28 Things To Do in Massapequa with Kids

Massapequa Preserve's bike trails connect to Long Island's Greenbelt Trail. Photo courtesy of the preserve
Massapequa Preserve's bike trails connect to Long Island's Greenbelt Trail. Photo courtesy of the preserve
2/5/24 - By Jaime Sumersille

The community of Massapequa is massive. From its northernmost boundary at the Southern State Parkway to the waters of South Oyster Bay, this community within the Town of Oyster Bay extends through the village of Massapequa Park to the Suffolk County border. With bustling downtown areas along both Park Boulevard and Broadway, and a thriving beach community on the South Shore, Massapequa is a family-friendly jewel in Nassau County.

We've rounded up all our favorite Massapequa destinations for kids and families below. Of course, you'll find more fun local communities to explore in our Guide to Nassau County, plus more fun expeditions in our Guide to Day Trips on Long Island.

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Top Things To Do in Massapequa with Kids

1. Marjorie R. Post Community Park

Marjorie R. Post Community Park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, tennis, pickleball, handball, volleyball, and basketball courts, a lakeside walking area, a swimming and diving pool, kiddie wading pool, ice skating, and roller hockey rinks.

2. John J. Burns Park

Located just across Merrick Road from Marjorie R. Post Community Park is John J. Burns Park, situated at the mouth of Great South Bay. It's home to a pair of playgrounds, a variety of sports courts, turf baseball fields, as well as paths for running, walking, and biking. Boaters can find a boat launch ramp here for a day of seafaring adventure.

3. Field of Dreams

Don't let the name fool you: Field of Dreams isn't home to cornfields or baseball diamonds. However, this park does feature fields for football, soccer, and lacrosse, plus a basketball court, a playground, and bathrooms.

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Things to do in Massapequa with kids: Massapequa Preserve
Discover the secrets of the natural world at Massapequa Preserve. Photo by Tara Berghorn

4. Massapequa Preserve

The Massapequa Preserve is a sprawling 423-acre property running from Merrick Road on the south to Linden Street on the north. It's home to one of our favorite family-friendly hiking trails and biking is also permitted. Bring a pole for some freshwater fishing. Nature abounds here, so pack a sense of adventure.

5. Marjorie R. Post Pool

Make a splash at the outdoor pool in Marjorie R. Post Park during the summer months. Typically open from late June through Labor Day, this community pool offers memberships and daily rates for Oyster Bay Town residents and non-residents alike. Swimming lessons and a swim team are also offered.

6. Bike Paths

The shared-use bike path at John. J. Burns Park loops around the entirety of the park, providing scenic views of ball fields, playgrounds, and the Great South Bay. The path is just over a half-mile in length. The Massapequa Preserve also has several miles of paved bike paths that transverse most of middle Long Island.

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Things to do in Massapequa with kids: Tobay Beach Park
Kids can play the summer away at Tobay Beach's spray park and playground. Photo courtesy of the park

7. Tobay Beach and Spray Park

During the summer months, cool off at Tobay Beach, which is home to a recently updated spray park and new snack shack. Pack a picnic and nosh by the sprinklers or grab a bite at The Boatyard for bayside dining or The Surf Shack for beachside dining. It's residents-only during beach hours.

8. John F. Kennedy Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary

Another fun destination at Tobay Beach, this sanctuary is a 550-acre stretch of protected wetlands, which are home to ducks, hawks, and falcons. The centerpiece of the sanctuary is Guggenheim Pond, which draws herons, egrets, black ducks, and even rare bird species. Permits are required to visit and must be renewed annually.

9. Big Chief Lewis

This larger-than-life statue is situated on Sunrise Highway and pays tribute to Native American history on Long Island.

10. Just Escape

Just Escape offers fun-filled escape rooms catering to kids and families, including pirate, candy, and slime themes to solve. Birthday party packages are also available.

