Top Attractions to See in Long Island, New York

Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the south, Long Island Sound to the north and the East River to the West, Long Island is home to hundreds of miles of scenic, pristine beaches. But there is a lot more to do then spending all your time at the beach. The following places are some of the top attractions in Long Island.

Splish Splash - Water Park
Fun for the whole family, Splish Splash is located 60 miles east of New York City, off the Long Island Expressway at exit 72. With great water rides, fantastic shows and plenty of shady areas, this park is a fun place to spend a day.

The Animal Farm Petting Zoo
Run by the Long Island Zoological Society, the Petting Zoo provides shelter and care for unwanted animals. With acres of animals to see and enjoy, a safari train ride and puppet shows, a day at the Animal Farm Petting Zoo is fun for the entire family. Bottle feed the baby goats, lambs, pigs and cows and then enjoy lunch in the beautiful picnic areas. There are also playgrounds, pony rides and a nature shop

Atlantis Marine World
Located along the Peconic River in the town of Riverhead, Atlantis Marine World features sharks, sting rays, penguins, sea lions and much more. There are interactive exhibits, snorkeling tanks and two hour tour boat excursions.

Old Bethpage Village Restoration
A living museum that is over 200 acres in size. Experience life as it was in Long Island in the 19th century. Staff in full period costumes guide you through the shops, homes and businesses of the times. There is even a one room schoolhouse. Enjoy exhibitions, displays, events and an old-fashioned baseball game with rules and uniforms of the era.

Vanderbilt Planetarium
Located in Centerport on the Vanderbilt estate and part of the Vanderbilt Museum, the Planetarium features a 60 foot sky theater. The laser shows are beautiful, educational and unforgettable. Tour the Vanderbilt Mansion, visit the museum and gift shop for a great day of family fun.

East End Winery Tours
A tour of the Long Island vineyards, complete with wine tasting of the island's delicious wines, will be a memorable experience. Driving through the picturesque setting of eastern Suffolk County's north shore, enjoy gazing at the scenic landscape dotted with vineyards. Each one offering a pleasant place to stop to purchase a delectable treat for the evening. The vineyards offer a pleasant shopping experience, wine tasting and often feature outdoor concerts on summer weekends. There are also tour services with limousines to take you and your party on an exciting day of wine tasting.

The Museums at Stony Brook
Also known The Long Island Museum of American, Art, History & Carriages, this museum is the largest private museum on Long Island. The complex features three separate museums, each one offering an interesting, educational experience.

Brookhaven National Lab
One of the leading scientific labs in the United States, Brookhaven National Lab is located in Upton. Tours are offered on weekends and there is also an excellent Science Museum with interactive exhibits, historical information and displays.

These are a few of the top attractions to see on Long Island, New York. Several others include The Long Island Game Farm, the Montauk Light House, Sands Park Preserve and The Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary. Long Island is full of interesting and fun attractions that the whole family is sure to enjoy.