From the historical mansion to the planetarium and spectacular views, this Gold Coast museum provides stunning appeal for visitors with varied interests.
The Vanderbilt Museum offers a time capsule of the past, with numerous fun modern activities. The building is nestled in the historic Eagle’s Nest estate built by William K. Vanderbilt II. Visit Vanderbilt Museum to travel back to the golden age of Long Island’s Gold Coast, watch a rock ’n’ roll light show and learn more about the natural world.
Gaze over the gardens for spectacular views of Northport Harbor. On clear summer days, observe seabirds diving and swooping and watch sailboats from Centerport and Northport skim across the water. Behind you, the Spanish Revival mansion, built by contributing architects of Grand Central Station, glitters in warm summer air. Explore 43 acres (17 hectares) of grounds, including lovely gardens. Follow the Solar System Hiking Trail, originally built by Vanderbilt.
Tour portions of the 24-room mansion, with rooms preserving turn-of-the-century artifacts and style. In most places, the décor is just as the Vanderbilts left it, with priceless art and furniture kept in place rather than in display cases.
Move to the natural history exhibit, with countless specimens displayed, many collected by Vanderbilt himself. Vanderbilt was also a world traveler study the many cultural artifacts from around the world that he brought back, including an Egyptian mummy.
Introduce kids to astronomy in the Reichert Planetarium, which offers shows throughout the day. Explore Long Island’s quiet night sky or get active with fun shows setting lasers to classic rock songs. On Friday nights, climb to the roof to find your favorite star, with an astronomy instructor providing guidance.
In summer, as the sun begins setting, head to the garden for the evening cultural program, ranging from community dances to car shows to children’s theater. Dance under the stars and pretend you’re back in the Gilded Age, invited to Eagle’s Nest as an exalted guest of the Vanderbilts.
The Vanderbilt Museum is a 15-minute drive from Huntington, where trains run regularly to and from Penn Station. Drive here from New York City along the Long Island Expressway. Check for seasonal opening hours and special events. Purchase general admission tickets or pay extra for a planetarium visit.
