As fall arrives on Long Island, we face an exciting period. Winery time, as many refer to it. With more than 60 vineyards that flourish throughout the Island’s East End, and more than 30 wineries that open their doors to visitors, Long Island is the PERFECT place to enjoy wine.
Take a tour through one of the local tour companies, which will drive you safely from one winery to the next while you sample Long Island’s latest award-winning wines. Tours can include fascinating cellar tours, during which you learn how Long Island’s gifted vintners have perfected their craft.
Going on your own? Always make sure to check winery schedules for special events and entertainment. Most wineries have wonderful bands and picnic spaces, and are often great for full-family excursions. The restaurants out in Eastern Long Island are tremendous, with a Natural Awakenings Long Island staff favorite being Cooperage Inn, in Riverhead.
If you want to spend an entire weekend, there are wonderful, small local inns and B&Bs, which provide quaint places to stay while enjoying time on the East End. With small boutiques and a large brand-name outlet center, there is also enjoyable shopping to be done. The East End of Long Island also offers museums, the Riverhead Aquarium, tall-ship day cruises aboard schooner ships, and lighthouse tours.
