at Garden City homes for sale. Offerings include 8" personal pizzas, along with 12" and 17"pizzas for sharing.
  
  A favorite here is the Rustica pizza, which comes topped with tomato basil sauce, roasted red peppers, pepperoni, tomatoes, olives, and house-made mozzarella. The BLT pizza is also awesome if you're in the mood for something more creative.
  
  
• Village Pizzeria: 169 Tulip Ave., Floral Park, NY 11001
  If you're in the area looking at Floral Park homes for sale, stop by Village Pizzeria for a traditional Italian experience. The restaurant uses top-quality ingredients and old family recipes to create fantastic pizza.
  
  Top menu items here include the Neapolitan, Sicilian, and Margherita pizzas. Most are sold by the pie and by the slice.
  
  
• Gino's Pizzeria: 48 Main St., Port Washington, NY 11050
  Gino's Pizzeria is a great place to celebrate National Pizza Day. It's a family-owned restaurant that uses recipes directly from Southern Italy. Pizzas are made with real San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella for a truly indulgent experience.
  
  If you're looking at Port Washington homes for sale, Gino's is just minutes away. The Marinara and Pizza Bianca are local favorites, and the Mac-n-Cheese pizza is a creation everyone deserves to try at least once. 
  
  
• Giovanni's Pizza: 149 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Commack, NY 11725
  Giovanni's Pizza is known for its friendly service and great food. The pizza offerings are creative, including the BBQ Chicken and Buffalo Chicken pizzas. The restaurant also has a good selection of calzones for those who prefer their pizzas in pocket form.
  
  Giovanni's would be a convenient place to stop if you're looking at Commack homes for sale. With plenty of soups, salads, heroes, and pasta dishes on the menu, it's a great choice for families, too.
  
  
• Emilio's: 2201 Jericho Turnpike, Commack, NY 11725
  If you prefer to dine in a high-energy atmosphere, Emilio's is a good place to grab a pizza. The destination features a full bar, televisions on the wall, and upbeat servers. 
  
  While Emilio's does offer some incredible seafood dishes, you have to try the pizza on National Pizza Day. The Old World Pies are made on classic, thin Italian crusts. There's also a delicious baked cheese calzone, along with a delightful roasted cauliflower pizza.
  
  
• Nina's Pizzeria: 487 Main St., Northport, NY 11768
  Nina's Pizza is a cozy restaurant located in what used to be a private home. When the weather is nice, you can dine on the front patio. Nina's is known for its Caprese Salad, which can round out your pizza order.
  
  One of the top pies to order here is the Spicy Thai Chicken pizza. The sweet and spicy sauce is incredible. Make sure you allow some time to look at East Northport homes for sale after your meal. 

National Pizza Day could not be easier to celebrate. Grab yourself a slice at one of the above restaurants and enjoy. If you'd like help viewing Nassau County homes for sale or Suffolk County homes for sale, we're ready to help. Contact us to learn more about our real estate services. 

Our REALTORS® will give you a tour of open houses if you're visiting Long Island in search of a home. But if you want a real taste of Long Island hospitality, make sure to reserve an igloo for dinner.

An igloo dining experience allows you to curl up in a cozy bubble as you dine and stave off the winter weather for a few hours. Igloo dinners are perfect for a family outing or a winter date. Our REALTORS® suggest coming out of the cold and enjoying the unique dining experience that the following places have to offer.

1. Uncle Bacala's – 2370 Jericho Turnpike, Garden City Park, NY 11040
   Located in the vicinity of our Garden City homes for sale, this restaurant offers excellent views afforded from its picturesque outdoor deck. Whether you're looking for a quiet sunset date or an unforgettable experience with family and friends, Uncle Bacala's is the place to be. The Igloos come in various sizes, so you can bring the whole family to enjoy hearty Italian meals or a date for a romantic dinner.

