20 Exciting Things To Do In Greenport, New York
Greenport is a charming, centuries-old fishing village on the North Fork of Long Island.
Here you’ll find working marinas, quiet farms, and sun-soaked vineyards, all of which add to the laid back vibe characterizing the North Fork.
The town of Greenport is a small one, with just over 2,000 residents. However, that size swells significantly in the summer months when visitors pour from trains, cars, the Jitney, and ferries bringing with them that warm, weekend buzz.
My husband and I spent a year living in nearby Sag Harbor and loved visiting this charming town!
Visiting the North Fork? You’re in for a treat! Read on for the best things to do in Greenport, New York.
You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Sag Harbor, New York
The Best Things To Do In Greenport
Browse The Antique Shops & Thrift Stores
Greenport is overflowing with trendy thrift stores and quirky antique shops.
If looking for easy things to do in Greenport, you can spend the entire afternoon browsing the ever-changing collections available here.
Most shops are located on Main Road, near the intersection of Main & Front.
Check out Beall & Bell, Lydia’s Antiques & Stained Glass, or The Times Vintage, which also has a record shop.
Village Blacksmith Shop
Stop by the Village Blacksmith Shop to watch and learn about the history of blacksmiths.
Tom Barry runs demonstrations and sells craft decorative items from a historic blacksmith shop in Greenport Village, near Mitchell Park.
Once an essential business in nearly every town, today it’s a forgotten art, something read back on in history books.
Tom hopes to keep the tradition alive by simultaneously providing a living museum and functional workspace.
The shop is ran by East End Seaport Museum and is free for visitors every weekend.
Go For A Wine Tasting
The North Fork is like a miniature Napa Valley. It’s home to over 40 wineries and 3,000 acres of vineyards, all situated on a narrow belt of land between the Long Island Sound and Peconic Bay.
The area’s sandy soil and persistent salty breeze results in a unique Long Island grape and ultimately a delicious variety of wine.
Like much of the North Fork, the wineries here are laid back and unpretentious. Perfect for an afternoon spent sampling local wine.
Kontokosta is the closest vineyard to Greenport, just a mile and half from the village.
It’s in a gorgeous setting with a simple, open tasting room and prime views of the Long Island Sound. A tasting here is definitely one of the most popular things to do in Greenport.
Top Wineries On The North Fork
If you wish to explore other wineries in the area, check out these popular options.
Keep in mind that most places, including Kontokosta, require advanced reservations. Happy wine tasting!
- Osprey’s Dominion
- Paumanok Vineyards
- Macari Vineyards
- Sparkling Pointe Vineyard & Winery
- RG|NY
- Pindar Vineyards
- One Woman Winery
- Kontokosta Winery
- McCall Wines
Need a ride? Check out Uber, New Vine Wine Tours, and Main Street Drivers (they’ll drive your car for you). Additionally, there are limo and party bus services available, however some vineyards do not allow these due to vehicle restrictions.
Heading to a vineyard in the Hamptons? Check out The Best Wineries In The Hamptons for more information.
Arshamomaque Pond Preserve
Arshamomaque is a nature preserve with hiking trails centered around the pond and surrounding wetlands.
If you’re looking for quiet solitude, surrounded by wildlife and wildflowers, this is the place for you!
The preserve is open daily from dawn to dusk and is free to all visitors.
Browse A Farmers Market Or Farm Stand
Grapes are not all that’s grown on the North Fork, there are countless multi-generational farms throughout the area, providing a wide variety of fruits, veggies, herbs, and flowers.
The Greenport Farmers Market is typically open on the weekends from May – October, supplying locally sourced goods for both visitors and the local community.
Browsing local goods is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Greenport, and makes for an easy homemade meal.
Be sure to also check out Latham’s and Sep’s farm stands near town.
Visit A Museum Or Art Gallery
Considering Greenport’s small size, there’s a surprising number of museums and galleries in the area.
A visit to one of these venues is a great way to learn the history and culture of the North Fork.
Tip: This is especially perfect for a rainy day in Greenport.
Museums In Greenport
- Fireboat Firefighter Museum
- Railroad Museum of Long Island
- East End Seaport Maritime Museum
- Greenport Jail & Police Museum
- Stirling Historical Society Museum
- Horton Point Lighthouse
Art Galleries In Greenport
- Cindy Pease Roe Studio & Gallery
- Nova Constellatio Gallery
- The South Street Gallery
- Fiedler Gallery
- J. Garretson Fine Art Photography
Greenport Harbor Brewing Company
Greenport Harbor Brewing is a perfect place to grab a cold pint on a weekend afternoon.
The brewery is located in an old firehouse in the heart of the village and every drop of their beer is made between their two locations on the North Fork.
Be sure to keep an eye on their live music schedule!
Ferry To Shelter Island
Shelter Island is just a 10 minute ferry ride across the Peconic Bay.
On the island you can grab a bite to eat at Marie Eiffel Market or Shelter Island Slice and browse the shops.
