Here's our weekly hourly getaway for busy moms and dads who may need some time for themselves.
Today's escape is heading to the picturesque grounds of Chelsea Mansion, part of the Nassau County Parks Department. As the former Benjamin Moore Estate (not to be confused with the paint magnate), this stately house from 1924, sitting on a 100 acre parcel, is worth a visit especially in the spring and summer.
You will find topiary, fountains, statuary, specimen trees, lovely landscaping, a turret with an exterior slate staircase, and a pond with a bench where you can sit and watch the wildlife. The pièce de résistance is the moat with floating lilypads which comes upon you unexpectedly as you make your way towards the back of the house.
On Wednesdays throughout the month of July, there will be a free outdoor summer concert series featuring local classical music groups. Gates open at 6 pm and music begins at 7:30 pm. Attendees are invited to pack a picnic, folding chairs, and a blanket.
Mark your calendars with these four dates:
July 6: Five Towns College Pops
July 13: Metropolitan Youth Orchestra
July 20: Sea Cliff Chamber
July 27: Long Island Conservatory of Music
Wondering how to get there? If traveling north on Route 106, make a left on Walnut Avenue (immediately before you hit Northern Boulevard). Make a left on Muttontown Lane, look for signs to the mansion, bear right and follow the road to the end; park in the designated lot.
The mansion is not open to the public on a regular basis except randomly throughout the year for special events or lectures and sometimes for a holiday house tour in December where you will find the interiors completely decorated for the season. It is mainly booked for weddings, corporate events, and private dinners.
For additional clarification, there is always access to the grounds Mondays through Fridays 8am until 4pm. Weekends are hit or miss; call ahead to check if they are open because sometimes there is a private function going on.
Address: 34 Muttontown Lane, East Norwich
Phone: 516-571-8551
