#there's 17 OUTDOOR GOLF COURSES AND DRIVING RANGES IN MY CITY | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

runawaywidow · 4 years

Text

For the past several summers I have put my United States passport to good use and traveled around the world. I’ve shared photos and posts about some exciting places but my most popular post is about a small town in upstate New York, 17 things to do in Ithaca.

Like many, I am hesitant about traveling this summer. We are now entering phase 3 post pandemic, so some places are opening up here in New York but I will not be going too far away. In fact, with an abundance of outdoor opportunities on Long Island, I will share my summer bucket list with my fellow islanders.

While the state parks do charge an entrance fee of $10, the Empire Pass can be purchased for the year for $80 and with this summer of limited travel, it is well worth the investment.

1. Robert Moses, Field 5

Yesterday I drove myself over the bridge to Robert Moses ocean beach on Fire Island. Clean, soft sand, refreshing salt water with moderate waves, qualified life guards and open bathrooms make this beach a true pleasure. If your ideal day is to sit in a chair under an umbrella and read or to take a long walk along the shore, visit the lighthouse and maybe stroll into the small beach village of Kismet, this can all be done in a day trip. Walking east along the shore I will warn you that some bathers prefer not to wear swim suits. Just remember to wear your mask in the bathrooms at the beach.

Parking $10 or Empire pass. https://parks.ny.gov/parks/7/

2. Montauk

The eastern most point of Long Island has this amazingly, still quaint fishing village. The cost of hotel rooms has sky rocketed in recent years but since you save money on air fare and time and the hassle of driving through New York City, it can be worth the splurge. More ocean beaches, fishing trips, fresh seafood, hiking trails, cliffs, surfers and a light house to climb are just some reasons people keep coming out year after year to visit. My friend has made 2 visits already this summer with her kids to watch the sunrise at what is called THE END – and breakfast spots are open for the early birds too.

Hotel rooms are available but the average price per night is around $500 with a 3 night minimum on weekends. Day trip or a little getaway; I’ll be planning my trip out east soon.

Montauk – Budget Friendly Vacation

Montauk Point lighthouse

3. Sunken Meadow State Park

What I love about this park is the 2 mile boardwalk along the beach for walking and riding bikes. This park has hiking trails through the woods, and a public golf course with a driving range. You must reserve a tee time in advance. In addition, I like to visit this location as it is where we got married on the beach last June and had a fun celebration with family and friends. We’ve been back a few times this spring and always enjoy some time outside.

Parking $10 or Empire pass: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/37/

4. Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve

This scenic park is located on the North Shore in Lloyd Harbor. The old estate and buildings are still standing on the hill above the Long Island Sound and active horse stables give the feel of being a guest at a country estate. The three mile paved and shaded trail is available to pedestrians and bicycles only. No dogs allowed.

Parking $10 or Empire pass: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/23/details.aspx

5. Cold Spring Harbor hiking trail

This one is Free. Simply park by the library on Harbor Road in Cold Spring Harbor and you will see the sign to the entrance. This is the north end of the 19 mile Nassau-Suffolk trail and does have some hills to climb. People often bring dogs along on a leash. I would highly recommend spraying for ticks before you head out on this trail or any trails on Long Island and be sure to check carefully when you return home as well.

https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7029784/cold-spring-harbor-state-park-out-and-back

6. Huntington Village

The restaurants in town are most creative as they set up outdoor dining tables on side walks and alleys. Musicians on the street, music coming from the restaurants and people walking around make us forget that we have been sheltering in place for 3 months. The waitstaff is required to wear masks and you have the option to wear a mask as well. Walking around the town, getting an ice cream and seeing people again can make us all remember we are part of a bigger community. And when you go out to eat, you can feel good about supporting the local economy too!

