10 Fun Things To Do Near West Babylon, New York (Suffolk County)
If you’re in
West Babylon, NY and wondering what to do this weekend, you’re in luck. This part of
Suffolk County on Long Island is packed with beaches, parks, family attractions, and great food—plus it’s close enough to explore even more cool spots just a short drive away.
Whether you live in West Babylon or you’re visiting family nearby, here are
10 fun things to do near West Babylon that are easy, local, and perfect for a day out.
1. Relax at Belmont Lake State Park (Right in West Babylon)
If you only have time for one stop in West Babylon, make it
Belmont Lake State Park. It’s a beautiful, green escape right off the Southern State Parkway.
- Rent a paddleboat or kayak on the lake (seasonal)
- Walk, jog, or bike the paved paths
- Let the kids enjoy the big playgrounds
- Pack a picnic and find a shady spot by the water
The park is especially pretty in the fall when the leaves change color. On weekends, I’ve seen people walking dogs, flying kites, and even having small family reunions under the picnic shelters. If you’ve been cooped up all week, this is an easy way to reset without driving far.
2. Hit the Sand at Robert Moses State Park
Want the classic
Long Island beach day? Head south from West Babylon to
Robert Moses State Park on the western end of Fire Island. It’s usually about a 20–30 minute drive, depending on traffic.
Here you’ll find:
- Miles of sandy ocean shoreline
- Clean restrooms and changing areas
- Lifeguards in the summer season
- Fishing spots and walking paths
Parking fields are numbered, and each one has a slightly different vibe. Some people like the quieter fields for relaxing; others head closer to the main concession area for food and people-watching.
On cooler days, you can still walk the beach with a coffee in hand and enjoy the sound of the waves without the crowds.
3. Climb the Historic Fire Island Lighthouse
While you’re near Robert Moses, don’t miss the
Fire Island Lighthouse. It’s one of the most iconic landmarks near West Babylon.
From Parking Field 5 at Robert Moses, you can walk a boardwalk trail (about a half mile) through the dunes to reach the lighthouse area.
Things to do:
- Tour the lighthouse museum
- Climb to the top for sweeping ocean views (there are a lot of steps!)
- Learn about local maritime history
- Explore the small visitor center
On a clear day, the view from the top is incredible—you can see the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Great South Bay on the other. If you’re into photography, this spot is a must.
4. Stroll the Waterfront in Babylon Village
Just a few minutes from West Babylon,
Babylon Village has that cozy, walkable downtown feel that’s perfect for an easy afternoon or evening out.
You can:
- Walk around Argyle Park and see the waterfall and pond
- Grab ice cream or coffee at a local shop
- Browse small boutiques and gift shops
- Dine at one of the many restaurants and pubs
Argyle Lake is especially nice around sunset. You’ll see people sitting on benches, taking photos, or just enjoying the view. It’s a simple outing, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want.
5. Spend a Day at Adventureland in Farmingdale
If you’re looking for
family-friendly things to do near West Babylon, head over to
Adventureland in nearby Farmingdale, about a 15-minute drive away.
This classic Long Island amusement park offers:
- Roller coasters and thrill rides
- Kiddie rides for younger children
- Arcade games and carnival-style snacks
- Seasonal events like fall festivals and Halloween-themed nights
Many locals grew up going to Adventureland, so it has a bit of a nostalgic feel. It’s not huge, which is actually nice—you can enjoy the park without feeling overwhelmed or walking miles and miles.
6. Explore Nature at Southards Pond Park
If you want something quieter than a big state park, check out
Southards Pond Park, close to West Babylon and Babylon Village.
Here you’ll find:
- Wooded walking trails
- A peaceful pond with ducks and birds
- Dog-friendly paths (leashes required)
- Spots to sit and enjoy the water
This is a great place for a relaxed walk, especially in spring and fall. It’s not a big tourist destination, which makes it feel more like a local gem. If you like taking nature photos, you’ll find plenty of scenery here.
7. Enjoy a Night Out at the Argyle Theatre
For an evening activity close to West Babylon, check out the
Argyle Theatre in Babylon Village. This renovated theater hosts:
- Live plays and musicals
- Comedy shows and concerts
- Special events and performances throughout the year
If you’re used to driving into New York City for live shows, you might be surprised by the quality of performances right here in Suffolk County. Grab dinner in the village first, then walk over to the show—it makes for a really nice date night.
8. Discover Local History at the American Airpower Museum
A short drive from West Babylon, in Farmingdale, you’ll find the
American Airpower Museum at Republic Airport. This is a great pick for history buffs, families, or anyone who loves planes.
Inside, you can:
- See vintage aircraft up close
- Learn about World War II aviation history
- Check out exhibits on pilots and air crews
- Sometimes watch planes take off and land nearby
On certain days and events, they even offer historic plane rides (for an extra fee). Even if you’re not a hardcore aviation fan, it’s a unique, hands-on museum that’s very different from your usual art or science stop.
9. Go Shopping and Dining Along Route 109 & Sunrise Highway
You don’t always have to go to a big attraction to enjoy your day. West Babylon itself has plenty of
everyday fun along Route 109 and Sunrise Highway.
You can:
- Try local pizzerias and diners
- Hit large retail stores and smaller local shops
- Find dessert spots like bakeries and ice cream shops
- Run errands and still sneak in a “mini outing” with coffee or lunch
If you’re staying locally, this area is super convenient. You might start with a simple grocery run and end up exploring a new restaurant you’ve never tried. Sometimes that’s how you find your new favorite spot.
10. Take a Day Trip to Jones Beach State Park
While Robert Moses is the closer beach,
Jones Beach State Park is another famous Long Island destination less than a half hour from West Babylon.
At Jones Beach, you’ll find:
- Long, wide ocean beaches with lifeguards in season
- A boardwalk for walking, biking, or just people-watching
- Concession stands and snack bars
- Outdoor concerts at the Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater (in season)
If you enjoy summer concerts, keep an eye on the schedule. Many big-name artists perform here, and combining a beach day with a show can turn a regular Saturday into a mini vacation—without leaving Long Island.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying West Babylon and Beyond
Living in or visiting
West Babylon, New York means you’re never far from something fun to do. Within a short drive, you can:
- Relax by lakes and ponds
- Spend a full beach day on the Atlantic Ocean
- Catch a live show or ride a roller coaster
- Explore museums, parks, and small-town main streets
The best part? You can mix and match. Start your morning at Belmont Lake, head to Babylon Village for lunch, and finish the day watching the sunset at Robert Moses.
What Would You Add to This West Babylon Bucket List?
Do you have a favorite
thing to do near West Babylon that’s not on this list? Maybe a local deli, a hidden walking trail, or a can’t-miss bakery?
Share your ideas in the comments—your tip might be exactly what someone else is looking for.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a visit to West Babylon or anywhere in western Suffolk County. The more we share, the more people discover how much there is to do right here on Long Island.
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