These are some of the many special places I remember from being on the island in the 1970s decade. Sadly, a number of them no longer exist, except in our collective memories. Happy exploring!
There was no shortage of places to shop for food on Long Island in the 1970s. While some still preferred the local markets and neighborhood butchers and bakers, millions of others found their way to the bigger chains. One particular homegrown chain had an enormous impact on the grocery stores we visit today, not only on the island, but all across the country. … read more
Village Green was a summertime tradition for countless Long Islanders in the 1970s. Located at 974 Portion Road in Ronkonkoma, this small venue offered multiple miniature golf courses, snacks and more. It was a great place to spend a hot summer day. … read more
The 70s arrived about the same time the Westbury Music Fare went from adolescence to adulthood. From its modest beginnings as a tent, it grew into one of the most beloved places on Long Island to hear live music. … read more
In those muggy, unbearable summer days of the 70s, Suffolk Country residents packed the family into the car and made their way southbound on William Floyd Parkway to Smith Point. Waiting for them – soft and sandy beach, an iconic snack bar, and the cool, soothing Atlantic Ocean. … read more
When the 70s arrived, little, rectangular theaters starting popping up across the island. Each featured a smiling caricature of beloved comedian, Jerry Lewis, and family-friendly movies. Unfortunately, when the decade ended, so did the Jerry Lewis Cinemas. … read more
Sitting in Centerport, along the island’s picturesque north shore. the Vanderbilt Planetarium has served as a school field trip destination to countless school kids ever since its doors opened in 1971. … read more
If you needed home supplies in the 70s, you probably spent some time at Rickel Home Centers. In the 70s at least, they were the largest harware retail store on the island, with nine locations that would expand significantly in the decades that followed. Then they were gone. … read more
Real fans of phonograph records in the 70s learned that retail stores weren’t where the real gems were found. Those could only be discovered at the independent places. One such legendary audio oasis was the Record Stop in Ronkonkoma. … read more
If you lived near Lake Ronkonkoma, there were a number of reasons you might find yourself at the Bavarian Inn in the 1970s. It hosted countless weddings, anniversaries, christenings, sweet 16s and other events throughout the decade, leaving many a Long Islander with fond memories that lasted a lifetime. It was also a darn good German restaurant. … read more
The arrival of the 70s brought a new attraction to Long Islanders who loved animals and rural surroundings. Just off of Exit 70 in Manorville, NY, The Long Island Game Farm has hosted a steady stream of visitors young and old ever since. … read more
More
Small donations are always appreciated to help keep our informational archive afloat. Thank you!
See Our Latest Comments!