Long Island Roadside Attractions – The Ultimate List!

Fun Things to do on Long Island

Long Island Roadside Attractions - the ultimate list

One of the best things to do while visiting our shores is check out our Long Island Roadside Attractions!

Many people know Long Island as home to beautiful beaches, the glamour of the Hamptons, quaint walkable towns, and wonderful wineries. Long Island also has more to offer for those of us with offbeat or eclectic taste.

Interested in the weird, wonderful, and artsy? Looking for share-worthy places to snap pics for the socials? We got you covered. Long Island boasts some famous roadside attractions. Heck, we’re the birthplace of an icon that inspired an architectural term! Not to mention one of our roadside giants even had a cameo on an episode of The Sopranos.

So, let’s get this show on the road and explore Long Island and these post-worthy wonders.

The Best Long Island Roadside Attraction List


Long Island Roadside Attractions

The Big Duck of Flanders

The Big Duck - Flanders New York Long Island - Long Island Roadside Attraction Icon!

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Big Duck of Flanders is Long Island’s most recognizable roadside attraction, and one of the most recognizable and enduring examples of programmatic architecture. The term “duck” architecture is a nod to the Island’s beloved Duck.

The Big Duck was built in the early 1930s as an attraction to sell Peking ducks. Constructed with a frame made of wood, wire mesh was then attached and covered in cement. The Duck’s eyes are made from Ford Model-T taillights.

Each year at Christmastime, there is fun ceremonial lighting of the duck.

The inside of the Big Duck has historical photos and news clippings as well as duck-related souvenirs.

The Big Duck is open 10-5 with the exception of Saturday when it closes at 3.

Location:
The Big Duck is in the town of Flanders, New York.

Street Address: 1012 NY-24, Flanders, NY 11901
You can visit the outside of the duck at any time.


Riverhead Raceway’s Muffler Man Indian

Chief Running Fair

Muffler Man Indian Riverhead Long Island Raceway as seen on the Sopranos!

A list of Long Island roadside attractions would not be complete without a hat tip to our mufflerman.

This handsome silent sentry stands on the grounds of the Riverhead Raceway. He is Long Island’s only Muffler Man. Many folks will recognize him from an episode of the Sopranos where Tony walks in front of him at the raceway.

During Superstorm Sandy, Chief running fair was torn in half. The beloved icon was repaired and waves to the crowds once more.

Location: Riverhead Raceway – 1797 Old Country Road, Riverhead, NY



The Flying Pig of Miller Place

A symbol of overcoming impossible odds, this angelic pig takes flight in front of The Flying Pig Cafe in Miller Place.

Location: The Flying Pig Cafe 825 NY-25A Miller Place, NY 11764



Mr. Millennium – The Giant Snowman – Tuckahoe

Hamptons Giant Snow Man Mr. Millenium - a long island roadside attraction

The smiling snowman is nearly 20 feet tall and stands outside of North Sea Auto Radiator on Sandy Hollow Rd. I totally love his big mittens. They’re so cute! His plaque says he was made in the year 2000 and that his name is Mr. Millenium [sic].

Location: North Sea Auto Radiator-Towing – 25 Sandy Hollow Rd., Southampton, NY 11968



Keith Haring Sculpture – New Hyde Park

Keith Haring Sculpture in New Hyde Park

This untitled Keith Haring sculpture requires a little consideration as it is in the courtyard of a Children’s Hospital. You should probably park and approach on foot.

It is an excellent example of the late artist’s pop-style.

Location:
Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children’s Medical Center of New York
269-01 76th Avenue – New Hyde Park, NY 11040



Yarnbombed Trees of Stony Brook

There are 5 yarn-bombed trees at the Long Island Museum in Stony Brook. Talk about Instagram-worthy!

Made up of over 250,000 feet of fabric cord, over 200 people volunteered their time to complete this project.

In 2019, the Long Island Museum welcomed a new yarn-bombed tree!

Location: The Long Island Museum – 1200 New York 25A Stony Brook, NY 11790



Giant Corn on the Cob – Calverton

giant corn on the cob roadside attraction

Okay, how much do you love this giant corn on the cob? In the realm of giant roadside vegetables, this one really pops!

See what I did there? …I’ll show myself out.

Location: Fox Hollow Farms – 2287 Sound Ave, Calverton, NY 11933



The Giant Rooftop Hotdog – Gone!

First National Franks Giant Hotdog Medford Long Island NY - GONE!