Up for exploring the island? Go for a hike in Mashomack Preserve or join a kayak tour. Looking for a sandy beach? Check out Crescent or Wades Beach.
To get around the island you will need a car or bike. There is a bike rental place near the North Fork Co. ferry drop off called Piccozzi’s Bicycle Rental & Repair.
Just be warned, the island isn’t tiny so you’ll be doing a lot of biking.
How To Get From Greenport To Shelter Island
From Greenport the North Ferry Co. runs every 10 – 20 minutes from 5:45 am to midnight.
The price is $16 for car and driver one-way, $3 per extra person or for walk-ons.
There are no reservations and it’s payable by cash or check only.
Catch A Movie At Greenport Theater
If you’re looking for a relaxing evening activity, or somewhere to hide out on a rainy afternoon, check out the Greenport Theater.
The 120 year old building survived hurricanes and fires and has had many different uses over the years (it was once a furniture store!).
A few year’s back it was thoughtfully restored to reflect its original Art Deco grandeur.
It’s now open May – September. Check summer showtimes playing a mixture of new releases and lovable classics.
Lavender By The Bay
Located in East Marion, just 2.5 miles from the Village of Greenport is one of the largest lavender fields on the East Coast.
Lavender By The Bay has over 80,000 lavender plants across its 17 acres.
The farm grows over 20 varieties of both English and French lavender, to see them in peak bloom you’ll want to visit in early July.
Lavender By The Bay is typically open 9 am – 5 pm, June – September, with modified hours in spring and fall. Timed tickets need to be purchased in advance.
Note: There’s also a shop on site if you’d like to treat yourself to some lavender goodies!
Visit The Beach
A lot of people ask, “Does Greenport have a beach?” Yes! Fifth Street Park Beach is the town’s main beach.
Keep in mind that the beach area is relatively small, in a marina, and it’s pebbly, bring your water shoes!
Town Beach is located a few miles from the village, and is definitely better for swimming.
Just know that all beaches require a parking permit. To avoid this, walk, ride a bike, or catch a ride to the beach. If visiting on the weekend, it’s best to arrive by 10 am to ensure you get a good spot.
67-Steps Beach
This isn’t your typical sandy beach, but instead a gorgeous rocky beach situated below a bluff.
It’s definitely worth a quick stop for those who have the time, it’s simply stunning.
The beach is best explored at low tide and is supposed to be incredible at sunset.
Orient Beach State Park
Orient Beach State Park consists of a thin strip of land, with sweeping water views on both sides.
The park has calm waters, perfect for kayaking or paddle boarding, and an expansive shoreline with mix of sand and pebbles.
Tip: One Love Beach has on-site paddle board rentals and lessons.
If you’re a fan of wildlife, this is a great spot! Blue herons, egrets, and osprey are among the many that feed and nest here.
Best Beaches On The North Fork:
- New Suffolk Beach in New Suffolk
- Iron Pier Beach in Jamesport
- Founders Beach in Southold
- Veterans Beach in Mattituck
- Nassau Point Beach in Cutchogue
Relax At Mitchell Park
Mitchell Park is located in the heart of Greenport Village and consists of a large grassy lawn and picnic benches overlooking the Peconic Bay.
This is a great place to enjoy a bite to eat or let the kids run around.
From the park you have a great view of the marina, which regularly has charter boats, fishing vessels, and yachts pulling in and out of port.
In the park there’s also a camera obscura and antique carousel for the kids!
Be sure to check out their live music schedule for evening dance parties at Mitchell Park.
Ride The Antique Carousel
Located in Mitchell Park is an antique carousel beloved by the town and its many visitors.
The carousel dates back to the 1920’s, and 18 of its horses are believed to be original. This makes it one of the few operating antique carousels in the United States today.
The carousel’s early years are a mystery, thanks to a factory fire destroying its original records. But we do know for sure that it’s been delighting the kids of Greenport since the mid 1990’s.
During summer months it’s typically open daily from 10 am – 9 pm. Tickets are $3 per ride and can be purchased with credit card at the marina office on the park’s east side.
Go For A Boat Tour
Charter A Sailboat
Enjoy an afternoon on the water or a dreamy sunset cruise with a small group of friends on the quiet Peconic Bay.
There are a number of private sailing tours from Greenport including East End Charters, Layla Sailing, or Sea Dog Cruising.
This is definitely one of the best things to do in Greenport.
Take A Lighthouse Tour In Greenport
You can also book harbor tours through Glory, East End Seaport Museum.
Or a Lighthouse & Seal Watching Tour through Peconic Cruise Line.
Greenport Restaurants
There are tons of excellent spots to grab a bite to eat in Greenport.
Most of the town’s restaurants overlook the harbor on Front Street, where you can watch the fishing boats bob up and down and ferries pass as you enjoy a cocktail and local fare.
Tip: Claudio’s Waterfront sits on a dock over the harbor. They have delicious food, excellent views, and often live music and entertainment. Dining (or just having a drink!) at the restaurant is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Greenport!
