Long Island offers more than just sandy beaches, lighthouses, and charming towns—it also boasts some of the most picturesque scenic drives in New York. Whether you're a local or just visiting, hitting the road and exploring these breathtaking routes is an experience you won’t want to miss. From coastal views to serene wildlife preserves, there’s no shortage of beauty to uncover, all just a drive away from St. James.
At Smithtown Nissan, we know the thrill of a perfect road trip starts with the right vehicle. Whether you’re cruising in the sleek Nissan 370Z, the comfortable and efficient Altima, or the family-friendly Rogue, we’ve got the car to match your adventure. As one of the top Nissan dealerships on Long Island, our goal is to help you find the ideal ride for your scenic drives across the Island. With a team of Nissan-certified experts, we’re here to provide top-notch service and an unbeatable selection of vehicles.
Ready to embark on your next journey? Stop by our dealership in St. James or contact us to explore our inventory and schedule a test drive. Let’s make your next scenic drive unforgettable with Smithtown Nissan.
1. Sunrise Highway to Elizabeth Morton Wildlife Preserve: A Journey Through Nature
One of the most beautiful scenic drives on Long Island takes you along Sunrise Highway, leading to the tranquil Elizabeth Morton Wildlife Preserve. This drive offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life and allows you to immerse yourself in Long Island’s natural beauty. Stretching across 187 acres, the preserve features diverse habitats, including forest trails, freshwater ponds, salt marshes, and scenic beaches. It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers who want to experience the quiet beauty of Long Island while enjoying the open road.
For a drive like this, the Nissan 370Z is an ideal companion. With its sporty design and performance-focused engineering, the 370Z transforms your journey into an exhilarating adventure. The sleek curves of the car mirror the winding roads of Sunrise Highway, providing a smooth, thrilling experience as you head east towards the wildlife sanctuary.
As you cruise towards the Elizabeth Morton Preserve, you’ll notice how the Sunrise Highway offers scenic glimpses of lush greenery, small towns, and open skies. Located six miles from Sag Harbor, the preserve invites you to park your car and explore the well-maintained trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful day away from the city. The journey itself, though, is just as memorable as the destination.
Before you set off on your adventure, visit one of the top Nissan dealerships on Long Island—Smithtown Nissan. Our team can help you find the right Nissan for any scenic drive, whether it’s the high-performance Nissan 370Z for thrill-seekers or a more spacious model for a family trip.
2. Old Montauk Highway to Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa: Coastal Luxury and Scenic Serenity
A drive along Old Montauk Highway is an essential Long Island experience, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to one of the most luxurious destinations in the Hamptons—Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa. This stretch of road winds gracefully along the coast, providing stunning glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean and some of the most picturesque landscapes on Long Island. Whether you're taking a weekend escape or just exploring the beauty of the coastline, this drive is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
For this trip, the Nissan Altima is the ideal vehicle. Known for its refined comfort, smooth handling, and impressive fuel efficiency, the Altima is designed to make long drives not only easy but enjoyable. Whether you're navigating the scenic curves of Old Montauk Highway or cruising through the Hamptons’ charming towns, the Altima’s balance of performance and luxury ensures that your journey is as pleasant as the destination.
As you make your way to Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, you’ll pass through quaint seaside communities and witness expansive views of the Atlantic coastline. The resort itself offers a world-class spa, fine dining, and private access to Montauk’s pristine beaches, making it an excellent place to relax after your drive. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the nearby Montauk Point Lighthouse and Amsterdam Beach Preserve offer opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the area, with hiking trails and historical sites.
Before embarking on this unforgettable drive, make sure your vehicle is up to the journey. At Smithtown Nissan, one of the top Long Island Nissan dealers, we offer a range of vehicles perfect for scenic road trips. Whether you choose the Altima for its comfort and style or another model, our team is ready to help you find the perfect Nissan to complement your Long Island adventures.
3. Bronx River Parkway to Kensico Dam at Valhalla: A Scenic Urban Escape
For those looking to combine a scenic drive with a taste of urban nature, the Bronx River Parkway offers the perfect route to explore Westchester County’s natural beauty, culminating at the awe-inspiring Kensico Dam in Valhalla. This parkway, with its tree-lined roads and winding paths, delivers a peaceful escape just outside the bustling city. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a spontaneous day trip, the Nissan Rogue provides the versatility and comfort you need to make the most of the experience.
