Oyster Bay Cove New YorkATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oyster Bay Cove, New York.
1. Sagamore Hill National Historic Site
PRESIDENTIAL LEGACY PRESERVED
Sagamore Hill National Historic Site served as the home of Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, from 1885 until his death in 1919. Visitors can explore the 23-room Victorian mansion and surrounding 83 acres of forest, meadow, salt marsh, and beach, experiencing the environment that shaped Roosevelt's conservation ethic. The site offers guided tours of the main house as well as access to nearby trails with stunning views of Oyster Bay Harbor.
2. Theodore Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard
HISTORIC PRESIDENTIAL EXHIBITS
The Theodore Roosevelt Museum at Old Orchard houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the life and presidency of Theodore Roosevelt. Located on the grounds of Sagamore Hill, this museum was originally the home of Roosevelt's son and offers free admission to visitors seeking to deepen their understanding of TR's legacy. The museum features interactive displays, historical photographs, and personal items that provide insight into Roosevelt's family life, political career, and conservation efforts.
3. Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
BOTANICAL WONDERLAND ESTATE
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park encompasses 409 acres of formal gardens, woodland paths, and historic buildings including the Tudor Revival mansion, Coe Hall. Visitors can wander through the magnificent greenhouses containing tropical plants and seasonal displays, or explore the extensive collection of camellias, rhododendrons, and rare species throughout the grounds. The arboretum hosts numerous events throughout the year including concerts, plant sales, and educational programs about horticulture and conservation.
4. Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge
VITAL WATERFOWL SANCTUARY
The Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 3,000 acres of bay bottom, adjacent shoreline, channels, and marshes that serve as a critical habitat for migratory birds and waterfowl. Established in 1968, this sheltered refuge attracts a diverse array of bird species year-round and supports New York State's only remaining commercial oyster farm, which produces 90% of the state's oyster harvest. Visitors can observe dozens of waterfowl species, wading birds, and raptors while exploring this significant coastal ecosystem designated by New York State as an important Fish and Wildlife Habitat.
5. Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon Center
BIRD CONSERVATION PIONEER
The Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary & Audubon Center holds the distinction of being the first Audubon songbird sanctuary in the nation, established in 1923 near Roosevelt's grave. This peaceful nature preserve features walking trails, demonstration gardens, and educational exhibits focused on local wildlife and conservation practices. Visitors can participate in guided bird walks, photography workshops, and environmental education programs while enjoying the sanctuary's diverse habitats that support numerous bird species.
6. Oyster Bay Railroad Museum
HISTORIC RAIL HERITAGE
The Oyster Bay Railroad Museum preserves the rich railroad history of Long Island through its collection of vintage equipment, photographs, and memorabilia housed in the historic station that opened in 1889. Visitors can explore restored train cars and locomotives, learn about the crucial role the railroad played in developing Oyster Bay as both a resort destination and presidential retreat for Theodore Roosevelt. The museum offers interactive displays, guided tours, and special events that bring the golden age of rail travel to life for train enthusiasts of all ages.
7. The Earle-Wightman House and Garden
COLONIAL ERA PRESERVED
The Earle-Wightman House, operated by the Oyster Bay Historical Society, offers visitors a glimpse into 18th and 19th century Long Island life through its period rooms interpreting the years 1740 and 1830. This historic home features authentic furnishings, household items, and a traditional garden that demonstrates colonial-era horticultural practices. Visitors can participate in guided tours, craft demonstrations, and seasonal events that bring to life the daily experiences of Oyster Bay's early inhabitants.
8. 20th Century Cycles
VINTAGE MOTORCYCLE SHOWCASE
20th Century Cycles is a unique motorcycle museum and workshop featuring an impressive collection of vintage and custom motorcycles from around the world. Established by music legend Billy Joel, this museum displays dozens of meticulously restored motorcycles arranged by era and style, reflecting Joel's passion for motorcycle culture and history. Visitors can admire classic British, American, Italian, and Japanese bikes while learning about the evolution of motorcycle design and technology throughout the 20th century.
9. Raynham Hall Museum
REVOLUTIONARY WAR INTRIGUE
Raynham Hall Museum occupies a historic saltbox home that played a significant role in the American Revolution as the center of a British intelligence operation and the home of patriot spy Robert Townsend. This meticulously preserved house museum features period furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the Townsend family and their involvement in George Washington's Culper Spy Ring. Visitors can experience guided tours that bring to life the dangerous world of Revolutionary-era espionage and the everyday experiences of a prominent merchant family in colonial Oyster Bay.
10. Cold Spring Harbor State Park
SERENE WOODLAND RETREAT
Cold Spring Harbor State Park offers visitors a tranquil escape with its serene nature trails, picturesque pond, and diverse local wildlife just minutes from Oyster Bay Cove. The park's undeveloped, wooded hills provide a peaceful setting for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography throughout the year. Visitors can explore miles of trails that wind through mature forests and open meadows, offering occasional glimpses of the beautiful Cold Spring Harbor.
11. Shopping
BOUTIQUE RETAIL THERAPY
Shopping in Oyster Bay offers a charming small-town experience with boutique shops like Mint, Luluelle, and J. McLaughlin lining the historic downtown streets. Visitors can browse unique gifts, home décor, and specialty foods at shops like Atelier Designs and Southdown Marketplace while enjoying the village's walkable atmosphere. The Printery and Sea Salt Ltd provide distinctive shopping options for those seeking artisanal crafts, local artwork, and coastal-inspired merchandise that reflects the area's maritime heritage.
12. Dining
SEAFOOD AND CULINARY DELIGHTS
Dining in Oyster Bay features renowned establishments like Canterbury's Oyster Bar & Grill and Wild Honey, where fresh seafood and locally-sourced ingredients take center stage. Visitors can enjoy waterfront dining at The Sagamore or traditional Italian cuisine at Cafe Al Dente while experiencing the area's maritime culinary heritage. For casual options, Taby's Burger House and Buckram Stables Cafe offer family-friendly environments with classic American fare in historic settings.
13. Hiking
SCENIC NATURE TRAILS
Hiking in Oyster Bay Cove offers diverse experiences at locations like the Bethpage Bikeway, a 13.4-mile paved path running through three parks including Trail View State Park and Bethpage State Park. The salt marshes wildlife refuge provides unique hiking opportunities with chances to observe coastal ecosystems and migratory birds in their natural habitats. Visitors can also explore the extensive trail network at Muttontown Preserve, featuring over 550 acres of woodlands, ponds, and historic ruins just minutes from Oyster Bay Cove.
14. Fishing
ABUNDANT COASTAL ANGLING
Fishing in Oyster Bay offers anglers excellent opportunities at locations like Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, where the public pier and beach provide access to the harbor's abundant marine life. The waters of Oyster Bay Harbor and Long Island Sound yield seasonal catches of striped bass, bluefish, fluke, and the area's famous oysters that have sustained local fisheries for centuries. Visitors can charter fishing boats from local marinas or fish from shoreline access points throughout the protected waters of the National Wildlife Refuge.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR OVERNIGHT ADVENTURES
Camping near Oyster Bay provides outdoor enthusiasts with options like Battle Row Campground in nearby Old Bethpage, featuring tent sites, RV hookups, and modern facilities just a short drive from Oyster Bay Cove. Visitors seeking a camping experience can also explore Wildwood State Park on the North Shore, offering wooded campsites with access to Long Island Sound beaches and hiking trails. For a unique overnight adventure, TOBAY Beach camping areas provide seasonal permit holders with beachfront camping opportunities along the pristine South Shore of the Town of Oyster Bay.