You’ve decided to head out east on Long Island – great choice! Whether you’re escaping the hectic New York City life or just looking for a weekend getaway from Nassau or Western Suffolk, the North Fork is a pretty great location. The North Fork is filled with scenic roads and country vibes. It’s really hard to believe how close it is to New York City because of how different it is out east. Low key vibes, one-lane roads, and farm stands on every corner – escaping to the North Fork is a must!

Here are 5 Places you need to visit when you are visiting the North Fork.

Kontokosta Winery

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Located in Greenport, New York, Kontokosta Winery is a real hidden gem. It is the only winery on the North Fork with views of the Long Island Sound. It really is the most picturesque vineyard I had been to. On 62 acres of property, Kontokosta has a beautiful barn style tasting room with high vaulted ceilings. You can relax inside, on an outdoor deck, or take a walk along the grass to the beautiful views on the sound. You really can’t go wrong at all when you visit Kontokosta!

Briermere Farms

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There are tons of farm stands and family businesses scattered throughout the North Fork, but none carries a bigger name than Briermere’s. A family business since 1961, Briermere’s has passed the test of time with straight A’s. Located on Sound Avenue in Riverhead, it is a pretty convenient first stop on your trip through the North Fork. I would say last stop, but if you wait til the end of the day all of the great baked goods will be gone. It’s a pretty hot commodity. Briermere is known for its pies, jams and jellies (all made from scratch). They are worth the drive, from wherever you are coming from. I promise you. Make sure you get there early to avoid the inevitable long line that wraps around the parking lot!

Lucharitos Taqueria & Tequila Bar

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Lucharitos is such an incredible lunch spot if you love tacos, burritos, and margaritas. With locations in Aquebogue and Greenport (and others opening soon across Long Island), you have multiple opportunities to grab some great food during your day. But be prepared, there will be a line and at least at 45 minute wait during peak hours at all locations. This spot is well loved and it is totally worth it! I would order ahead to pick up your food on your way out east or back to avoid waiting ! It also saves some time for the rest of your day’s adventures!

Lavender By The Bay

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When lavender is in bloom, you must stop by Lavender By The Bay! Two locations, one in Calverton and one in East Marion, offer the same amazing experience. The moment you pull up you will smell lavender, it can be kind of overwhelming but it really is incredible. On 15+ acres, you can pay to roam through the lavender fields and take all the Instagram-able pictures that you can dream of. They even have chairs set up throughout the fields to relax, take a break, and take in the beauty of the purple lavender all around you. Don’t forget to stop inside the store for some amazing smelling souvenirs! Pay attention to the website for official bloom dates to make sure you are going when the lavender is in full bloom!

Croteaux Vineyards

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Located in Southold, Croteaux really is a gem on the North Fork! It is the only vineyard in the United States that devotes itself to making Rose! With plenty of seating within a rustic barn and in the outdoor “Garden,” the walk-in only policy is not intimidating. The wine is amazing and so is the food! I highly recommend the lobster roll, which is only offered on weekends! There are so many places to relax and the scenery is beautiful, a day at Croteaux is not a bad idea at all. If you are a Rose lover, you need to make Croteaux a stop on your next trip to the North Fork of Long Island.

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