2. 317 Main Street – 317 Main St., Farmingdale, NY 11735
   East Norwich is a charming place to call home, as proved by its array of neighborhood parks, entertainment centers, and restaurants. One such restaurant is 317 Main Street in Farmingdale, located just a few minutes from these stunning East Norwich homes for sale. Their restaurant offers live entertainment, distinctive cocktails, and an unbeatable menu.
   
   Moreover, you can find several igloos lining the sidewalk that are heated and equipped with Bluetooth speakers. Nothing beats the view, and the fact that you can bring your own music makes for a magical night.

3. Smuggler Jack's – 157 Forest Ave., Massapequa, NY 11758
   Smuggler Jack's is a waterfront restaurant and bar that offers an unmatched dining experience that's bound to make you forget the crisp chill of winter. You can experience waterside dining all year round in the clear domed structures that come complete with comfortable furniture and a fireplace that keeps the space toasty even in the depths of winter.
   
   
4. Maxwell's - 501 Main St., Islip, NY 11751 Islip
   Get cozy in the heart of Islip just a few minutes from these East Islip homes for sale at Maxwell's. It's a casual dining spot that offers the best of everything from an innovative menu to an outdoor igloo outfitted with twinkling lights, fur blankets, and cozy seating. These igloos sit up to eight people, making them perfect for a get-together or a family outing.
   
   
5. Wave Seafood & Steak Restaurant – 25 E. Broadway, Port Jefferson, NY 11777
   After a day taking in some Port Jefferson homes for sale, you can spend your evening indulging in a delectable dinner at Wave Seafood & Steak Restaurant. The restaurant offers seasonal menu items ranging from fresh salads to delicious seafood. Perched along the Port Jefferson harbor, an igloo dinner at Wave is accompanied by a breathtaking water view—especially at sunset—and a cozy fireplace.

Ready to Make Long Island Home?

Long Island is one of the best places to live in America—it's home to friendly neighborhoods, great schools, and has some of the best recreational centers this side of the Atlantic. If you're ready to find your forever home in Long Island, have a look at our Nassau County and Suffolk County homes for sale. Contact us today so we can set up a house tour and get you started on your home-purchasing journey.

Heritage Treasures Day was established in 2017 in the UK as a way to explore and preserve historical sites. It takes place every year on January 11 and has grown in popularity worldwide. There are many great places to celebrate this unique day near Suffolk County homes for sale and Nassau County homes for sale, with museums and preserved historical sites dating back to American history's earliest days. Our REALTORS® have all the details on five fascinating destinations for Heritage Treasures Day around Long Island.

1. Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate – 135 West Gate Dr., Huntington, NY 11743
   The Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate is one of Long Island's most famous historical treasures and is conveniently located near Huntington homes for sale. Oheka Castle is a slice of historic Europe in the heart of Long Island, serving today as a luxury hotel, wedding venue, dining destination, and event space. Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay at the amazing hotel, grab a meal at the OHK Bar & Restaurant, or stop by for a tour to experience all that the estate has to offer.
   
   
2. Country House Restaurant – 1175 N. Country Rd., Stony Brook, NY 11790
   The Country House Restaurant was built circa 1710 near Stony Brook homes for sale, and it's still in operation today. Sit down for an amazing meal in a beautifully preserved historic home, and experience Long Island history in the present day. The menu changes monthly with new things to try, and there are also special menus available for many of the year's biggest holidays.
   
   
3. Cradle of Aviation Museum – Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530
   Located near Garden City homes for sale, the Cradle of Aviation Museum tells the story of how humanity took to the skies and beyond. It's a great place to learn all about the history of flight in the United States and features some excellent space travel exhibits. The museum features eight galleries with more than 75 air and spacecraft, along with fun exhibits on retro games and a state-of-the-art planetarium that has unique shows all day long.
   
