Let the Port Jefferson Library Help with Museum Passes

Summer is the perfect time to explore and try new things. How about checking out a Museum pass from the Port Jefferson Free Library?

We have three museum passes currently available:

Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum, Cold Spring Harbor

Long before Long Island became a suburban paradise full of houses and shopping centers, it was part of a vibrant coastal environment. (Port Jefferson was a shipbuilding center). Cold Spring Harbor was a whaling center. Whaling was one of the first industries on Long Island. The Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum is dedicated to preserving that history.

The museum holds the only fully equipped 19th Century whaleboat in New York State, as well as an extensive collection of scrimshaw objects. (Scrimshaw objects were carved from the bones, muscle, and teeth of a variety of species of whales.)

The object were both practical as well as decorative. This is a family friendly museum, and hosts a number of free programs for children and their families. Click here for the full schedule (PDF).

The Museum is open every day during the Summer until Labor Day from 11-5. For more information and directions click here.

The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum, New York City

Docked at Pier 86 (12th Avenue and 46th Street) visitors can explore the World War II era warship, the Intrepid. Walk from stem to stern while learning about the ship, its history and inner workings. Visitors can get a taste of what life is like on a huge ship and visit the berthing areas (sleeping quarters). You can even tour the mess hall and see how they dined on the high seas! (No cruise ship buffets here!). Walk on the flight deck and see planes from all branches of the military on display.

The newest arrival on the Intrepid is the spaceship Enterprise which has its own special pavillion. For more information about the Pavillion click here. There is so much to see and do on the Intrepid. Need a quick bite? Stop in one of several Au Bon Pains throughout the Intrepid.

The Intrepid is open Monday- Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays and Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. These hours are good until Oct. 31.

Old Westbury Gardens, Old Westbury

Old Westbury Gardens is more than just its beautiful gardens and grounds. The property was originally the home of the Phipps Family(the house was completed in 1906 and the family lived there for nearly 50 years). Visitors can explore the picturesque gardens as well as well as tour the Phipps mansion.

The home retains all of it original furnishings so visitors can see how the family lived. The grounds span 160 acres so there is plenty to see! Visitors can bring a picnic lunch with them or purchase a bite at the "Cafe in the Woods." For a complete menu click here.

Be on the look out for some beautiful flowers in bloom. Want a preview of what’s in full flower? Check here.

The Gardens and estate are open from April until October. They are closed on Tuesdays. All other days they are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Click here for more info.

Want to visit any one of these great museums?

All you need is a valid Port Jefferson Free Library card (adults 18 and older can check out passes). Call the Circulation Desk and ask about booking your reservation today. These passes are popular in the Summer so book ahead for best availability. For complete details about the program including loan policies click here (PDF).

Those who check out the Museum passes will receive a “Museum Pack” with the passes. The contents of the pack contain maps, lists of current exhibits, and other helpful information to make your trip a success. Check out the reading lists included for books for both adults and children. Reading up on the venue is a great way to prepare children (and their grown-ups) for the visit.

Look for 3 new museums to be added soon! Details will be supplied right here.

Happy Museuming!