I love selling real estate on Long Island because there is always something new to explore. No matter how well you know the area, you’ll never stop discovering new places and events if you keep looking for them. Whether you’re new to the Long Island area, or whether you’ve lived here for a long time, exploring Sands Point Preserve on the north shore of Long Island in Port Washington is a must. This conservancy has something for everyone to enjoy, and it’s a great way to learn about the culture and history of Long Island. This article will fill you in on the top things you need to know before planning your visit.
What Is Sands Point Preserve?
Sands Point is a preserve built on the original Guggenheim Estate. This estate was originally owned by Howard Gould, and then by Daniel and Florence Guggenheim. It’s said to be from the Gold Coast era, which was a cultural period marked by luxury and 1920s elegance. During the early 20th century, many industrial giants accumulated vast wealth. They built large, impressive mansions to showcase their financial and social rises. This period is showcased in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s famous novel, The Great Gatsby.
In fact, one prominent feature in that novel is a place called “East Egg,” constantly contrasted with “West Egg.” East Egg refers to the Sands Point peninsula, on which the preserve is located.
Hiking in Nature at Sands Point Preserve in Port Washington
The Sands Point Preserve in Port Washington is a true haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a sprawling 216 acres of breathtaking landscapes and a variety of terrains to explore. The preserve invites visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of its wooded areas, providing the perfect setting for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors. With six well-marked trails meandering through diverse habitats of dense forests, open fields, and picturesque ponds, the preserve promises an invigorating and rejuvenating experience for all who venture into its enchanting grounds. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle, Sands Point Preserve has something to offer everyone. Don’t forget to grab a trail map online or at the Gatehouse to make the most of your visit.
The preserve also includes historic mansions, a learning center, event spaces, educational programs, tours, and much more. Sands Point Preserve is owned by Nassau County and maintained by a nonprofit organization.
Learning Opportunities At Sands Point Preserve
Opportunities For Kids
Sands Point Preserve is a fantastic place to take your kids, especially during a Long Island summer. They can enjoy art classes, outdoor discovery walks, scientific demonstrations, and much more. Their calendar of children’s programs evolves with each passing season. Kids can enjoy the well-maintained playground or enroll in the Montessori summer day camp program, which combines learning with outdoor play. There’s even an adorable, child-sized train that will take you and your kids on a short tour of the grounds.
Opportunities For Adults
However, the preserve is also an excellent resource for adult learning. Ever wanted to learn about beekeeping? The Bee Whispering Program at Sands Point Preserve is the perfect gateway. Even if you’re completely new to the hobby, you can put on protective gear and observe.
The preserve also offers guided forest bathing experiences for adults. This practice, popular in Japan, helps you commune with nature while escaping the stress of everyday life. Anyone can participate in forest bathing–it mostly involves being peaceful and meditative while surrounded by trees. You can also enjoy guided tours of the mansion, nature walks with other adults, or quiet birdwatching on the grounds. Enjoy just walking around the Rose Garden or the Great Lawn and taking in the sights and sounds of nature. With guides to fill you in on the history of the estate, a visit to the preserve can feel like a trip back to the roaring ‘20s.
Cultural Events At Sands Point Preserve
The original owners of Sands Point wanted it to be a hub for culture and the arts. The preserve is still serving this purpose today. Check out the Cultural Events Calendar for upcoming events. These may include special lectures, like a wine tasting and celebration event. They frequently include concerts, too, so you can enjoy an afternoon or evening of music with the whole family.
The preserve is home to a yearly event called the Long Island Fairy Festival. Its purpose is to celebrate the rich ecosystem of the area and the fun of imaginative art. Participants can build a fairy house to display at the event or enter original artwork to be considered for an exhibit. The day of the festival includes food trucks, storytelling, crafts and vendors, and much more.
Event Spaces At Sands Point Preserve, Port Washington
The Gilded Age in American history was lavish, opulent, and highly decorated. The mansions at Sands Point, like others of the era, were built to impress highly influential, often international guests who visited the grounds. Today, the preserve is a place where you can host a truly unforgettable event.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a Gatsby-style wedding, Sands Point Preserve is the perfect venue. If you want to host an elaborate party that makes your guests feel like they’ve gone back in time, the mansions at Sands Point are the perfect setting. It’s a great place for corporate events, too, like dinners and celebrations. Imagine a 1920s company Christmas party where everyone’s invited to get into costume!
This space has been carefully preserved, but it’s also meant to be enjoyed. Hosting events at Sands Point Preserve continues the tradition in which it was built. When you use this preserve as a venue, you support its mission to keep history, learning, and culture alive.
Admission To Sands Point Preserve, Port Washington
Throughout the year, different parts of the preserve open and close due to weather. It’s important to check out their website before showing up, so you know what to expect and can plan accordingly. Admission usually costs $15 for everyone in your car. You can also purchase a membership to avoid paying fees for each visit. It will also get you discounts at many of the preserve’s events.
The preserve includes both public and private areas on the property, so be sure to carefully observe signs as you explore. Dogs should be kept on leashes, and loud parties, sports games, camping and fishing are not allowed. There is a beach area, but no swimming is allowed. Park staff works hard to preserve a peaceful atmosphere, and they expect guests to support that goal.
Looking For A Home Nearby in the Sands Point Port Washington Area?
Who wouldn’t want to live near historic mansions and a real American castle! If you’ve been researching Long Island because you’re planning a move, Michael Furino can help. I can put my extensive knowledge of the area and experience in real estate to work for you. Contact me today!