The Nissan Rogue is a top choice for family trips or solo adventures. Its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and smooth ride make it perfect for navigating the parkway’s gentle curves. With its ample cargo space, you can easily pack a picnic, bring your bike, or gather all your essentials for a relaxing day at the Kensico Dam.
The Kensico Dam itself is a stunning sight—standing at 300 feet high and 1,830 feet long, this structure is both a marvel of engineering and a serene natural space. You can stop to take in the dam’s breathtaking views, enjoy a picnic, or even attend one of the seasonal concerts hosted there. The dam is surrounded by open fields, wooded areas, and scenic spots where you can stretch your legs and take in the beauty of the outdoors.
Whether you're planning a scenic drive or a family day out, start your journey at one of the trusted Nissan dealers on Long Island like Smithtown Nissan. Our selection of Nissan vehicles, including the ever-reliable Rogue, ensures you’ll have the perfect car for your adventure. Explore the Bronx River Parkway and discover the beauty of Valhalla with the comfort and reliability of a Nissan by your side.
4. Route 9 to the Historic Village of Sleepy Hollow: A Drive Through Legends
For a road trip filled with history, mystery, and scenic beauty, look no further than Route 9 to the Historic Village of Sleepy Hollow. Just a short drive from Long Island, this route provides travelers with picturesque views of quaint towns, rolling hills, and wooded landscapes, all while immersing you in the legendary tales of Washington Irving’s famous “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Whether you’re a history buff or a thrill-seeker, this drive offers a unique experience perfect for a weekend getaway in your Nissan 370Z.
The Nissan 370Z, with its powerful engine and sleek design, turns every stretch of road into an exciting experience. Perfect for winding along the Hudson River, the 370Z delivers smooth handling and an exhilarating ride, making it an ideal choice for exploring the legendary Sleepy Hollow. As you cruise down Route 9, enjoy the open road and stunning scenery while feeling the thrill of the 370Z’s responsive performance.
Upon arriving in Sleepy Hollow, you’ll find the town steeped in history and folklore. You can visit the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where notable figures like Andrew Carnegie and Washington Irving himself are buried. Walk across the famous Headless Horseman Bridge, where Ichabod Crane is said to have met his fate, or take a guided tour of the town to learn more about its haunting past.
For those wanting to make the most of their road trip, stopping in Sleepy Hollow is a perfect way to combine natural beauty with cultural heritage. To ensure a smooth journey, begin your adventure with a visit to Smithtown Nissan, your trusted Nissan Long Island dealer. Here, you’ll find the perfect Nissan for your travels, whether it’s the high-performance 370Z or another reliable model from our extensive inventory.
Embark on this unforgettable drive through history, and enjoy every mile behind the wheel of your Nissan 370Z, a car that matches the excitement of the journey ahead.
5. Bear Mountain via The Palisades Parkway: A Scenic Escape from Long Island
For Long Islanders seeking a breathtaking escape into nature, a drive to Bear Mountain via The Palisades Parkway offers the perfect scenic adventure. The route takes you out of the hustle and bustle of Long Island, winding through the serene and forested Palisades Parkway, leading up to the majestic Bear Mountain. This journey is not only a visual treat but also an opportunity to experience the natural beauty that New York State has to offer, all while enjoying the comfort and smooth ride of a Nissan Altima from your local Long Island Nissan dealerships.
The Altima is the ideal companion for a drive like this. With its refined interior, advanced safety features, and superior fuel efficiency, it’s perfect for long-distance road trips. The Altima’s responsive handling and smooth acceleration make it a pleasure to drive through the gentle curves of the Palisades Parkway, a route that’s free from billboards and modern distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Whether you're navigating winding roads or cruising on open highways, the Altima provides the comfort and confidence you need for a memorable trip.
