When the clouds roll in and the rain starts falling, you might be tempted to cancel your plans. Don’t let the weather stop your fun! There are several rainy day activities to enjoy across the North Fork of Long Island for everyone in the family from Riverhead out to Greenport.
There is still plenty to do, even when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.
Rainy Day Activities with Little Ones
Long Island Science Center
Situated in the heart of downtown Riverhead, the Long Island Science Center is the North Fork’s premier interactive learning facility.
The science center features hands-on, child-friendly exhibits for the perfect North Fork rainy day itinerary. These include a virtual reality station, magnetic ball run, engineering projects, 3D doodlers, and an augmented reality sandbox. Admission is $10 per person. Children may even choose to have their birthday parties at the Long Island Science Center, especially perfect for winter celebrations!
Please note that the Long Island Science Center is temporarily moving to Tanger Outlet, building 401. 631-208-8000
Long Island Aquarium
Considered by many to be the crown jewel of Riverhead attractions, this sprawling complex has something for everyone. There is a 120,000 gallon shark tank, sea lions, penguins, river otters, and numerous touch tanks.
The indoor garden of the Butterflies, Bugs & Bees is also included with the admission price! You can even walk through the rehabilitation department to see local wild animals as they recover from injuries. There are both an on-site cafe and gift shop.
Hours are weekdays 10am-4pm and weekends 10am- 5pm. Admission for children (3-12) is $27.99 / per person, adults (13-61) $39.99 / per person, seniors (62+) $29.99 / per person. Children two and under are free. 631-208-9200
Railroad Museum
The Long Island Railroad Museum, with locations in Riverhead and Greenport, offers a glimpse into the island’s past.
The indoor exhibits feature objects from the ongoing renovation of Pennsylvania station, the strong link between the railroad and Long Island’s rich agricultural history, and the history of the LIRR.
The hours for the Riverhead location are Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-4pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-4pm for Greenport.
Admission for Riverhead is $12 for adults, $6.00 for children 5-12 years, and free for children under five. Admission for Greenport is $8 for adults, $4 for children 5-12, and free for children under five.
Captain Bob’s Quarter Deck
This attraction, found within the East End Seaport Museum in Greenport, is a hands-on, interactive exploration of all things sea-related. Kids can learn about our maritime environment and Long Island history.
Admission to the museum is a voluntary donation. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 11am-4pm. 631-477-2100
Jess Owen Carousel House
This beautiful antique carousel is the pride of Greenport. Originally it stood on the Grumman property in Calverton to be used for company picnics and community gatherings. It was offered to towns in Suffolk County through a contest after the plant closed in 1995.
The carousel features 36 horses and two sleighs. It also has a brass ring mechanism designed and built by North Fork Welding in Greenport.
Admission is two dollars per ride unless you catch the brass ring. Hours vary, check the website or call for exact information. 631-477-0248
Rainy Day Activities with Teens
Alex Ferrone Art Gallery
This Cutchogue gallery is the only one of its kind on the North Fork and features emerging and mid-career artists specializing in photography, painting, sculpture, and mixed media.
The building itself dates to 1820, making for an interesting juxtaposition of history and art. Hours are Friday-Monday 12-5pm. 631-734-8545
East End Seaport Museum
A hyperlocal space with a global focus, the East End Seaport Museum in Greenport has both a permanent collection and dynamic exhibits. Visitors can learn the history of the area and how both Greenport and Long Island featured in worldwide trade. There is also an unusual collection of intact Fresnel lenses.
The museum is a great choice as a rainy day activity destination on the North Fork also hosts the second largest aquarium on the island. This aquarium is stocked with local flora and fauna collected directly from the Peconic Bay. Admission is a voluntary donation. Current hours are Wednesday-Sunday from 11am to 4pm. 631-477-2100
Southold Indian Museum
Hosted by the Long Island chapter of the New York State Archaeological Association, the Southold Indian Museum has an extensive collection of Native American Artifacts, including objects for adornment, pottery, projectile points, and tools.
The Museum is open Sundays from 1:30-4:30pm, and by appointment.
Adults Only
North Fork Wine Tours
While it is possible to make your own itinerary and explore the North Fork wine country on your own, you also have the option of engaging in a wine tour through North Fork Wine Tours.
Their town car and SUV service are available for individuals, couples, or small groups. There is a five-hour minimum, and the rate is $70 per hour for the town car and $80 per hour for the SUV. 631-723-0505