Lake Grove New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lake Grove, New York.
1. Smith Haven Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Smith Haven Mall is a spacious retail complex offering a diverse selection of stores and entertainment options for visitors of all ages. The mall features numerous popular brands, specialty boutiques, and dining establishments, making it a one-stop destination for shopping enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a full day exploring the various retail offerings while taking advantage of the mall's comfortable indoor environment regardless of weather conditions.
2. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
THRILLING INDOOR ADVENTURES
Urban Air Adventure & Trampoline Park offers visitors an exciting array of indoor activities including trampolines, climbing walls, and mini go-karts. Located on Middle Country Road, this family-friendly attraction provides endless entertainment with attractions like Virtual Reality experiences, Leap of Faith, and Stairway to Heaven. The park offers special passes and promotions throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for active fun regardless of the weather outside.
3. Robert J. Henke Nature Preserve Passive Park
SERENE WOODLAND ESCAPE
Robert J. Henke Nature Preserve Passive Park provides a peaceful natural retreat within the bustling Lake Grove area. Visitors can explore tranquil walking paths through native woodlands and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. The preserve serves as an important ecological sanctuary and offers a refreshing opportunity to connect with nature without venturing far from town.
4. Retro Relics
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Retro Relics offers a nostalgic journey through time with its impressive collection of vintage items and collectibles. Visitors can browse through carefully curated memorabilia, antiques, and unique pieces that capture the essence of bygone eras. The shop provides a delightful experience for collectors, history enthusiasts, and anyone searching for one-of-a-kind treasures with stories to tell.
5. Pond Path Park
PEACEFUL COMMUNITY OASIS
Pond Path Park offers residents and visitors a well-maintained recreational space perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. The park features open green spaces, walking paths, and scenic pond views that create a tranquil atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle. Families particularly enjoy the park's amenities which provide a safe and pleasant environment for children to play while adults appreciate the natural beauty.
6. Go Playland Smith Haven
FAMILY FUN HEADQUARTERS
Go Playland Smith Haven delivers endless entertainment options for families looking for indoor recreation in Lake Grove. The facility offers various play structures, arcade games, and interactive activities designed to engage children's imagination and energy. Parents appreciate the clean, supervised environment where kids can play safely while they relax or join in the fun themselves.
7. Setauket Port Jefferson Greenway
SCENIC CYCLING PARADISE
The Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail connects Lake Grove to the beautiful north shore of Long Island through a well-maintained 3-mile paved path. Cyclists and pedestrians can enjoy journeying through diverse landscapes including old-growth forests, farmland, meadows, and local business districts. The greenway provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient access points, making it ideal for both recreational outings and practical commuting alternatives.
8. Long Island Greenbelt Trail Overlook
BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VIEWS
The Long Island Greenbelt Trail Overlook rewards hikers with magnificent views of Sunken Meadow Creek flowing into the Nissequogue River. This scenic vantage point offers photographers and nature enthusiasts a perfect spot to appreciate the natural beauty of Long Island's waterways and surrounding landscapes. Visitors often pause at this overlook to rest and reflect while taking in the tranquil panorama before continuing their journey along the trail system.
9. Avalon Nature Preserve
DIVERSE ECOLOGICAL WONDER
Avalon Nature Preserve encompasses 216 acres of diverse ecosystems including woodlands and wetlands near Lake Grove. Visitors can explore serene trails that wind through various natural habitats while learning about local ecology and conservation efforts. The preserve provides a peaceful sanctuary for both wildlife and humans seeking to escape the pace of modern life and reconnect with the natural world.
10. Arthur Kunz County Park
RIVERSIDE NATURAL HAVEN
Arthur Kunz County Park is a 93-acre forested property situated on the western bank of the Nissequogue River near Lake Grove. The park features tidal creeks and diverse ecosystems that create an ideal environment for hiking and nature observation. Visitors can experience the unique transition zone where freshwater meets the estuarine environment, offering glimpses of varied plant and animal life adapted to this special habitat.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY PARADISE
Lake Grove offers exceptional shopping experiences centered around the impressive Smith Haven Mall and numerous specialty stores like Retro Relics. Shoppers can find everything from major retail chains to unique boutiques offering one-of-a-kind merchandise and collectibles. The convenient layout of shopping areas makes Lake Grove a favorite destination for retail therapy, with ample parking and a variety of dining options to complete the experience.
12. Dining
CULINARY DELIGHTS ABOUND
The dining scene in Lake Grove features diverse culinary options including the popular Lake Grove Diner known for its extensive menu and comfortable atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy everything from casual eateries to more upscale dining establishments, with many restaurants located conveniently near shopping areas and attractions. Local food enthusiasts appreciate the blend of traditional favorites and innovative cuisine that make Lake Grove a satisfying destination for hungry travelers.
13. Hiking
NATURAL TRAIL EXPLORATION
Hiking enthusiasts in Lake Grove can enjoy numerous trail options including the Robert J. Henke Nature Preserve and connections to the Long Island Greenbelt Trail system. The well-maintained paths offer varying difficulty levels suitable for casual walkers and serious hikers alike, with many routes showcasing the area's natural diversity. Seasonal changes transform the hiking experience throughout the year, with spring wildflowers, summer shade, autumn colors, and winter tranquility each providing unique perspectives on the landscape.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S HIDDEN GETAWAY
Fishing opportunities near Lake Grove allow anglers to try their luck in local ponds and nearby waterways like the Nissequogue River. Freshwater fishing spots offer chances to catch species like bass, sunfish, and trout depending on the season and location. Dedicated fishing enthusiasts appreciate the relatively uncrowded access points and the peaceful experience of connecting with nature while practicing this traditional pastime.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
While Lake Grove itself has limited camping options, nearby areas provide excellent opportunities for overnight outdoor adventures within a short drive. Campers can choose from several well-maintained campgrounds in surrounding Suffolk County parks that offer amenities ranging from basic tent sites to full RV hookups. The proximity to Lake Grove allows visitors to enjoy both camping experiences and the conveniences of town, creating a perfect balance for those who want to connect with nature without completely roughing it.