When you’re choosing from the different retirement communities on Long Island, NY, it’s essential to look beyond the community’s walls. General proximity to major destinations – like airports, train stations or a favorite city – is an important consideration, but equally important is looking at the immediate vicinity. What experiences can you have within a 20-minute drive? Are there places to take the family when they visit? Where you want to spend time? Where can you go on a whim?
Fountaingate Gardens, Long Island’s premier Life Plan Community for independent, active adults age 62+, is ideally situated in Commack. Members enjoy a variety of entertainment options within minute from the Fountaingate Gardens campus– from shopping to cultural experiences to adventures designed for the thrill seeker to the quiet and peaceful serenity of the beautiful beaches and the great outdoors.
We’ve previously introduced you to a variety of local restaurants – from quick bites to fine dining – and now we’ll introduce you to some of the local attractions that are just minutes from Fountaingate Gardens.
Shopping
Many enjoy a good shopping trip – there’s something thrilling about finding a great bargain or the perfect present for your loved one. Commack and the surrounding areas have a variety of shopping opportunities – from small specialty boutiques to the variety and convenience of the shops at the Walt Whitman Mall. You’re sure to find what you want and need, all within a short drive.
Culture
For those looking for cultural experiences – whether a film, a live show or a museum, the Commack area has plenty to offer.
For live shows, consider visiting the Star Playhouse at the Suffolk Y JCC (right at the other end of our campus!) or the John W. Engeman Theater in Northport. The Star Playhouse features a variety of timeless shows including Pippin, Mamma Mia, Beau Jest and The King and I. The Engeman Theater is brings classics like Sunset Boulevard and Anything Goes to the stage, as well as family-friendly hits like Matilda and the Wizard of Oz.
The Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington features independent and international films in addition to special events like board game nights, trivia nights and stand-up comedy. For live music, The Theatre at Westbury offers many shows, this year featuring Johnny Mathis, The Righteous Brothers, Engelbert Humperdinck, and more. The Vanderbilt Mansion, Museum and Planetarium offers visitors lusciously landscaped grounds to explore, plus an impressive collection of art and artifacts, a marine museum and animal habitats. The planetarium offers both regularly scheduled shows and special events suitable for all ages.
When grandkids visit
For more adventurous souls, Long Island has plenty of options to quicken the pulse and spike the adrenaline! The Adventure Park at Long Island offers rope courses and zip lines for the family – ages 7 and up. There’s also a picnic area so your group can enjoy lunch together. Adventureland, Long Island’s amusement park, offers water, family and thrill rides, as well as other outdoor attractions. Perfect for a family outing, there’s fun for everyone – including a carousel, an arcade, a Ferris wheel and the turbulence coaster. Those who prefer to set up their competitions indoors may like to head over to Bowlero, where bowlers will find a fully stocked bar and comfort food – all delivered to your lane – and an arcade for taking a break from the pins.
Nature
If you find your peace outdoors, Blydenburgh County Park in Smithtown offers bird watching, camping, hiking, picnicking and more. And, of course, there are amazing beaches nearby – head to the North Shore to Crab Meadow or Sunken Meadow for a tranquil beach day, or to the South Shore to check out the Fire Island Lighthouse at Robert Moses Beach, or walk the boardwalk at Jones Beach.
If you love fishing, many opportunities abound nearby, including surf and chartered fishing experiences. For the sailor, dinner and sunset cruises offer spectacular views of Long Island’s fine waters and shorelines. Those who prefer to stay on land can enjoy strolling Northport Harbor’s dock and dining at local restaurants serving the catch of the day.
And, if your idea of spending time in nature is sipping wine amid a lush vineyard be sure to check out the local wineries like Whispers in St. James and Del Vino in Northport which offer seasonal events such as live music, sip and paint parties, and delicious food.
Commack and Fountaingate Gardens are ideally situated in the heart of Long Island. With quick access to a plethora of venues, attractions and natural beauty, there’s bound to be something in the larger community that appeals to you. The only question remaining: What will you do first with the extra time you’ll have as part of Fountaingate Gardens’ maintenance-free lifestyle?
Call us today at (631) 715-2693 to learn more about this independent living community.
*also known as a Continuing Care Retirement Community or CCRC
