Many rest areas I have visited — in New York and elsewhere — yet this has to be the more artistic one yet seen. Referencing the sights of coastal Long Island, the decorations are maritime, with a whale, lighthouse, boat and buoys. Inside there is a large map of Long Island embedded in the floor’s polished granite. The bathroom is spacious and clean. There are vending machines, and an automated teller machine (ATM). There are colorful posters about Long Island’s sights and culture, and an exhibition of artifacts relating to the area’s rich history. Above the entrance is a gorgeous glass sculpture in bluish panels almost like fish scales. There is a porch with some comfortable deck chairs, benches, and there are touch-screen displays which play media to orient travellers about where they are and what they can visit nearby…

Wonderful spot to stop along 495. The place is immaculate. Some terrific food choices all from NYS. There are lovely indoor and outdoor spaces to take a break from whatever journey you are on.

We made a point of going a little out of our way to stop here. We’ve visited 3 or 4 of the other NY Welcome Centers, so were curious how this one would be. Absolutely not disappointed! Beautiful facility, theming is perfect. Very clean (even the bathrooms!). Food and market were nice as well. Convenient location on the LIE. Happy we stopped.

We found the long island welcome center beautifully done. The floors depicts a map of Long Island. This ceiling has art glass abstract depicting water. There is an open market for snacks and goodies. A beautiful whale welcomes you at the front door. As does rocking chairs and Adirondack chairs for sitting on the wide porch. We found the restrooms very clean with updated technology. There are beautiful displays of history of the area, and current things you can find on Long Island. There were many kiosks with touchscreens to find information and explain the area. The artwork was beautiful, with murals and framed art. There was ample seating with tables and chairs. The two different police offices were represented. There are green hook ups for electric cars and a small vineyard along the back of the property. There was plenty of parking with 24 hour surveillance. All in all I was very pleased and surprised to find such a nice treasure.

Nice place for a bathroom break. The place actually had some interesting displays about local attractions and history. Limited market which primarily only sells Lkng Island food. I enjoyed finding the virtual geocache at this location as well.

My husband and I stopped by the welcome center a couple of weeks ago. It’s fabulous. I purchased a really good sandwich for $9.99. It took me three days to eat it. The place is immaculate. The staff are so friendly. I told my parents about the place. They love it, too. I highly recommend you stop by on your way out east!!!

They have great sandwiches and salads at very reasonable prices. You get a good history lesson as you walk in, and not only is the interior extremely clean, but the grounds are impeccable. All this comes with friendly, helpful service.

Bathroom clean and smelled nice, dinning area was so clean and orderly, food area so organized, everything there is from mostly Long Island but also from all over New York State. The coffee smelled amazing. Staff was friendly and helpful. They have a dog run for potty time and a play area for kids.