Lindenhurst With Kids: 15 Family-Friendly Things To Do

Established in 1870 as Breslau, Lindenhurst was created as a place for people from the city to live and work. Early town planners took advantage of the train and trekked city dwellers out from Manhattan to see what life was like on Long Island’s beautiful South Shore. The town’s location and charm enchanted many visitors, and they quickly made it their home. 

Since then, a lot has changed, including the name, but the beauty and charm remain. Today, with more than 27,000 residents, the Incorporated Village of Lindenhurst is the largest village in Suffolk County and the fourth largest in New York State. It is a vibrant, family-friendly town that’s perfect for families, and we've rounded up 15 of our favorite destinations for kids.

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1. Irmisch Park

If you have a train lover in your family, visit the 1901 Restored Railroad Depot and Freight at Irmisch Park, where you'll find the old ticket agent’s office, the black cast iron stove, which provided the only heat, and the oak telephone. The car and replica train station are free to explore and sure delight any future conductors. 

2. Lindenhurst Village Museum

Travel back in time with a visit to this museum, which houses artifacts from the historic town’s early days. Celebrating more than 50 years in business, it’s open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 2pm-4pm.

A seafaring theme greets visitors to Venetian Shores Spray Park.

3. Venetian Shores Spray Park

Beat the heat at the interactive spray park at Venetian Shores. This ocean-themed water park has many fun features for kids of all ages. Dry off on one of the two playgrounds on-site or play basketball on the courts. Admission is FREE for Town of Babylon residents with a recreational permit.

4. Lindenhurst Dock

Try your luck fishing at the Charles J. Cowan Marina. Bring a chair and drop in a line in Great South Bay. Be sure to get a fishing license before you go. They are FREE and can be obtained online or via phone.

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Fellers Pond is a stunning, fenced-in park perfect for letting kids run their wiggles out.

5. Fellers Pond

A few blocks away from the bustling town is Fellers Pond, home to ducks, geese, swans, and an excellent playground for kids. Little ones can run around the fenced-in garden while you lounge on one of the many benches that line the space.

6. Babylon Town Hall Park 

This massive park near the town hall has something for everyone. Play some baseball on one of several fields or stroll around the pond. When you are done being active, pack a picnic lunch to eat on the expansive lawn. Whether you have toddlers or teens, this park is sure to delight you. 

Cieslaks Modern Bakery serves up tasty, colorful treats. Photo courtesy of the bakery

7. Cieslaks Modern Bakery

Don’t let the name fool you; this is an old-fashioned establishment that’s been creating delicacies for more than 40 years. While you are there, grab a loaf of fresh rye bread. It’s baked daily and, out of this world, delicious.

8. Fireman's Park

Fire departments from all over Long Island come to this park for drill competitions. Little kids will love watching the action as fire trucks race down the track and men and women quickly climb ladders. Take a seat in the stands and cheer on the home team, the Lindenhurst Fire Department's Snails.

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Drawing on the walls is encourages at The Color Palette Art Studio. Photo courtesy of the studio

9. The Color Palette Art Studio

If your little one loves art, The Color Palette Art Studio is the place to go. This creative storefront lets visitors of all ages complete craft projects. So, whether you are looking for a drop-off class for your older child or toddler time with your little one, it's got you covered. 

10. Patsys and Son Italian Bakery

Walk down Wellwood Avenue and grab homemade Italian ices from the window at Patsys and Son Italian Bakery. While its lemon flavor is a crowd-pleaser, the Tutti Fruitti can’t be missed. Inside you will find even more desserts, from cookies to cannolis.

The South Shore Theater Experience puts on family-friendly shows year-round and hosts a summer theater camp. Photo courtesy of the theater

11. South Shore Theater Experience

Prepare to be amazed at one of South Shore Theater Experience’s magic shows. The nonprofit produces family-friendly events throughout the year, including quality plays and musicals. Summer is a busy time for them as they host theater camps for kindergarten through high school.

12. Manes Studio Theater

There’s no need to head to the city to see a show. Instead, visit the Manes Studio Theater, which holds several performances a year. Princess fans will flip for Cinderella, set to hit the stage this November. 

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Restoration Kitchen and Cocktails serves good food and goodwill. Photo courtesy of the restaurant

13. Restoration Kitchen and Cocktails

If you are looking for a sit-down meal in a relaxed atmosphere, Restoration Kitchen and Cocktails is the place. You can enjoy your meal knowing your money is going to help those in need. The restaurant donates 100 percent of its net profits to local charities.

14. Katch at Venetian Shores 

This beachfront restaurant hosts live music nightly during the summer. Kids flip for its pizzas, mac and cheese wedges, and mozzarella sticks. Katch is open daily in the summer, weather permitting. 

Gazebo Park is the perfect spot for a picnic.

15. Gazebo Park

Whether you want to enjoy the treats you’ve purchased in the village or enjoy a lunch you’ve made, Gazebo Park is the perfect place. The town recently converted an old parking lot to extend this park, which now features a picnic area with tables and lights to brighten the night.

Unless noted, photos by the author