Your Ultimate Guide to Fun Fall Activities on Long Island
As the crisp autumn air sweeps across Long Island, it’s time to trade in your summer sundresses for cozy sweaters and embrace all the seasonal delights this beautiful island has to offer. From local wineries and breweries to haunted houses and pumpkin patches, Long Island transforms into a fall wonderland that’s perfect for making memories with friends and family.
Whether you're a Nassau native, a Suffolk stalwart, or someone who loves the charm of the East End, this guide will help you navigate the best fall activities Long Island has to offer.
Savor the Flavors of Fall: Local Wineries and Breweries
1. The Long Island Wine Country
Fall is the ideal time to explore Long Island’s renowned wine country. With cooler temperatures and harvest season in full swing, local wineries offer some of their best seasonal selections. Here are a few must-visit spots:
- Bedell Cellars (Cutchogue): Bedell Cellars is a staple in Long Island’s North Fork wine region. Their tasting room offers a cozy atmosphere with stunning vineyard views. Try their Merlot and Cabernet Franc, which are perfect for the fall season.
- Macari Vineyards (Mattituck): Known for its picturesque setting and exquisite wines, Macari Vineyards offers a great selection of reds and whites. Their tasting room often features seasonal events and special releases.
- Pindar Vineyards (Peconic):
One of the largest and most popular wineries on Long Island, Pindar Vineyards is known for its diverse range of wines. The autumn season is a fantastic time to sample their offerings and enjoy a leisurely afternoon among the vines.
2. Craft Beer Adventures
If you prefer hops to grapes, Long Island’s craft breweries have you covered with a range of seasonal brews and fall festivities:
- Greenport Harbor Brewing Co. (Greenport):
This beloved brewery is known for its excellent craft beers and vibrant taproom. During fall, they often feature seasonal brews like pumpkin ales and spiced lagers.
- Montauk Brewing Co. (Montauk):
A trip to Montauk wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Montauk Brewing Co. Enjoy a fall-inspired brew while taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic.
- Spider Bite Beer Co. (Patchogue):
With a variety of creative and seasonal brews, Spider Bite Beer Co. is a great stop for craft beer enthusiasts. Their seasonal releases often include autumn flavors and styles.
Spooky Fun: Haunted Houses and Ghost Tours
As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, Long Island offers plenty of opportunities for spine-chilling fun. Whether you’re looking for real hauntings or just a good scare, here’s where to find it:
1. Haunted Houses
- The Haunt at Rocky Point (Rocky Point): Known for its elaborate sets and chilling atmosphere, The Haunt at Rocky Point is a must-visit for thrill-seekers. This haunted attraction features a series of terrifying experiences that will make your heart race.
- The Bayville Scream Park (Bayville): This multi-attraction park offers a range of scary experiences, from haunted houses to creepy carnival games. It’s a great place to enjoy a variety of Halloween-themed fun in one location.
- Darkness Rising (Huntington):
Located at the Huntington YMCA, Darkness Rising is known for its high-quality production and creepy set design. It’s a popular spot for those looking to get their fright on.
2. Ghost Tours
- The Long Island Paranormal Society Tours:
For those interested in real hauntings, the Long Island Paranormal Society offers ghost tours and investigations of some of the island’s most haunted locations. Learn about the spooky history and see if you can capture any ghostly activity.
- Old Westbury Gardens Ghost Tours (Old Westbury):
Explore the beautiful grounds of Old Westbury Gardens while learning about its haunted history. This tour combines the elegance of the estate with a touch of the supernatural.
Pumpkin Picking and Fall Festivals
No fall experience is complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Long Island offers some fantastic spots for pumpkin picking and seasonal festivities:
1. Best Pumpkin Patches
- Harbes Family Farm (Jamesport): Harbes Family Farm is a beloved destination for pumpkin picking and fall fun. Their large pumpkin patch, hayrides, and corn mazes make it a great place for family outings.
- The Milk Pail (Hampton Bays):
Known for its picturesque setting and fresh produce, The Milk Pail is a fantastic spot for pumpkin picking. Their farm stand also offers a range of autumn treats, including cider and baked goods.
- Schmitt’s Farm (Melville):
Schmitt’s Farm is a great place to find the perfect pumpkin. With a variety of sizes and shapes, as well as additional fall activities like hayrides and corn mazes, it’s a popular spot for families.
2. Fall Festivals
- The Long Island Fall Festival (Huntington):
This annual festival features a range of activities, including live music, food vendors, craft booths, and children’s entertainment. It’s a great way to celebrate the season with the whole family.
- The Riverhead Country Fair (Riverhead): This classic fall fair offers live entertainment, craft vendors, and plenty of delicious food. It’s a fun way to spend a day exploring local crafts and enjoying fall treats.
Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Drives
Fall is also a wonderful time to enjoy the great outdoors on Long Island. Here are some scenic spots and outdoor activities to consider:
1. Scenic Drives
- North Fork Wine Trail: Take a leisurely drive through the North Fork wine country, where you can enjoy the changing leaves and visit several wineries along the way. The scenic route offers beautiful views of vineyards and farmland.
- The South Shore’s Fall Colors: Drive along the South Shore to see the vibrant fall foliage. The route offers picturesque views of the coastline and the changing colors of the trees.
2. Outdoor Activities
- Hiking in the Pine Barrens: Explore the Pine Barrens in Suffolk County for a hike through the fall foliage. The trails offer a peaceful retreat and stunning views of the changing landscape.
- Walking the Beaches: Even as the weather cools, Long Island’s beaches offer a serene backdrop for a fall stroll. Head to Montauk or the Hamptons for a quiet walk along the shore.
Fall Dining and Seasonal Treats
Finally, no fall adventure is complete without indulging in seasonal treats. Long Island offers a range of dining options that embrace the flavors of fall:
- Harvest on Fort Pond (Montauk): Enjoy farm-to-table dining with a menu that highlights seasonal ingredients. Their fall dishes are perfect for warming up on a crisp autumn day.
- The Rustic Loft (Lindenhurst):
This cozy restaurant offers a range of comfort foods with a fall twist. Think hearty soups, pumpkin dishes, and spiced desserts.
- The Hampton Chutney Co. (East Hampton):
Known for its creative use of seasonal ingredients, this eatery offers delicious fall-inspired dishes that are both satisfying and flavorful.
Long Island in the fall is a treasure trove of activities and experiences that cater to all interests. Whether you're sipping on local wines, tackling a haunted house, picking pumpkins, or simply enjoying the fall foliage, there's something for everyone. So grab your sweater, gather your loved ones, and make the most of this magical season on Long Island!