Growing up on Long Island, me and my friends explored and still explore all the nooks and crannies of this place we call home. Whether hunger or boredom drive us out of the house and into LI, we always have options that seem endless. These are a few ideas that aren’t crazy expensive and can make a really fun day.
1. A Day Trip to Montauk
Photo courtesy of LongIsland.com
At the east end of the island, you’ll find one of the many beaches to explore on the island. At the tip, you’ll find the 1796 Montauk Point Lighthouse. There’s even a museum close by which holds old documents signed by George Washington. A perfect spot for exploring and taking one too many photoshoot pictures!
2. All-American Burger Drive-In
This place is one of the only ways to my heart; and that’s right through my stomach. All-American is a lil old-school joint run as a counter service fast-food restaurant. They have smoothies (may I recommend strawberry), burgers, and fries *all the essentials for a happy tummy~*. I could spend hours with my friends sitting in the parking lot as most of the customers do, just listening to music and eating away. The prices are seriously great so I always go with an empty stomach knowing that I’ll be stacking it up.
3. My Personal Guilty Pleasure: Shop at Tanger Outlets
See that Nine West shopping bag?! I got a pair of sandals originally $60, for only $20. My friends and I have spent years finessing sale racks, and I feel like we could qualify as professionals. This outlet located in Deer Park has plenty of shopping options. From Nike to Ralph Lauren Polo, to even Chipotle, a day trip is a good call when driving out here.
4. Hike in Cold Spring Harbor
This trail buried in the highways running through Cold Spring Harbor is a hidden treasure. It runs across a few hills and has paths made easy to move through. When hiking here, you can see people of all ages either alone, with a group, or with a furry friend!
I brought my dog, Prada, on a hike once, and she loved the change of scenery. You can find people posted on the side of a trail picnicking or just relaxing.
5. Attend a Jones Beach Concert
My very first concert was a Jones Beach Concert, and I’ve been going to concerts here ever since. This venue has the stage on the water, and the oval-shaped seating makes a musical experience that much more fun. Artists from all genres show up to perform here, and some of my favorite artists held concerts here for reasonable prices. I highly recommend attending a concert here, the vibe will be amazing!
6. Sunset Hunting
My friends and I always had a routine for summer days we wanted to spend together. We would grab dinner, marvel (another cute lil pit stop that sells soft-serve ice cream), and go on a beach drive till we found the perfect new spot to watch the sunset.
We sit in the car or on the rocks watching the sunset on the horizon. Nothing better than witnessing nature’s beauty!
I hope these 5 bucket list items give you a few ideas while out here on the island for when things warm up a little. There’s a lot more to do on the Island, but then I’d be here all day. So when you get a chance, explore a lil bit!