7. Planting Fields, Oyster Bay

If you prefer gardens, this former Gold Coast estate features 409 acres of gardens. The Coe house and greenhouses are currently closed but the grounds are open for walking and enjoying the outdoor gardens and architecture from the early 1900’s.

https://plantingfields.org/plan-your-visit/

8. Bayard Cutting Arboretum

Located on the south shore in Great River, the grounds are open everyday except on Mondays. The trail along the river is lined with a variety of trees and plants in an informal setting. The house is closed currently but this is a beautiful park to visit and learn more about the types of plants in this area.

https://bayardcuttingarboretum.com/

9. Long Island Aquarium

A favorite place to visit with families is the aquarium in Riverhead. The sea otters, penguins and sea lion exhibits are outdoors. Sting rays and sharks are indoors and masks are required. Due to reduced guest capacity, reservations must be made in advance.

https://www.longislandaquarium.com/purchase-tickets/pricing/

10. Fire Island by Ferry

I grew up on the south shore in Sayville, known as the “friendliest town in America”. This is really a great little town with restaurants and small shops along a quaint Main Street that often closes for town events like car shows and summer festivals. Following Foster Avenue south towards the Great South Bay and turning left at the end, you will see the docks for the ferries. Two of my first jobs were cleaning houses at Fire Island Pines and making pizzas at Cherry Grove. Both awesome little beach communities that do not allow cars, homes are connected only by boardwalks and the vibes from the New York City gay community are alive and vibrant.

The ferry to Sailors Haven and Sunken Forest also leaves from the same dock area and while homes are not available to rent and only a concession stand is available for dining, this natural setting makes for a great day trip for families.

Ferries cost $16-18 round trip and you can pay to bring your dog as well. Ferries leave approximately every 2 hours.

http://www.sayvilleferry.com/schedule-pines.php

10. ROBERT MOSES, Field 2

The western most end of Fire Island National seashore has a 3 par 9 hole golf course right there at the beach. No reservations necessary as it is first come, first served. Perfect for beginners and beach lovers. Pack a lunch or dinner, play golf and take a long walk around the point or hop in for a swim in the sea.

$10 parking fee or Empire Pass.

11. Jones Beach, Field 6

Although the concerts have been cancelled this summer, the iconic boardwalk at Jones Beach is still a treasure. I prefer field 6 on the eastern most part of the park as it is the shortest walk to the water and right on the boardwalk. Also a great place to walk with a stroller. The playground may be opening soon and a there is a small 9 hole pitch and putt golf course along the boardwalk as well. My grandmother and mom used to tell stories of going to the pool located in the building during the summer and the many evenings they spent dancing to music outside at the bandshell.

$10 parking fee or Empire Pass

https://parks.ny.gov/parks/jonesbeach/

12. Kayak River Rentals

I have heard wonderful tales of kayaking the Nissequogue River starting in Smithtown near the bull (It’s a famous statue here on Long Island). So you make a reservation and meet the group – sign some papers and board the kayak. Double kayaks and canoes cost about $60 for the approximately 3 hour tour down the river toward the Long Island sound. Nature, birds, and water are the best, just prepare for the sun, bugs and hydration on your adventure. A bus even brings you back to your car. This summer I will definitely try this.

http://www.canoerentals.com/

13. Motor Boat Rentals

Living near the beach, I have always had either a sailboat or a motor boat… except for this summer. While I am happy to save on the expense of maintenance and repairs, I will miss going out in a boat.

Having friends with boats is always a good alternative. But if your friends don’t have a boat, it is possible to rent boats for a day or even half a day. I did this last winter in Florida with my sister and her family and we had a blast. So as a consolation to staying home this summer without a boat, I have been looking into day rentals and am considering two. For a boat that could accommodate 8 people, for the day it is about $1000.

In Freeport, the rental shop offers hourly rentals starting at 2 hours for about $300.

https://summerboatrental.com/

In Port Washington, Long Island Boat Rentals offers deals for small boats as well as captained boats for the day.

https://liboatrentals.com/

I am looking forward to trying out one or both of these places this summer. Who’s in?

