The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brentwood, NY to New York, NY

If you are planning a road trip from Brentwood, NY, to New York, NY, there are plenty of exciting places to see and things to do along the way. From historic landmarks to natural wonders and stunning vistas, this route is full of surprises and delights that can turn your journey into an unforgettable adventure. The halfway point of the trip is Old Westbury, NY, a charming village located in the center of Nassau County. Here are some of the must-see attractions along the way.

The Top Five Things to do on a Road Trip from Brentwood, NY to New York, NY

1. Visit the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

If you're a history buff, you cannot miss the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, which was the home of Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th president of the United States. The site features a beautifully restored house filled with family belongings, photographs, and artwork. Visitors can also explore the Sagamore Hill Nature Trail, which winds through the woods and offers stunning views of Long Island Sound and the Manhattan skyline.

Interesting fact: Sagamore Hill was Roosevelt's home until his death in 1919. The estate was designated a National Historic Site in 1962 and now attracts thousands of visitors every year.

2. Take a stroll through Old Westbury Gardens

With its lush gardens, majestic trees, and elegant architecture, Old Westbury Gardens is a paradise for nature lovers and admirers of fine art and design. Visitors can explore the estate's 200 acres of formal gardens, fountains, pools, and terraces, as well as its three historic houses, each with its story and character. The gardens also host concerts, lectures, and other cultural events throughout the year.

Interesting fact: Old Westbury Gardens was created by John Shaffer Phipps, a wealthy business magnate who wanted to build a country retreat for his family and friends. The gardens were designed by landscape architect George A. Crawley and opened to the public in 1959.

3. Visit the New York Botanical Garden

One of the largest botanical gardens in the world, the New York Botanical Garden offers a breathtaking collection of plants, flowers, and trees from around the globe. The garden is divided into several thematic areas, such as the Native Plant Garden, the Fern Garden, and the Rose Garden, and features several iconic landmarks, such as the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory and the Rockefeller Rose Garden. The garden also offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions on various topics related to botany and horticulture.

Interesting fact: The New York Botanical Garden was founded in 1891 and is a National Historic Landmark and a member of the American Alliance of Museums. It spans over 250 acres and contains more than one million plants.

4. Explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art

If you love art, history, and culture, you cannot miss the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the most famous and beloved museums in the world. The Met, as it is commonly known, houses a vast collection of artworks from prehistoric times to the present day, including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, textiles, and decorative arts. The museum also features several special exhibitions, educational programs, and events throughout the year.

Interesting fact: The Metropolitan Museum of Art was founded in 1870 and is the largest art museum in the United States. Its collection spans over 5,000 years of world art and culture and includes more than two million works of art.

5. Take a stroll through Central Park

No trip to New York would be complete without a visit to Central Park, the iconic urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan. The park covers 843 acres and offers a myriad of recreational, cultural, and natural attractions, such as the Central Park Zoo, the Great Lawn, the Bethesda Fountain, and the Conservatory Garden. Visitors can also rent boats, bicycles, or horses to explore the park's many trails, lakes, and meadows.

Interesting fact: Central Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux and opened in 1858. It is the most visited urban park in the United States and attracts over 40 million visitors annually.

Conclusion

This road trip from Brentwood, NY, to New York, NY, is full of exciting and memorable experiences that showcase the natural, cultural, and historical richness of Long Island and Manhattan. The itinerary covers a distance of approximately 60 miles and takes around two hours, depending on the traffic and the stops you make along the way. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this route offers something for everyone and is sure to leave you with unforgettable moments and stories to share.