Located on Long Island’s south shore, there are a lot of things to do in Islip, such as visiting museums, farms, golf courses, and arcades. In this guide, we’ll be your map and compass on where to go.
What Makes Islip Famous?
Because of the Great South Bay shoreline, the town has long been engaged in fishing, swimming, clamming, and boating. In fact, Islip is the birthplace of the world-renowned Doxsee Clam Company.
There are a lot of things to do in Islip. It has a wide array of family-friendly activities, from mini-golf to train rides to bounce houses, a 9-hole golf course, and more.
The city is home to several museums and learning centers, including a center for kids. Museums offer interactive learning adventures through hands-on exhibits covering a broad range of topics.
There are amazing events like live music events and weekend performances year-round if you’re looking for reasons to get out of the house during the colder months.
Fun Things to Do in Islip, NY
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or more adventurous things to do in Islip, there’s something for everyone!
Here are some of the attractions in the city and our activity recommendations.
1. Beaver Dam Park
Located along Beaver Dam Road, Beaver Dam State Park is perfect for nature-loving families looking for things to do around Islip.
Fun events include the Beaver Dam Race, which occurs each summer. Participants race through a maze of inflatable dams and jump during the competition. Fishing and biking are also available.
2. Robert Moses State Park
Islip isn’t in short supply of family-oriented activities, especially with Robert Moses State Park. Each year, this popular beachfront destination draws millions of tourists with its scenic views and various activities.
Recreational activities include swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, and surf-fishing. Concession stands, shops, restrooms, outdoor showers, and first aid offices line the shore, giving you plenty of amenities even if you don’t hit the water. The park also has picnic tables with grills and an 18-hole golf course.
3. Queens County Farm Museum
If you’d like to learn about Jewish history and Long Island culture, one of the best things to do in Islip is to visit the Queens County Farm Museum. The museum features a permanent collection of exhibits that include an 18th-century farmhouse, a blacksmith shop, a collection of antique tools, a silo museum, and a cider mill.
Located in historic Islip Grange, the museum offers free admission and holds special events like pumpkin picking in October and cider pressing at Christmas for a fun family farm experience.
4. Long Island Shooting Center
Want to test the marksman in you? If so, Long Island Shooting Center should be on your list of top things to do around Islip. This facility offers everything from archery lessons to shooting competitions. It also has an outdoor and indoor shooting range and training rooms where you can learn about gun safety and proper handling techniques.
5. Bronx Zoo
If you love animals, visit the Bronx Zoo. Its world-class exhibits include the Butterfly Garden, Reptile House, Lion House, and Tiger Mountain. In addition, you can see amazing animals, exotic wildlife, and animal species, including African elephants and giraffes.
A Children’s Zoo also offers pony rides for children under 65 pounds. In addition, the Bronx Zoo features a play area and craft studio.
6. Dave & Buster’s
Dave & Buster’s is a restaurant and entertainment venue with a video arcade, billiards, bowling, virtual reality games, and a 40-foot wall where you can watch major sports events.
You can enjoy alcoholic drinks with friends while enjoying its many entertainment options. Dave & Buster’s can also be rented for parties and events.
7. Heckscher State Park
Heckscher State Park spans over a thousand acres of beautiful parkland and features a nature center and conservatory. If you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Islip, consider going on a hike at Heckscher Park. There are also picnic spots and playgrounds, so it’s an excellent destination for families with kids.
8. Clementon Park Splash World
Make your kids’ day by bringing them to Clementon Park Splash World. There’s a lot of fun to be had here with its splash pad, two large pools, amusement park, arcade, and carnival games.
The swimming area also has a space designed specifically for toddlers with smaller slides and fountains so they can indulge in some water fun!
9. Long Island Maritime Museum
Long Island Maritime Museum is a fascinating museum for kids. It hosts different annual events, such as the yearly Maritime Festival. They also have an extensive collection of artifacts from around the world. Programs for kids and teens offer the opportunity to learn about maritime history through hands-on activities and crafts.
10. East Islip Marina Park
East Islip Marina Park has beautiful scenery where you can watch boats bobbing in the water. It’s also home to an impressive playground with several play structures and zip lines.
The park is only about five minutes from the white sand beaches in West Islip Beach & Marina, so you can easily unwind after a day in the water.
11. Islip Rifle and Pistol Range
Islip Rifle and Pistol Range have an indoor shooting range where you can be taught how to shoot pistols, shotguns, and rifles properly and safely. Experts are available to provide coaching so visitors can become more confident marksmen.
12. Islip Cinemas
For cinephiles looking for things to do around Islip, Islip Cinemas is a must-visit. Located along Main Street, the theater has five screens and features films from major studios, independent filmmakers, and smaller distributors. Due to COVID-19, however, the theater is temporarily closed, so check their Facebook page before going.
13. Bowlero
Bond with friends and family by spending an afternoon at the Bowlero bowling alley. Its interiors feature modern decorations, black lights, high-def video walls, and comfortable lounge chairs. There are also billiards, a sports bar, and an arcade.
14. Lake House Restaurant
Foodies, unite! The Lake House Restaurant is one of Islip’s most charming and delicious places to eat. However, note that this fine dining establishment doesn’t sit by the lake but is actually by Great South Bay.
They have gorgeous interiors and sumptuous food. If you’re looking for things to do in Islip, you must try their smoked nova salmon and crispy potato cake, as well as their Long Island duck breast and crispy leg confit!
15. Knockerball, NYC
Are you a fan of zany and unusual physical activities? Give Knockerball a try. This place is an excellent activity for groups. Each person occupies the center of a giant inflatable sphere and tries to knock other players outside the bounds of a larger circle.
Knockerball is one of the more unique things to do in Islip if you’re looking for fun activities. You can also try rock climbing wall, jumbo darts, and archery tag while on the premises.
16. Helicopter Academy
How about a bird’s eye view of the town? If the idea appeals to you, head to Helicopter Academy along South Bay Avenue. Helicopter rides can last between 30 and 60 minutes, and there’s even a “no doors” option for daredevils looking for a more exhilarating experience.
17. JK Kayak & SUP
When looking for things to do in Islip, outdoorsy water-loving folks will love JK Kayak & SUP. With locations all over Long Island, JK Kayak & SUP makes it easy for you to explore the area from a kayak or paddleboard.
Routes encompass the areas of Cold Spring Harbor, Connetquot River, and Southampton.
18. Seatuck Environmental Association
The non-profit organization Seatuck Environmental Association promotes wildlife conservation. They have an environmental education center, fantastic events, and their famous fall festival. For more events, check out their calendar.
Conclusion
This long list proves that you’ll never run out of things to do around Islip. This charming town in Suffolk County has diverse activities and places to visit, particularly for families and groups.
You can go on picnics, follow a hiking trail, go swimming, trampolining, or bowling—whatever your inclination, you’ll find something you’ll love.
Have fun exploring!
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