BEST BEACH
Jones Beach State Park
What would Long Island be without its beaches? This year, Jones Beach in Wantagh takes the top spot for best beach. Every summer, families flock there for some fun in the sun. It’s where generations of Long Islanders have made memories picnicking, playing in the sand, and swimming in the ocean. But this South Shore landmark is more than just a beach – it’s a boardwalk where cyclists and runners get exercise and where several annual charity walks are held each year, a site for live music, and a nature preserve. There are also food concessions on the recently renovated boardwalk and an adventure course. Plus it’s the site of the popular Bethpage Air Show every Memorial Day weekend, a fireworks show on the Fourth of July, and the Magic of Lights holiday drive-through show to round out the year. It’s safe to say Jones Beach has it all, and Long Islanders treasure it. 1 Ocean Pkwy., Wantagh
BEST CONCERT VENUE
The Paramount
Long Islanders know that all the top acts in the music industry play their best shows at The Paramount. Since 2011, the venue has been the premier space for all things live entertainment. The space’s 1,573-capacity venue features a large main upper-level dance floor, fixed side lounge-balcony seating, mezzanine seating, and a sky bar, which makes for a more intimate setting. Artists who have performed at The Paramount include Billy Joel, Ed Sheeran, Pitbull, Ms. Lauryn Hill, and Rod Stewart. The Paramount continuously aims to present the best in live events and offer once-in-a lifetime experiences for its fans and the local community. 370 New York Ave., Huntington, 631-673-7300, paramountny.com
BEST MOVIE THEATER
AMC Dine-in Levittown 10
If you are looking for more than your typical movie theater experience, try AMC Dine-in Levittown 10 for a movie theater and restaurant combination rolled into one. You can enjoy handcrafted food and drinks with premium sight, sound, and seating. Located in the Nassau Mall, AMC Dine-in Levittown 10 is so much more than just an average theater: It’s an experience. At this perfect date destination, you can enjoy an amazing film, delicious food, and fabulous cocktails and drink specials from MacGuffins Bar. But please remember to turn off your cell phones. 3585 Hempstead Tpke., Levittown, 516-731-5422, amctheatres.com/movie-theatres/new-york-city/amc-levittown-10
BEST PUBLIC GARDEN
Planting Fields Arboretum
Stroll the grounds, working your way to your own nook or outside cranny to enjoy solitude, or make sure you visit the two greenhouses where everything is blooming. Planting Fields Arboretum is a magical place that inspires visitors to simply say it’s beautiful. Find inspiration to get your home garden in shape or mosey along the trails and feel uplifted. Flowers bloom everywhere at this site that cannot disappoint any visitor. You might hear it described as “absolutely stunning” or “a lovely picnic and nature walk in warm weather.” There is so much to learn and see in any season. 1395 Planting Fields Rd., Oyster Bay, 516-922-9210, plantingfields.org
BEST THEATER ARTS CENTER
Tilles Center For The Performing Arts
For a truly unforgettable show, you need to head out to Brookville and go to the Tilles Center for the Performing Arts. Located on the LIU Post campus, Tilles Center has hosted many performances from musicians, dancers, and more, and boasts being the first venue to bring the New York Philharmonic to Long Island. The venue has a full cash bar onsite so you can sip on some spirits during the performance, and there are some light snacks available as well. Most shows also host preperformances by local musicians in the Goldsmith Atrium before the ticketed event starts, so you can enjoy the fun before heading to your seat. 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. 516-299-3100, tillescenter.org
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