Elmont, New York

Elmont is a diverse, primarily residential hamlet and census-designated place in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, just east of Queens, New York City. Known for its strong community identity and convenient location, Elmont offers a suburban setting with easy access to major highways, rail connections, and regional attractions. Its best-known landmark is Belmont Park, the historic racing grounds long associated with the Belmont Stakes, while nearby UBS Arena has added a major year-round sports and entertainment draw to the broader Belmont campus.

History

• Early Settlement: Elmont developed from farmland in western Long Island as Dutch and English settlement expanded across the region in the colonial era.
• Belmont Park: Opened in 1905, the racetrack helped transform Elmont into an internationally recognized horse-racing destination.
• Suburban Growth: Following World War II, Elmont experienced major residential expansion as families moved from New York City into Nassau County.
• Modern Development: The area continues to evolve with UBS Arena, retail development near the Belmont campus, and ongoing improvements that can affect traffic patterns, access, and visitor experience.

Community & Lifestyle

• Population: Roughly in the mid-30,000s.
• Character: Culturally diverse and family-oriented, with established neighborhoods, local schools, houses of worship, and small businesses.
• Location: Elmont directly borders Queens, giving commuters and visitors convenient access to New York City and western Long Island.
• Education: The hamlet is served by multiple public school districts, with high school students generally attending schools within the Sewanhaka Central High School District and elementary service varying by neighborhood.

Attractions & Things to Do

• Belmont Park: A historic racing complex and one of thoroughbred racing’s signature venues. Racing schedules, marquee events, and access details may vary by season or construction phase, so it is smart to check ahead.
• UBS Arena: A modern arena that hosts the NHL’s New York Islanders along with concerts, family shows, and other major entertainment events throughout the year.
• Belmont Park Village: A retail and dining destination near the Belmont campus that adds another visitor draw to the area. Individual store and restaurant hours may vary.
• Local Parks & Recreation: Elmont also has neighborhood parks, athletic fields, and community facilities that support youth sports and everyday recreation.

Nearby Landmarks

• Queens (NYC) – Immediate access to the borough for dining, shopping, airports, and cultural attractions.
• Long Island Jewish Medical Center – A major regional healthcare facility nearby in New Hyde Park.
• Hempstead Turnpike – A major commercial corridor running through Elmont and connecting nearby communities.
• Elmont-UBS Arena and Belmont Park Station (LIRR) – Rail access serves arena and racing visitors, though service patterns can vary by event, branch, and season. Check current LIRR schedules before traveling.

Getting to Elmont

Elmont is located in western Nassau County along the Queens border, making it easily accessible from both New York City and other parts of Long Island. Drivers coming from New York City commonly use the Grand Central Parkway and Cross Island Parkway, while travelers from farther east may use the Long Island Expressway before connecting with local parkways and roads.

Rail access is available through the Long Island Rail Road, including Elmont-UBS Arena service and nearby stations in Bellerose and Floral Park. Belmont Park may also have event-based rail service. Visitors attending races, concerts, or other major events should check current LIRR schedules, road conditions, parking information, and event-specific traffic guidance before traveling.

---

Elmont, New York

---

Key Facts & Details

Feature	Details
Location	Western Nassau County, bordering Queens
Population	Roughly mid-30,000s
Character	Diverse, suburban, commuter-friendly
Key Attractions	Belmont Park, UBS Arena, Belmont Park Village
Nearby	Queens, Floral Park, Franklin Square, New Hyde Park
Transportation	Cross Island Parkway, Hempstead Turnpike, and LIRR access via Elmont-UBS Arena, nearby local stations, and event-based Belmont Park service

Elmont, NY, blends established Long Island neighborhoods with some of the region’s highest-profile sports and entertainment destinations. From the storied grounds of Belmont Park to the concerts and games at UBS Arena, the hamlet offers both local character and regional appeal. Whether you are visiting for a race day, an arena event, shopping, or a broader western Nassau County trip, Elmont is easy to reach and worth exploring. As always, check current event calendars, traffic conditions, parking guidance, and transit options before you go.