Have you been waiting all year for winter? Those who struggle with the heat during spring and summer months often relish the experiences you can only have when the snow falls and the ice forms. Bundled up, cozy by a fire, and witnessing the rare snowy majesty of the season. If any that resonates with you, check out some signature adventures for winter lovers, and for anyone who might need a little nudge to enjoy all this season has to offer!
Continue reading Only in Wintertime: Uncover Unique Winter Experiences at New York State Parks and Historic SitesTag Archives: Long Island
Grounded in Pride: Behind the Scenes with Bethpage’s Dedicated Staff
For the pro golfers ready to represent Europe and the U.S, and for the professionals who’ve tended Bethpage State Park to greatness, the road to the Ryder Cup begins on the grounds. As both groups prepare for the 2025 Ryder Cup, we hear from Bethpage’s team – dedicated stewards of the park – as they share details about their day-to-day work to make the park shine.
Preparing for “The Super Bowl of Golf:” Meet the Team Behind Bethpage State Park
Bethpage State Park on Long Island has been known as “The People’s Country Club” for generations. Now hosting the Ryder Cup this September at the park’s famed Black course, fans from around the world will tune in for the biggest event in golf with all eyes on Bethpage.
What does it take to put on a tournament of that magnitude? Bethpage’s current and former park directors, greens specialist, course supervisors and more share their behind-the-scenes preparation ahead of the big week.
Iconic East Bathhouse Project Brings Past and Present Together at Jones Beach
A day spent at the beach or by the pool in the summer is a core Long Island experience. There’s nothing better than a dip in the water to cool off from the heat, and a trip to Jones Beach State Park has it all: sun, sand and, soon, a new safe place to have fun in the water!
In summer of 2026, the iconic 1930 Jones Beach East Bathhouse will be reimagined for a new generation to enjoy. As part of Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS Initiative to expand access to safe swimming in New York, a $100 million investment was secured for the revitalization. State Parks is overseeing the project in collaboration with the Office of General Services, and construction is currently underway.
How to Break the Grip of the Rip (Current)
For millions, summer on Long Island means time spent in the sun, the sand and the sea. Iconic Jones Beach State Park drew 9.5 million visitors to its expansive sandy shores in 2024, followed by Robert Moses, boasting 3.9 million visitors. After visitors have slathered on the sunscreen, secured their valuables and anchored their umbrellas, what are they thinking about in terms of beach safety?
While sharks might immediately come to mind, lifeguards and park staff use equipment, constant communication, and a trained eye to watch for marine life activity and keep beachgoers safe. Knowing that water hazards like rip currents, however, pose more significant risks to swimmers than sharks, our staff set out to spread the word on how to manage these lesser-known acts of nature.
Continue reading How to Break the Grip of the Rip (Current)
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