Garden City, New York
Garden City is one of Nassau County’s most picturesque and historically rich communities. Known for its tree-lined streets, beautifully preserved homes, and upscale suburban charm, it offers a blend of history, culture, shopping, and family-friendly activities. Located just 18 miles east of Manhattan, Garden City is both a commuter haven and a destination in its own right.
Overview
Founded in 1869 by department store magnate Alexander Turney Stewart, Garden City was one of the first planned communities in the United States. Its wide boulevards, architectural cohesion, and village feel remain among its greatest assets. Today, it’s home to high-performing schools, cultural institutions, luxury shopping, and vibrant parks — making it a sought-after destination for both visitors and residents.
Things to Do in Garden City
- Roosevelt Field Mall – One of the largest shopping malls in the country, featuring luxury retailers, big-name brands, and popular dining options. A true shopping destination.
- Cradle of Aviation Museum – Explore Long Island’s deep connection to aviation history. This hands-on museum includes vintage aircraft, space exploration exhibits, and simulators.
- Long Island Children’s Museum – Perfect for families, this award-winning museum offers interactive exhibits, creative spaces, and play areas that inspire learning and imagination.
- Garden City’s Cathedral of the Incarnation – A striking example of Gothic Revival architecture, this historic Episcopal cathedral is a local landmark and architectural marvel.
- St. Paul’s School Grounds – Take a walk around the iconic – and controversial – St. Paul’s building and its surrounding parkland. It’s an architectural remnant of the village’s past and a frequent subject of local preservation efforts.
- Nassau County Firefighters Museum & Education Center – Located next to the Cradle of Aviation, this interactive museum honors Long Island’s firefighting history. Visitors can explore vintage fire trucks, hands-on exhibits, and educational displays that promote fire safety awareness for kids and adults alike.
Dining & Nightlife
Garden City offers a curated selection of upscale and casual eateries:
- Waterzooi – A Belgian bistro known for its mussels and craft beer selection
- Revel – Trendy American fare with an elegant atmosphere
- Leo’s Midway – A cozy neighborhood bar and grill
- Plancha – Modern Latin-American cuisine in a stylish setting
- Seventh Street Café – Italian classics on the bustling Seventh Street strip
While the nightlife is more subdued than nearby cities, many bars and lounges offer live music and vibrant weekend scenes.
Events & Seasonal Activities
- Spring Fest on Seventh Street – Family-friendly street fair with food vendors, live music, and kids’ activities
- Holiday Tree Lighting – Annual celebration on the Village Green with music, cocoa, and Santa sightings
- Garden City Historical Tours – Seasonal guided tours that explore the village’s origin and architectural legacy
Getting There
Garden City is easily accessible:
- By Train: The LIRR Garden City station on the Hempstead Branch offers direct access from Penn Station.
- By Car: Located just off the Meadowbrook Parkway and Old Country Road.
- Nearby Airport: JFK Airport is 25 minutes away by car.
Local Highlights
- Population: ~23,000
- Zip Codes: 11530
- School District: Garden City Union Free School District – among the highest-rated on Long Island
- Vibe: Historic, refined, family-friendly
Did You Know?
- Garden City was modeled after European “garden suburbs” and inspired other planned communities across the U.S.
- Charles Lindbergh took off for his historic transatlantic flight just a few miles away, from nearby Roosevelt Field.
