Community Corner
Historic Day Trips in Nassau County
These fun and affordable day trips are perfect for all ages.
Written by Charlene Cooper
This weekend, opt for an action-packed adventure that's close to home. Whether you're an art lover or into aviation, here are four historic trips that the whole family will love. The best part? You only need a tank of gas to get there.
Cradle of Aviation Museum
Charles Lindbergh Blvd.
Garden City, NY
(516) 572-4111
Why Go? Boasting more than 75 air and space crafts and interactive exhibits, the Cradle of Aviation Museum is the place to visit for a high-energy educational outing. Fly away in the X-Ride Theater, which features a huge motion simulator, watch a film at the Giant Dome Theater or take a relaxed ride on Nunley's Historic Carousel. "A great hands-on museum," said visitor Michelle Toia Kowatschitsch. "Kids can really feel like they are pilots!"
Must Do: Check out the JetBlue Sky Theater Planetarium for an exciting all-digital aviation show. "The planetarium gives visitors a front-row seat to the wonders of our universe," said Dave Barger, CEO of JetBlue Airways.
Insider Tip: You have to leave outside food at the door when entering the movie theater. The museum also has a cafeteria.
Fine Print: Visit Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and all Mondays that fall on holidays or school breaks. Admission is $12 for kids and seniors. Adult entrance is $14.
Nassau County Firefighters Museum & Education Center
1 Davis Ave.
Garden City, NY
(516) 572-4177
Why Go? The Nassau County Firefighters Museum and Education Center encourages visitors to feel, see and experience firefighting in a hands-on way. Starring antique and modern fire gear and equipment, the 5,000 square-foot center makes learning fun for the whole family.
Must Do: Don't mistake this museum for a kids-only zone. Dress up in fire gear alongside your little ones and learn something new. "The Nassau Firefighters Museum and Education Center is an inexpensive and extremely educational facility right in the heart of Nassau County," said visitor Phil Popsrocks.
Insider Tip: Part of Nassau County's Museum Row, the Firefighters Museum and Education Center sits alongside several other museums. To avoid confusion, enter through the Reckson Visitor Center.
Fine Print: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Mondays that fall on holidays and school breaks. Admission is $4 for children and seniors 62 and older; $5 for adults.
Nassau County Museum of Art
1 Museum Dr.
Roslyn, NY
(516) 484-9337
Why Go? Channel your inner Picasso and take a trip to the Nassau County Museum of Art. The lovely Bryant mansion houses the museum, which features the Arnold & Joan Saltzman Fine Art Building, the Art Space for Children, the Sculpture Park and Formal Garden of historic importance and walking trails.
Must Do: From now until Feb. 23, a bold exhibition from iconic celebrity artist, Peter Max, will be on display for the first time ever. Be sure to check out the museum's outdoor sculpture gallery—it's great for photos.
Insider Tip: Don't forget the bug spray. You may also want to hike up your socks as a shield against poison ivy plants within the wooded area.
Fine Print: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Admission is $4 for students and children 12 and under, $10 for adults and $8 for Seniors 62 and older.
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
20 Sagamore Hill Rd.
Oyster Bay, NY
516-922-4788
Why Go? Get a taste of presidential history at Sagamore Hill, which was home to President Theodore Roosevelt for more than 30 years. The Theodore Roosevelt Museum, along with the park and visitor centers, will give you an inside look at the place Roosevelt referred to as his "Summer White House."
Must Do: Enjoy a self-guided experience at the Theodore Roosevelt Museum. At your own pace, watch movies and see exhibits that display what Sagamore Hill was like 100 years ago. "Beautiful and historic," said museum visitor, Peter Bourdelle. "I could walk there as a kid, and did so many times to tour the exhibits and imagine how Teddy lived."
Insider Tip: The Roosevelt Home is currently closed for a reconstruction project. However, the park, museum and visitor center offer a world of exciting exhibits and gems to explore.
Fine Print: Park grounds are open every day from dawn until dusk. The Roosevelt Museum opens Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All attractions are free.
