If 2020 taught us nothing else, it’s that we are lucky to live on Long Island. When borders closed and the world shut down, we realized that the beaches, parks and quaint villages that define Long Island provide a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.
We were reminded how much we love our local restaurants, our farmers’ markets, local theaters and museums, heritage and history sites, and boutiques that offer unique finds and personal service that can’t be duplicated on Amazon.
We rediscovered Long Island and felt a renewed gratitude for the place we’re lucky enough to call home. Now as restrictions are lifted and a sense of normalcy returns, we prepare to embark on another iconic Long Island summer. But this summer will be different. This summer will bring a greater appreciation for all that we missed last year and for all that we may have taken for granted before.
I applaud the Long Island Press for this wonderful compilation of Long Island experiences that provides information and inspiration to enjoy summer and support our local businesses and attractions. Long Island is like no other place in the world. Surrounded by pristine coastline, it is a mosaic of charming villages, a culinary journey of heritage and flavors and a cultural mecca of art, history and performance. There is always something new to discover on Long Island.
As the region’s official destination marketing organization, Discover Long Island offers many resources to assist locals and visitors with inspiration and information. Tune into our new video series on YouTube “Long Island TV” for weekly tips on exploring the area or subscribe to the “Long Island Tea” podcast where we spill the tea on living your best Long Island life. The Discover Long Island website also features things to do, events, suggested itineraries for single or multi-day trip ideas, listings and available dates at local hotels, and our new Downtown Deals Travel Pass provides exclusive discounts to businesses in downtowns across Long Island.
Whether you’ve lived here for generations, whether you’re a new resident or whether you’re a visitor, there is no shortage of incredible experiences, exciting entertainment, local color and surprising history. There is always something to discover on Long Island. And there’s no better time than now.
Kristen Reynolds is president and CEO of Discover Long Island.
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