Valley Stream is a village in Long Island that borders Queens. Just a 25-minute drive and a 1-hour train ride from Manhattan, Valley Stream’s convenience cannot be denied. Due to its quiet and peaceful surroundings, New York natives see Valley Stream as a prime area to live in. It would also be a great place for travelers to book a hotel, to avoid the extravagant prices in the big city. If you are a fan of experiencing the more relaxed, suburban Long Island life, here is a list of things to do while you’re there.
1. Valley Stream State Park
Visitors to Valley Stream State Park have access to many facilities, such as picnic areas, grills, fireplaces, nature trails, and sports fields. A special exercise oriented walking trail for adults extends for half a mile (.8 km) while the Squirrel Nut and Hickory Nut trails are geared towards educating children on the wildlife that exists in the park. The park is open from 7:00 am to sunset.
Valley Stream State Park
Address: Valley Stream State Park Rd., Valley Stream, New York, 11580
Website: Valley Stream State Park
2. North Woodmere Park
With a view of the bay, North Woodmere Park is a park complex with various activities for the whole family. Play some doubles in the well-lit tennis courts or accompany your children to the playground. North Woodmere Park also has a 9 hole golf course and driving range, to practice your swing. Let’s be honest, though - most people want to cool off in the summer by taking a dip in a refreshing pool. The Olympic sized pool at North Woodmere Park is equipped with diving boards and a waterslide. Parents can also accompany their smaller children to the wading and training pools.
North Woodmere Park
Address: Branch Boulevard and Hungry Harbor Road, North Woodmere, New York, 11581
Website: North Woodmere Park
3. Arthur J. Hendrickson Park and Pool
Valley Stream has a myriad of parks to choose from, but Arthur J. Hendrickson Park and Pool has recently undergone a face lift. The pool has been completely renovated, with a newly added family bathroom. Swimming lessons are also offered for children. Children too young to swim can play at the kiddie water park. For elderly visitors, a pool exercise program is available.
Valley Stream’s Arthur J. Hendrickson Park is more than a pool, as it has beautiful walking and biking paths, a kiddie playground, and a memorial in remembrance of the victims of 9/11.
Arthur J. Hendrickson Park and Pool
Address: W Merrick Rd and S Franklin Ave, Valley Stream, New York, 11580
Website: Arthur J. Hendrickson Park and Pool
4. Ralph's Italian Ices
Looking for a delicious frozen dessert during your stay in Valley Stream? An Italian ice is a sweet treat, similar to sorbet, that is made without any dairy or egg products. Italian ices are an all-time favorite dessert for many New Yorkers, and Ralph’s Italian Ices are the most famous amongst them all. For 85 years, the people of Valley Stream have enjoyed over 100 flavors of this summer staple. Order a classic Italian ice or opt for a Twister, which has soft serve ice cream layered between your choice of Italian ice.
Ralph's Italian Ices
Address: 1091 Rockaway Ave, Valley Stream, New York, 11581
Website: Ralph’s Italian Ices
5. Mia's Fine Italian-American Cuisine
Another Long Island favorite is Italian cuisine. Mia’s Fine Italian-American Cuisine offers a lunch and dinner menu, featuring a vast array of pasta, pizzas, seafood, and salads. Guests will be pleasantly surprised by the lively atmosphere of the restaurant, as Mia’s frequently hosts fun karaoke events and has live singers and bands. If you’re hungry, but want to stay home, it is possible to order online via their official website.
Mia's Fine Italian-American Cuisine
Address: 31 Rockaway Ave, Valley Stream, New York, 11580
Website: Mia’s Fine Italian-American Cuisine
6. Belmont Park Race Track
The historic Belmont Park Race Track thoroughbred horse racing facility first opened on May 4th, 1905 and hosts the Belmont Stakes race, each year. The track, which operates during the spring and fall months, hosts many other races that are open to the public. Bring a cooler filled with snacks to sit back and enjoy watching the horses fly by. Belmont Park Race Track is technically located in Elmont but is just a 35-minute ride from Valley Stream via the Long Island Railroad. What makes transportation even more convenient is that the Long Island Railroad station is located on the Belmont Park premises.
Belmont Park Race Track
Address: 2150 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, New York, 11003
Website: Belmont Park Race Track
7. Fun Station USA
Traveling with children? Bring them to Fun Station USA to release some of their pent up energy. This indoor amusement park operates from Friday to Sunday and offers video games, a multi-level play maze, and laser tag. Children can also earn tickets while playing the games and redeem them for prizes. Fun Station USA hosts private parties and family celebrations for small and large groups. Groups who are not included in a private party can also choose from three special group rates, that gets them more bang for the buck.
Fun Station USA
Address: 40 Rocklyn Ave, Lynbrook, New York, 11563
Website: Fun Station USA
A relaxed place
With its proximity to Queens and Manhattan, as well as its relaxed pace, Valley Stream offers attractions suitable for any age. The abundance of pools and parks make this small town a wonderful place to refresh and recharge. Travelers can choose to spend a day exploring the more famous tourist spots in the city, or they can catch a glimpse into the more suburban lives of Long Islanders.