This Greater Long Island guide is sponsored by The Watershed Kitchen & Inn in South Jamesport. Click here to book a room and enjoy another 14 hours in Riverhead!
It’s been a crawl, but downtown Riverhead’s revitalization is (finally) in full swing.
Just a quick walk around will show you, from new shops and restaurants, to ongoing construction — a sure sign of health.
The entire town — to the Sound and bay beaches, to the vineyards and farm stands, Splish Splash and Long Island Aquarium — is already known as a family-friendly destination. But things are only getting better in that regard.
The town also sits where the North and South Forks of Long Island split, with the Peconic River running in between before pouring into Peconic Bay — so it’s a prime location for boating, kayaking, canoeing and waterskiing as well.
But if you want to stay dry, there’s plenty to do and see.
Indeed, the place is so charming, you may find yourself scrolling through the local real estate listings.
Top: Main Street, Riverhead as seen from Grangebel Park. (Credit: Riverhead Chamber on Facebook)
8:30 a.m. | Signature Bagels Deli
Fuel up with a classic Long Island breakfast
Start your day with a hearty meal at Signature Bagels Deli & Catering. Try the Western omelet with home fries and your choice of bagel, roll or toast for just $7.75. It’s a satisfying (and affordable) way to kick off a big day of exploring Riverhead.
Pro tip: For a real down-home Riverhead experience, try Lolly’s Hut at 1290 Old Country Road. Just start your day earlier.
9 a.m. | Riverwalk
Take a stroll along the Peconic
Riverhead’s Riverwalk may not rival San Antonio’s, but its charm lies in its simplicity. Enjoy peaceful views and whimsical carved animal posts as you walk along the boardwalk. Bonus points if you daydream about aquarium animals making a break for it, Finding Dory-style.
10 a.m. | Tanger Riverhead
Time to shop (or game)
Shop your favorite brands across both outlet campuses, or dive into retro fun at GameOn Retro Arcade. For $15, you can play unlimited vintage video games and pinball until the outlets close. Super Smash Bros. on a massive screen? Yes, please.
12:15 p.m. | Riverhead Brew House
Lunch with a view
Head back to the Riverwalk for lunch and local brews at Riverhead Brew House. The menu has something for everyone: tacos, brick oven pizza, burgers and big salads. Part of the Lily Flanagan’s Restaurant Group, this place brings Babylon and Farmingdale vibes to the East End.
1:30 p.m. | Long Island Aquarium
Family favorite, year-round
Locals still call it Atlantis (its former name) and it’s beloved for a reason. Pet stingrays, watch the sea lion show, and explore outdoor exhibits on a sunny day. Skip the food court, but definitely spring for the refillable souvenir cup.
4:15 p.m. | Long Island Statue Shop
A roadside wonder
As you drive down West Main Street, you’re likely to spot dinosaurs and other statues overseeing traffic from the side yard of an unassuming white building. You’re approaching the Long Island Statue Shop, a unique statuary that supplies local attractions with eye-catching lifelike and whimsical statues. The store also rents statues for birthday parties and special events. Wander the grounds to see dinosaurs and more. If you catch them when the showroom is open, you can wander the halls of life-size superheroes statues, celebrities, farm animals and more.
4:45 p.m. | Farm Country Kitchen
Dinner on the riverbank
Tucked inside a colonial home by the Peconic River, Farm Country Kitchen offers rustic charm and seasonal menus featuring duck, chicken, steaks and seafood. Wine lovers will appreciate the local selections from Paumanok and Wolffer. Limited parking, so plan ahead.
6 p.m. | Riverhead Raceway
Start your engines
Catch the action at this legendary quarter-mile track, running since 1949. You’ll find NASCAR Modified races, Demolition Derbies and School Bus Figure 8 competitions. Even if you’re not a diehard fan, it’s a thrill worth experiencing.
After the races | Snowflake Ice Cream
Sweet victory
Cool down with a scoop (or three) at the famous Snowflake Ice Cream Shoppe, open until 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The homemade flavors are rich and nostalgic. Try Peconic Swamp Thing, raspberry cheesecake or orange creamsicle.
9 p.m. | Tweed’s Restaurant & Buffalo Bar
A historic nightcap
Close out your day with a Lavender Collins or any of Tweed’s specialty cocktails. The bison dishes are legendary, and the bourbon list is the largest on Long Island. Built in 1896, the historic ambiance is the perfect nightcap backdrop.
Need more time?
There’s a lot to do in Riverhead, and 14 hours might not be enough. (We didn’t even highlight the golf options, or any of the wineries.) You could easily stretch this itinerary into a three-day weekend. Stay at the Hyatt Place, if you’re looking to be in the downtown. Of course, GLI also recommends our guide sponsor, the beautiful Watershed Kitchen & Inn in South Jamesport.
