About Smithtown
Smithtown, NY is one of the oldest towns on Long Island. The founding of Smithtown dates back to 1665. Richard Smythe, the town founder, was said to have made a deal with the local Native-American chief that any land Smythe could encircle while riding a bull in one day would be his. He chose the longest day of the year and acquired the land known today as Smithtown. The iconic landmark Whisper the Bull statue has been made eligible for the New York State and National Register of Historic Places. A statue of Richard Smythe was unveiled as part of Smithtown's 350 celebrations in 2015.
The Smithtown Historical Society hosts many annual events. Their Spring Farm Festival in April and Heritage Fair in September honor history while bringing the community together. Educational programs including goat yoga are offered as well as school field trips. Cheer on the home team and watch an accurate interpretation of a 19th-century baseball game with the Brooklyn Atlantics. The Brush Barn is a unique venue that can be rented out for events. The Smithtown Community Band features musicians ages 15-70 who share the common goal of creating music. They perform during the Summer under the stars.
Smithtown's Recreation Department publishes their annual program guide for residents. It lists all of the camps, teen and adult programs and mommy and me classes. Swimming and golf lessons are offered at the Smithtown Landing Country Club. There are many town parks and beaches to enjoy. Hoyt Farm provides a variety of programs for children and families featuring a water playground, museum, and nature trails. Their tastiest program is the Maple Sugaring demonstration. Smithtown is also home to Caleb Smith State Park and Preserve, Nissequogue River State Park and Sunken Meadow State Park. Take an unforgettable 8.3-mile paddling adventure in a kayak or canoe on the Nissequogue River.
Sweetbriar Nature Center is a not-for-profit that provides natural science education for Long Island residents of all ages and to engage in native wildlife rehabilitation services. Hundreds of species of plants and animals reside on their 54 acres.
Smithtown Festival Day is one of the many events sponsored by the Greater Smithtown Chamber of Commerce. It is held on the first Sunday in June and closes Main Street. This family fun day features rides, music, entertainment, food, arts, and crafts.
The Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts is housed in the historic theatre on Main Street. There are professional shows as well as community shows performed by local children on their year-round calendar.
The Smithtown Library has four branches. It is the largest library system on Long Island. The Main Branch offers programs for children and adults in addition to their collections of great books, 3D printing, notary services, and outings. The Long Island Room features collections of local archives. They are now a Passport Acceptance Facility. Their Summer concert series on the lawn is top-rated. Residents are known to put their chairs out early in the morning to have a great spot in front of the band shell.
The Smithtown Central School District serves approximately 10,000 students in seven elementary schools, three middle schools, and two high schools across the township. They have won many academic awards, produced athletes and national scholarship winners. Whisper the Bull is the mascot for all of the schools and teams.
The Smithtown Children's Foundation's mission is to provide financial and emotional support to children and families within the Smithtown community by bridging family, friends, neighbors and local business to act as one in times of crisis. Since 2008, they have awarded college scholarships and teacher grants in addition to being a resource for the community’s most needy by providing backpacks/school supplies, Thanksgiving gift cards, and holiday gifts.
Restaurants in Smithtown appeal to every palate. Old Street Restaurant and Bar have been serving delicious meals since 1969. Maureen's Kitchen is decorated with cows and is opened for breakfast and lunch. Be prepared to wait and bring cash. The Garden Grill is in a charming historic landmark dating back to 1873. They offer lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch. Catering is also available.
Smithtown is a great place to live, work and play and that's no bull!