Update – July 2019

Sadly, the rooftop hotdog is no more. I’m leaving the photo in place as a memorial to its former greatness.

God speed, giant wiener.

Located on top of First National Franks in Medford, the giant rooftop wiener is a winner! You can ride to eat and see something kitschy in one shot. What’s better than that?

Former Location: 3147 Route 112 Medford, NY, 11763



The Pirate House – Miller Place

No doubt the neighbors of the Pirate House in Miller Place must get fed up with the gawkers who stop by for a look.

“The Connor Belle”

The local story that I have heard about this house is that the owner built this temple of pirating for his daughter who had a brain injury. It came in the wake of seeing her happy reaction to the Pirates of the Caribbean ride during a trip to Disney World. I cannot say if that is indeed true; it could just be an urban legend.

The house does have a notary public sign out front. Maybe you can get the scoop from the horse’s mouth while having a document notarized? Hmm…

Location: 9 Woodland Place Miller Place, NY 11764



Double Fiberglass Rooster Fantasy – Holbrook

Bello Poultry Farm in Holbrook has not one but TWO fiberglass roosters on their property. The rooster out front not only pulls a wagon, but has been outfitted to become a fountain.

On our last visit, we found the man out back laying down on the job.

Location: Bello Poultry Farm – 411 Union Ave, Holbrook, NY 11741



Casa Basso Restaurant – Westhampton

Casa Basso Westhampton Pirates
Castle at Casa Basso on Long Island
Musketeer at Casa Basso on Long Island - Roadside attraction

Nothing says delicious Italian food like a stucco castle with 2 Musketeers, a horse, a two-headed snake and a gold lion in the yard. From what I understand the food is actually quite good.  Go for the kitsch, stay for the pasta.

Location: 59 Montauk Highway Westhampton, NY 11977



Vintage Neon: Modern Snack Bar – Aquebogue

Modern Snack Bar in Aquebogue - a fabulous vintage sign on long island

Go for the sign, stay for the pie! Modern Snack Bar is an icon.

Location: 628 Main Rd, Aquebogue, NY 11931
Google Maps



Home Depot Cemetery – Commack

Commack's parking lot cemetery
Cemetery in Home Depot Parking Lot - Brindley Field - Commack New York

The Home Depot in Commack is now located on what was once a World War I airfield called Brindley Field. Prior to that, it was a farm. 

Today it has an interesting secret “hidden” in plain sight; the Burr Family cemetery plot. As people go shuffling by with their carts full hammers and nails, many do not even realize the tree-lined little square houses a handful of tombstones.

Location: Home Depot 5025 Jericho Turnpike, Commack, NY



Behind the Fence Gallery Statue Menagerie – Southampton

Fiberglass Dinosaurs at Behind the Hedge in Southampton Long Island - a great Roadside Attraction stop

You never know what’s going to be on display in the yard at Behind the Fence Gallery in Southampton! You might find dinosaurs, giant hamburgers, dragons, gorillas, and all types of animals. This place is incredible!

Location: 1547 County Road 39, Southampton NY 11968
Google Maps



The Giant Bull – Calverton

Long Island Bull Statue Calverton -one many long island roadside attractions

I happened upon this guy while cruising around. He stands inside the pen of a private farm. Between you and me, I like him so much more than the oft-talked about Smithtown bull. In the battle of Long Island’s big bovines? This guy is tops.

Location: Wading River Manor Rd. Calverton, NY



Baby Yoda Cheeseburger Mural – Huntington

Baby Yoda Grogu Holding a cheeseburger mural in Huntington New York Long Island-  Long Island Roadside Attractions

This Baby Yoda holding a cheeseburger mural is a stunner! Painted by Andaluz the Artist, who also gave us the Pokemon Wall – you’ll find it on the back-side of Burgerology, facing the municipal parking lot in Huntington.

Location: 308 Main St, Huntington, NY 11743
Google Maps



Atlantic Seafood’s Shark Mouth Door – Center Moriches

Atlantic Seafood Shark Door - - One of Long Island's Best Roadside Attractions

The Shark Mouth door of the Atlantic Seafood restaurant always makes me smile. It’s amazing how many locals don’t know the name of the place and just call it ‘the shark mouth.’ View on flickr

Location: 125 Main St Center Moriches, NY



The Cement Sphinx of Bayport

Cement Sphinx Bayport Long Island New York-  Long Island Roadside Attractions

A Long Island landmark since 1911.

