It is critical during this struggling economy that government be a strong and supportive partner for business and tourism. That's why the Town of Hempstead is doing its fair share to promote tourism in our own "backyard."

The Town of Hempstead is not only a great place to live and work, but it is also a terrific place to visit. Our Office of Tourism is available to provide information and assistance to residents and the many tourists who visit each year.

There are so many things to do and see here in America's largest township. Freeport's Nautical Mile is a great place to visit during the summer. From casino and dinner cruises to dining and shopping, there is fun for the whole family. There are also numerous boat launching ramps and fueling stations, many fine restaurants and even water accessible lodging for boaters.

One of the most popular offerings of the tourism office is the guide to museums. The brochure details the many museums located within the township's borders such as the Rock Hall Museum in Lawrence, a Georgian mansion which was once the home of the Hewlett and Martin families. Other popular museums are the Long Island Children's Museum and the Cradle of Aviation, which holds an IMAX theater. There is a museum to satisfy every interest.

Tourism in Hempstead Town is important to our economy. With our township providing access to eastern Long Island locations, visitors sometimes pass through the Town of Hempstead without considering the great variety of attractions that our town has available. We hope that on the way through, vacationers stop to relax at one of our beaches or shop at Roosevelt Field in Garden City, the Source Mall in Westbury or the Green Acres Shopping Center in Valley Stream.

From Floral Park, Valley Stream and Elmont on the west end to Freeport, and Seaford in the east, and all our communities in between, the Town of Hempstead has a lot to offer.

We have many recreational and cultural opportunities in our town and the Office of Tourism is available to assist you. As a resident, you might want to stay right here in your own backyard instead of taking an expensive vacation. If you are just passing through, I hope you will call us so that we may provide you with some excellent choices on all of the great vacation opportunities that exist in Hempstead Town.

To find out what's happening here in Hempstead Town, call the Office of Tourism at (516) 489-5000 extension 3601.