Things To Do
in North Merrick

North Merrick is a residential hamlet located on Long Island in New York, United States. It is known for its quiet and family-friendly atmosphere, with tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes. Residents of North Merrick enjoy easy access to local parks, schools, and community events.

The area offers a mix of suburban charm and convenience, making it a desirable place to live for many families.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
  • Coffee: $3 - $7
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $75 - $150
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore North Merrick
morning
:

Start your day at Merrick Library and enjoy some quiet reading time. Follow it up with a stroll in the nearby park to soak in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Head to Merrick Road for lunch at a local café, where you can indulge in delicious sandwiches. Afterward, visit a local boutique to explore unique finds.

evening
:

Wind down with a relaxing dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Finish your day with a leisurely walk through the neighborhood.

day 2
Nature Day in North Merrick
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a visit to Eisenhower Park, taking in the natural beauty of the area. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy under the trees.

afternoon
:

After lunch, rent a bike and explore the park's extensive trails. Stop at the various attractions such as the golf course and the playground.

evening
:

Return home for a quick meal, then grab your family for an evening walk around the park. Enjoy the sunset and the tranquility of the outdoors.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Family-friendly community with good schools
  • Access to parks and recreational facilities
  • Safe neighborhoods with low crime rates
  • Proximity to New York City for commuting
  • Strong sense of community and local events
  • Higher cost of living compared to some areas
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Fewer entertainment options than larger cities
  • Property taxes can be relatively high

Best Activities in North Merrick

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking at the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve

Enjoy scenic trails and natural landscapes perfect for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying nature.

Biking along the Bethpage Bikeway

Explore the extensive biking trails that offer beautiful views and a safe route for cyclists of all levels.

Picnicking at South Merrick Park

Relax with family and friends in this community park featuring picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities.

Kayaking at the nearby South Shore waterways

Take advantage of the local waterways for kayaking and canoeing adventures, while enjoying the tranquil environment.

Playing Sports at Newbridge Road Park

Engage in various sports such as soccer, basketball, and tennis in this well-maintained public park.

Tours

Uncover the best of North Merrick with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in North Merrick

Visit one of these nice places.

North Merrick Park

A spacious park offering green fields, walking paths, and scenic spots ideal for capturing beautiful nature photos.

East Meadow State Park

Located nearby, this state park provides expansive views, especially during sunset, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Merrick Road Park

Along Merrick Road, this park features scenic landscapes and calm water areas, great for casual photos and family moments.

Nassau County Museum of Art Gardens

While slightly outside North Merrick, the museum’s gardens feature stunning art installations and beautiful flora, perfect for striking photographs.

Local Beaches (Jones Beach, Long Beach)

A short drive away, these beaches offer picturesque ocean views, making them ideal for stunning sunset and nature photography.

Food in North Merrick

North Merrick offers a diverse culinary experience, blending traditional American cuisine with influences from various global cuisines. From local dishes to bustling food markets and a range of restaurants and cafes, there's something to delight every palate.

North Merrick Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bagel with lox and cream cheese

A classic New York style bagel topped with smoked salmon and cream cheese, a local favorite for breakfast or brunch.

Must-Try!

Garbage Plate

A hearty dish featuring a combination of meat, home fries, and macaroni salad, often topped with hot sauce and onions, available at select diners and restaurants.

Unique Experiences

Get to know North Merrick better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

North Merrick Farmers Market

A weekly farmers market offering locally sourced produce, artisanal products, and prepared foods, a great spot to sample fresh local ingredients and homemade treats.

Food Truck Fridays

A popular gathering of food trucks offering a variety of cuisines, from BBQ to tacos, providing a fantastic opportunity to indulge in diverse street food flavors.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as humid subtropical, featuring four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing, and snowfall is possible, though accumulations vary significantly from year to year. Spring brings mild temperatures and blossoming flora, making it a pleasant time of year. Summers are typically warm to hot, with high humidity and temperatures often reaching into the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the summer months generally experiencing the highest precipitation. Fall showcases beautiful foliage as temperatures cool down, providing a transition into the winter months. Overall, the area experiences a mix of weather patterns influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which can lead to varying conditions throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Be Neighborly

In North Merrick, it's common to greet your neighbors and engage in friendly conversations. A simple wave or saying hello can go a long way in building rapport within the community.

