Smithtown
Smithtown is the geographic + commercial center of Suffolk County — corporate offices by day, family-restaurant scene by evening. The Bull (the iconic statue) marks the crossroads. Quieter than Huntington, more developed than Northport.
Known for
- The Bull statue
- Smith Haven Mall
- family-friendly downtown
- Caleb Smith State Park
Smithtown is the often-overlooked anchor of central Suffolk — a real commercial center with the practical advantages (parking, accessibility) but quieter than the bigger downtowns to the east and west. Smith Haven Mall is the regional retail draw; the downtown stretch around Main Street has the steady-favorite restaurants.
The signature landmarks:
- The Bull statue at the intersection of Jericho Turnpike + Route 25 — Smithtown’s symbol
- Smith Haven Mall — central Long Island retail, seasonal carnival events
- Caleb Smith State Park — trails, pond, history
Best paired with: an evening at the Smithtown Performing Arts Center or dinner at one of the Main Street family-favorite restaurants.
Upcoming in Smithtown
Little Birdie Mahjong x Garden Grill
Little Birdie Mahjong Social Club meets at Garden Grill in Smithtown for American or Chinese-style mahjong, beginners through regulars. The restaurant's on North Country Road with its own lot. Tiles, conversation, and ordering off the menu while you play.
- When
- Where
- Garden Grill, Smithtown
- Price
- See ticket page
Hike Through History: Caleb Smith, Family Program, $4 per person
This guided hike at Caleb Smith ties into America's 250th anniversary with stories about the preserve's colonial-era mill and early settlers. The trail is mostly flat and shaded, good for kids who can handle an hour of walking. Park entrance is right off Jericho Turnpike with plenty of lot space.
- When
- Where
- Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, Smithtown
Bat Safari, Family Program, $4 per person upon arrival
Track bats through Caleb Smith's trails using echolocation detectors as the sun goes down. $4 per person cash at arrival. The preserve is off Jericho Turnpike in Smithtown with its own parking lot right at the entrance.
- When
- Where
- Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, Smithtown
Insect Safari, Family Program, $4 per person upon arrival
Your kids will hunt for beetles, butterflies, and whatever else is crawling around Caleb Smith's trails in early September. The program runs about an hour and costs $4 per person when you arrive. Parking is free at the preserve off Jericho Turnpike.
- When
- Where
- Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, Smithtown