Things To Do
in Bellmore
Bellmore is a family-oriented suburban hamlet on Long Island's South Shore known for tree-lined streets, small downtown shops, and easy access to beaches and parks. It serves as a quiet commuter community with a Long Island Rail Road station that links residents to New York City. The area blends classic suburban Americana—diners, pizzerias, and local festivals—with waterfront recreation on nearby bays and Jones Beach.
Visitors find a low-key, friendly place best suited to short stays, beach days, and exploring nearby Long Island attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in the beautiful Bellmore Community Park, where you can enjoy the greenery and possibly catch a glimpse of local wildlife. After your stroll, head over to a nearby café for a hearty breakfast, fueling up for the day ahead. Don’t forget to take some photos of the scenic landscapes.
In the afternoon, take a bike ride or a leisurely drive to nearby Jones Beach State Park to enjoy the sun and surf. Pack a picnic lunch to savor while taking in the stunning ocean views. Engage in some fun beach activities such as beach volleyball or simply relax on the sand.
As the sun begins to set, return to Bellmore for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant known for its fresh seafood and Italian cuisine. After your meal, take a stroll through the quaint downtown area, where you can explore charming boutiques and maybe catch a live music performance. Wind down with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop.
Begin your cultural exploration at the Bellmore Historical Society and Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the area. After touring, enjoy a breakfast at a local diner that embodies the nostalgic charm of Bellmore. Take your time to appreciate the small-town atmosphere and friendly locals.
Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the arts by visiting local galleries showcasing the talent of regional artists. Spend some time at the Bellmore Playhouse for a matinee performance that highlights local talent in the performing arts. Engage with the community by attending any workshops that might be available.
For dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a taste of different cuisines found in the area, adding variety to your trip. After dinner, head back to the Bellmore Playhouse for an evening show or film screening that resonates with the evening vibe. Wind down your evening with a leisurely walk in a nearby park, reflecting on the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🚌LIRR one-way to NYC (peak) | $8-15 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-220 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to beaches and coastal recreation (Jones Beach and local bays).
- Quiet, family-friendly suburban atmosphere with easy NYC access via LIRR.
- Good local seafood and classic Long Island dining options.
- Proximity to parks and preserves for outdoor activities.
- Limited late-night nightlife and cultural attractions compared with big cities.
- Can be crowded on summer weekends, especially at beaches and boardwalks.
- Driving and parking can be challenging during peak season or commute times.
- Fewer specialized dining or niche shops than in larger nearby towns or NYC.
Places to Visit in Bellmore
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic wide Atlantic views, sunrise and sunset shots over the water, piers, and seasonal lifeguard stations provide dramatic coastal photography.
Quaint downtown streets, local storefronts, and community murals capture small-town Long Island charm and everyday life.
Boardwalks over marshes, ponds, and wooded trails offer tranquil nature shots, reflections, and birdlife photography opportunities.
Quiet pockets along the bay provide peaceful landscapes, sailboats at rest, and colorful skies at dawn and dusk.
Food in Bellmore
Bellmore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh clams and hearty chowders are common at seafood restaurants and takeout places—look for summer steamers (steamed clams) and creamy New England-style chowder.
Must-Try!
A popular seaside favorite in the region—served hot with butter or chilled with mayo at beachside stands and seafood restaurants nearby.
Classic New York–style bagels, smoked fish, and overstuffed deli sandwiches can be found at local bagel shops and delis throughout Bellmore.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local farmers and vendors sell fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal items in warmer months—great for picnic supplies and local specialties.
Near Jones Beach and other shore towns you’ll find seasonal food stands offering fried clams, hot dogs, and ice cream—classic summer fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are generally polite and casual—smile and say hello, but respect personal space and quiet residential neighborhoods.
Be on time for reservations, tours, or meetings; punctuality is appreciated in business and social settings.
Observe posted rules at beaches and parks—no alcohol in many public areas, leash rules for dogs, and proper disposal of trash to keep shorelines clean.
Safety
Tipping in Bellmore
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is expected in the U.S.: restaurants 15–20% of pre-tax check for table service, $1–2 per drink at a bar, $2–5 for cafe counter service or delivery drivers, and 10–20% for taxis or ride-shares for longer trips.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry some cash for small purchases or certain market vendors.
Many restaurants can split checks but be prepared for a small fee at some establishments; apps and Venmo are commonly used to settle shared expenses among friends.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Peak season for beaches and outdoor dining—expect warm, humid weather, busy weekends, and seasonal beach crowds and vendors. Book accommodations and parking ahead for popular summer weekends.
Milder temperatures and fewer tourists make fall ideal for outdoor walks, local festivals, and late-season seafood; foliage on inland trails is pleasant but not as dramatic as upstate.
Cold, occasionally snowy conditions with quieter streets and off-season business hours; some seasonal venues and beach facilities close. Dress warmly and check weather for coastal wind chill.
Warmer days return, gardens and parks bloom, and farmers markets reopen—great time for birdwatching and early-season outdoor activities.
Bellmore at Night
Hiking in Bellmore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of trails, boardwalks, and freshwater ponds through marshland and woods—excellent for birdwatching and gentle hikes.
Large Nassau County park with walking paths, open fields, and lakeside routes—good for relaxed hikes and picnics.
Offers wooded areas and trails as well as famous golf courses; trails are suitable for walking and light hiking.
Larger coastal park with varied trails, rolling fields, and shoreline vistas—popular for longer walks and scenic photos.
Airports
How to reach Bellmore by plane.
Major international airport approximately 20–35 minutes by car (depending on traffic) and accessible by public transit; offers extensive domestic and international flights.
Closer to Queens and Manhattan, about 25–40 minutes by car; primarily domestic flights and handy for quick connections to the city and Long Island.
Regional airport in Suffolk County (Islip), roughly 40–60 minutes by car; offers limited domestic flights and can be convenient for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Bellmore is home to many families with school-aged children attracted to suburban neighborhoods and local schools.
A sizable commuter population travels to NYC for work via the LIRR; this shapes daily rhythms and peak-hour traffic.
Multi-generational households and long-term residents contribute to a strong sense of community and local traditions.
The area includes a mix of cultural backgrounds—White, Hispanic/Latino, African American, and growing Asian communities—reflected in local businesses and cultural life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Youth and adult league baseball and softball are widely played in parks and school fields across the community.
A popular spring sport on Long Island with strong youth and high school participation.
Recreational boating, saltwater fishing, and charter trips are common on the bays and along the South Shore.
Golfing is popular at nearby public and private courses.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bellmore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available at diners, pizza places, and many restaurants; ask for salads, pasta without meat, or vegetable sides. Specialty vegetarian/vegan restaurants are less common locally but available in nearby towns or via delivery.
Vegan and gluten-free choices exist but are more limited than in larger cities; check menus online or call ahead. Many cafes can accommodate simple swaps (plant milks, salads without croutons).
Because seafood is prominent, make allergies known clearly; many restaurants will take precautions, but cross-contamination can occur in busy kitchens.