Often referred as "the gateway to the East End," the hamlet of Riverhead sits at the juncture where the north and south forks of Long Island split.

Visitors have long been attracted to Riverhead's wineries and farm stands such as Briermeres - popular for its homemade pies - as well as its recreational venues, including Skydive Long Island and Riverhead Racetrack. But in recent years the sprawling community has been rapidly evolving as a tourist destination.

"Riverhead as a whole has been booming," said Thaddaeus Hill, a life-long resident and director at large of the Chamber of Commerce, referring to new housing, revitalization efforts and added attractions such as Atlantis Marine World.

In addition to the development of the Tanger [Outlet Center], the Dinosaur Walk Museum and the Vail-Leavitt Music Hall, the area has seen an increase in restaurants, boutiques and entertainment venues, Hill said. He notes that plans have been submitted to build a hotel along the Peconic River.

The recently constructed Riverhead Center on Route 58 houses a host of retailers including Pier 1 Imports, Linens 'n Things and Best Buy.

"It's like a renaissance," said Valerie Goode, a former resident and owner of Colony Realty in Jamesport. But with it comes increased traffic, Goode said. "You have to take the good with the bad."

Riverhead's older neighborhoods, first concentrated in the downtown area, have spread north around toward Route 58. And many newer homes have sprouted north of Route 58.

Other architectural styles include ranches, capes, split-levels, Colonials and contemporaries that range in price from $250,000 to $1.1 million, according to Goode.

Communities for people 55 and older include Saddle Lakes and Sunken Pond Estates, both on Middle Country Road. Saddle Lakes features 196 units of 2- to 3-bedroom ranches and two-story homes, priced from $300,000 to $400,000. Sunken Pond Estates has 108 units occupied with the final 84 under construction, with 76 sold. Prices range from $310,000 to $350,000, according to developer Bob Havasy.

While Riverhead remains the county seat, many county offices are now in Hauppauge. Some farms remain amid the area's parks, town beaches and golf courses. Annual events such as the Country Fair, Polish Fair and Riverhead Blues Festival draw large crowds. (To learn more, visit www.riverheadchamber.com.)

- Lisa Doll Bruno (11/24/2004)