Greenport, New York

The Treasure of the Peconic Bay

The town of Greenport, set on the PeconicBay on the far eastern end of Long Island’s North Fork, has had an illustrious nautical history. For many years it was a whaling village, and then it evolved into a center for boat building, oystering, and fish canning. These days it is more of a tourist destination than a hard-working hub, but it maintains its close connection with the sea and makes for an excellent cruising getaway, and the deep-water harbor means that there are plenty of marinas to choose from.

Strolling the sidewalks, you’ll find quaint shops, a maritime museum, a restored Art Deco movie theater, a vintage 1917 jailhouse, and a famous antique carousel. The restaurants feature seafood caught just off shore and produce from local farmers. The surrounding area is an emerging wine region that is producing some startlingly delicious and sophisticated bottlings.

What to Do

Stroll Downtown

Start your explorations at the corner of Front and Main Streets. These are the two main drags in town and each is lined with sweet—and often funky—businesses. The Main Street Dock is the departure point for much of the on-the-water recreational activity.

Ride the Merry-Go-Round

The hand-carved 1920s carousel has its own pavilion in the four-acre Mitchell Park. Capture the brass ring and win a free ride!

Many of the region's wineries are hitting their stride and making exciting, top-notch wines. Northfork Wine Tours will customize a tour of the best tasting rooms and vineyards. (631-723-0505, www.northforkwinetours.com)

Vote for Your Favorite Chowder

Each year the Maritime Festival celebrates the town's seafaring heritage. Attractions include whale-boat races, a kayak derby and a Best Chowder Contest among area restaurants. (September 24-26, 2010, www.eastendseaport.org/maritime)

Brush Up on the Bard

This year the community's popular Shakespeare in the Park festival presents Julius Caesar. Bring a blanket and a picnic and enjoy this free event. (August 6-8, 2010)

Where to Eat

This part of Long Island is known for fresh seafood, local produce and wine, which makes for some pretty tasty offerings. Don't miss stopping at one of the area farm stands - Latham's is in town and Sep's is a mile to the east . In late summer, you'll be able to pick up some of the best corn you've ever had. Greenport also now has its own microbrewery.

Claudio's

A Greenport institution, especially well-known for serving oysters harvested five miles away in East Marion. Come by boat and dock for the day or stay overnight. (111 Main Street, 631-477-0627)

Noah's

A stylish, new, small-plates restaurant that's made a big splash on the Greenport scene. Sit on the open-air deck and feast on local steamers and beer-battered fish and chips. (631-477-6720)

Where to Dock

Mitchell Park Marina

Transient dockage with all the amenities, in the heart of the village. (631-477-2200, www.greenportvillage.com/marina.html).

Brewer Stirling Harbor Tranquil property on 10 private acres, across the river from downtown Greenport but easily accessible via dinghy or shuttle. The many amenities include a pool. (631-477-0828, www.byy.com/Greenport StirlingHarbor)

For information about Greenport, visit: www.greenportvillage.com