Discover the Landmarks and Historical Sites of Smithtown, New York

The Town of Smithtown is a historic Long Island community whose identity is deeply rooted in its 17th-century founding, its unique colonial heritage, and its preservation of natural and architectural treasures. From a famous legend featuring a bull to one of Long Island’s premier nature preserves, a visit to Smithtown is a journey through American history, nature, and folklore.

Things to Do and Points of Interest in Smithtown, NY

Statue of "Whisper the Bull"

This massive, iconic bronze statue of a bull, located at the intersection of Routes 25 and 25A, is the most recognizable symbol of Smithtown. It commemorates the local legend that town founder Richard Smith acquired the land by riding a bull around its perimeter in a single day. Though apocryphal, the five-ton statue is a popular attraction and a proud, charming reminder of the town's legendary origin story.

Caleb Smith State Park Preserve

Located along the Nissequogue River, this 543-acre preserve is one of only two state nature preserves on Long Island. It is a haven for passive recreation, offering visitors miles of nature trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, as well as excellent spots for fly fishing. The preserve also features the Caleb Smith House, a historic residence built in 1751 that now houses a nature museum and offers public tours.

Smithtown Historical Society Campus

The Smithtown Historical Society oversees a beautiful 22-acre campus dedicated to preserving Long Island's heritage. Visitors can walk the scenic grounds and explore several key historic buildings, including the Epenetus Smith Tavern (c. 1740s), which was a rest stop during the Revolutionary War, and the Judge J. Lawrence Smith Homestead. The grounds often host events and educational programs that bring the past to life.

Blydenburgh County Park

Situated on the headwaters of the Nissequogue River in Smithtown, this county park is another major natural attraction. The park features a large, freshwater pond, extensive wooded trails, and facilities for camping and boating. The area is historically significant as the site of the Blydenburgh Farm and New Mill Historic District, with remnants of its 19th-century industrial past visible along the river.

Deepwells Farm County Park

Located in the St. James hamlet of Smithtown, Deepwells Farm is a significant 19th-century estate (c. 1845) that hosts various community events and festivals. The historic farmhouse and surrounding parkland are often open to the public, offering a picturesque setting and a glimpse into the agricultural and estate life that once characterized the North Shore of Long Island.

Seely-Wright House

Dating back to 1720, the Seely-Wright House is one of the oldest surviving structures in Smithtown. This historic home is a testament to the town's colonial roots. Visitors can tour the well-preserved interior and walk the grounds to learn about the town's earliest residents and the architecture of the 18th century, providing a tangible link to the founding era.