Sometimes, all we want is an escape from the noisy streets, endless traffic, and massive crowds of a big city. Luckily, there are plenty of peaceful getaways not far from New York City where you can recharge your mind and body. Just a few miles from the urban jungle, the village of Greenport offers everything you need for a fantastic retreat: stunning scenery, lush green spaces, engaging activities, and delicious food and wine from local vintners. You can even try your hand at winemaking! The tranquility of Greenport is so captivating that you’ll want to return again and again, making it the perfect spot for a weekend trip alone or with loved ones. Read more at new-york-future.
A Little Greenport History and How to Get There
Forbes magazine once named Greenport, a small village on the southeastern shore of Long Island, one of the most picturesque places in the U.S. It’s hard to argue with that title, considering it takes just 1-2 hours to get from New York City to this truly magical place.
Greenport’s history dates back to the 17th century. The village didn’t officially get its name until 1831; before that, it was home to various people, mostly immigrants who called it by their own names, such as Winter Harbor, Stirling, or Green Hill. However, the town of Greenport was founded by a group of adventurers who crossed the Atlantic from England and settled here in 1640.
Thanks to its deep, protected harbor, Greenport became a major whaling port in the 19th century, with 24 whaling ships completing more than 100 voyages. Shipbuilding also boomed during this time. In the mid-1800s, a railroad line from New York City was extended to Greenport, which became a vital part of the village’s development. Local farmers could now easily transport their produce to the city. By the early 20th century, Greenport was a huge oyster processing hub, with about ten businesses operating and docks valued at up to $2 million a year. However, within a few years, demand for oysters declined, businesses began to close, and Greenport transformed into the charming tourist town it is today.
You can get to this scenic village by taking the Long Island Rail Road from New York City’s Penn Station, with a transfer at the Ronkonkoma station.
What to Do in Greenport
Greenport is a perfect place for anyone who loves spending time in nature. It’s filled with greenery and parks with attractions for kids, but what really draws visitors from New York and beyond is the sprawling lavender field. This enchanting farm has its own story: what began in 2002 as a hobby for the local Rosenbaum family soon blossomed into a successful family business. Today, they grow more than 80 varieties of plants on 17 acres of land.
The lavender farm is open to visitors seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets for guests 12 and older are $9 on weekends and $6 on weekdays. A stroll through the fragrant fields of lavender is an experience that will fill you with pure delight.
Another must-see for almost every tourist is the Kontokosta Winery. It’s famous for being the first tasting room and winery in Greenport. Kontokosta is located a quarter-mile from the Long Island Sound coast, so guests can enjoy a delicious glass of wine right by the ocean.
For fishing enthusiasts, Greenport also has plenty to offer. Local fishermen organize charter fishing trips and know exactly where to find the biggest catch.
And if you’ve already tasted the wine, reeled in a big fish, and seen the lavender fields, head over to the East End Seaport Museum on the historic Greenport waterfront. Inside, you can see fish in a large aquarium or take a three-hour cruise to visit a lighthouse.