The North Shore of Long Island is the area along the northern coast of New York’s Long Island bordering Long Island Sound. It is known for its extreme wealth and lavish estates built around the turn of the 20th century, earning it the nickname the Gold Coast. The Planting Fields Historic State Park is comprised of over 400 acres and is home to one of the few properties left from this infamous era. This state park holds a very special place in my and my husband’s heart. We had our wedding engagement photos taken here almost three decades ago. And we keep coming back as we did this past Saturday. So join us as we visit the Planting Fields in Oyster Bay, New York.
Let’s start with a look at…
ITS HISTORY
Land for the Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park, which includes the Coe Hall Historic House Museum, was first purchased in 1904 by Helen MacGregor Byrne, wife of New York City lawyer James Byrne.
In 1913, the 353-acre site was purchased by William Robertson Coe, an insurance and railroad executive, and his wife Mary, the youngest daughter of millionaire industrialist Henry H. Rogers, who had been a principal of Standard Oil. That’s serious money.
And this couple began to create the property that visitors see today.
Although the Coe family was based in New York City, they entertained friends at Coe Hall and the Italian Garden on the weekends. The garden was specifically designed to be used as an outside room, where Mrs. Coe could serve tea to her guests.
In the 1920s, the Coes hired the Olmsted Brothers firm (they designed Central Park) to design and oversee the landscape here, including modifications to the Italian Garden.
Mrs. Coe died in 1924 at age 49. As with many other great North Shore mansions, the world of the Coe’s came to an end with World War II.
In 1949, the estate was deeded to the state of New York to become a state park. And in 1979, the Planting Fields Arboretum was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
THE PLANTING FIELDS WERE BORN.
Most days of the year, visitors can explore its meticulously groomed property, take various tours of the property and mansion, enjoy a picnic or just spend time meandering through the paths leading to beautifully sculpted gardens.
Planting Fields includes an extensive collection of gardens, including the Italian Garden, Cloister Garden and Circular Pool, Children’s Play House, Rose Garden, and Perennial Garden. The grounds also include 2 greenhouses, the Main Greenhouse and the Camellia Greenhouse.
If you get hungry, there’s the Magnolia Cafe. The building also offers a small exhibit.
Events take place throughout the year. Check out www.plantingfields.org to learn more.
During high season (spring and summer), there is an $8 per car entry fee. Entry is free with an Empire Pass.
A VISIT FOR ALL SEASONS
This beautiful state park is beautiful no matter the season. And visiting at different times offers the visitor a unique perspective each time. The blooms and lighting are always changing.
I took this photo yesterday and it has to be my favorite one from this beautiful place. (As of today, anyway!)
A reflection in the sky off of one of its ponds.
If you’re looking for a tranquil and beautiful place to visit on Long Island, put this on your list.