I am grateful to live in such a beautiful place and to have the summer off. I can not imagine what the fall will bring for me as a teacher but I know that I have today to get out and enjoy. Keep safe, wear a mask if you will be near people and have a great summer!

amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "runawaywidow-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "My Amazon Picks"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "cb89e352a51c07372a01fee8d5e3b26f"; amzn_assoc_asins = "B07DXR62KF,B079QKBS1M,B016MOIIMY,B0842SD2F2";

14 Awesome Things to do this Summer on Long Island For the past several summers I have put my United States passport to good use and traveled around the world.

#beaches #joy #longisland #Montauk #newyork #NYbeach #summer #summervacation #travel #walksonlongisland

0 notes

aowanders-blog · 6 years

Photo

New Post has been published on https://aowanders.com/things-whitefish-mt/

Things To Do In Whitefish MT

THINGS TO DO IN WHITEFISH MT

Whenever I travel to a new city I’m filled with excitement & a sense of adventure. Discovering the unknown and trying new things. Meeting new people and seeing new sites. Relaxing with a great glass of wine or a chilled pint regaling stories of my days adventures are just one of the things to do in whitefish MT. When visiting ski or mountain towns I’m always suspicious of internet connections, accommodations, dining options & what to do after day 3. Until I discovered Whitefish. Offering small town charm, big city amenities and endless outdoor adventures there are thousands of things to do in Whitefish, MT. This little mountain town makes a great basecamp for multi-day adventures.

OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO IN WHITEFISH MT

The question isn’t what to do in Whitefish MT its how many things can you do while your there? After spending your days in the outdoor playground surrounding Whitefish, Montana; hiking, biking, touring Glacier or fishing you’ll be pleased to return to Whitefish’s cozy accommodations and fantastic food. The city itself provides a variety of attractions and activities including live theater, shopping, local breweries, hockey games, poker, bicycle trails, water parks & acclaimed golf courses. Being centrally located to Whitefish Lake, Flathead Lake, Flathead River, Flathead National Forest & Glacier National Park the menu of outdoor fun is expansive. Hope you enjoy my list of 100 FREE or Cheap Things To Do In Whitefish MT for all your vacation needs. Be sure to utilize my Free Camping Guide too.

1 GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

Glacier National Park offers visitors the opportunity to fish, hike, camp, view wildlife & road trip through one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. If your in the area you need you to at least drive the Going To The Sun Road once. National Parks do charge a fee ranging from $3-$30, but 10 days out of every year the National Park allow visitors to enter free of charge. To find out which days they are check out the National Parks Website. Want to read more on Glacier National Park?

2 FLATHEAD NATIONAL FOREST

If you want to see the beauty of the area without the crowds make your way to Flathead National Forest. The blue hues are magical, and Flathead Lake is the largest & cleanest lake in North America. The biggest plus for all you fur parents unlike Glacier National Park dogs are welcome on the trails here. Make sure your prepared though. Cell phone service is spotty, and there are no stores, gas or food out there. On the plus side there is no admission fee. Campgrounds are first come first serve no nightly fee, and in most cases you can stay up to 14 days. Want to read more on Flathead National Forest

3 WHITEFISH TRAIL

Like the Appalachian Trail the Whitefish Trail is user supported. The Whitefish Trail is a community asset stretching 36 miles including 10 trailheads and providing natural surface trails in a rural forested environment. The diverse trail system is perfect for families, runners, hikers, dog walkers, horses & an array of outdoor enthusiasts. My prediction is the Whitefish Trail will evolve into the Skyline Trail in Ogden or the extensive trail system in Boulder. To read more on the Whitefish Trail.

4 CITY BEACH

It may not be the ocean or the bays of Alaska, but the city beach in Whitefish MT is pretty remarkable. Mountains surrounding its banks with sugar sand beaches and crystal clear waters. If your looking for things to do in whitefish MT city beach is a must. Parking is free. There is no admission. the views are magnificent, and the waters are inviting. Close to downtown you can walk, bike or run. Bring a book and soak in the beauty for an afternoon. Read more on City Beach.

