I’ve always been a fan of the quieter side of Long Island’s North Fork. My partner and I like to ride our bikes in New Suffolk along Peconic Bay and around the meadow by the golf course. He and I often pack a picnic lunch or grab a bite at Legends on First Street. Next door is an emporium called “Summer Girl” which sells clothing, jewelry, candles, and crafts by local artists. New Suffolk Beach is just down the block (park outside of the beach and walk in as it is for residents only). But before heading out to New Suffolk we might stop at Jason’s Vineyards where you can also bring your own lunch or buy cheese and crackers to enjoy with your wine and listen to music in the shade. Goodale Farms in Riverhead at 250 Main Road is also a favorite stop where we feed the goats. They also sell fresh produce.
After that we might head a few miles further east to Mattituck’s Village Cheese Shop (Mon. through Sun. 10-5), where they give out free samples and have a little cafe. Right next door is Love Lane Sweet Shoppe (Sun. 10-3, Mon. and Wed. through Sat. 10-5).
For families, there are many events such as pumpkin and apple picking, hayrides, and festivals. Gabrielsen’s Country Plant Farm at 200 Herricks Lane in Jamesport’s fall festival admission includes hay and train rides, a corn crib, pedal tractors, farm animals, bounce houses, live music, and much more (one free adult admission with purchase of 3 regular-priced admissions).
Harbes Family Farm has several locations with their Spooky Family Fun for all ages (Mattituck, Riverhead, and Jamesport; visit www.harbesfamilyfun.com). They will be reopening in October (check on Facebook). Water Drinker Family Farm Adventure has 2 locations: 4560 Sound Avenue in Riverhead which hosts a Garlic Festival on September 14th, 9am-6pm with live music, local vendors, food trucks, and family fun ($15 per person; children under 2 free; Sat. and Sun. 9-6); and Waterdrinker Manorville at 663 Wading River Road in Manorville ($20 per person; children under 2 free; Sat. and Sun. 9-6).
For those who enjoy apple picking visit Woodside Orchards at their two locations in Aquebogue (729 Route 25, 11:30-5:30, closed Wed.) and -Jamesport (116 Manor Lane, Riverhead). The Aquebogue location has a hard cider tasting room and they also sell baked goods.
Head out early for these fall festivities to avoid traffic. Pack blankets, snacks, and sunscreen and enjoy this harvest’s treasures!
20 lucky winners will win $500 each in prizes totaling $10,000. 