Cedarmere

Cedarmere is a serene park and nature preserve nestled in the affluent village of Roslyn Harbor on Long Island's North Shore. The estate was the summer home of 19th-century poet and editor William Cullen Bryant, who designed the grounds with winding paths, a millpond, and a saltwater cove. Visitors can explore the 16-acre property, which includes formal gardens, a restored mill, and a carriage house. The park offers a peaceful retreat with views of Hempstead Harbor, where you can spot birds, turtles, and other wildlife. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for a leisurely stroll, with benches placed along the way for quiet contemplation. Cedarmere's blend of literary history and natural beauty makes it a unique destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Don't miss

• Stroll through Bryant's original gardens featuring native plants and seasonal blooms
• View the restored 19th-century tidal mill and millpond
• Walk the trails along Hempstead Harbor for waterfront vistas
• Explore the historic carriage house and outbuildings
• Picnic in the shaded groves near the pond

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Open daily dawn to dusk; the visitor center and mill may have limited hours.
• Free parking available on-site, but spaces are limited.
• Dogs are welcome on leash; please clean up after your pet.
• Photography is allowed; great spot for nature and landscape shots.

A bit of history

William Cullen Bryant, editor of the New York Evening Post and a leading poet, purchased the property in 1843 as a summer retreat. He expanded the house and created the picturesque landscape, including a tidal mill and pond. The estate remained in his family until it was donated to Nassau County in the 1970s and later restored as a public park.