A Family Guide for a Day Out

Nestled within the North Shore of Long Island, picturesque Port Jefferson is a type of cities that feels magical and calm, but energetic and enjoyable.  

At a Glance: 

• If you’re looking for issues to do in Port Jefferson with youngsters, this charming waterfront village delivers basic Long Island household enjoyable—no overplanning required.  
• The great thing about Port Jefferson Village is that the whole lot is walkable. You can park as soon as and spend your entire day exploring the harbor, popping into retailers, grabbing a chunk, and letting the youngsters roam safely inside view. 
• Whether you’re native or visiting from NYC, there’s one thing refreshingly low-key about this harbor city. It’s not flashy, and that’s precisely why households like it. 

If you grew up on Long Island or moved right here from town like many people, likelihood is you’ve spent no less than one sunny afternoon strolling by means of Port Jeff Village with an ice cream in hand. With its charming harbor views, walkable downtown, and loads of kid-friendly spots, Port Jefferson, within the North Shore, is a type of simple, low-stress household day journeys that all the time delivers. 

Whether you’re planning a summer season seaside day, a fall competition outing, or simply in search of one thing totally different to do with the household year-round, listed below are the most effective issues to do in Port Jefferson, New York, with youngsters—all grouped so you’ll be able to plan your go to with ease. 

Psst… Check Out 12 Things to Do in Suffolk County with Kids: A Family Guide for a Day Out

Fun Things to Do With Kids in Port Jefferson, Long Island 

Harbor Views, Boats & Waterfront Outings in Port Jefferson 

Port Jefferson Village Center 

101 E Broadway, Port Jefferson 

Hours: Open day by day, 8 am-8 pm (verify web site for seasonal hours) 

Admission: Free 

Right alongside the harbor, this neighborhood hub is a must-stop for households. Kids can watch boats come and go, run across the open inexperienced area, or attend seasonal occasions like out of doors live shows and household film nights. Inside, there’s typically artwork reveals and cultural programming— making it one of many best (and free!) issues to do in Port Jefferson with youngsters. 

Port Jefferson Ferry Terminal (Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Steamboat Company) 

102 W Broadway, Port Jefferson 

Hours: Open to the general public, however verify the web site for the ferry schedule (when you’re taking the ferry, it’s really useful to be there half-hour previous to departure time) 

Passenger fare: $23 (a technique) & $39 (round-trip) per grownup; free for youngsters as much as 12 y/o 

Even if you’re not crusing to Connecticut, watching the huge ferry dock is thrilling for little ones. If you’re up for an journey, hop aboard for a mini getaway—youngsters love the novelty of driving a “big boat,” and the harbor views are beautiful year-round. 

Harborfront Park 

101A E Broadway, Port Jefferson 

Hours: Sunrise to sundown 

Admission: Free 

Pack a picnic and spend time overlooking the water. There’s open area to toss a ball, benches for folks to calm down, and loads of room for stroller-friendly walks. In hotter months, you’ll typically discover households fishing alongside the dock. 

Beaches & Outdoor Adventures in Port Jefferson 

West Beach 

350 Cliff Rd., Port Jefferson 

Hours: Seasonal, sometimes 10 am–6 pm throughout summer season 

Admission: Village resident free; non-resident day by day payment applies 

This small, calm seaside is ideal for youthful youngsters who need to splash safely. Bring sand toys and spend a sluggish morning constructing castles whereas watching sailboats drift by. It’s quieter than bigger Long Island seashores—a hidden gem for households. A few minutes away, by automotive, you can discover Belle Terre, an prosperous neighborhood identified for its magnificent mansions and trails. 

Rocket Ship Park  

34 Roessner Ln, Port Jefferson 

Hours: Sunrise to sundown 

Admission: Free 

An area favourite playground identified for its rocket-themed climbing construction. It’s shaded, manageable in measurement, and shut sufficient to downtown in order that you’ll be able to pair it with lunch or ice cream afterward. 

Museums & Educational Stops in Port Jefferson 

Theatre Three 

412 Main St., Port Jefferson 

Hours: Check web site as field workplace hours fluctuate; performances year-round 

Tickets: Typically $20–$40 

This historic Main Street theater presents family-friendly productions, vacation exhibits, and youth performances all year long. It’s an exquisite introduction to dwell theater for youths: intimate, welcoming, and proper within the coronary heart of the village. 

Mather House Museum (Port Jefferson Historical Society) 

115 Prospect St., Port Jefferson 

Hours: Monday and Tuesday, closed; Wednesday-Sunday, 10 am-4 pm 

Admission: Free; donations welcome 

Step inside this Nineteenth-century dwelling to offer youngsters a peek at Port Jeff’s maritime previous. It’s a fast however worthwhile cease, particularly for elementary-aged youngsters learning native historical past. Pair it with an extended go to to the Long Island Maritime Museum to win a real ocean lover’s coronary heart! 

Sweet Treats & Kid-Approved Eats in Port Jefferson 

Kilwins Port Jefferson 

109D Main St., Port Jefferson 

Hours: Daily, 12 pm-8 pm 

Price: Ice cream cones begin round $6 

If you’re in search of basic small-town vibes, that is it. Handmade fudge, caramel apples, and creamy ice cream make Kilwins a assured crowd-pleaser. The scent alone will lure your youngsters inside!

The Steam Room 

4 E Broadway, Port Jefferson 

Hours: Daily, 9 am-9 pm 

Price: $15–$30 per particular person; verify menu for up to date costs

A Port Jeff staple overlooking the harbor. Known for its chowder and lobster rolls, but additionally informal sufficient for households. Outdoor seating makes it simple with youngsters and infants. 

Indoor Fun for Rainy Days in Port Jefferson 

Port Jefferson Bowl 

31 Chereb Ln., Port Jefferson Station 

Hours: Daily, 9 am-11 pm; verify for open bowling occasions 

Price: Approx. $6–$8 per recreation + shoe rental 

 Just minutes from the village, it is a nice backup plan if the climate doesn’t cooperate. Cosmic bowling nights are particularly enjoyable for older youngsters. 

Seasonal Festivals & Events in Port Jefferson 

Port Jefferson Village is thought for its family-friendly occasions year-round. Some highlights embrace the Charles Dickens Festival in December with costumed characters, carolers, and Victorian allure all through Main Street; ice sculptures in peak wintertime; the Harvest Festival throughout fall, with pumpkin adorning, dwell music, and child actions; and free out of doors music on the Village Center garden, a part of the Summer Concert Series. 

Psst… Check Out Long Island 250 Events: Celebrate America’s 250th in Suffolk County

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