5 WHITEFISH EQUESTRIAN CENTER

Montana is known for its big sky, fly fishing & beautiful landscapes. This is why I love Whitefish because it has all of that plus a horse show jumping training center. With one indoor heated arena, and three outdoor heated arenas there’s plenty to see & watch. There’s even a heated viewing lounge with cable tv & wifi. You can board your horses here. Sign up for lessons, or pack a lunch take the family and go watch the best train for free. A great afternoon idea when your legs are jello from hiking, and tired of spending money. Need more information on the Whitefish Equestrian Center.

6 HUGH ROGERS WAG PARK

I’m not a dog park person. Kota & I go on enough adventures so dog parks are like going to the gym, and I don’t do that either. The Hugh Rogers Wag Park though is good enough to make me want to move there. Most dog parks are a large open area with a fence. When looking for things to do in Whitefish MT I came across the Hugh Rogers Wag Park. Its out on the east side of town and is phenomenal. Free admission. Large parking lot, and there are 4 gated areas to this 5 acre park.

#gallery-4 margin: auto; #gallery-4 .gallery-item float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; #gallery-4 img border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; #gallery-4 .gallery-caption margin-left: 0; /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

The wide open throw the ball and retrieve park. Theres a training obstacle course for show dogs. A small dog section, and a pond section. Theres a covered area with picnic tables to get out of the sun, and the day Kota & I went there were sky diving tours landing in the field on the other side of the parking lot. Plus you don’t even need to bring your own toys. There are balls, chew sticks, ropes, stuffed animals and a variety of other toys provided. Its probably the best dog park in America, and Kota made a ton of friends. It was unofficial Begal day so it was hard to keep track of him. Read more of Wag Park

7 WHITEFISH MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT

Eight miles away from downtown Whitefish, and with 3,000 skiable acres located in the Rocky Mountain this playground requires a visit. In the summer time parking is free and so is hiking around the village or the mountain. Its a really unique ski resort that recently underwent a full makeover bringing it out of the 1970s. Although I wish they wouldn’t have. When the snow melts the trails the slopes make way for alpine slides, adventure parks, zipline tours, scenic chairlift rides, mountain top dining & mountain biking courses. Its a year round resort with two short shoulder seasons. Great for a day of family fun all in one spot. Read more on Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort.

8 WHITEFISH FARMERS MARKET

#gallery-5 margin: auto; #gallery-5 .gallery-item float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; #gallery-5 img border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; #gallery-5 .gallery-caption margin-left: 0; /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

When looking for things to in whitefish MT most people look to the great outdoors, but on Tuesdays look right downtown. Every Tuesday from 5pm-7pm from the end of May to the end of September the whitefish farmers market is held at the North end of Central Ave across the street from the library & train station. There’s usually live music, great energy, tons of local vendors, fresh produce & fruits as well as prepared foods from the locals. Best of all if you just want to take in the sites and smells its free to listen to live music and mingle with others. Definitely worth checking out if your in the area on a Tuesday. Looking for more info on the Whitefish Farmers Market

9 FLASHPOINT OUTDOOR LASER TAG

Unlike paintball laser tag is exciting, inexpensive and my favorite part NOT PAINFUL. If your trying to find things to do in Whitefish MT for the kids check out laser tag. Flashpoint Outdoor Laser tag is hosted in a forested setting about a mile and half out of town. The cost is super cheap at $25 for 2 hours. Includes XM7Skinny or MP5 Stinger laser guns, and offers survivor, capture the flag or team elimination games. For directions or more information on Flashpoint Outdoor Laser tag.

