The sun is shining, the kids are bouncing off the walls, and you hear the inevitable call: “I’m bored!” Don’t worry, Long Island parents, we’ve got you covered. Our island is a treasure trove of incredible parks, but navigating the costs can be tricky.
We at Long Island Hype have done the digging for you. This is the definitive, fact-checked guide to the best parks for kids, with a clear breakdown of every potential cost. Pack the snacks, grab the sunscreen, and get ready for a guaranteed great—and well-planned—day out.
Eisenhower Park, East Meadow (Nassau)
The Vibe: The All-in-One Epicenter
This 930-acre hub of family activity is a Nassau County cornerstone. It’s so big, it feels like three parks rolled into one, with playgrounds that cater to every age group.
Why Kids Love It: The playgrounds are legendary, including a massive castle-themed structure and the unique Safety Town, a miniature village where kids can safely ride their bikes and scooters.
Don’t Miss: The free summer concerts and “Movies in the Park” at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre are a classic Long Island experience.
Cost & Logistics:
Park Entry & Parking: Absolutely free. There is no fee to enter the park or to park your car in any of the lots.
Activity Fees: While the playgrounds are free, many other attractions have fees. A Nassau County Leisure Pass is required for residents to get discounted rates.
Mini Golf: Expect to pay around $9 for adults and $6 for kids with a Leisure Pass; non-resident rates are higher.
Nassau County Aquatic Center (Pool): Requires a fee for entry. Leisure Pass holders pay a resident rate (approx.
10−15 for adults, less for kids), while non-residents pay significantly more.
Batting Cages & Rink: Also have their own fees.
Heckscher Park, Huntington (Suffolk)
The Vibe: The Charming Village Oasis
Nestled in the heart of Huntington Village, this beautifully maintained park features a picture-perfect pond and a welcoming, community feel.
Why Kids Love It: The large, fenced-in playground is a hit, but the real star is the pond, where kids can watch the ducks and swans for hours.
Don’t Miss: The annual Huntington Summer Arts Festival offers free performances all summer long at the Chapin Rainbow Stage.
Cost & Logistics:
Park Entry: Absolutely free.
Parking: This is the crucial detail. The dedicated parking lots located directly adjacent to the park (on Prime Avenue and Madison Street) are free. However, they fill up very quickly. All surrounding on-street parking within Huntington Village is metered and strictly enforced.
Hype Tip: Arrive early on weekends to snag a free spot in the park’s lots. If they’re full, be prepared with quarters or a credit card for the street meters.
Activity Fees: None for the park’s main attractions. The Heckscher Museum of Art, located within the park, has its own admission fee.
Wantagh Park, Wantagh (Nassau)
The Vibe: The Waterfront Wonderland
Situated on the Great South Bay, this park is a paradise for water lovers when the summer heat hits.
Why Kids Love It: The pool complex is the main draw, featuring an Olympic-sized pool, diving boards, two massive water slides, and an interactive splash pad for younger kids.
Don’t Miss: The sunset views over the marina are stunning and a perfect, free way to end the day.
Cost & Logistics:
Park Entry & Parking: Absolutely free to enter the park grounds and park your car.
Activity Fees: This is a big one. Access to the Pool Complex is NOT free and has a significant fee.
A Nassau County Leisure Pass is required for residents to enter the pool. Non-residents with a Leisure Pass holder pay an even higher fee.
Expect to pay around $10 for adults and $6 for kids with a valid Leisure Pass.
Mini-golf also carries a separate fee.
Hoyt Farm Nature Preserve, Commack (Suffolk)
The Vibe: The Hidden Gem with a Country Feel
More of a preserve than a park, this spot feels like a slice of the countryside and is a treasured local secret.
Why Kids Love It: The animals! The preserve has a charming collection of farm animals, a fantastic Nature Center, and an amazing playground with a separate toddler area and an adventurous section with a zip line.
Don’t Miss: The old-fashioned water pump and splash area in the summer is simple, delightful fun.
Cost & Logistics:
Park Entry & Parking: Free.
CRITICAL RESTRICTION: Entry is strictly limited to Town of Smithtown residents and their direct guests only. You must present a valid Driver’s License or other proof of residency at the gate to be admitted. There are no exceptions. This is the most important piece of information for this location.
Sunken Meadow State Park, Kings Park (Suffolk)
The Vibe: The Best of Both Worlds: Beach & Park
Why choose? Sunken Meadow offers breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound, a long boardwalk, acres of green space, and a calm beach perfect for families.
Why Kids Love It: They can build sandcastles on the beach, run free on the massive lawns, and then choose from one of three different playgrounds. The boardwalk is perfect for a family stroll or scooter ride.
Don’t Miss: Walk the boardwalk at low tide to discover shells and sea treasures on the exposed sand flats.
Cost & Logistics:
Park Entry & Parking: A $10 Vehicle Use Fee is charged per car. This fee is higher than inland state parks and is collected on weekends starting in April and daily from Memorial Day to Columbus Day.
Fee Waiver: The vehicle fee is waived for holders of the New York State Empire Pass.
Activity Fees: The main attractions (beach, boardwalk, playgrounds) are included with your vehicle fee. The park also has a golf course, which requires separate greens fees.