Old Bethpage Village Restoration

Noon Inn
Inside the historic Noon Inn Tavern at Old Bethpage Village Restoration, this preserved 19th-century room showcases a patriotic setting with American flags, vintage furnishings, and a portrait of George Washington above the fireplace. Artifacts like jugs, bottles, and a “Soldiers Union and Society” sign offer a glimpse into everyday life and civic culture during Long Island’s early American era. File photo: Philippe Gregori, licensed.

Located in the heart of Nassau County, Old Bethpage Village Restoration (OBVR) is one of Long Island’s most immersive historical experiences. This 209-acre living history museum brings the 19th century to life, recreating rural Long Island life as it was in the 1800s. With more than 50 authentically restored buildings, live demonstrations, and costumed interpreters, OBVR offers a rare chance to walk through the past and experience the sights, sounds, and stories of a bygone era.

History & Purpose

Opened in 1970 and operated by Nassau County, the village was developed to preserve Long Island’s early American heritage. Many of the buildings – including homes, barns, shops, and a schoolhouse – were relocated from elsewhere on Long Island and meticulously restored on site. The village is designed to resemble a functioning farming community from the mid-to-late 1800s.

What You’ll See

Visitors can explore a wide variety of preserved and reconstructed buildings such as:

  • The Noon Inn Tavern: A colonial-era pub offering insight into travel and trade
  • Luyster Store: A general store stocked with 19th-century goods
  • Schkade Blacksmith Shop: With live blacksmithing demonstrations
  • Powell Farmhouse: A working farmhouse with seasonal crops and farm animals
  • District Schoolhouse: A one-room school showcasing how children learned in the 1800s
  • Print Shop, Milliner, and Tin Shop: Artisans demonstrate old trades and crafts

You’ll also find costumed guides portraying farmers, shopkeepers, soldiers, and townspeople, many of whom demonstrate activities like weaving, cooking, candle making, and woodworking using traditional methods.

Special Events

Old Bethpage Village Restoration is especially known for its seasonal festivals and reenactments, including:

  • Candlelight Evenings (December): Holiday lights, music, and caroling
  • Civil War Reenactments: With live battles, encampments, and Union/Confederate history
  • Long Island Fair: A historic agricultural fair with 19th-century games, food, and entertainment
  • Haunted Village: A family-friendly Halloween event featuring ghostly tales and spooky village walks

These events draw large crowds and bring the village to life with music, costumed performers, and interactive activities.

Education & Tours

The village is a favorite for school field trips, homeschoolers, and history enthusiasts. Self-guided exploration is encouraged, but guided tours are available for groups and during special programming. Informational signage and staff make it easy to learn at your own pace.

  • Location: 1303 Round Swamp Rd, Old Bethpage, NY 11804
  • Open: Seasonal schedule—typically Wednesday through Sunday, spring through fall
  • Admission: Varies by event; general admission is typically under $15
  • Parking: Free on-site parking
  • Website: www.oldbethpagevillagerestoration.org

Plan Your Visit

Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a camera, and check the event calendar before visiting. Most paths are unpaved but walkable, and benches are located throughout the grounds.

Did You Know?

Several scenes from movies and television shows have been filmed at Old Bethpage Village due to its authentic period setting, making it not only a historic site but also a cinematic backdrop.