10 WILD HORSE ISLAND STATE PARK

If your on the hunt for things to do in Whitefish MT you definitely need to check out Wild Horse Island State Park. Its actually located in Kalispell all of 17 miles away, but worth the trip. There’s no admission, and its the largest island in America. Home to wild horses & rich history. First Nation Tribes such as Salis-Kootenai used to use this island as a pastor for their horses. To protect them from being stolen by other tribes. Accessible only by boat makes it a bit of a challenge, but if you want to add some adventure to your trip we made the swim. Need more information on Wild Horse State Park.

11 HIDDEN LAKE

#gallery-6 margin: auto; #gallery-6 .gallery-item float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; #gallery-6 img border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; #gallery-6 .gallery-caption margin-left: 0; /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

This hidden gem is one of the more popular destinations in the park. Mainly because it right across from Logan Pass Visitor Center, and is under 3 miles. Most of the trail is boardwalks all the way to the view point so its an easy hike for the not so athletic. Wildlife including grizzly bears can be seen all along the trail. Wildflowers are abundant, and during fire season expect smoke to fill the air. Anytime after 10am this trail will be packed and the visitor center parking lot will have you doing laps until a spot opens up. The beauty of Hidden Lake warrants the attention. To learn more about Hidden Lake check out my Glacier National Park Blog.

12 PANNING FOR GOLD

There’s a reason why at one point Montana had more millionaires per capita then anywhere else in America. Glacier County has some of the richest mountains on the planet,and bears gems, sapphire & of course golden nuggets for prospectors to find. Recreational gold panning in Montana is a perfect way to spend a day with the family on vacation. Whether your sluicing, panning, metal detecting or dredging there are plenty of valuables still waiting to be found in Montana’s ground. Read more on gold panning blog to find out best times and areas for finding gold.

Would love to hear more ideas of things to do in the Whitefish area in the comments below, and if your looking for the best place for breakfast. If your in Whitefish you have to try Amazing Crepes. I go here every time I am in town. Its a locals favorite, and my first stop.

0 notes

aowanders-blog · 7 years

Photo

New Post has been published on https://aowanders.com/why-i-love-whitefish-montana/

Why I love Whitefish Montana

WHITEFISH MONTANA

Whitefish Montana is this vibrant little mountain town nestled between Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake & Big Mountain Ski Resort. Millions of people every year travel to this iconic vacation destination to see its magnificent beauty & mountainous landscape. Surrounded by world class fishing in every creek, river, stream & lake fisherman flock from around the globe. Thousands of miles of trails attract hikers, bikers, ATVs, snowmobiles & anybody else that wants to be in the great outdoors.

#gallery-3 margin: auto; #gallery-3 .gallery-item float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; #gallery-3 img border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; #gallery-3 .gallery-caption margin-left: 0; /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */

Within striking range to Banff, Yellowstone, Hood River, Mount Rushmore, Jasper, Sandpoint & Mount Rainier its perfect for an unforgettable summer road trip family vacation. Along with all the outdoor activities Whitefish Montana is full of other adventurous activities for the whole family to enjoy. From hockey games at the ice arena to eating crepes for breakfast on main street Whitefish has something for everybody.

FACTS OF WHITEFISH MONTANA

With a population of 7,200 in 2016, and hits every checkbox a tourist, traveler or local could ever want its one of the best kept secrets in America. Accessible by plane, train, bus or car makes it even more confusing why its not on everyone’s radar. I’ve lived in the Whitefish area twice, and when my travels are done it will be my permanent home. Unless I stumble across something even better on my trip around the AO LOOP. A one bedroom apartment will run you about $750 and a two bedroom is under a $1000.

RV spots run around $500 a month unless you can get a spot at the private park at the entrance of town at the gold & antique store. They only charge $230/month, but those spots are filled with long term residents who have been there for years. Utilities combined will run you around $200/month, and Kalispell is a full service town 17 miles away for all you big box store supply needs. Plus there are two nationwide grocery stores right in town so groceries for me (a single guy) was around $200/month.

