Day trip: Northport, with the kids
Enjoy the view of Cow Harbor from Northport Village Park. Credit: NEWSDAY/CRAIG RUTTLE
With its walkable streets and sandy playground, Northport is an under-the-radar destination for a family friendly afternoon.
Weekend mornings could begin with a matinee children's production at John W. Engemen Theater (631-261-2900, engemantheater.com). Run off steam with a short walk to the village's waterside parks. Kids kick off their shoes and head straight for the fenced, sandy-bottom playground. Adults can keep an eye out while enjoying the view of Cow Harbor, where sailboats moor in summertime. There's a farmers market on Saturdays with live music and occasional arts and crafts shows.
Maroni's spaghetti and meatballs is served in an old-fashioned looking "hot pot" in Northport. Credit: Doug Young
When it's time for a bite, walk to a restaurant right in town — kids love the vintage railroad car setting at Tim's Shipwreck Diner, which serves breakfast and lunch (631-754-1797, shipwreckdiner.com). Or you can get a takeout pot of Maroni's famous meatballs and feed the whole family al fresco in the park. (631-757-4500, maronicuisine.com)
Wolfie's frozen custard is handmade in Northport. Credit: Bruce Gilbert
Afterward, head to Wolfie's for frozen custard (cash only, 631-754-4850, wolfiescustard.com) or around the corner to the retro Northport Sweet Shop luncheonette for a malted milk or float (631-261-3748, northportsweetshop.com).
