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
Editor's Pick Spooky Lantern Walk, Family Program, $4 per person upon arrival
Caleb Smith turns its wooded trails into a lantern-lit storytelling route after dark, with naturalists sharing folktales and local legends along the walk. Kids can carry lanterns (or flashlights) and the vibe leans more atmospheric than actually scary. Bring $4 per person in cash.
- When
- Where
- Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, Smithtown
Fall Wildlife Safari, Family Program, $4 per person upon arrival
Rangers lead families on a guided walk through Caleb Smith's woodland trails to spot migrating birds, deer, and other animals preparing for winter. Bring $4 per person in cash and dress for a mile-long walk on mostly flat terrain. The preserve is right off Jericho Turnpike in Smithtown with plenty of parking.
- When
- Where
- Caleb Smith State Park Preserve, Smithtown