Respect Personal Space

While people are generally friendly, it's important to be mindful of personal space. Maintain a comfortable distance during interactions and avoid physical contact unless initiated by the other person.

Participate in Community Events

Engaging in local events, such as fairs or festivals, shows respect for the community's culture. It also provides an opportunity to learn about local customs and meet residents in a friendly setting.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of North Merrick with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this suburban area is generally considered to be quite good, with low crime rates compared to national averages. The community often prioritizes public safety, with local law enforcement actively involved in neighborhood watch programs and community engagement initiatives. Residents typically report feeling secure in their homes and neighborhoods. The local police department works to maintain safety through various outreach programs and crime prevention strategies. Additionally, the schools and parks contribute to a family-friendly environment, enhancing the overall sense of security among families. As with any community, it's important for residents and visitors to remain aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure personal safety. Local resources, such as community meetings and online forums, can offer valuable information about safety tips and updates on local crime trends.

Tipping in North Merrick

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In North Merrick, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is generally expected in the service industry. Common practices include tipping restaurant servers 15-20% of the total bill, providing gratuities to barbers and hairdressers around 15-20%, and offering tips to delivery drivers based on service quality. Tipping is often seen as a way to acknowledge good service and is considered an essential part of many service workers' incomes.

Payment

Payment methods in North Merrick typically include cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Many establishments also accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet. For most transactions, credit and debit cards are preferred due to their convenience. Local businesses often provide options for both in-person and online payments, reflecting a broader trend across the United States towards digital transactions.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into North Merrick.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring (March to May) is a wonderful time to visit North Merrick as temperatures begin to rise, ranging from the upper 40s to mid-70s °F. Visitors can expect blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, making it ideal for outdoor activities. It's also less crowded than the summer months.

Summer

Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, with temperatures averaging between mid-70s to mid-80s °F. This is peak tourist season, and visitors can take advantage of local festivals, outdoor activities, and events. Beaches and parks are bustling with activity, but it's advisable to book accommodations in advance.

Fall

Fall (September to November) offers cooler temperatures, ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s °F. The foliage changes to beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a picturesque time to visit. This season is perfect for enjoying harvest festivals and outdoor excursions without the summer crowds.

Winter

Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures averaging between the mid-20s and mid-40s °F. Snow is possible, providing a different landscape and opportunities for winter activities. The holiday season brings festive decorations and events, offering a cozy and charming atmosphere.

North Merrick at Night

The nightlife in this suburban area is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Residents often enjoy local bars and eateries that offer a cozy atmosphere for socializing. Many people favor heading to nearby towns for a wider variety of nightlife options, such as lively restaurants, live music venues, and bars with entertainment like trivia nights or open mic sessions. Community events, such as seasonal fairs or outdoor movie nights, can provide opportunities for social interaction after dark. Some residents enjoy relaxing at home or gathering with friends for casual gatherings, contributing to a laid-back evening vibe. Overall, while the nightlife might not be bustling, it offers a sense of community and connection among those who partake.

Hiking in North Merrick

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Jones Beach State Park

A coastal park featuring sandy beaches, walking trails, and scenic views, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Bethpage State Park

Offers a variety of trails through wooded areas and open fields, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Preserve at Oakdale

A natural preserves with various hiking paths surrounded by forests and streams, great for nature walks.

