For a great weekend getaway from NYC and a taste of literary history, look no further than Walt Whitman’s favorite seasonal spot: Greenport, New York.
The Long Island native wrote fondly of the whaling village and spending days ashore. Whitman’s musings from the North Fork ended up in The New York Evening Post, where he penned the “Letters From Paumanok” column.
“Having neither the funds nor disposition to pass my little term of ruralizing at the fashionable baths, or watering places, I am staying awhile down here at Greenport, the eastern point of the Long Island Railroad,” he wrote in 1851, according to The Gotham Center For New York City History.
Upon getting off the LIRR — which you can ride for just $1 over the weekends this summer, by the way — he set up shop across the street from the town’s Village Hall at his sister’s: a three-bedroom, two-bathroom home that went on the market 11 years ago for nearly $500,000 according to Northforker.
As you might’ve imagined, the area has changed quite a bit, but remains true to its maritime roots. Here’s what you need to know.
Walt Whitman’s Greenport
At the time of Whitman’s stay, the area was known for whaling, shipbuilding, and fishing — traditions that still ring true in Suffolk County.
The Long Island town might’ve had humble nautical beginnings, and only 600 residents at one point, but now it is a bustling summer location, complete with mom and pop shops, great restaurants, a burgeoning art scene, and but of course, the iconic carousel stationed by the waterfront.
Visitors can expect a mix of small Victorian and farmhouse homes along the water, as well as neighboring vineyards and farm stands. And should you be interested in a sip of some Merlot, rosé, and beyond, we’ve conveniently listed the best vineyards on Long Island that are worth a visit when you’re out east.
What to do
From a stroll on the boardwalk and a spin on the carousel in Mitchell Park to a pitstop at Crescent Beach, Greenport beckons you to soak up some Vitamin D.
If you need a quick break for some indoor activities, the tots and transportation buffs will love the Railroad Museum of Long Island and art-lovers will enjoy the North Fork-inspired Nova Constellatio Gallery or the North Fork Art Collective.
Shops include The Weathered Barn, known for aromatherapy and home goods, The Times Vintage Shop & Gallery, and Saltwater, which boasts seasonal finds for the family.
Where to eat
There are plenty of wonderful spots to check out in Greenport, and naturally, seafood fare is in high demand.
The American Beech Hotel Restaurant
Open for brunch and dinner, The American Beech Hotel Restaurant offers American dishes with a seafood twist, including shrimp tostada, shrimp fettucine, and clams arrabita. Dining with non-seafood eaters? Options run the gamut from a smash burger to hangar steak and duck confit.
The Frisky Oyster
Should you be craving something from the sea, look no further. The Frisky Oyster offers its namesake dish, a grilled lobster quesadilla, a calamari salad, and grilled halibut filet, to name just a few options.
Where to stay
The Greenporter is a seaside retreat with cozy rooms, an outdoor pool, and a café and coffee bar, Terra, where you can refuel throughout your stay.
You can book a room online.
Considering Greenport has been a popular New York town since the 19th century — and one of America’s greatest writers can attest to it — we suggest heading out east to experience it yourself.