Vanessa Gordon is the CEO and Publisher of East End Taste, a digital publication based in the Hamptons. Vanessa is also the Founder and Host of the Hamptons Interactive Brunch, an annual summer event series in New York. She holds a Masters degree in Education from New York University. She lives in the Hamptons with her family.
Vanessa was featured in Episode 50 of The Unscaled Travel Show.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Long Island’s Diversity
05:12 Best Times to Visit Long Island
09:59 Cultural Influences and Culinary Delights
15:07 Trendy Dining Spots and Brunch Culture
20:11 Family-Friendly Activities on Long Island
24:53 Resources for Exploring Long Island
When most people think of Long Island, visions of sandy beaches, luxurious Hamptons estates, and bustling summer scenes might come to mind. However, as Vanessa Gordon, CEO of East End Taste and founder of the Hamptons Interactive Brunch, explained on the Unscaled Travel Show, Long Island is a tapestry of diverse regions, cultures, and experiences waiting to be discovered year-round.
Regions to Explore on Long Island
Long Island is far more nuanced than its Hamptons reputation. Here’s a breakdown of its regions:
- The Hamptons & South Fork: Famous for its luxurious estates, chic beach towns, and laid-back summer vibe. Montauk, at the island’s easternmost tip, offers its own charm, blending natural beauty with a more relaxed atmosphere.
- North Fork: Known for its wineries, quaint farms, and charming towns like Greenport.
- Gold Coast: Historic mansions, such as Old Westbury Gardens, showcase the grandeur of Long Island’s past.
- South Shore & Great South Bay: Towns like Babylon and Patchogue provide access to Fire Island, a popular getaway with unique charm, including a vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
Each area has its own character, making Long Island a destination where travelers can experience something new with every visit.
Best Times to Visit
Long Island is a year-round destination, but Vanessa highlighted a few standout seasons:
- Fall (September – October): September is a “golden month,” with perfect weather and minimal rain. Fall foliage peaks in mid-October, creating a brief but stunning display.
- Spring (May – June): Tulips and lavender come to life. Visit the Lavender by the Bay farms in Calverton and East Marion for breathtaking blooms.
- Summer (July – August): While busy, midweek visits offer the quintessential Hamptons experience. Don’t miss the beaches and farm-fresh produce at this time.
- Winter (December – April): Unique activities like seal watching in Montauk and Westhampton are must-dos. Guided tours often start early but are worth the effort.
Cultural Influences and Cuisine
Long Island is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its vibrant food scene. Key influences include:
- Italian: Celebrated with events like the San Gennaro Festival in Hampton Bays.
- Polish: Potato farming traditions have shaped the region’s history.
- Indigenous Montaukett Tribe: Their heritage is still honored across the island.
- Jewish, Irish, Latin American, and Argentinian Communities: Each brings distinct flavors and traditions to the area.
For a true taste of Long Island, start your day with breakfast or brunch at:
- Crazy Beans (Greenport, Stony Brook, Miller Place): Known for their cannoli-stuffed French toast and flavored lattes.
- Topping Rose House (Bridgehampton): Enjoy a refined brunch on the veranda while the kids play on the lawn.
- Maureen’s Kitchen (Smithtown): Famous for its baked oatmeal and pancakes.
- Estia’s Little Kitchen (Sag Harbor): A cozy spot with outdoor seating and plenty of charm.
Family-Friendly Activities
Long Island offers a wealth of activities for families, from exploring nature to hands-on experiences:
- Cradle of Aviation Museum (Garden City): Features historic airplanes and an IMAX Dome Theater.
- Elizabeth A. Morton Wildlife Refuge (Sag Harbor): Spot wild turkeys, turtles, and various bird species.
- Adventure Park at Long Island: Tree-to-tree climbing, zip lines, and more for adventurous kids and adults.
- Montauk Lighthouse and Fire Island Lighthouse: Iconic landmarks offering scenic views and a dose of history.
- Old Westbury Gardens: A Gold Coast mansion with stunning grounds perfect for picnics or leisurely walks.
The Hamptons Interactive Brunch
Vanessa’s Hamptons Interactive Brunch is the epitome of Long Island’s elegance and charm. This annual summer event combines wellness, beauty, and gastronomy, with curated brand activations and indulgent gift bags. The next brunch is set for June 22nd, 2024, at a private estate, with tickets available soon at HamptonsBrunch.com.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re savoring lavender honey in the North Fork, seal watching in Montauk, or indulging in a luxurious brunch in the Hamptons, Long Island offers an abundance of experiences for every traveler. For more information and trip ideas, visit DiscoverLongIsland.com or follow their vibrant Instagram page.
Vanessa Gordon summed it up best: Long Island is a destination that surprises even its lifelong residents. With its cultural richness, natural beauty, and endless activities, it’s a place where every visit feels like a new adventure.
Start planning your Long Island getaway today—because there’s always something more to discover!