Most jobs pay around $12-15/hr, and a server or bartender can make around $4,000/month. Montana has no sales tax, and the cost of alcohol is the cheapest in the nation. A bud light goes for $2 at every bar on Main Street, and almost every bar has kino, slots or Texas Hold’em Poker.

ACTIVITIES OF WHITEFISH MONTANA

With my hobbies, interests & lifestyle its the perfect set up. With an outdoor playground to ski, hike, camp, climb, fish, raft, mountain bike, snowmobile & ATV I couldn’t ask for anything more. After a long day in the backcountry to come back into town to grab dinner at a variety of restaurants from steakhouses to sushi, or take in a movie at the theater. Meet up with friends for a round of golf on 1 of the 4 courses, or knock some pins over at the local bowling alley. Whitefish Montana has it all.

From antiques to waterparks if you can’t find it here you didn’t look hard enough. On Sundays & Mondays you can play No-Limit Poker at the Remington Bar, or you can play 2-5 Limit Poker any day of the week at the Bulldog Saloon. Spend all day walking up & down mainstreet shopping for clothes, gear, souvenirs or art. Visit the local ice arena to join an adult league, watch youth hockey or sign up for open skate. Inhale a yoga session at the Yoga Hive, or rent jet ski’s and whip around the 25th largest lake in America. There’s two theater companies, and a brewery right downtown to give you even more options.

Make your way to Columbia Falls and spend the day at Montana’s largest waterpark, or go ziplining right outside of Glacier. Take a fly fishing lesson, or sign up for a whitewater raft tour. Go dancing at Caseys on Main Street, or head up to their rooftop bar and sip martini’s as you watch the sun set into the mountains. The only thing Whitefish Montana doesn’t have is indoor skydiving or surfing, but I’m sure its on the way.

WINTERS IN WHITEFISH MONTANA

Winters are cold, but when you live in a mountain town at the base of a ski resort you’ll take the cold over the heat any day of the week. With 4 ski resorts within an hour of Whitefish, and 13 more within striking range skiing rocky mountain powder is magnificent. The ice arena has leagues for all ages & skills to get you out of the house. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling & ice fishing are all on the table as well.

Need a break from the snow take Amtrak to Seattle or Portland for a day trip or long weekend getaway. All the bars in town have an open mic or karaoke night. Learn jiu- jitsu, or get a membership at Waves. The only health club with an indoor waterpark. Whitefish is a four season town that has just as much to do in the winter as it does in the summer. The off season is only October & April.

VIBE OF WHITEFISH MONTANA

The vibe and pulse of Whitefish Montana is active, modern, genuine & neighborly. My first night there I was invited to house party. It wasn’t a binge drinking puke on my shoes while I hold your hair back house party. We played bocce ball, volleyball, monopoly & pictionary until the sun came up. Then we then built a raft to get to the sand bar so we could build a rope swing, and hang out on all day. It was good clean harmless fun with good people, and the town is full of good people.

If you get a DWI its because you ignored the 8 stranger offering to drive you home for free. Neighbors will show up with homecooked food & donations when life knocks you off your feet. Whitefish isn’t about sports cars, bling & bass. Its about quality, family, friends, memories, experiences & the simplicity of a “good life”. The mentality is treat others how you want to be treated, and watch out for one another. Its infectious & quite rare in today’s America.

Obviously there is a small “shady” community, but google the local newspaper and read the police blotter. Its not uncommon to see: “An individual called 911 emergency services last night because there were raccoons in his neighbors garbage.” Tell me another city were that call would make the police blotter because there is so little crime they don’t have any other option but to publish it! That’s Whitefish for you. There may be some bad apples, but doors remain open. Cars park with windows down, and money left in plane site. Its a way of life I hope stays in Whitefish Montana forever.

Use Trover to find even more discoveries, and leave a comment below about what you think of Whitefish Montana.

Whitefish – a photo list by AOWANDERS

0 notes