I grew up on eastern Long Island and have been visiting the North Fork since I was a kid. As a child, I loved the North Fork for it’s fun activities- corn mazes, apple picking, strawberry festivals, hay rides… it was a dream! As an adult, I have come to love the North Fork for it’s amazing wineries, breweries, and restaurants. The North Fork has a laid-back rural vibe and is a great place to visit for any type of traveler, with plenty to do for families, couples, or groups of friends. It is located just a few hours from NYC and is great for a day trip or an extended visit.
Below, I have listed my recommendations for the 15 best things to do on the North Fork. There is plenty to do in the area, so depending on the length of your trip and whether you are traveling with kids or with adults, you can pick and choose from the activities below for a fantastic time on the east end.
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Sip bubbly at Sparkling Pointe
Sparkling Pointe is my favorite vineyard on the North Fork. They make fantastic sparkling wine made using the champagne method of a double fermentation in the bottle. They have yummy cheese and charcuterie options, and offer both indoor and outdoor seating.
Visit the Lavender Fields
“Lavender By The Bay” is a 17 acre lavender farm located in East Marion. The lavender fields are in their peak around June or July- be sure to check their instagram to stay up to date!
Stroll around the town of Greenport
I love visiting Greenport for it’s cute shops and tasty restaurants. My favorite restaurants are Lucharitos and Claudio’s Waterfront. I also love the speakeasy “Brix and Rye”.
Go for a ride on the Greenport Carousel
If you have kids, be sure to stop by the carousel in downtown Greenport!
Get a pie from Briermere Farm
Briermere is famous for its pies and pastries. There is nothing better than digging into a pie from Briermere after a day of wine tasting! My favorite pie flavors are their Strawberry Rhubarb and Chocolate Cream.
Take a photo with the sunflowers at Pindar Vineyards
Pindar Vineyards is another fantastic vineyard. They have extensive outdoor seating and a really pretty sunflower field that blooms around July and August. I love their Summer Blush Rosé!
Visit Harbes Family Farm
Harbes Farm is a great option if you are looking for fun things to do on the North Fork with kids. They offer a variety of events depending on the season, such as apple picking, pumpkin picking, hayrides, and corn mazes. Don’t worry, grown-ups, they also offer wine tasting.
Try moonshine at Twin Stills Moonshine or Cider at the Riverhead Ciderhouse
For a change of pace from the vineyards, be sure to check out some of the other options on the North Fork, such as Twin Stills Moonshine or the Riverhead Ciderhouse. Twin Stills Moonshine offers Moonshine tasting flights and cocktails, and has live music on weekends. The Riverhead Ciderhouse has a variety of yummy ciders to try, as well as delicious snacks (my favorite is their guacamole).
Go brewery hopping
While the north fork of Long Island is primarily known for its wine, there is a big brewery scene that has popped up in recent years. A few options include Greenport Brewery, Jamesport Brewery, and Moustache Brewing Company.
Dine at Farm Country Kitchen
Farm Country Kitchen is my favorite restaurant on the North Fork. They are located in Riverhead on the Peconic River and have a huge outdoor seating area. Their menu options are super creative and delicious, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Going out to eat at Farm Country is one of my favorite things to do on the North Fork!
Get some thrills at Splish Splash Waterpark
Splish Splash holds a special place in my heart, as it was my first summer job as a teenager (working in the gift shop and at the games). I have very fond memories of eating churros and floating down the lazy river. This is a great place to visit with kids!
Go shopping at Tanger Outlets
A few of my favorite stores at Tanger Outlets for big discounts are Express, Victoria’s Secret, and West Elm.
Visit The Big Duck
Originally used as advertisement for a duck farm, the “BIg Duck” is now a gift shop operated by a Long Island heritage organization. There is not much to do here besides snap a picture, but it is definitely a staple of the North Fork that is worth a quick visit!
Go to the beach
There are several beach options that don’t require a town permit (although be sure to check before visiting because some of the rules have changed during Covid-19). Some options are Orient Beach State Park, Town Beach, Cedar Beach, and South Jamesport Beach.
Visit the Long Island Aquarium
The Long Island Aquarium is another great option if you are looking for fun things to do on the North Fork with children. Interestingly enough, they also host weddings. I attended one here recently and it was so cool to be able to wander around the aquarium during the reception!
Have you been to the North Fork of Long Island? What is your favorite thing to do on the North Fork? Leave a comment below!
