Port Jefferson is a picturesque charming town on the harbour of the North Shore of Suffolk County. No tourist attractions in Port Jefferson are particularly famous; however, the main streets are popular with families, couples and friends who enjoy what the town has to offer. The down is especially busy at the weekend on sunny days where visitors take advantage of the marina, parks and nightlife.
10. Rocket Ship Park
Found in the middle of downtown, Clifton H Lee Memorial Park is also known as Rocket Ship Park and is a great place to take kids. There’s swings, climbing frames, a basketball court and three lighted tennis courts. Also two jungle gyms, a smaller one for babies to enjoy and another for older toddlers. A large picnic area is available to use and perfect for the family to take a break from the adventures on the playground. During the summer children’s shows are held here behind a small barn. The playground is fenced to make it safer for young kids.
9. Dickens festival
Each year the Dickens Festival is held over a weekend in December. The village celebration features people dressed up in costume as characters, Victorian entertainment, food and many fun events. There’s an old fashioned market place, tours of historic buildings by lantern-light and special carriage and trolley rides. Other events include a snowman build, chocolate extravaganza, Christmas plays and songs. Both locals and tourists visit to enjoy the festivities and to get into the Christmas spirit. The 20th Annual Charles Dickens Festival in 2015 is being held between 4th and 6th of December.
8. Thomas Kinkade Gallery
A large selection of limited edition artwork which promises to bring beauty into the world. As well as limited edition prints, visitors can purchase gifts, home décor, puzzles and nightlights. The Disney collection is one of the most popular artwork on canvas and is a way to get kids to appreciate art. A new artist includes Mike Kupka. This is a great gallery to peruse and wander whether you are looking to make any purchases or not. Located at 128 Main Street in Port Jefferson within the shopping district.
7. Mather House Museum
Mather House museum is a local history museum complex which showcases the 19th century house which contains period furniture and decorative art exhibits. There’s a craft house containing toy displays and spinning wheels, a country store with items from a barber shop, butcher shop and general store and a barn and tool shed with shipbuilding tools. The house is also the home location for the Historical Society of Greater Port Jefferson. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday 12-4pm from May until October and admission is free however donations are appreciated.
6. Maritime Explorium
Kids can enjoy hands on fun at the cool Maritime explorium, encouraging visitors to explore and play together. The museum focuses its exhibits on children ages 2 to 12 years and their parents however everyone is welcome. Take part in working science exhibits including the working circuit to which turns on the light at the lighthouse exhibit. Each week there are different interactive investigations as well as all of the regular exhibits. Open all year round from Wednesdays to Sundays 1pm to 5pm. Admission is $5 per person and children under 1 enter for free.
5. Port Jeff brewing company
This brewery features a seven-barrel system and can produce 217 gallons of beer. In the retail outlet there are 12 taps and a tasting room where beer can be tasted in flights, pints or single can servings. The hand crafted wooden boat bar and homely features makes it a nice place to spend some time. Kids are welcome too, there is root beer for them to join in with the tastings. Sample beer tastings cost $10. T-shirts, gifts and glassware are available to purchase in the shop. Opening hours are from noon until 8pm every day.
4. Port Jefferson Village Centre
The centre was opened in 2005 and offers a space for exhibitions, social and recreational functions. Located on the harbour there are lovely views. Outdoor concerts and featured movies in the movies on the harbour series are just some of the summer activities on offer. Adult programs include Yoga, Zumba, Baking, Line dancing and much more. During the Dickens festival in December the centre will be hosting Santa’s Workshop which promises ‘Pure Joy and Family Fun’. Before visiting it is best to check the website to find out what is going on.
3. Harborfront Park
This park is a popular place to visit for the beautiful views of the harbour. The promenade along the shoreline is perfect for a romantic stroll and the landmark sculpture can be admired as homage to the shipbuilders of the community. During the Winter tourists and visitors can try ice skating at the seasonal outdoor ice rink. The rink will is open from the 27th November and Admission is $10 for adults and $7.50 for children on weekdays and $12 on Friday and Saturday nights from 8pm to 10pm. Skate rental costs $5.50 per person.
2. Theatre Three
Describing itself as Broadway on Main street, this theatre presents a range of entertainment including both classic and modern plays. As one of the favourite places to visit in Port Jefferson, there is also a children’s theatre and cabaret which means there will be something for everyone to enjoy at Theatre Three. Today visitors will find upcoming performances of ‘a Christmas Carol’ and a special comedy event ‘New Years Laughin’ Eve’. Theatre ticket prices vary from Wednesday matinees at $17 to Saturday evenings at $30. Other event ticket prices vary. Children’s performances are usually held at 11am and tickets are only $10.
1. Bridgeport and Port Jefferson Steamboat Company
The ferries run every day in the year and a ferry ride is a great way to take a day trip to or from Port Jefferson. The company also offers seasonal tours for more than just a ferry ride. For example, a day trip to the Mohegan Sun Casino is available all year on Mondays Wednesdays and at the weekend where for $45 per person guests receive a round trip, a meal voucher and free bets. Rates for regular crossings range from $18 for foot passengers to $56 for a car and the driver.
As a working town there are a few but limited amount of things to do in Port Jefferson for passing tourists. Many plan to stay for a day or two and have an enjoyable time. The best ways to get here are by car or by ferry and once in the town it is easy to get around on foot. To get the best out of your time spent in this harbour town it is advised to make reservations such as theatre tickets in advance.