Let’s talk about one of Long Island’s most underrated gems—Bayard Cutting Arboretum. Tucked away in the peaceful hamlet of Great River, this dreamy slice of nature is located at 440 Montauk Highway, Great River, NY 11739. This spot isn’t just a pretty park—it’s an entire vibe, a full-on escape from reality, and honestly, it’s exactly what your soul needs. Whether you’re into nature, photography, architecture, or just want a calm place to breathe and walk, Bayard Cutting delivers on all fronts.

This 691-acre estate-turned-state-park was once the private property of the Cutting family, a name that screams New York history. Back in the late 1800s, William Bayard Cutting created this idyllic riverside sanctuary as a summer estate and worked with none other than the Olmsted Brothers—the same geniuses behind Central Park—to design the landscape. Fast forward to today, and it’s open to the public as one of the most peaceful, elegant green spaces in the region. You’ll be strolling through history while being surrounded by the kind of natural beauty that makes you forget about emails, notifications, and to-do lists.

What makes Bayard Cutting truly special is its incredible layout. You’ve got sweeping meadows, forested walking trails, curated gardens, and panoramic views of the Connetquot River. The River Walk is absolutely next level—especially in the fall when the leaves show off with fiery reds and golds—or in spring when the flowers are blooming like they’re on a mission. There’s also a stunning dahlia garden, a formal garden area, and a majestic collection of global tree species that will have you Googling what you’re looking at every five minutes (in the best way possible). It's like Mother Nature's greatest hits all in one place.

Let’s not forget the mansion—Westbrook. This Tudor-style beauty still stands tall in the middle of the arboretum and adds that old-money, Gatsby-esque flair to the whole experience. While you can’t roam through the house every day, they do offer seasonal tours and events that let you peek inside its rich history and beautiful interior. Oh, and did I mention there’s a café in the old carriage house? Grab a coffee or tea, sit out on the patio, and pretend you're starring in a classy European film.

If you’re into birds, you’re in for a treat—Bayard Cutting is a hotspot for birdwatchers. Between the river, the woods, and the open fields, there’s always something flapping or chirping nearby. Bring your binoculars or just enjoy the ambient nature soundtrack—it’s pure magic. And even if you’re just here for a peaceful walk or to lay out on the grass with a good book, the vibe is always calm, refreshing, and kinda life-affirming.

Around the arboretum, Great River has this lowkey charm that makes it feel like a secret hideaway. It’s close to other cool spots like Heckscher State Park, the South Shore Nature Center, and even Fire Island if you’re up for a longer adventure. The area is perfect for weekend drives, romantic getaways, or solo reset trips where all you need is nature, sunshine, and a little stillness.

So if you’re planning a trip to Long Island or just want to explore your own backyard, Bayard Cutting Arboretum should be high on your list. It’s not flashy or touristy—it’s calm, classy, and beautiful in a way that sticks with you. One visit and you’ll understand why locals keep coming back season after season.

And hey—don’t just wing it on transportation. Make your trip easy, smooth, and stylish by booking a car with Aventus Rentals. Whether you're coming from NYC, cruising around Long Island, or just want to travel in comfort, we've got the perfect ride for your perfect day. Lock in your rental now by clicking here or give us a call at +1 (631) 769-9900. Let Aventus take the wheel so you can focus on soaking in every minute of your nature-filled escape.