From fine art paintings to the fine art of child's play, there's a Long Island museum to satisfy every grown-up taste and any kid's curiosity. Here are our 10 favorites, which together cover the gamut:
GUILD HALL: 158 Main St., East Hampton, 631-324-0806,
guildhall.org
Cost: $5 suggested donation
In 1931, Guild Hall became one of the first centers in the country to combine a museum, theater and community meeting place under one roof. It boasts an extensive collection of Hamptons artists - from Thomas Moran to Willem de Kooning.
Coming up: A retrospective on Grace Hartigan and "The Art of Fashion in the Hamptons."
PARRISH ART MUSEUM: 25 Job's Lane, Southampton, 631-283-2118,
parrishart.org
Cost: $7 (free younger than 18)
While the Parrish's collection has long been associated with East End American Impressionist William Merritt Chase and realist Fairfield Porter, it also includes important contemporary Hamptons artists.
Coming up: Opening June 21: "Mixed Greens: Artists Choose Artists," which has Long Island artists curating a show of their favorite works.
LONG ISLAND MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART, HISTORY & CARRIAGES: 1200 Rte. 25A, Stony Brook, 631-751-0066,
longislandmuseum.org
Cost: $9 (free younger than 6)
Best-known for its collection of 19th century paintings by Stony Brook artist William Sydney Mount and its horse-drawn carriages - from stagecoaches to fire wagons - the museum has broadened its appeal through nostalgic exhibits.
On now: "Growing Up on Long Island," with a celebrity when-they-were-kids quiz.
NASSAU COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor, 516-484-9337,
nassaumuseum.com
Cost: $10 ($4-$5 for Ridder MiniArt Museum for Children) $2 parking on weekends only.
Housed in a Gold Coast mansion, some of the biggest-name exhibits on Long Island are displayed here, making it one of the country's largest suburban art museums in attendance. On any pleasant day, you can enjoy the splendid sculpture garden.
Coming up: An exhibit exploring France's Napoleonic grandeur opens in June.
GARVIES POINT MUSEUM & PRESERVE: 50 Barry Dr., Glen Cove, 516-571-8010,
garviespointmuseum.com
Cost: $3 ($2 ages 5-12)
Natural history and American Indian artifacts are mainstays here. Check out exhibits tracing the Island's glacial history and a diorama depicting how Indians adapted the seasons. Nature trails reward hikers with sweeping views of Hempstead Harbor.
AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM: 110 N. Franklin St., Hempstead, 516-572-0730,
aamoflongisland.org
Cost: Free
Long Island's only African-American museum offers rotating showcases of black artists and historical exhibits.
On now: "Rides: The Lifestyle of Urban Bikers."
LONG ISLAND CHILDREN'S MUSEUM: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, 516-224-5800,
licm.org
