Westbury, NY

County: Nassau

History

Westbury, New York

Westbury is a village located in Nassau County, on Long Island, New York. The history of Westbury dates back to the 17th century when it was initially inhabited by the Matinecock Native American tribe. Dutch settlers arrived in the area in the mid-1600s, establishing several farms and cultivating the land.

In 1658, the town of Westbury was officially founded and named after a town in Wiltshire, England. It remained a small farming community until the late 19th century, when the arrival of the Long Island Rail Road in 1836 sparked growth and development in the area. The rail connection made Westbury easily accessible to New York City, attracting an influx of residents and transforming it into a suburban community.

During the early 20th century, Westbury experienced significant growth and modernization. Many wealthy entrepreneurs and business figures built grand estates in the village, which became known as "Gold Coast" mansions. These estates, such as Westbury House built by John Shaffer Phipps, added to the prestige and charm of the village.

Westbury's history also includes contributions to the aviation industry. In 1917, the Roosevelt Field airfield was opened near Westbury, serving as a key aviation hub during World War I. Famous aviators like Charles Lindbergh used the field for training, and it later became a launch site for transatlantic flights.

In the mid-20th century, Westbury experienced significant suburbanization, attracting a more diverse population. The village's demographics changed as people from different backgrounds and ethnicities moved in, adding to the cultural richness of the community.

Today, Westbury is a vibrant suburban village with a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural attractions. It is known for its diverse population, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. Additionally, the village has preserved some of its historic charm with the restoration of old buildings and landmarks.

Westbury's rich history, from its early farming days to its role in aviation and suburbanization, continues to shape its identity and make it a unique part of Long Island's heritage.

Attractions

The Westbury Gardens

The Westbury Gardens

A historic mansion and gardens that offers guided tours and seasonal events.

NYCB Theatre at Westbury

A popular venue for live entertainment, including concerts, comedy shows, and theater performances.

The Space at Westbury

A live music venue that hosts a wide variety of musical acts and events.

The Source Mall

A shopping center with a range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Eisenhower Park

A large public park with athletic fields, golf courses, picnic areas, and a swimming complex.

Old Westbury Golf & Country Club

An exclusive golf club that offers a challenging course, tennis courts, and dining facilities.

Miracle Mile

A shopping district with a mix of boutiques, department stores, and eateries.

Westbury Memorial Public Library

A community library that offers a variety of programs and activities for all ages.

The Rolling River Day Camp

A day camp that provides a range of recreational activities and water-based fun for kids.

Dave & Buster's

An arcade-style restaurant and entertainment venue that offers games, food, and drinks for all ages.

Climate

Westbury, NY, experiences a humid continental climate. Summers tend to be warm and humid, while winters are cold with some snowfall. Here's a breakdown of the seasons:

Summer (June to August): Summers in Westbury can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-30°C). Heatwaves are not uncommon, with occasional temperatures reaching the 90s°F (around 32-35°C). Humidity levels can make the weather feel even warmer. Thunderstorms are also common during this season, providing some relief from the heat.

Fall (September to November): Fall in Westbury brings milder temperatures, ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s°F (around 13-24°C). Early fall tends to be more comfortable, with cooler evenings. As the season progresses, temperatures drop, especially in November, when it can reach below freezing overnight. Precipitation is moderate during this time.

Winter (December to February): Winters in Westbury are cold, with temperatures averaging in the mid-30s to the mid-40s°F (around 1-7°C). However, it's not uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing, especially during the night. Snowfall is common, with an average of 22 inches (56 cm) per year. January and February are the coldest months, and wind chill can make it feel even colder. Winter storms can occasionally bring significant snow accumulation.

Spring (March to May): Spring in Westbury is characterized by milder temperatures but often sees fluctuating weather patterns. Temperatures range from the mid-40s to the mid-60s°F (around 7-18°C) early in the season, gradually warming up as spring progresses. Rainfall is frequent but not excessive. Spring can be quite beautiful in Westbury, with blooming flowers and trees.

Overall, Westbury, NY, experiences distinct seasons, with warm and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and pleasant springs and falls. It is advisable to check the local weather forecasts for more accurate and up-to-date information.

Neighborhoods

Westbury is a vibrant suburban village located in Nassau County, New York. It is home to several distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own character and amenities. Here are some of the notable neighborhoods in Westbury:

Salisbury

Salisbury is a primarily residential neighborhood known for its diverse community. It features a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, with some apartment complexes as well. Salisbury is close to the vibrant shopping and dining options along Old Country Road.

Carle Place

Carle Place is a charming neighborhood located in the northern part of Westbury. It is known for its excellent schools, including the highly regarded Carle Place Union Free School District. Residents of Carle Place also enjoy proximity to several shopping centers, restaurants, and parks.

New Cassel

New Cassel is a culturally diverse neighborhood with a rich history. It offers a mix of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. The neighborhood is home to a vibrant community center, various parks, and several local businesses.

Old Westbury

Although technically a separate village, Old Westbury is adjacent to Westbury and shares many amenities with it. It is known for its sprawling estates and elegant homes situated on large private lots. The neighborhood is characterized by its peaceful ambiance and picturesque landscapes.

Westbury Gardens Area

Located around the historic Westbury Gardens estate, this area offers a blend of residential homes and commercial businesses. Westbury Gardens, a former Gold Coast mansion turned arboretum, attracts visitors with its beautiful gardens and regular cultural events.

Prospect Avenue

Prospect Avenue is a commercial corridor that runs through Westbury. It is lined with various retail businesses, restaurants, and professional offices. It offers residents convenient access to shopping, dining, and services.

Each neighborhood in Westbury has its unique qualities, amenities, and housing options, making the village a diverse and attractive place to live.

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