Nassau County Marine Park

Provides trails along the coast and through wetlands, offering beautiful scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Hempstead Lake State Park

Features multiple hiking trails around the lake, providing a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into North Merrick through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach North Merrick by plane.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Located in Queens, NY, JFK is one of the primary international airports serving New York City.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Also located in Queens, NY, LaGuardia primarily handles domestic flights but also offers some international service.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Situated in Newark, NJ, EWR serves as a major gateway for international flights to and from New York City.

Westchester County Airport (HPN)

Located in White Plains, NY, HPN services both domestic and limited international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in North Merrick can be characterized by several key factors, including the availability of sidewalks, access to amenities, pedestrian safety, and the overall layout of the community. Generally, this area features a suburban environment with residential neighborhoods that often prioritize car travel over pedestrian access. Sidewalks are present in many parts of the community, facilitating walking for residents, but they may not connect seamlessly between different areas. The proximity to local parks, schools, and shopping areas can enhance the walkability experience, providing destinations for residents to reach on foot. Traffic levels and vehicle speeds can impact pedestrian safety, and some streets may lack adequate crosswalks or traffic calming measures. Overall, while there may be opportunities for walking, the experience can vary depending on the specific location within North Merrick. Enhancements to pedestrian infrastructure and urban planning could improve the overall walkability of the community, making it a more inviting environment for residents who prefer to get around on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

Predominantly non-Hispanic white population, making up a significant portion of the demographic.

Hispanic or Latino

Includes individuals of various backgrounds, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the community.

Black or African American

A smaller but important demographic group, representing the African American community in North Merrick.

Asian

Includes residents of Asian descent, reflecting the diversity of the area.

Two or more races

Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, representing a growing demographic.

Other races

Includes individuals from other racial backgrounds who do not fall into the aforementioned categories.

The Soul of North Merrick

Discover the essence of North Merrick through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a widely played sport in North Merrick, with many local leagues and youth programs encouraging participation at all levels.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity in North Merrick, featuring school teams and community tournaments that promote active involvement.

Baseball

Baseball is a staple of American culture and is played recreationally and competitively in North Merrick, especially during the spring and summer.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse has seen growth in popularity, with clubs and school teams offering various programs for different age groups.

Swimming

Swimming is a popular recreational activity in North Merrick, with local pools and community swim teams providing opportunities for residents.

Traffic

Traffic in this suburban area can be characterized by typical patterns of residential communities. During peak hours, especially in the morning and late afternoon, you'll likely encounter congestion on major routes as residents commute to work or school. Local roads often experience slower speeds due to frequent stops and turns as drivers navigate to various homes and businesses. Traffic lights and stop signs help manage the flow, but they can also be points of delay. Weekends may bring lighter traffic, although local events or nearby attractions might create temporary increases in vehicles. Parking can be a consideration around shopping areas and parks, particularly during busy hours. Overall, traffic tends to be manageable but can become congested during key transit times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting North Merrick.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in North Merrick offer a range of vegetarian and vegan fare, such as plant-based burgers, fresh salads, and veggie-packed wraps, catering to those with plant-based diets.

Gluten-Free Dining

Several restaurants in the area provide gluten-free menu items, including pasta dishes, pizzas, and baked goods, ensuring individuals with gluten sensitivities can dine with ease.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of North Merrick with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Located in Nassau County, New York, the community of North Merrick benefits from a variety of healthcare services available to its residents. The area is served by a mixture of local clinics, hospitals, and specialists that offer comprehensive medical care. Nearby hospitals include some prominent facilities that provide emergency care, surgical services, and specialized treatment options. Additionally, many primary care physicians and family practices operate within the community, making it accessible for residents to receive routine check-ups, preventive care, and management of chronic conditions. Residents often have access to various healthcare programs, health insurance options, and preventative health services. Local pharmacies and urgent care centers further enhance healthcare accessibility by providing services for non-emergency medical issues outside of regular doctor’s office hours. Community health initiatives and awareness programs may also be available, aiming to promote wellness and preventive care among the population. Overall, the healthcare landscape in this area is designed to meet the needs of its residents, offering a mix of resources and services to support overall health and wellness.

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