Hempstead, New York

Hempstead
The beautiful view of Hempstead Lake State Park on a sunny day. New York. File photo: Wirestock Creators, licensed.

Hempstead is one of Long Island’s most historic and populous communities, serving as a commercial, cultural, and governmental hub in Nassau County. With a rich colonial legacy, diverse population, and central location, Hempstead plays a vital role in the region’s identity. It’s home to major institutions, bustling business districts, and some of the area’s most storied landmarks.

Overview

Founded in 1644, Hempstead is among the oldest English settlements in New York State. Today, it is both a town and a village – the Town of Hempstead encompasses numerous neighborhoods and hamlets, while the Incorporated Village of Hempstead forms its own distinct municipality within the larger town.

With a population of nearly 800,000 residents in the Town of Hempstead alone, it is the largest township in New York State and one of the largest in the United States. The village itself has about 60,000 residents and continues to evolve as a center of culture, education, and commerce.

Things to Do in Hempstead

  • Hofstra University – A nationally recognized private university known for its law school, medical school, and beautifully landscaped campus. Hosts political debates, concerts, and public lectures.
  • James M. Shuart Stadium & Nassau Coliseum (adjacent) – Hofstra’s stadium is home to NCAA Division I athletics and regional sports events. The nearby Nassau Coliseum (technically in Uniondale, but closely linked to Hempstead) hosts concerts, trade shows, and sporting events.
  • Cathedral of the Incarnation (Episcopal Diocese) – Located nearby in Garden City but closely tied to Hempstead’s religious and historical fabric. Its soaring architecture and stained-glass windows are worth a visit.
  • Downtown Hempstead Revitalization Area – An active and evolving downtown district filled with restaurants, barbershops, multicultural grocery stores, and local retailers. Revitalization plans are ongoing to enhance pedestrian access and streetscape design.
  • Hofstra University Museum of Art – Located on campus, this small but respected museum features rotating exhibits and a permanent collection of over 5,000 pieces, including contemporary and traditional art.
  • Hempstead Lake State Park (West Hempstead) – Just west of the village, this large state park offers trails, fishing, playgrounds, and picnic areas – a favorite for families and joggers.

Dining & Local Flavor

Hempstead offers one of the most diverse culinary scenes on Long Island, reflecting its multicultural population:

  • El Mofongo Restaurant – Puerto Rican comfort food and Caribbean flavors
  • Maria’s Mexican Cuisine – Popular for tacos and pozole
  • Golden Krust – Jamaican patties and island cuisine
  • Top China – Local Chinese food staple with affordable combos
  • Don Ricardo’s Steak House – Dominican fusion with upscale ambiance

International food trucks and casual eateries also line many streets, especially near the Hempstead LIRR station.

Transportation & Access

Hempstead is a central transit hub:

  • LIRR Hempstead Station: Terminus of the Hempstead Branch, with service to Jamaica and Penn Station
  • NICE Bus Headquarters: Hempstead Transit Center serves multiple Nassau County bus routes
  • Major Roadways: Just minutes from the Southern State Parkway and Meadowbrook State Parkway

Community Events & Culture

  • Hempstead Street Festival – Live performances, art vendors, food trucks, and cultural celebrations in the summer
  • Hofstra Fall Festival – A major university event featuring concerts and family activities
  • Juneteenth Celebrations – Annual parades and gatherings that honor African American history and culture
  • Hempstead Holiday Parade – A winter event with marching bands and local pride

Local Highlights

  • Population (Village): ~60,000
  • School District: Hempstead Union Free School District
  • Vibe: Urban, historic, culturally rich, and evolving
  • Government: Incorporated Village with its own mayor and police force

Did You Know?

  • George Washington once passed through Hempstead in 1790 during his presidential tour of Long Island.
  • The Town of Hempstead includes high-profile communities like Atlantic Beach, East Meadow, Franklin Square, and parts of the South Shore.
  • Hempstead was once home to several early aviation airfields, predating even Roosevelt Field.