   
4. Stony Brook Grist Mill – 100 Harbor Rd., Stony Brook, NY 11790
   The Stony Brook Grist Mill was built in 1751 and served as an active mill for local farmers until the 1950s. Today, it has been converted into a historical site where you can learn about the mill's history and discover how wheat was processed in the past. It's open every Sunday for guided tours, with a miller on-site and a gift shop where you can find fun souvenirs.
   
   
5. Long Island Traditions – 382 Main St. #G02, Port Washington, NY 11050
   If you're interested in getting involved with preserving local heritage sites yourself, then Long Island Traditions is the perfect organization to help you pursue your passions. Located near Port Washington homes for sale, Long Island Traditions works to preserve historic architecture, historic sites, and structures that tell the story of Long Island, as well as amplifying the voices of local artists who create works about historical sites. Long Island Traditions also has the Honoring Traditions program, which focuses on the music, dance, crafts, and art of cultures that have called Long Island home.

Are you searching for a home that makes it easy to explore all of the fascinating historical and cultural destinations around Long Island? Let our local real estate team help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Long Island communities.

Monday, December 13th is an important day, especially for music lovers. It's Violin Day! Invented in the 1500s, the violin has since become an important instrument across various genres of music, from classical to hard rock. What better way to honor it than by visiting one of the great music shops on Long Island. Here are some top music shops our REALTORS® recommend.

• Lewis Music: 278 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501
  Lewis Music is a locally owned music store not far from many Garden City homes for sale. They sell string instruments, including violins. Some are new, and others are used on consignment. The store also sells bows and offers bow repair services.
  
  Lewis Music also sells guitars and band instruments, and they offer both in-person and virtual music lessons. If you're not quite ready to buy your own instrument, ask about their rental program.
  
  
• Laconia Music Center: 410 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY 11040
  Laconia Music Center is a music store just minutes from Floral Park homes for sale. They opened in 1960 and have been serving the Long Island community ever since.
  
  This store offers violins and other orchestra string instruments with straightforward pricing. They're also known for their selection of less-common instruments, including tubas, bassoons, and contrabasses. Aspiring musicians of all ages can take lessons at their modern studio.
  
  
• Poppa's Music Music: 168 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501
  Take a break from looking at Nassau County homes for sale, and stop by Poppa's Music Music to look at the instruments. They have an impressive selection of guitars, pianos, and woodwinds.
  
  Poppa's Music Music also offers rentals, including violins and larger string instruments like cellos. They have some smaller instruments to suit school children, too. If you already own a violin or other instrument and need it fixed, visit their repair center.
  
  
• Munro Music: 416 Larkfield Rd., East Northport, NY 11731
  Munro Music is within easy reach of East Northport homes for sale. They offer violin and viola lessons for all ages. You could even learn how to play the cello, the bass version of the violin. Their one-on-one, private teaching style makes it easier to learn at your own pace.
  
  Munro Music also sells sheet music, and they rent band and orchestra instruments for the school year and summer. 
  
  
• The Instrument Store: 81H E. Jeftyn Blvd., Deer Park, NY 11729
  If you're looking at Dix Hills homes for sale, then The Instrument Store is a good place to celebrate Violin Day. They've been in business since 1991, and they carry a great selection of instruments, from saxophones to guitars.
  
  The Instrument Store often offers open box deals, which are a good way to save when buying an instrument. If they have to order an instrument for you, they always offer free shipping. 
  
  
• The Music Zoo: 123 Smith St., Farmingdale, NY 11735
  The Music Zoo has such a creative name, and its employees are just as creative and lovely. Open since 1994, this is a great music shop to visit if you're looking at West Islip homes for sale.
  
  The Music Zoo sells some of the best brands, from Gibson to Taylor. They're also a great place to pick up amps and various musical accessories. 

Whether you play the violin, have always wanted to learn, or just like admiring the art behind these gorgeous string instruments, stopping at one of these music shops is sure to be enjoyable. Contact us if you need help finding homes for sale nearby.