We spent a couple hours of our memorial day at the Bailey Arboretum in Lattingtown. We stumbled upon it one day a year ago while driving to Bayville and it is a gem. Both times we’ve been there we nearly had the run of the place to ourselves. The only sounds were of birds, chipmunks, and the wind.
The first garden area, behind the welcome center, has several wooden chairs for relaxing and just breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the country life. There are flowers planted all around the area and depending on when you go, might have some blooming. They have some blocks for children to play with and an interesting wooden xylophone that any child (or adult) will love to bang on for a while. The grass fields are great for running around, playing hide and go seek, or picnicking, which is allowed. Don’t forget to check out the giant-sized chair too.
After playing around and looking at the trees, flowers, grass, and surroundings, we decided to hit the trail for a hike. It is set up with signs about the ecology and development of Long Island since the ice ages. We saw many chipmunks running rampant and also a small bunny on our trip. Aliya loved our time there and I recommend, to anyone that has kids and a desire to relax in a peaceful environment, go there and have a romp around the premises.
The cost is the best part. It is free, but you can donate whatever you can to help support maintenance there. I like places like this because you can pay a little if you only stay for a short time or pay more if you happen to stay for many hours at a time.
Bailey Arboretum
Address:
Bayville Road and Feeks Lane
Lattingtown, NY 11542
www.baileyarboretum.org/
Phone Number: 516-571-8020
Email: baileyarboretum@optonline.net
Map:
