Best attractions and places to see around Selden, a hamlet in Suffolk County, New York, include a mix of historical sites and accessible natural spaces. The area provides various points of interest for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in local heritage. Selden benefits from its proximity to Long Island's expansive park system, offering opportunities for hiking and cycling.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Turn off the GPS and go get lost, turn it on when you want to go home, that's the best experience.
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The Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail, or Setauket Greenway, is a 3-mile paved path on Long Island’s north shore. It connects scenic old-growth forests, farmland, meadows, business districts, Stony Brook University, and county parks. The trail features a mix of wooded sections and occasional sunny spots, with several road crossings, and some short sections that pass through utility corridors and sand pits.
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Glacier Ridge Preserve is a 240-acre park with over 12 miles of biking trails in a big patch of forest.
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Avalon Nature Preserve, in Head of the Harbor, captivates with its diverse ecosystems. Spanning 216 acres, it features woodlands, wetlands, and serene trails, providing a peaceful haven for nature enthusiasts.
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The lighthouse sits on the northern tip of Old Field. It was first built in 1823, then rebuilt in 1868. The U.S. Coast Guard took it during WWII but gave it back to the Old Field community afterwards.
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Mount Sinai Harbor holds a marine sanctuary and a nature preserve. It's a beautiful place, popular with clamming and fishing enthusiasts.
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For a paved path suitable for walking and cycling, explore the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail, which connects forests, farmland, and meadows. If you prefer more natural trails, Avalon Nature Preserve offers diverse ecosystems and serene trails. Additionally, Cordwood Landing County Park provides scenic trails and waterfront views along the Carmans River. You can find more options in the Easy hikes around Selden guide.
Yes, Selden offers several biking opportunities. Glacier Ridge Preserve is a 240-acre park featuring over 12 miles of biking trails within a large forest. The Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail is also a 3-mile paved path suitable for cycling. For more extensive mountain biking options, check out the MTB Trails around Selden guide.
You can visit the Old Field Point Light, a man-made monument first built in 1823 and rebuilt in 1868, offering a viewpoint on the northern tip of Old Field. In Selden itself, the Selden Centereach Fire Department Museum provides a look into the area's firefighting history. You can also find Captain Daniel Roe's burial site behind the Old Westfield shopping center, marking the resting place of a Revolutionary War captain.
Many natural attractions are family-friendly, such as the paved Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail and Avalon Nature Preserve. For recreational activities, families might enjoy Boomers! Medford or BounceU Smithtown, both located in the broader area. The Island 16: Cinema de Lux in Holtsville also offers a modern movie-going experience.
The Old Field Point Light offers a great viewpoint. For natural beauty, Mount Sinai Harbor holds a marine sanctuary and nature preserve, popular for its beautiful scenery. Lake Ronkonkoma is another popular natural spot nearby. Additionally, Cordwood Landing County Park provides scenic trails and waterfront views along the Carmans River.
Outdoor activities around Selden include hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. The region benefits from Suffolk County's expansive park system, offering numerous opportunities for these activities. Popular spots include the Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail for walking and biking, and Glacier Ridge Preserve for extensive biking trails. You can also find guides for MTB Trails, Easy Hikes, and Running Trails around Selden.
The Setauket-Port Jefferson Station Greenway Trail is a 3-mile paved path, making it suitable for a variety of users, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, paved trails generally offer better accessibility.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and extensive trail networks, offering opportunities for hiking and cycling. The historical sites, like the Old Field Point Light, are valued for their heritage and scenic views. The komoot community has contributed 22 upvotes and 2 photos, highlighting the appeal of these varied attractions.
Selden itself boasts a diverse culinary scene, from cozy diners to upscale eateries. For shopping, the nearby Smith Haven Mall offers a wide selection of stores. Within Selden, areas like "Downtown Selden" around Independence Plaza have seen increased popularity with local and national businesses.
Yes, Avalon Nature Preserve in Stony Brook is easily accessible and features hiking trails and diverse habitats. The Town of Brookhaven Wildlife and Ecology Center is also in the vicinity. Further afield on Long Island, you can explore Pine Neck Nature Sanctuary for birdwatching or the Quogue Wildlife Refuge for trails and wildlife exhibits.
For runners, Lake Ronkonkoma offers a popular loop. You can also find various running routes in the Running Trails around Selden guide, which includes routes from Stony Brook and Setauket, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
Yes, Mount Sinai Harbor is a notable waterfront area that includes a marine sanctuary and nature preserve, popular for clamming and fishing. Cordwood Landing County Park also offers waterfront views along the Carmans River.


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