
Living in a historic area has many benefits. Historic places have character, a unique culture, and plenty of opportunities to learn about and appreciate the past.
Long Island was one of the first European settlements in the 17th century and one of the first modern suburbs in the United States. As a result, the area has a rich history, and it played a critical role in the development of our country and culture. Our real estate agents always enjoy learning by touring historic sites around Long Island. It's tons of fun and a great learning experience. Here are some of our favorite locations:
- The Gold Coast Mansions - 135 W Gate Dr, Huntington, NY 11743
Between 1890 and 1930, over 1,000 mansions were built along Long Island's North Shore; however, today, less than 350 remain. This collection of homes is now referred to as The Gold Coast Mansions, and they served as inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby. Today, many of the mansions offer tours, so you can truly step back into the roaring '20s. You can also take your own driving tour by many of the properties. If you'd like to have these historical beauties in your own backyard, we recommend scheduling a tour of one of these Huntington homes for sale.
- The William Floyd Estate - 245 Park Dr, Mastic Beach, NY 11951
Right on Mastic Beach is the former home of Declaration of Independence signer William Floyd. Visitors are able to tour The William Floyd Estate, its twelve outbuildings, and the family cemetery. There is also 2.5 miles of marked trails great for hiking or biking, plus numerous unmarked trails. There is no admission fee, and the estate is open 7 days a week from 8 am to 4 pm from May 1 to the last Sunday of November.
- The Ward Melville Heritage Center - 111 Main St, Stony Brook, NY 11790
This historic revenue in Stony Brook provides year-round historic education programs, events, and activities for kids and adults, including music, theater, and dance. This 8,800 square foot is the place to learn all about Long Island history. The Ward Melville Heritage Center has classrooms for onsite programs and even a gift shop. The facility can also be rented for private parties or corporate functions.
- Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve - 25 Lloyd Harbor Rd, Lloyd Harbor, NY 11743
The Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve provides an excellent combination of history, programming, and outdoor recreation. This beautiful property sits on a peninsula on the Long Island Sound and offers a variety of walking trails, hiking paths, and plenty of opportunities for bird-watching. The property is also home to the Lloyd Harbor Historical Society, which offers interpretations of local life during the colonial period.
- Old Bethpage Village Restoration - 1303 Round Swamp Rd, Old Bethpage, NY 11804
Immerse yourself in 19th-century Long Island history at this restored village. The Old Bethpage Village Restoration is a 209-acre living museum consisting of over two dozen structures that have been preserved. Walk around and enjoy costumed actors portraying life in the 19th century. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children under 12 and seniors.
- COE Hall Historic Museum at Planting Fields - 1395 Planting Fields Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771
This arboretum and state park is 400+ acres, and the estate contains a historic museum that takes you back to the 1920s where you can learn about the life of Mai Coe and their family as well as the artists and architects that designed the beautiful building. The COE Hall Historic Museum offers numerous guided and self-guided tours throughout the year.
Learning about history helps you develop a better understanding of the world around you. Contact us today to learn more about Long Island history.