Nassau County, New York: 5 Can’t-Miss Attractions for an Epic Long Island Day Trip
Nassau County, New York is a perfect “easy escape” from NYC or anywhere on Long Island: world-class museums, Gilded Age elegance, presidential history, and one of America’s most legendary public golf courses—all within a short drive of each other. Here’s how to visit five standout sites and turn them into a memorable one- or two-day itinerary.
1) Cradle of Aviation Museum (Garden City)
If you love flight, space, and Long Island history, start here. The Cradle of Aviation Museum celebrates Long Island’s outsized role in aerospace—from early flight to the space race—inside a modern, family-friendly museum.
Plan your visit
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Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
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Tickets: Museum admission and planetarium combo tickets are available, with pricing listed on the museum site.
Pro tip: Pair the museum with lunch in nearby Garden City and keep your afternoon flexible for the outdoor attractions that follow.
Old Westbury Gardens delivers pure “North Shore estate” magic: a grand mansion, formal gardens, and beautiful grounds that feel like stepping into another era.
Plan your visit
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Tickets: For many dates, tickets must be purchased in advance online (members and some pass holders may differ).
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Admission pricing: Adult and senior pricing (plus student/child rates) are posted on the official tickets page.
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Seasonal hours: Operating schedules can vary by time of year—always check the current season details before you go.
Don’t miss: The photo-worthy mansion façade, garden walks, and the “slow travel” vibe—this is a place to linger.
3) Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (Oyster Bay)
Sagamore Hill was President Theodore Roosevelt’s home and remains one of the region’s most meaningful historic visits—especially if you enjoy American history and coastal scenery.
Plan your visit
Pro tip: If you can’t secure a house tour, the grounds alone are still worth it—especially in pleasant weather.
4) Bethpage Black Golf Course (Farmingdale)
Bethpage Black isn’t just a golf course—it’s a bucket-list experience. Known for its difficulty and championship pedigree, it’s one of the most famous public courses in the country.
Plan your visit
Golfer reality check: Bethpage Black is a serious walk and a serious test—plan on a full day, bring comfortable shoes, and be ready for a “tell your friends forever” round.
5) American Airpower Museum (East Farmingdale / Republic Airport)
This is a hangar-style museum where history feels close—military aviation exhibits in a living-airfield setting. If you liked Cradle of Aviation, this is an ideal “part two,” with a different, warbird-focused flavor.
Plan your visit
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Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, typically 10:30 AM–4:00 PM (verify on the museum site).
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Admission: Adult and senior rates (plus discounts for veterans/active duty and kids) are listed on the museum’s admissions page.
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Location: Republic Airport area with on-site parking guidance provided.
Pro tip: Watch their calendar—special events can add extra excitement to your visit.
Easy Itineraries
Option A: Classic “Nassau County Highlights” (1 day)
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Morning: Cradle of Aviation Museum
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Early afternoon: Old Westbury Gardens
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Late afternoon: Sagamore Hill grounds + Oyster Bay area
Option B: Aviation + Golf Weekend (2 days)
Quick tips for a smooth trip
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Buy/reserve ahead: Old Westbury Gardens often requires advance online tickets, and Sagamore Hill house tours can be limited.
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Check seasonal hours: Gardens and historic sites can change schedules across the year.
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Wear the right shoes: Between gardens, historic grounds, and especially Bethpage Black, you’ll walk a lot.