Parks
131 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Cedar Creek County Park5.8 mi from downtown
- Schoolhouse Green1.4 mi from downtown
- Oceanside Park1.5 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Hempstead
4 kinds of free outings in and around Hempstead.
Good days out in Hempstead don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Historic places
26 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Mitchel Air Force BaseBuilt 1917
- Jones Beach State Park
- Franklin National BankBuilt 1926
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- Camp Gateway- Brooklyn Ny15 mi west
- Sagamore Hill National Historic Site18 mi north
- Target Rock National Wildlife Refuge22 mi northeast
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- Sagamore Hill National Historic Site18 mi north
- Congressman Lester Wolff Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge19 mi north
- Target Rock National Wildlife Refuge22 mi northeast
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Hempstead lake State park family Fishing day
A local activity Short shared by Walk with Sinoj & Ann.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Downtown revitalization has Hempstead buzzing
A local activity video shared by CBS New York.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Hempstead?
Parks, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Hempstead this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.