When F. Scott Fitzgerald was writing the novel that would eventually become “The Great Gatsby,” it is said that the author took inspiration from the area where he lived – Long Island, New York.
Located outside of the city of Manhattan, people who aren’t familiar with this suburb think that it’s just that – a suburb. But there’s so much more to it than that. There’s culture, cuisine, history and hidden destinations that one would only know about if they decided to take the train and travel.
Here are some of the island’s hidden gems:
Oheka Castle
Located in the suburb of Huntington, NY, Oheka Castle has been the sight of many celebrity functions. Taylor Swift famously filmed her music video “Blank Space” on the castle’s grounds, Kevin Jonas got married in the middle of a snowstorm, and Dancing With the Stars pros Maksim Chmerkovskiy and Peta Murgatroyd wed on the grounds as well.
And judging from the castle’s Instagram account, the views are perfect for exploring and falling in love with the mansion.
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
Sagamore Hill, located in Oyster Bay, has some significance – the grounds were where President Theodore Roosevelt spent his summers with his family during his tenure as President of the United States. Known as the “Summer White House,” tourists can take a look inside the restored home and world of the 26th President, along with taking nature walks around the grounds and learn more about the wildlife that Roosevelt loved so much.
Planting Fields Estate
The Planting Fields Estate, located in Oyster Bay, has a rich history rooted deep in its grounds. Built in the early twentieth century, the estate boasts a massive arboretum and Coe Hall, one of the last of what is known as the “Gold Coast Estates.”
Although the estate is known for its beautiful grounds, the only con is that it is only open during the summer season. So if you’re looking for a nice fall experience out of the city, this might not be the place for you.
Old Westbury Gardens
On the list of the National Register of Historic Places, the Old Westbury Gardens boasts the best of the early 20th century elite – grand, luxurious gardens, nature/wildlife and a huge mansion that has been known to host weddings and formal events. It also hosts many programs that are open to the public all-year round.
According to the official website, the mission of the Gardens is to “inspire appreciation of the early 20th century American country estate through faithful preservation and interpretation of its landscape, gardens, architecture and collections.”
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