“She who climbs the Sphinx’s head, a millionaire will surely wed.” Unfortunately, ladies, the sphinx gives mixed messages with its No Climbing sign. Always a bridesmaid, never a bride.

Location: 890 Montauk Hwy, Bayport, NY



Toothless Joan River Mural – Huntington Station

Toothless Joan Rivers mural - huntington station - long island new york
Robin Williams and Toothless Joan Rivers mural - huntington station - long island new york

Have you seen the meme photos floating around of toothless celebrities? I don’t even want to link to them, because they give me the creeps. I’m fairly certain that isn’t what the artist was going for here with Joan Rivers, but every time I pass by this piece it’s all I can think about!

Location: 2 Cooper Ave, Huntington Station, NY 11746
Google Maps



Nipper the Dog – Babylon

Nipper Plessers Appliances Babylon - a long island roadside attraction


This 6ft tall fiberglass Nipper the dog stands at the front door of Plesser’s Appliances in the town of Babylon. He’s a town favorite!

Location: 6 E Main St Babylon, New York 11702



Roy Lichtenstein Sculptures: Tokyo Brushstroke I & II – Water Mill

roy lichtenstein tokyo brush stroke sculptures on long island - roadside attraction
roy lichtenstein tokyo brush stroke sculptures on long island - roadside attraction

The Parish Art Museum in Water Mill proudly displays two of the Pop Art giant Roy Lichtenstein‘s painted aluminum sculptures – Tokyo Brushstroke I & II.

You will find the pieces outdoors at the west driveway. They can be respectfully enjoyed even when the museum is closed.

Location: Parish Art Museum – 279 Montauk Hwy, Water Mill, NY 11976



Drew Kane Chameleon Mural – Riverhead

chameleon mural in riverhead new york -  Long Island Roadside Attractions

Artist Drew Kane’s chameleon mural blends in with the foliage on East Main in Riverhead, New York. The courtyard in front of the First Congregational Church of Riverhead is where it calls home.

Location: Benjamin Place, Riverhead, NY
Google Maps



Kaufold’s Big Rooster – Ridge

 Giant Fiberglass Rooster - One of Long Island Roadside Attractions

Long Island is home to several members of the Giant Chicken Army. This fine specimen is found in Middle Island.

Location: Kaufold’s Country Sheds – 724 Middle Country Rd Ridge, NY 11961
Google Maps



Yaphank Garage – Yaphank

Long island roadside attractions -  the yaphank garage - vintage gas shell station

The Yaphank Garage, a former 1930’s Shell Service Station and Garage is a beautifully restored local time capsule. It is one of my favorite Long Island roadside attractions.

The Suffolk County Police Historical Society has restored the Yaphank Garage. Mannequins and display boards tell the story of how a small community service station and its local constable worked together to serve their citizens in the 1930’s and 40’s.

The Yaphank Historical Society

Location: 3 Yaphank Ave, Yaphank, NY 11980
Google Maps



Toothy Fish Mural – Seaford

Undersea Toothy Mural -  Long Island Roadside Attractions

You can’t help but smile when you see the toothy fish mural outside of this pediatric dentist office.

Location: Wantagh Seaford Pediatric Dentistry – 3426 Merrick Rd, Seaford, NY 11783
Google Maps



Jaws III Plow Train – Greenport

JAWS III Plow Train in Greenport New York -  Long Island Roadside Attractions

Jaws the plow train is an oft-photographed site from the town of Greenport. Can you imagine what a sight it must’ve been tearing through snow on the tracks with its ferocious snarl?

Location: Railroad Museum of Long Island – 440 4th St, Greenport, NY 11944
Google Maps



Larry Rivers Big Legs – Sag Harbor

Larry Rivers Big Legs in Sag Harbor - Long Island Roadside Attractions

These giant art legs, appropriately titled Legs were made by artist Larry Rivers.

Location: Henry Street Sag Harbor, NY

Google Maps



Pokemon Mural – Huntington

Pokemon Mural Wall - One of Long Island's Best Roadside Attractions

Painted by Andaluz the Artist in 2016, the Pokemon wall mural is incredible. Talk about Instagram-worthy!

Location: 231 Broadway, Huntington, NY 11743
Google Maps



Dan Riding a Lobster – Southampton

Roadside Attraction Statue of Dan Riding a Lobster in Southampton, NY

When traveling east on Sunrise Highway, at the corner of Hills Station Road, you will see a curious sight. It’s Dan Rattiner of Dan’s Papers astride a lobster welcoming you to the Hamptons.

