Heckscher Park

I just had to share about an amazingly beautiful park we went to for the first time.  Heckscher Park in Huntington.  I absolutely love every time I take a trip to Huntington because the town is absolutely adorable and has some of the most amazing restaurants and the cutest little shops.  However, all the times that I've been there I don't think I've ever gone to the park which is literally right up the road from the village.  Let me tell you if you're looking for a fun, (and free) afternoon to spend with your kiddos (or even your significant other), hop in the car and take a ride over there.  I guarantee you it will be time well spent.  We went on the most perfect day and my son had the chance to witness some pretty amazing things including ducks sitting on their nest full of eggs.  The park has a gorgeous little pond where the water is clear enough to see all the different types of fish swimming around.  My little Luke was in awe of all the little and really big "fishies" in the water.  We even saw tons, and I mean TONS of turtles just hanging out on rocks as well as a massive one swimming in the water.  We saw beautiful white swans and tons and tons of geese.  The park has a few gorgeous waterfalls and cute little bridges that give it a really tranquil feel.  Everywhere you look there are some of the most beautiful flowers and greenery making for some pretty amazing photo opportunities (which is why I was so bummed I left my "good camera" at home).  The park also has a pretty amazing playground that separates the little kids from the big ones (really important especially when you have a little one that can easily get trampled on).   There are even two areas with sand pits.  So if you're thinking of going to this park make sure to bring along your sand pale and shovel.  Even though the playground was really nice my son actually enjoyed the walk around the lake where he collected rocks and sticks and the whole nature aspect of the park even more than the amazing playground.  And I must say, I am totally ok with that!  I just love seeing his love for animals and how curious he is becoming about literally everything.  He is constantly asking "how" and "why" questions and I just love seeing how his little mind is working.  Even though it was just a morning at the park that little two year old of mine left with a pretty intense lesson on nature and took home knowing things like both ducks and turtles lay eggs, the difference between an eel and a koi fish and various other things.  It is such a joy watching him learn and explore and I am so happy when I get to give him a real hands-on experience like this one.  This is just another reminder to me of how amazing Long Island truly is and all that it has to offer.  If you have a free afternoon and you're not sure what to do with it.  Take a trip there, and bring your camera!
Also, I must add that there are some pretty great spots to throw a blanket down and have a picnic.  Although, knowing that Little Vincents Pizzeria is right up the road might make that a tough choice!  (I guess you know where we ate lunch)
I will definitely be making this trip again.
Here are some pictures from our morning at the park.