Many people wouldn’t think to head to a sleepy village on the North shore of Long Island for a soul nurturing of the arts with New York City only 40 miles away. However, the Village of Northport may be one of the best kept secrets of Long Island’s culture scene.
It boasts a quaint Main Street scene that charms visitors all year long. Boutique shops, cafés, and bars lead pedestrians down to the waterfront with panoramic views of the harbor. It is this street that serves as the mecca for theater, music, art, and culinary experiences.
Theater lovers can enjoy world-class performances all year long at the John W. Engeman Theater on Main Street. The 2013 Winter and Spring season will include "Wait Until Dark," "Boeing Boeing" and "South Pacific." Tickets cost $55.
A few doors down, the local theater troupe Minstrel Players put on productions year round with many actors from the community. In 2013, they will be performing "The Butler Did It, Again!" Agatha Christie’s "Moustrap" and "A Christmas Carol." Tickets start at $13. Even the Village of Northport likes to put on a show. The One-Act Play Festival will be held April 12-14, 2013. Tickets cost $20.
Starting in the spring, Northport celebrates ArtWalk once a month through the summer. Enjoy a free, self-guided tour of the various galleries and boutique shops in the area with special collections and presentations by local artists. Dance along with live music from street performers and watch live art demonstrations.
For quirky and creative art, stop by Oscar Zulu – Australian artist Warren Slater and his American photographer wife Alex herald a unique blend of art, toys, and gifts that will keep you enthralled for hours. After you’ve worked up an appetite, duck into one of the many restaurants on Main Street for a refreshing drink and delicious grub.
For the best view, try getting a table at Skipper’s Pub. With reasonably priced pub fare, the views of the harbor are what diners come to savor. A burger, a beer, and a sunset are the specials ‘du jour’ for this local eatery.
For a true culinary experience, walk around the corner to Maroni’s, but bring your appetite and leave your expectations at the door. Home to the Hot Pots™, they sell pots of Grandma Maroni’s famous meatballs, with one request: please bring the pot back when you’re done.
For a sit-down dinner, it’s a chef’s tasting menu only, so the chef decides what to serve that day. The menu costs $125 per person and includes wine for every course. Reservations are strongly recommended.
The Village of Northport has events all year round, and visitors can stay updated by visiting their online calendar.
Comments