Adventure Tours

Tour cultural, historical and recreational attractions. Share special sites and memorable moments with friends and fellow "adventurers." You must be 18 years of age or older to participate. Trips open to TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD residents only. Tours leave from the Merrick Golf Course in Merrick, located one traffic light east of the Meadowbrook Parkway. Call (516) 292-9000, ext. 258 for tour information.

Registration Policy: Reservations handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Buses are filled in the order we receive payments. Sorry, we cannot reserve bus seats.  Please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope and a separate check or money order for each trip made out to: Town of Hempstead and mail to Department of Parks and Recreation, 200 North Franklin Street, Hempstead, NY 11550, Attn: Adventure Tours. Please include your phone number and the name of the trip on your check. No more than two reservations per request.  Sorry, NO REFUNDS.  All tours are held rain or shine. Return times are approximate. Trips open to TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD residents only.

Historic Treasures of the Hudson River Valley

Thursday, May 17, 7:30 AM to 8 PM
Fee: $95 per person

We adventure to upstate New York and the incomparable Hudson River Valley. Our first stop is the legendary “Val-Kill” Cottage of former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt. The next stop is legendary Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park, with its 50 rooms and ornate gardens. Experience the beauty that Frederick Vanderbilt bestowed upon family and guests. Having built up a hearty appetite we head off to lunch at the famous Beekman Arms in historic Rhinebeck. The restaurant partners fine dining with an historical setting. We’ll enjoy a delicious meal before traveling to a special viewing of the “Longest Pedestrian Bridge in the World,” which spans the majestic Hudson River for more than a mile in length. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring along a camera for this special adventure.

The Immigrant Experience: The Big Apple's Lower East Side

Thursday, June 7, 9:15 AM to 7 PM
Fee: $94 per person

They crossed the Atlantic Ocean in the late 1800’s from 20 different countries, each one of them possessing hopes and dreams for a better life in America. We trace the “Immigrant Experience” with a visit to the East Side Tenement Museum, climbing the stairs and visualizing the daily life of an immigrant family. After the museum visit we lunch at the legendary “Katz’s Deli.” Renowned for its food, famous guests and movie portrayals, Katz’s is the oldest deli in New York City. Lunch on one of Katz’s overstuffed, half sandwiches with acompanying fries and soda. Choose from 1) Pastrami, 2) Corned Beef, 3)Brisket or 4) Turkey. Coffee and cheese cake are served as well. After lunch we journey to another historical landmark, the Eldridge Street Synagogue. We tour this incredible building with a Gothic-Moorish facade, 70 foot high vaulted ceiling, stained glass rose windows and hand-stenciled walls. Discover how this city treasure is woven into the story of the American Immigrant.

A Long Island Day Away -- History & Boat Ride

Wednesday, July 18, 2012 from 8:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (approx)
Fee: $61 per person

Our first stop on this great Long Island adventure is a storied manor home in West Islip where George Washington slept and relaxed. The manor is three centuries old and the property features incredible architecture, artifacts, gardens and statues. We'll even catch a glimpse of the famous "Peacock Fountain" of Sagtikos Manor. Our next stop is the quaint and unique village of Sayville with two Main Streets, exquisite shops and great restaurants. You can lunch on your own or at one of the fine eateries before we head to the boat basin at Captree for a boat ride along the beautiful Great South Bay. Our cruise will pass a famous Long Island lighthouse, the Fire Island Beaches and the postcard pretty sights of the Great South Bay. Experience the joy of a summer adventure across our signature island home.

A Tour with a Taste of Long Island

Tuesday, August 14, 2012 from 8:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Fee: $58 per person

Experience eclectic Long Island with cows grazing, cheese making, art viewing, herbs infusing and technology baking. Our first stop is storied Eastport and the hamlet of antique shops and art studios. We'll also savor a tasty treat from a famous Long Island bakery. We're soon headed for a unique South Fork Farm. The farm includes a herd of 30 cows and we'll marvel at the cheese-making process. We'll leave the farm to lunch on our own along the charming main street of Bridgehampton. After lunch we travel to one of Long Island's "Must-See Gardens." Enjoy a guided tour and the chance to sample some delicious herb teas. On the way home, we take a small detour to the beautiful Village of Sag Harbor. Visit the Whaling Museum with artifacts from the 1700s or stroll past the Old Whalers Church and the legendary American Hotel. Cap the day with some ice cream on the Long Wharf or a sip of wine at a local shop.