11. Ultra Lanes & Lounge

One of our favorite local bowling alleys, Ultra Lanes Bowl & Lounge offers 30 lanes along with state-of-the-art technology and an arcade. It hosts adult-only and adult-youth leagues, a Saturday morning kids’ instructional bowling league, plus school break and summer programs.

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Things to do in Massapequa with kids: United Skates of America
Skate year-round on Long Island at United Skates of America. Photo courtesy of United Skates

12. United Skates of America

Bring your own roller skates or rent a pair at United Skates of America. It also offers pads and skate mates to help unsteady skaters. In addition to special glow skating sessions, United Skates hosts themed skates year-round, including an Easter Bunny skate, a Santa skate, and more.

13. Peninsula Golf Course

Have your kids learn the game of golf, or perfect their stroke at a Peninsula Golf Course, which offers after-school programs run by PGA professionals. Of course, you can also book a regular tee time. Rita's Cafe serves up food after you're done hitting the links.

14. Casa de Spin

Casa de Spin employs giant spin art machines to let creative visions come to life. Join one of its workshops, attend a party, or book the studio for a private session.

15. Dave & Busters

Find Dave & Busters on the second-floor of the old Sunrise Mall. This Long Island arcade is a bit smaller than the other locations, however it offers the same amenities and games. Download the app to for updates on discount days and specials.

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Things to do in Massapequa with kids: All-American Hamburger Drive-In
The old-school All-American Hamburgers serves up burgers, fries, shakes, and more. Photo courtesy of the restaurant

Family-Friendly Massapequa Restaurants

16. All American Hamburgers

This iconic Long Island staple is an ideal spot for food on the go. The old-school, fast-food joint serves burgers, fries, and shakes from a counter-service takeout window.

17. The Good Life

The Good Life is an English-style pub that packs a perfect punch for families. It's loud and fun with comfort-food faves and an eclectic selection of brews for mom and dad.

18. American Beauty Bistro

American Beauty Bistro has two Massapequa locations, both offer specific kid menus and even FREE meal deals for kids.

19. Smokin' Al's

Roll up your sleves and enjoy an informal barbecue setting at Smokin' Al's, where messy faces—and hands—are encouraged. Bonus: It offers extensive gluten-free options.

20. Krisch's

Step back into the 1950s at the retro Krisch's for homemade ice cream and All-American fare. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner since 1920, this hot spot keeps bellies full and smiles flashing.

21. North Fork Doughnut Company

No Fo Do Co has entered the Park Avenue scene, taking over the former Once Bitten doughnut shop. Housemade flavors like Oreo s'mores, Dunkaroos, PB & J and many more grace the shelves on a rotating basis.

Family-Friendly Annual Events in Massapequa

22. Park After Dark

The Village of Massapequa shuts down to vehicular traffic on multiple dates throughout the summer for Park After Dark.

23. Strawberry Festival

The Historical Society of the Massapequas hosts the sweet Strawberry Festival annually. Enjoy Long Island strawberries, shortcake, and other treats, including FREE fun for the kiddos.

24. Music Under the Stars

Each summer, the Town of Oyster Bay hosts a Music Under the Stars program, where families can pack a picnic and belt out some tunes.

25. Salute to America Fireworks

Honor veterans and active military personnel with a musical tribute and fireworks display at the Town of Oyster Bay's Salute to America each July.

26. Massapequa ParkStreet Fair

Come fall, the annual Massapequa Park Street Fair is not to be missed with its crafty vendors, rides, and fair foods, this festival is sure to please the entire family.

Massapequa, NY, Hotels

27. Best Western Bar Harbour Inn

This local hotel features the biggest kid-pleaser of all: a heated indoor pool. There's also an included breakfast and attentive service.

28. Rent a House

This waterfront home sleeps four and has a private waterfront deck out back. Drop a line or the included crab traps and catch fresh seafood for dinner!

Originally published in 2018.

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