10 Fun Things To Do Near Valley Stream, NY (Nassau County)
If you’re in
Valley Stream, New York and wondering what to do this weekend, you’re in luck. This Nassau County village might look like a quiet suburb at first glance, but it’s in a sweet spot: close to beaches, parks, shopping, and even the city.
Whether you’re local or visiting friends and family, here are
10 fun things to do near Valley Stream that are easy to reach and perfect for a day out.
1. Relax and Stroll at Valley Stream State Park
Let’s start right in town.
Valley Stream State Park is one of those places you don’t fully appreciate until you spend a lazy afternoon there.
You’ll find:
- Shaded walking paths
- Picnic areas with tables and grills
- Playgrounds for kids
- Open fields for frisbee, catch, or just laying out a blanket
On a sunny Saturday, you’ll see families grilling, kids biking, and people just unwinding. It’s not a massive park, but that’s part of the charm. You can do a short walk, sit under the trees, and feel like you got a mini escape without driving far.
Tip: Bring a small cooler, some snacks, and a deck of cards. It turns a simple park visit into an easy half-day outing.
2. Shop, Dine, and People-Watch at Green Acres Mall
Just a few minutes from anywhere in Valley Stream is
Green Acres Mall, one of the largest malls on Long Island. If you like variety, this place has it.
You can:
- Browse big-name stores and smaller shops
- Grab a bite in the food court or at nearby restaurants
- Catch a movie at the theater (if open when you visit)
- Do some serious people-watching
If you’re visiting Valley Stream in winter, this is an easy indoor activity. On a rainy day, it’s also a solid backup plan.
Local-style idea: Start with some shopping, then head to a nearby bakery or café for coffee and dessert before heading home.
3. Take a Quick Nature Break at Arthur J. Hendrickson Park
Right in Valley Stream,
Hendrickson Park wraps around a pretty lake with a walking path. It’s ideal if you’re looking for something calm but don’t want to drive far.
You’ll find:
- Paved paths for walking or jogging
- Benches with lake views
- A pool complex in summer (check local schedules)
It’s the kind of spot where you can walk a few laps after dinner or bring a coffee in the morning and just sit by the water. If you’re staying nearby and need a quick “I need fresh air” moment, this is it.
4. Spend a Beach Day at Jones Beach State Park
If you’re willing to drive about 25–30 minutes south,
Jones Beach State Park is one of the most iconic spots near Valley Stream.
Here’s what you can enjoy:
- Miles of sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean
- Boardwalk for walking, biking, or people-watching
- Mini-golf, ball courts, and concession stands (seasonal)
- Summer concerts at the Northwell Health Theater
On a hot day, it’s hard to beat a classic New York beach trip. The waves, the smell of the ocean, the salty air—it’s a full sensory break from everyday life.
Pro tip: Go early on summer weekends to avoid the heaviest traffic and get a good parking spot. Bring chairs, towels, sunscreen, and some cash for snacks.
5. Explore Long Beach’s Boardwalk and Food Scene
Another great beach area near Valley Stream is
Long Beach, about a 20–25 minute drive away. It has a different vibe from Jones Beach—more like a beach town with a community feel.
Things to do in Long Beach:
- Walk or bike the boardwalk (over 2 miles long)
- Swim or sunbathe on the beach (beach passes may be required in season)
- Try local taco spots, pizza joints, and cafes
- Watch the surfers, especially near the jetties
If you like a mix of beach time and a small downtown with restaurants and bars, Long Beach is a solid choice.
6. Enjoy Classic Long Island Culture in Rockville Centre
Just a short drive from Valley Stream,
Rockville Centre offers a ton of dining and nightlife options in a compact, walkable downtown.
You can:
- Have brunch at a cozy café
- Grab a drink at a local bar or pub
- Explore boutiques and small shops
- Catch live music at certain spots on weekend nights
It’s a nice “night out” option that doesn’t require going all the way into Manhattan. If you’re visiting family in Valley Stream and want date-night ideas, Rockville Centre is an easy answer.
7. Visit Hempstead Lake State Park for Hiking and Fishing
About 15 minutes from Valley Stream is
Hempstead Lake State Park, one of Nassau County’s largest state parks.
Here you’ll find:
- Multiple lakes and ponds
- Walking and hiking trails
- Fishing areas (license may be required)
- Playgrounds and picnic areas
If Valley Stream State Park feels a bit small for your mood, Hempstead Lake offers a bit more room to roam. It’s great for families, dog walks (check leash rules), and anyone who likes a bit of nature without driving hours upstate.
Nice touch: Pack a simple picnic—sandwiches, chips, and a thermos of iced tea—and you’ve got a cheap, relaxing day out.
8. Get a Taste of Queens at Nearby Jamaica or Howard Beach
One of the perks of Valley Stream is how close it is to
Queens. In 15–20 minutes, you can be exploring totally different neighborhoods and food scenes.
Some easy nearby options:
- Jamaica, Queens – Caribbean, South Asian, and African restaurants and shops
- Howard Beach – Italian bakeries, pizzerias, and waterfront views
If you like trying new foods, this is where you can dive into jerk chicken, roti, patties, cannoli, and more, all within a short drive. It’s a simple way to turn an ordinary day into a mini food adventure.
9. Take the Train into Manhattan for a Day Trip
One of the best “things to do near Valley Stream” is actually to leave—just for the day—and see
New York City. Valley Stream has
great access to the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).
From the Valley Stream station, you can reach:
- Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan
- Atlantic Terminal in Brooklyn (depending on schedule)
Once in Manhattan, the options are endless:
- Walk around Times Square
- Visit Central Park
- Check out a museum like the Met or MoMA
- Explore neighborhoods like SoHo, the Village, or the High Line
Then head back to the quieter streets of Valley Stream at night. You get the best of both worlds—big city energy and small town calm.
Tip: Buy your LIRR tickets ahead of time with the app if possible. It saves time and hassle at the station.
10. Eat Your Way Through Local Valley Stream Spots
You don’t always need a big attraction. Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a place is just to eat like a local.
In and around Valley Stream, you’ll find:
- Pizza places (because it’s still New York!)
- Diners with big menus and bigger portions
- Latin American, Caribbean, and South Asian restaurants
- Bakeries and dessert spots for something sweet
Spend a day doing your own “food crawl”:
- Start with coffee and a breakfast sandwich
- Grab slices or tacos for lunch
- Finish with dessert—maybe ice cream or pastries
It’s simple, fun, and you’ll get a real sense of the community just by seeing who’s eating where and what they’re ordering.
Final Thoughts: Valley Stream as Your Easy Home Base
Valley Stream might not be a huge tourist destination, and that’s exactly why it works so well. It’s a comfortable base with
parks, shopping, and food, plus quick access to:
- Long Island beaches
- Nassau County parks and towns
- Queens neighborhoods and JFK Airport
- Manhattan and Brooklyn by train
If you’re visiting friends or family in Valley Stream, or even thinking about staying in Nassau County while exploring New York City, this little village puts you close to a lot more than you might expect.
Share Your Valley Stream Experience
Have you spent time in
Valley Stream, NY or nearby Nassau County towns?
- What’s your favorite park or beach in the area?
- Is there a local restaurant you always go back to?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments so other travelers (and locals!) can discover new things to do near Valley Stream.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family planning a trip to Long Island or looking for easy day trips from New York City.
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