Below are some of the best restaurants in Greenport:
- Claudio’s Waterfront
- Ellen’s On Front
- The Frisky Oyster
- Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market
- Alpina
- Saylor Beach
- Claudio’s
- Lucharito’s
- North Fork Table & Inn
Just looking to grab a drink? Check out Brix & Rye, American Beech, or Claudio’s Garden.
Inlet Pond County Park
The Inlet Pond County Park is a great spot to enjoy a quiet morning in Greenport.
The park has about 1.5 miles of trails through woodlands and mature oak forest, as well as a butterfly field with a variety of flowers and bird feeders.
Then of course there’s the freshwater Inlet Pond, which is home to egrets, herons, a pair of swans, and hundreds of bull frogs.
The pond has an observation deck and seating for those looking to enjoy a relaxing morning in nature.
Be sure to also check out the Roy Latham Nature Center.
Go Berry Picking
Berry picking!? How charming!
As mentioned above, the North Fork is home to tons of farms, so it should come as no surprise that many offer fruit picking.
Strawberries, elderberries, cherries, or apples… You name it, they probably have it.
Be aware that strawberry picking is one of the favorite things to do near Greenport and should be planned in advance.
Peak picking season varies based on fruit, check out Wickham’s Fruit Farm or Patty’s Berries & Bunches for more information.
Check Out The Nearby North Fork Towns
Jamesport, Southold, Cutchogue, East Marion, Orient, and Mattituck are all nearby towns, each with their own unique personalities and charm.
Spend a day exploring Southold’s shops, cafes, and Horton Point Lighthouse Nautical Museum. Or, head to Mattituck to lounge at Veterans Beach and spend an afternoon at Harbes Family Farm.
It’s especially easy to stop by these towns if you plan to partake in wine tastings or browse the North Fork’s best beaches.
Sample Local Oysters At Little Creek Oyster Farm or Widow’s Hole Oyster Co
Nothing says coastal town like a local raw bar. Enjoy local oysters and lots of fresh seafood while visiting Greenport.
Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market and Widow’s Hole Oyster Co. serve up fresh Peconic Bay oysters throughout the summer months.
They even offer tours and special events, such as wine pairings and shuck-yourself events.
Be sure to also check out the local oysters from roadside stands throughout the North Fork.
Where To Stay In Greenport
The village of Greenport has a handful small hotels, all of which are of the boutique variety.
A few of the best places to stay are:
How To Get To Greenport
The North Fork is located on the far east end of Long Island, about 100 miles east of New York City, straight down the Long Island Expressway.
The Hampton Jitney runs daily from Manhattan to the North Fork for $41 /each way when you book online in advance.
The Long Island Rail Road offers daily service between Penn Station and Greenport for $25 – $40 each way.
Greenport is accessible from the Hamptons, on the South Fork, by ferry and crossing Shelter Island, or driving via Riverhead.
Getting Around Greenport
The village of Greenport is small and easy to get around by foot.
If you wish to visit nearby wineries or farms, you will need a car.
Those who need a ride, check out Uber, New Vine Wine Tours, and Main Street Drivers.
For bike rentals, check out Greenport Cruisers Bike Rentals and Dan’s Bike Rental — they deliver and pick up!
How Do I Spend A Day In Greenport?
Greenport is very compact, it’s easy to do as much or as little as you wish with one day here.
Some options for one day in Greenport include:
- Shop the thrift stores and antique shops.
- Enjoy the town’s excellent dining options.
- Go to the beach or Orient Point State Park.
- Visit a museum.
- Watch the boats in the harbor.
- Go for a boat tour.
- Go to a vineyard.
- Watch the sunset at 67-steps Beach.
Is Greenport Worth Visiting?
Greenport is an extremely charming town, excellent for a quick East Coast getaway.
Thanks to beautiful surroundings and the wide variety of things to do here, I’d absolutely recommend a visit.
What Is Greenport, NY Known For?
It’s a harbor town historically known for fishing and is surrounded by rocky beaches and farms.
Today it’s best known as a tourist destination, especially during summer.
Is Greenport The Hamptons?
No, the Hamptons are comprised of hamlets in East Hampton and Southampton, on Long Island’s South Fork.
However, Greenport is located near the Hamptons and has some similarities.
Geographically speaking, the landscape is very similar, as it’s only a few miles away by boat.
Culturally speaking, Greenport, and much of the North Fork, is much more laid-back and relaxed than the Hamptons.
As you can see, there are so many things to do in Greenport, making for a perfect weekend getaway!
Did I miss anything good? Please leave a comment below with questions or additional tips. Happy vacationing!
Looking for more ideas? Head on over to my Hamptons and New York guides below.
Additional Hamptons Guides:
- Amagansett Guides
- East Hampton Guides
- Montauk Guides
- Sag Harbor Guides
- Southampton Guides
- All Hamptons Guides
More Information For Your New York Vacation:
Pin for later!
Keep Up With Amy!
Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates in your inbox. And don’t forget to connect on your favorite social platform!
Thank you!
You have successfully joined our subscriber list.