Rockville Centre, NY

The economic and commercial stability, hallmarks of the community, were first fueled by Rockville Centre's recognition by the United States Postal Service. With its new name, the neighborhood officially made the map and real estate and businesses boomed. The emergence of the railroad transported the neighborhood into modern technology, making travel to New York City a breeze. This premiere location, its incorporation and the thriving residential and commercial businesses have made Rockville Centre a highly desired place to live for the last hundred years.

Residents appreciate The Phillips House Museum on Hempstead Avenue. Housed in a Victorian home, this special museum features period furniture and decor, showcasing 19th- and 20th-century life in Rockville Centre. Come any weekend, and enjoy free admission.

Participate in the annual Rockville Centre Street Festival, a family-friendly event with arts and crafts booths, local food vendors and lots of games for the kids.

Experience what locals from all over New York come to Rockville Centre for: trendy restaurants and tasty cuisine along Park Avenue and Merrick Road.

Press 195 specializes in innovative panini sandwiches. Praised by The New York Times, The New Yorker, Forbes and more, this restaurant manages to exceed your already high expectations with its phenomenal french fries, paninis and great beer. Enjoy a late-night snack with their extended hours every weekend.

Chat Noir on Merrick Road is a hidden gem within the neighborhood. This charming tea joint offers a wide selection of teas, elegant croissant sandwiches and French-inspired pastries like the butterscotch scone -- the perfect place for lunch, or come for dinner Thursday through Sunday evenings.

Off Sunset Highway, a variety of restaurants can be enjoyed. Indulge in some ice cream and frozen yogurt at International Delight Cafe. Kashi Sushi and Steak House has signature sushi rolls, such as American Dream and Twister, made fresh to order. Come early on the weekends, because parking can be difficult to find at this popular joint. Bring a friend to share some spicy salsa and chips at Green Cactus Mexican Grill, where the margaritas are strong and the ambiance is lively. Much like the restaurant selection in Rockville Centre, the nightlife on Park Avenue and Long Beach Road is hopping with plenty to do and drink. The Dark Horse Tavern makes a great hang-out spot with its backdoor beer garden and eclectic beer menu. Relax with a fine cigar at The Stogie, or head to GM Burger Bar for house wine and homemade chipotle chili, both conveniently located on Long Beach Road. Top the night off at Vibe Lounge on Park Avenue, and listen to local musicians perform.

Some errands in this largely car-dependent neighborhood can be accomplished on foot. Locals take advantage of the many available bus routes servicing the area, like the M14, and others venturing to Long Island and Queens, such as the N14, N15 and N16. Also enjoy easy accessibility to the Long Island Rail Road at North Village Avenue and Front Street.

Parking can be difficult to find. Many utilize the bike lanes scattered throughout the area.

West Southern Highway runs through the community, and it is also nestled closely to Southern State Parkway, making travel throughout the city efficient and convenient. If you need a taxi, call Uber or All Island Taxi to schedule your next trip.

Despite its urban vibe, Rockville Centre provides an escape to the great outdoors in many available green spaces. Morgan Days Park off Merrick Road offers residents a picturesque view of nature with its many trails and trees surrounding Smith Pond. Take a walk on the nature trail with your leashed pet, or play in the athletic fields with your children.

Along West Sunrise Highway lies Miller River Park, a wonderful place for families to enjoy sunshine and activities around the river. A large playground, athletic fields and cooling stations can be enjoyed throughout the park. Come out to the annual fireworks and concert celebration in the summer to celebrate Independence Day with the local community.

The cost of living in Rockville Centre reaches 51 percent higher than the whole of New York. Residents can expect to pay higher prices to live in this community, with the notable exception of utilities. Thanks to the municipality's own utilities, residents pay about half for their bills than the rest of Long Island. A one-day pass to the city on the rail line will cost you $3, while the price of an imported beer averages $7. Gas prices stretch almost 12 percent higher than the nation's average. Housing prices also skyrocket past the state's average. The affluence of the community lures a high percentage of renters, with average median rental rates at about $1,200 for a one-bedroom apartment.

From home decoration stores like HomeGoods to specialty Irish gift shops like Kathleen's of Donegal Irish Imports, there's something for everyone in the eclectic shopping haven of Rockville Centre, especially down West Sunset Highway, Park Avenue and Village Avenue.

Venture to Lucky Finds Boutique where you don't have to be lucky to score lovely pieces of women's fashion. This high-end consignment shop buys and sells quality clothing from popular name brands at affordable prices. Find the perfect statement top or pair of earrings at this little store right off Park Avenue. Once you've found the perfect outfit, go to RecreateU Novelty Boutique on Village Avenue for chic home accessories. Hand-painted furniture, charming jewelry, one-of-a-kind gifts and so much more make this boutique a hidden gem in downtown Rockville Centre. Grab something for the kids at Matty's Toy Stop off of Sunset Highway. This mom-and-pop store features trendy toys and books for children of all ages to enjoy.

For groceries and necessary household items, locals frequent King Kullen, Key Food and RVC Food Center. You can also purchase organic vegetables, fruits, dairy products and more from Rockville Centre Farmers Market off of Long Beach Road and Sunrise Highway. Come out any Sunday between June and November to purchase locally grown products.