Giddyup!

Location: On the Corner of Hills Station Road & Route 27, Southampton, NY
Google Maps


Giant Bowling Pin – Port Jefferson Station

Giant Rooftop Bowling Pin in Port Jefferson Station Long Island

On the roof of Port Jeff Bowl, you’ll find a… strikingly large bowling pin!

Location: 31 Chereb Ln, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776

Google Maps


Grateful Dead Mural Wall – Huntington

grateful dead mural huntington long island ny
jerry garcia mural stella blue huntington long island

Location: Stella Blue Bistro 188 New York Ave, Huntington, NY 11743
Google Maps


The Montauk Tiki

The Montauk Ronjo Tiki - Long Island roadside attraction

Over the years, the tiki has had different paint job, but the awesomeness never changes. The tiki stands outside of the former Ronjo, now Montauk Beach House hotel. It’s also joined by some smaller moai!

Location: 55 S Elmwood Ave, Montauk, NY 11954


The Tacopus Mural

This beautiful octopus chillin’ with tacos and beer mural is found in Mattituck.

Location: 10560 Main Rd, Mattituck, NY 11952
Google Maps


I hope that you’ve found this list helpful and fun. My goal is to create the ultimate list of Long Island Roadside Attractions over time. Keep checking back for new additions!

Well, What are You Waiting For?

You’ve got your list of awesome Long Island roadside attractions. Now it’s time to get to moving!

Fuzzygalore

Rachael is the whimsical writer behind the 20+ year old Girlie Motorcycle Blog. As a freelance blogger, she is on a mission to inspire laughter, self-examination, curiosity, and human connection. Girlie Motorcycle Blog can be found on several Best Motorcycle Blog lists.

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14 Responses

  1. novos says:

    Four of those down, six to go!

    • Fuzzygalore says:

      Yea, not too shabby for someone who lives on the other side of the universe! Can i come and see your local spots too? 😉

      DUC can also check the Pirate House off of his list. You know how much he enjoyed it 😆

      I have begun compiling a full listing of all of the Long Island roadside stuff that I know of. So far the list is pretty big! I need to finish it up and get it posted.

  2. Shybiker says:

    Great post! I didn’t know about all of these and you’ve given me ideas for future rides. You’ve performed a valuable public service!

  3. GLantern says:

    Most of those aren’t too far from my house it makes me feel like i don’t really live in the middle of nowhere lol

    • Fuzzygalore says:

      There is lotsa good stuff out your way and east of there. When you start getting a little elbow room… that’s when the kooks really start to show their stuff 😀

  4. Traci says:

    How sad is it that I’m originally from Long Island and haven’t seen any of these yet?? I had planned to see the Duck a few weeks ago, but a crazy heat wave discouraged me from leaving the comfort of central air!

    • Fuzzygalore says:

      Hi Traci 🙂
      You’re better off waiting until the Hamptons traffic subsides anyway. Then you can make a big loop back through the island and enjoy the roadside goodness!

      There is actually quite a bit of good stuff here. I need to finish compiling my list. So much to do, so little time…

  5. LJ James says:

    I was looking into putting something like this together, But I see you have already done a great job at it. I’m pretty sure we have spoken before and I hope to hear from you again.

    LJ James

  6. joseph schmidt says:

    any rides along the water on long island?

    • Fuzzygalore says:

      One of the ironies of being on long island is that your access to the water is somewhat restricted. You often have to be a stickered/permitted resident or have to pay to access it or park anywhere.

      Other than Ocean Parkway, which is pin straight with limited views of the ocean (you see more of the bay,) there really aren’t any long, enjoyable stretches of road near the water.

      There are little pockets here and there where you will enjoy some water views but they wouldn’t be worth traveling TO long island for. They’d be something of a stopgap measure while you’re already here.

  7. Raymond Frank says:

    Two things…..Behind the Fence is now located in Riverhead, and I just visited the 1930’s Shell Gas Station in Yaphank and the exterior is in serious need of upkeep….looks like nothing has been done to maintain it in years!!

  1. August 10, 2010

    […] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Two Wheels Down, Motorcycle Stuff. Motorcycle Stuff said: FuzzyGalore: 10 Awesome Long Island Roadside Attractions http://bit.ly/de2ciz Full http://bit.ly/91v7a5 […]

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