Babylon is a small town located on the south shore of Long Island, New York. A part of Suffolk County, Babylon is known as a beautiful town during every season of the year. I have the privilege of living close to this town, which begins with Argyle Lake and ends with the highway towards the ocean beaches.
As you pass the lake, you will see beautiful swans swimming under the small, white bridge, which is a staple of Babylon. Runners, sightseers and picnics are seen near the lake, especially during the warmer months. A flower shop displaying an array of multicolored flowers and plants catches your eye as you see the shop overflowing with customers. A gas station and a fire department follow the lake and lead into a the main part of Babylon, which is backed by the town high school. Across from the high school is the train station, which takes you into New York in just about an hour and fifteen minutes. A shaved ice shop located across from the station sells my favorite acai bowl in town. Though it is always packed with customers (enough to see the line from the train platform above), I will always stop in for a treat.
Boutiques, breakfast spots and small businesses all line the main street of Babylon, which is named Main Street. If you are planning a shopping trip, there are places throughout the town for the whole family to buy luxurious styles. Off of Main Street, a brunch spot called Glen’s Dinette is always packed, and serves what are known to be the best pancakes on the South Shore. Across the street from this hotspot is Mulberry Pizza, which is yet another yummy place to get a quick bite.
Moving toward the center of Babylon, you'll find many restaurants that serve delicious foods from all over the world. Italian, American, Japanese and Mexican are just some of the options to choose from when dining in Babylon. Out of all the restaurants to choose from, my favorite is Don Ricardo’s, which is located toward the end of the strip. From salsa and burritos to enchiladas and guacamole– whenever I sit down in the beautifully decorated dining room, I feel like I just entered a fiesta.
Across the street is a breathtaking, all white church that sits peacefully in the midst of this busy town. Many events from baptisms to weddings are held here, and it's quite beautiful to watch. The flowers and trees near this church bloom in the spring and summer months, which makes for great pictures as well as a source of shade from the sun. Many side streets lead to homes that people reside in year round, as well as summer houses. You see many cyclists as well as dog walkers enjoying the beautiful weather and impeccable landscaping these homes take pride in.
Heading toward the end of Babylon, there is still so much to see and do. Along with the superb restaurants, there are also great dessert spots like ice cream shops and small cafes. From Italian ices to milkshakes, you will never be disappointed in what this town offers for dessert. Though it is a small town, you always see people walking around and talking to one another. If you ever need directions, someone is always there to help. A grocery store is also located toward the end of town, which is convenient for weekly shopping trips and for last minute items. The town starts tapering off as you see a rental shop, which you're encouraged to visit for bikes, paddle boards and canoes if you plan on going to the beach. As you leave Babylon, you’re already planning your trip back and trying to decide whether or not you want pizza or Don Ricardo’s.