Once you reach Bear Mountain, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas of the Hudson River and the sprawling natural landscape. The mountain offers a wide range of activities, from hiking trails and picnic spots to a scenic overlook that provides a stunning view of the valley below. You can also explore the Trailside Museums and Zoo, or rent a boat to take out on the lake. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
Before setting out on your scenic adventure, be sure to visit Smithtown Nissan, one of the top Long Island Nissan dealerships, to ensure your vehicle is road-trip ready. Whether you're driving a new Altima or another reliable Nissan model, you can trust Smithtown Nissan to provide the best service and support, making sure your vehicle is ready to tackle every mile of your journey to Bear Mountain and beyond.
Planning Your Long Island Scenic Drive
Planning the perfect scenic drive around Long Island requires not just picking the best routes but also ensuring you have the right vehicle to match the adventure. Whether you're cruising along the Sunrise Highway to the tranquil Elizabeth Morton Wildlife Preserve, taking in ocean views on Old Montauk Highway, or venturing off Long Island to explore Bear Mountain, choosing the right car is key to making the most of your experience.
The Nissan Rogue, with its comfortable interior, advanced technology, and exceptional fuel efficiency, is the ideal companion for any of these scenic drives. The Rogue's spacious cabin and ample cargo space make it perfect for long trips with family, friends, or even just a solo escape into nature. Whether you're packing a picnic, bringing along gear for outdoor activities, or just enjoying the quiet hum of the road, the Rogue provides the versatility you need to make every mile enjoyable.
Before setting out on your journey, it’s a good idea to stop by Smithtown Nissan, one of the top-rated Nissan dealerships on Long Island, for a quick check-up or service. The team of certified Nissan technicians can ensure that your vehicle is in peak condition, giving you peace of mind for a smooth and safe road trip. Whether you're driving a new Rogue or any other Nissan model, you’ll find expert service and support to keep your adventure worry-free.
From the winding roads of the Palisades Parkway to the historic charm of Sleepy Hollow, Long Island and its surrounding areas offer an abundance of scenic routes worth exploring. With the right planning and the perfect vehicle, your scenic drive can be more than just a trip — it can be a memorable escape, rejuvenating your connection with nature while showcasing the beauty of New York’s landscapes. Visit Smithtown Nissan today to explore the best vehicles for your next adventure and make sure your journey starts and ends on the right note.
Discover More at Smithtown Nissan
Exploring the scenic beauty around Long Island is made even better with the right vehicle. Whether you're a nature enthusiast looking to experience the tranquility of Elizabeth Morton Wildlife Preserve, a lover of ocean views driving along Old Montauk Highway, or someone seeking the serenity of Bear Mountain, Smithtown Nissan has the perfect car to elevate your experience. Our extensive selection includes the sleek and stylish Nissan 370Z, the dependable and versatile Altima, and the spacious Rogue, all designed to enhance your driving adventures.
If you're from St. James or the surrounding areas, we invite you to visit Smithtown Nissan to explore our wide selection of vehicles. Whether you’re in the market for a high-performance sports car like the Nissan 370Z, a comfortable and fuel-efficient sedan like the Altima, or a family-friendly crossover like the Rogue, our team is here to help you find the right fit. Our dealership is just a short drive away, and our knowledgeable staff will guide you through our lineup to ensure you choose the vehicle that suits your lifestyle and road trip plans.
In addition to offering top-of-the-line vehicles, we encourage you to continue exploring our website for more valuable information. Whether you're curious about the technical side of your Nissan or looking for tips on how to get the most out of your vehicle, we have a variety of resources available. For example, if you've ever wondered what that warning light on your dashboard means, check out our detailed guide on Nissan error response codes. You might also want to plan your scenic drive with a pit stop at some of the best restaurants on Long Island — discover the must-try dining spots along your route. And for those thinking about upgrading their ride, learn all about the features and performance of the 2024 Nissan Kicks in our comprehensive guide.
At Smithtown Nissan, we’re not just here to sell cars — we’re here to ensure that your driving experience, whether on a scenic road trip or in daily life, is the best it can be. Contact us today to learn more about our inventory, schedule a test drive, or speak with one of our knowledgeable team members about your automotive needs. Let us help you make your next scenic drive around Long Island unforgettable.
