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Community Corner

Patch Picks: Staycations Near Mineola

'Spring' into fun with these suggestions for day tripping.

Why spring for a trip to an exotic locale when you can visit a place that’s much closer to home? ‘Staycations’ are becoming increasingly popular, not only for those on tight budgets, but because of the convenience and ability to forgo all the hassles of traveling.

Because let’s face it, who wants to go through the hassle of airport checkpoints and dealing with lost luggage when you can get away for a single day and still come back with a souvenir?

Here are five local ideas for a getaway day we think are worth checking out.

Find out what's happening in Mineolawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Visit a Craft Fair

Stop by a craft fair on a sunny day to find all sorts of unique goods and collectibles. Vendors carry a wide array of something for almost everyone. This is the place to peruse in search of that “hard to find” gift for which you have been looking. This weekend let the season begin with the annual Manhasset Craft Fair and Gift Festival in the park.

Find out what's happening in Mineolawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Where: main municipal lot between Plandome Road and Manhasset Avenue
  • When: April 2 and 3 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Price: free admission
  • Note: rain or shine

Long Island Children’s Museum

On a weekend or when the kids are home from school stop by the Long Island Children’s Museum to have a fun day in an educational way. This museum features hands on play and learning for children. There are different exhibits for children that will enhance their learning and curiosity. Now through May 8 take advantage of the “*” exhibit featuring art by Long Island’s Alli Berman. The Early Childhood weekly programs welcomes parents and their children, 18 months through 4 years old. Some of these events include “*” every Saturday and Sunday from 3:30 to 5 p.m.  for hands on sensory activities and “**” every Wednesday and Friday from 11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

  • Price: general admission is $10, children under 1- free, members are Free entry
  • Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Free with admission 
  • ** $3 with museum admission ($2 for LICM members)

Long Island’s Spring Restaurant Week

Beginning this Sunday, Long Island’s Restaurant Week is returning in time for Spring. The first annual Spring Restaurant Week is taking place in Nassau and Suffolk County with over 159 participating locations. According to a spokesperson, this special deal will feature a prix fixe menu at all of the participating restaurants. For eight nights, each of the restaurants will offer a three-course meal for $24.95, except on Saturday when it will only be offered until 7 p.m. If you are a picky eater there is no need to worry because the restaurants will be offering the minimum of three choices of appetizers, entrees and desserts. 

  • What’s close to Mineola? Some of the restaurants participating in Restaurant Week include Table 9, , Rein at the  and Two Steak and Sushi Den.
  • Be sure to check out their website to find out the most up to date spots to dine.

Hiking

As the weather gets warmer and spring fever kicks in, go for a hike, jog or stroll at one of the local spots on the island. At Cold Spring Harbor State Park there is a 20-mile scenic trail that begins in Cold Spring Harbor and leads you through Bethpage State Park and the South Shore of Nassau County.  in Glen Cove has shorter trails that lead you through forest-like woods where sources say there are more than 60 species of trees, shrubs and wildflowers. You can also stop inside the Garvies Point Museum to see various exhibits surrounding the history of Native American culture.

  • Price for Garvies Point: Adults $3, Children (ages 5-12) $2
  • Garvies Point Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  • Cold Spring Harbor Hours: Subject to change, check park information 

Seal Cruise 2011

Set sail from Freeport aboard Captain Lou Fleet to see what lives under Long Island’s waters. This opportunity gives you a chance to view harbor seals that migrate to Hempstead Bay during the winter months. All proceeds support the New York State Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Rescue Program.

  • Remaining Dates: April 2 and 3, 9 and 10, 16 and 17; boarding time begins at 12:30 p.m.
  • Contact: 631-369 9840
  • Price: Adults $24, seniors $21, children age 3 to 15 $19, nnder 3 years old free

Do you like cooking? Be sure to check back next week to try some delicious Passover recipes!

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