Things To Do
in Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University is a large public research university on Long Island, part of the SUNY system, known for its strong programs in science, engineering, medicine, and the arts. It sits adjacent to the coastal town of Stony Brook and the campus curves around the Nissequogue River, offering a picturesque blend of modern research facilities and nature. The university operates Stony Brook Medicine, including a teaching hospital, and hosts a vibrant campus life with theaters, museums, and athletic events.
The surrounding area combines academic energy with coastal charm, making it easy to explore both campus amenities and nearby waterfront towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Stony Brook University, check into your accommodation, and take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful campus. Visit the Stony Brook Union and grab a coffee from the local café while soaking in the vibrant student atmosphere. Explore the nearby Frank Melville Memorial Library to ease into your academic surroundings.
Join a guided campus tour to learn more about the university's history, programs, and student life. Have lunch at one of the university dining halls, experiencing the diverse culinary options available on campus. Spend the remainder of the afternoon visiting the Staller Center for the Arts, where you can appreciate local art exhibitions or catch a rehearsal.
Gather with fellow students for an orientation welcome event that introduces you to various campus organizations and community resources. Enjoy a casual dinner at a popular student hangout nearby, and don’t forget to try some local favorites. Wind down the evening by exploring the campus’s outdoor spaces, perhaps enjoying a serene sunset on the university grounds.
Start your day with a visit to the nearby Setauket Village, a historic area rich in American Revolutionary history. Enjoy breakfast at a local diner, sampling some of Long Island's famous bagels. Afterward, take a guided walking tour to learn about the area's significance and landmarks.
After your morning adventure, head back to campus for a lunch filled with delicious multicultural food options. Participate in a workshop or lecture featured throughout the day, engaging with professors and peers. Early evening brings an opportunity to enjoy the campus’s nature trails or gardens, allowing for some peaceful reflection.
Join a group attending a theater production at the Staller Center, experiencing the vibrant performing arts scene at Stony Brook University. After the show, connect with new friends for dinner at a local restaurant in the nearby Port Jefferson Village. Spend the late evening walking along the waterfront, soaking in the atmosphere of this charming harbor town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage | $3-6 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🏠Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment (monthly) | $1,800-2,800 |
| 🚌Public transportation monthly pass | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class research facilities and opportunities for students
- Beautiful coastal setting with ample green space and waterfront nearby
- Strong campus life including arts, theater, and athletics
- Higher cost of living on Long Island
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Transit can be slower outside peak academic hours; parking can be competitive
Places to Visit in Stony Brook University
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic campus hub with mature trees, open lawn, and architectural lines perfect for portraits and architectural shots, especially in autumn.
Historic buildings and courtyard spaces with period details and seasonal displays; ideal for cultural heritage photography.
Marina views, boats, and pastel skies over the water—great for long-exposure shots and harbor silhouettes.
Waterway vistas with reeds and marshland; a tranquil setting for nature photography and wildlife captures.
Food in Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coastal staple—often served chilled with mayo or warm with butter—great at seaside markets and local seafood shacks in Port Jefferson.
Must-Try!
Creamy soup featuring local shellfish, commonly found in waterfront cafes and casual restaurants along the harbor.
Thin-crust slice options available at many nearby eateries; perfect for a quick bite between campus activities.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, regional specialties, and ready-to-eat foods in a coastal village setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time for meetings and classes is valued; polite, direct communication is typical in academic and casual settings.
Keep noise to a reasonable level on campus and in shared spaces; show respect when entering classrooms or libraries; modest attire is common in most campus settings.
A brief thank-you or greeting goes a long way; when visiting homes or local venues, a friendly demeanor is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Stony Brook University
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual cafes and most restaurants, a 15-20% tip is standard for good service. For counter-service or self-serve options, tipping is not required; round up for courtesy in some cases.
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, etc.) and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always an option. Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures with budding trees; a good time for campus walks and garden photos, though showers can arrive quickly.
Warm and humid with occasional storms; ideal for outdoor activities, waterfront exploration, and sunset photography near the harbor.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage around campus; a peak season for photography with golden light and scenic backdrops.
Cold and snowy possibilities; campus and nearby parks offer quiet, contemplative scenes, though travel can be affected by weather.
Stony Brook University at Night
Hiking in Stony Brook University
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic river-side trails with wildlife and water views, suitable for easy to moderate hikes.
A network of nature paths in Setauket offering gentle hikes amid woodlands and meadows.
Coastal trails with views of the pine barrens and ocean, a short drive from the university.
Airports
How to reach Stony Brook University by plane.
Situated in Islip, this regional airport offers domestic flights and shorter travel times to and from the area.
Major international hub about 60–70 miles from Stony Brook; convenient for international travelers and connections.
Another large NYC-area airport about 60–70 miles away; easy access for domestic travel and regional connections.
Farmingdale-based general aviation airport; useful for private flights and air taxi options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large, diverse student body drawn from across the region and internationally.
Researchers and advanced degree students concentrated in STEM, health sciences, and humanities.
Academic and administrative professionals contributing to a wide range of programs.
Residents of Setauket, Stony Brook, Port Jefferson, and surrounding towns who engage with campus events and programs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common collegiate sport with intramural leagues and campus events.
Long Island has a strong lacrosse culture; university teams and local clubs may be active.
Seasonal university and club games with casual pickup play in warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stony Brook University.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most campus dining locations offer vegetarian options; look for build-your-own bowls, veggie burgers, salads, and rotating vegetarian entrees. In restaurants, ask for meat-free pasta, veggie plates, and dairy-free substitutes; many places can accommodate dairy or gluten restrictions with advance notice.