On the northeast shore of Long Island, there is a 170-year-old maritime village that loves to be explored. Rustic pleasures, boutiques, and acres of award-winning local vineyards abound. And for the relic-seekers, a 40-foot carousel built in the 1920s. Walt Whitman and George Washington used to summer here in what remains a scenic and romantic respite from metropolitan life.<\/p>\n
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Originally founded as a whaling community, this narrow peninsula consists of beautifully restored buildings and residences dating as far back as the 1700s; many structures still intact are of Victorian, Federal, or Georgian style. A town steeped in history, in the 1840s, Greenport became a transportation hub when the Long Island Railroad was extended, making it the main rail-steamboat link between Boston and New York. In the 1920s, during the prohibition era, Greenport was known for its rum-running. Cauliflower and potato farming soon developed as a major trade, followed by an increase of restaurants, marinas, specialty shops, hotels and tourism, which added to the local economy.<\/p>\n
In the 1970s, the Hargrave family converted local farmland into vineyards. Optimal climate and soil conditions have helped the New York wine industry flourish\u2014particularly in Long Island\u2019s North Fork where there are currently more than 33 local wine producers. (For more information about Long Island wines and events in the vineyards, contact the L.I. Wine Council<\/strong>.)<\/p>\n At least 15 local wineries offer daily tours and tastings, generally for a fee of between $2 and $5. Wineries and farm stands are clearly posted on Route 48 or Route 25 (Main Road). A local public bus S92 goes along the Main Road. Should you seek other means of transport within the North Fork there is winery transportation as well as local limousine service. Because the village proper is only one square mile it is unnecessary to require wheels, unless you care to rent a bicycle at Bike Stop<\/strong>. The North Ferry Company<\/strong> offers transportation between Greenport and Shelter Island<\/a>. In addition, there are three taxi services, but the point is to get away from taxis, yes?<\/p>\n The clean air, winding walking trails, and gregarious residents serve to enrich the journey of tasting the area\u2019s great wines. With only 2,100 residents, Greenport\u2019s locals are relaxed and friendly, helpful with directions, and will chat informally about the town, be it about its history or the best local galleries. This place has done exceptionally well in balancing tourist-friendly amenities with local charm. You can go on a harbor cruise or stop by the local Trivial Pursuit HQ. Talk with the locals or visit Greenporter Hotel and Spa<\/strong>. The village has numerous antique shops, a couple of small museums, the four-acre waterfront Mitchell Park<\/strong> with the antique carousel, and quite a few restaurants and cafes. (Trivia: Greenport boasts the country\u2019s oldest same-family owned restaurant\u2014since 1870. See end of article for the answer.) Recently, and rather unfortunately, an H&R Block and a Starbucks have opened here. But thankfully, it appears the independently owned businesses are prevailing.<\/p>\n While only a two to three hour trip away from New York City, Greenport\u2019s visitors tend to linger for a romantic overnight in one of the town\u2019s delightful, cozy B&Bs. There is the Harbor Knoll Bed and Breakfast<\/strong>, situated a block from the Jitney\/LIRR stop, with four rooms and a cottage to choose from. Guests can putter around many areas of the home, from the library, bar, dining room to the two drawing rooms. As an alternative, there is the Siren\u2019s Song Carriage House<\/strong>, Stirling House Bed & Breakfast<\/strong>, Drossos Motel<\/strong>, and several others. While the above accommodations are year-round, it is a good idea to confirm with the wineries\u2019 hours, in advance. The peak season is approximately Memorial Day to Labor Day, yet each season offers a distinct and undeniably delicious charm.<\/p>\n Transportation:<\/strong> Restaurants:<\/strong>
\nHampton Jitney (212.477.1200, <\/em>hamptonjitney.com<\/a>)<\/em>
\n LIRR (MTA Schedule)
\nBike Stop (631.477.2432)
\nThe North Ferry Company (631.749.0139)
\nPristine Limousine Ltd. (631.871.1508)<\/em><\/p>\n
\nClaudio’s Restaurant (111 Main St., Greenport, 631.477.0627, claudios.com<\/a>)
\nThe Loft (48 Front Street, 631.477.3080, theloftrestaurant.net)<\/em><\/p>\n