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Smithtown

Smithtown, New York, United States

Escape to Smithtown, New York: Where History Meets Small-Town Charm Nestled on the North Shore of Long Island, Smithtown, New York offers a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Steeped in history and …

#Smithtown#New York#United States#Suburban#Historic

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Smithtown.

Top Hotels in Smithtown

Top Flights to Smithtown

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Smithtown.

Tours

St. James General Store Visit

Step back in time at one of the oldest operating general stores in the United States.

Smithtown Historical Society Tour

Explore the rich history of Smithtown with guided tours of historical buildings and exhibits.

Shopping

Shopping at Smith Haven Mall

A large shopping center offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Outdoor

Explore Caleb Smith State Park Preserve

A haven for nature enthusiasts offering walking trails, bird watching, and serene landscapes.

Adventure Park Long Island

Enjoy zip lining and aerial adventures at this thrilling outdoor park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Smithtown.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Smithtown, New York is around 118,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Smithtown

Jan

5°-3°

Feb

6°-2°

Mar

11°1°

Apr

16°6°

May

21°11°

Jun

26°16°

Jul

29°19°

Aug

28°18°

Sep

24°15°

Oct

18°9°

Nov

12°4°

Dec

7°0°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Smithtown.

What people love

Smithtown, located in Smithtown, New York, United States, offers several benefits for travelers:

Historical Significance: Smithtown has a rich history dating back to the 17th century when it was founded. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, which offers a glimpse into the area's past.
Nature and Outdoor Activities: The town is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including parks, beaches, and hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and birdwatching.
Charming Downtown Area: Smithtown's downtown area features quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a pleasant place to explore and relax. Visitors can stroll through the streets, shop for unique gifts, or enjoy a meal at a local eatery.
Convenient Location: Smithtown is located in close proximity to other popular destinations on Long Island, such as the Hamptons, Montauk, and Fire Island. This makes it a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.
Family-Friendly Environment: Smithtown is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with activities and attractions suitable for visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy visiting local parks, attending community events, and exploring the town together.

Overall, traveling to Smithtown, New York, offers a blend of history, nature, and small-town charm that can appeal to a wide range of visitors.

What to know

Smithtown, located in Suffolk County on Long Island, New York, has its pros and cons like any travel destination. While it offers a charming suburban experience with parks and historical sites, some potential cons of traveling to Smithtown might include:

Limited Public Transportation: Smithtown is not as accessible by public transportation as larger cities. While there is a Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) station, getting around the town and surrounding areas often requires a car, which can be inconvenient for visitors without access to one.
Traffic Congestion: Like many areas on Long Island, Smithtown can experience significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or weekends. This can lead to longer travel times and frustration for visitors trying to explore the area.
High Costs: Long Island, including Smithtown, is known for its high cost of living. This can translate into higher prices for accommodations, dining, and other travel-related expenses compared to more budget-friendly destinations.
Limited Nightlife and Entertainment Options: Smithtown is a suburban area with limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities like New York City. Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene might find the offerings in Smithtown lacking.
Seasonal Weather: The weather in Smithtown can be a downside depending on the time of year. Winters can be cold and snowy, which might not appeal to all travelers, while summers can be hot and humid.
Limited Tourist Attractions: While Smithtown has some local parks and historical sites, it may not have as many tourist attractions or cultural landmarks as larger cities, which could make it less appealing for those seeking a wide variety of activities.

Overall, while Smithtown offers a pleasant suburban experience, these factors might be considered drawbacks for some travelers.

Smithtown, New York, is a town located on the North Shore of Long Island in Suffolk County. It has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era, with several significant events, historical figures, and landmarks contributing to its development.

Early History and Founding

Settlement and Founding: The area now known as Smithtown was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples of the Algonquian-speaking Native American tribes. European settlement began in the 17th century.
Richard Smith: The town is named after Richard Smith, an English settler who played a crucial role in the area's early colonial history. According to local legend, Smith was granted land by the Native Americans in 1665, with the unique condition that he could keep the land he could encircle in a single day on a bull. This tale is commemorated by the statue of a bull, known as "Whisper the Bull," located at the intersection of Jericho Turnpike and St. Johnland Road.

Development and Growth

18th and 19th Centuries: During the 18th and 19th centuries, Smithtown developed as a farming and agricultural community. The town's growth was facilitated by its proximity to waterways and the establishment of roadways, which enhanced access to markets and trade routes.
Railroad Expansion: The Long Island Rail Road's expansion in the 19th century significantly impacted Smithtown, promoting further growth and development. The railroad provided a direct connection to New York City, encouraging residential and commercial development.

20th Century to Present

Suburbanization: In the post-World War II era, like many other areas in Long Island, Smithtown experienced significant suburbanization. This was marked by increased residential construction, schools, and infrastructure to accommodate the growing population.
Modern Day: Today, Smithtown is known for its suburban charm, excellent school districts, and a mix of residential, commercial, and natural areas.

Historical Landmarks and Sites

Caleb Smith State Park Preserve: This park offers a glimpse into the natural environment of the area, with trails, wildlife, and a rich history as part of the Smith family estate.
Smithtown Historical Society: The society preserves several historical buildings and sites, providing educational programs and events that highlight the town's history.
St. James General Store: Located in the hamlet of St. James, this is one of the oldest continuously operating general stores in the United States, dating back to the mid-19th century.

Notable Figures

Bull Smith (Richard Smith): The legendary founder of Smithtown, whose story is integral to the town's identity.
Ethel Merman: The famous Broadway star and actress, known for her powerful voice, lived in Smithtown for a time during her career.

Smithtown's history reflects a blend of indigenous heritage, colonial settlement, agricultural development, and suburban growth, making it a unique and historically rich community on Long Island.