This unprecedented time has presented many problems for people over the last few months, one of the problems students at Massapequa might be facing is finding places to go in their free time. With so many places being closed or at limited capacity it’s difficult to find somewhere for groups to go, but it is definitely not impossible. 

First, we have somewhere right here in our own town, the Massapequa Preserve. This preserve has a path where one can walk, run, bike,etc. The forest overlooks a reservoir which is home to many swans and geese. The Massapequa Reservoir is a popular spot for shoreline fishing however Nassau County does have restrictions for black bass fish.. The preserve provides an outdoor environment that is the perfect place to spend time during Covid-19. The end of the path leads to Sunrise High which if you cross the street will bring you to the Bethpage Bike Path which includes the Massapequa Preserve. 

 The Bethpage Bike Path is 13.4 miles long and will take through multiple state parks such as the Trail View State Park, Bethpage State Park, and Massapequa Preserve. During the path, one can see a golf course, picnic area, and lots of wildlife. The path begins on Merrick Road and Ocean Avenue in Massapequa and ends in Woodbury on Manetto Hill Road and Woodbury Road. 

Going a little further towards the South Shore of Long Island, you will find Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve. This park, located in Merrick, was once a landfill but was transformed into a park space back in 2000. This is a two mile trail that is most popular amongst its visitors for walking, running, and bird watching. People enjoy the river that is located alongside it and the view of the Manhattan skyline. Also, a 500 foot fishing pier can be found here where people can come and fish in Merrick Bay during the season. 

Also in Nassau County, we have Old Westbury Gardens which is located at 71 Old Westbury Road. This land, which used to belong to the successful businessman by the name of John Shaffer Phipps, was turned into a museum in 1959 which is open to the public. It is included on the list of the National Register of Historic Places and it contains about 200 acres of land which is used for gardens, woodlands, lakes, and ponds. Tickets are anywhere from $7-$12 and include a tour of the mansion itself, access to the outdoor grounds, and activities they may offer. Some of the best ones for this time include outdoor concerts, horticultural workshops, garden tours, and much more. 

Overall, this period we are living through is one that no one could have imagined. The lack of ideas and activities is one that has stumped the minds of many of the students here at MHS. We hope this list helps you the next time you are looking for a place to spend your time.