Located about 18 miles (29 km) east of Manhattan on Long Island, Westbury, New York, was settled as early as 1658, by the Quakers. Today, this Long Island town is home to a diverse culture and history. There is much to see and do here, from community theater events to lush gardens!
Though it’s easy to overlook Westbury, compared to some of the more popular Long Island destinations, this towns charm and appeal is one of a kind! Check out this list of top things to do in this charming town and start planning!
1. See a performance at the NYCB Theatre at Westbury
The NYCB Theatre at Westbury is recognized as one of the best places to see a live show, in New York! This isn’t like any other venue you’ve been to! It’s actually a large circus-style tent, which was constructed in Chicago in the 1950s. There are over 1700 chairs within this bright, multicolored dome and they were sent individually from New England. Notable past performances at the NYCB Theatre at Westbury include Judy Garland, the Who, and Bruce Springsteen!
NYCB Theatre at Westbury
Address: 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury, NY 11590
Website: NYCB Theatre at Westbury
2. Participate in an event at the Space at Westbury Theater
The Space at Westbury Theater has a long history in the community. The Space originally opened in 1927 and it is one of the six theaters built by Salvatore Calderone. The building is crafted in the Tudor style, and after several efforts to preserve the auditorium from demolition, it is now the premier venue for concerts, shows, and live events. Check the event calendar to find an upcoming show or event, during your visit!
The Space at Westbury Theater
Address: 250 Post Ave, 11590 Westbury, New York
Website: The Space at Westbury Theater
3. Try the pasta at Cafe Baci Restaurant
There are many Italian restaurants to choose from on Long Island, but none of them are quite like Cafe Baci, in Westbury. Locally owned, Cafe Baci describes itself as an evolution of authentic Roman-inspired cuisine, with homemade Italian favorites. The best items on their menu are their innovative pasta selections and their made to order pizzas! This Westbury favorite will quickly become your favorite Italian restaurant!
Cafe Baci Restaurant
Address: 1636 Old Country Rd, Westbury, NY 11590, USA
Website: Cafe Baci Restaurant
4. Treat yourself at Nana's Ice Cream & Coffee House
This hometown ice cream parlor serves up the best ice cream, coffee, and sweet treats, in Westbury! This is the perfect place to treat yourself to homemade baked goods and it is also the only place in Westbury to get bubble tea! One of the most popular flavors is almond with coffee pearls! Nana’s is a small place that packs a big punch.
Nana's Ice Cream & Coffee House
Address: 225A Post Ave, 11590 Westbury, New York
Facebook: Nana’s Ice Cream & Coffee House
5. Have afternoon tea at Swing the Teapot
Swing the Teapot is a short drive from Westbury, but it’s one of the unique places to visit on Long Island! There aren’t many dedicated tea shops in New York, let alone on Long Island, but Swing the Teapot serves an authentic British inspired tea, each day. There is a large selection of tea and snacks for you to enjoy, and there’s a reason this is one of the most popular breakfast spots in the region! Come enjoy an afternoon tea with friends at Swing the Teapot!
Swing the Teapot
Address: 6 Verbena Ave, 11001 Floral Park, New York
Facebook: Swing the Teapot
6. Visit the world famous Carlo's Bakery
You might recognize Carlo’s Bakery from the popular show Cake Boss. Carlo’s Bakery has spread throughout the country after opening in 1910 and the Westbury location is one of the original bakeries. They have every sweet treat you can imagine here, from tiramisu to cannolis! Bring your sweet tooth, because you’re going to want to try everything!
Carlo's Bakery
Address: The Gallery at Westbury Plaza, 946 Old Country Road, Garden City, New York 11530
Website: Carlo’s Bakery
7. Step back in time at Old Westbury Gardens
Old Westbury Gardens looks like a scene out of a Jane Austen novel! Built in 1906 by British designer George A. Crawley, this Charles II-style estate is now open to the public, along with its formal gardens, landscaped grounds, and natural areas. Guided tours are offered daily of the gardens and the home, and visitors can learn more about the original family who resided in the mansion for over 50 years!
Old Westbury Gardens
Address: 71 Old Westbury Road, 11568 Old Westbury, New York
Website: Old Westbury Gardens
8. Ice skate at Cantiague Park
Cantiague Park is a great place to get active! With mini-golf, ice skating, tennis courts, batting cages, and more, there is so much to see and do here! All activities are open to the public for a small fee, so this is an inexpensive way to enjoy a fun day of exercise and sports.
Cantiague Park
Address: 480 W John St, Hicksville, NY 11801
Website: Cantiague Park
9. Explore nature at the Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Site
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Site has had a long history in Long Island! Planting Fields was originally owned by the Coe family, and was the site of the family residence, until it was donated to the state of New York, in the 1970s. Today, the Planting Fields home is open to the public and features a large greenhouse, sensory garden, and antique estate!
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Site
Address: 1395 Planting Fields Rd, 11771 Oyster Bay, New York
Visit Westbury!
Westbury’s unique history makes it the perfect place to explore, as a local or visitor! With an abundance of culture, art, and natural beauty, there is so much to see and do!