Located in Port Washington (known in The Great Gatsby as "East Egg"), Sands Point Preserve is open year round. Entrance to this 216 acre preserve, which costs $2.00 on weekends, allows access to several nature trails and the shoreline. For an additional $6.00, the tour of Falaise (named after the French town) is well worth the trip if you are interested in Long Island's Gold Coast. Built in 1923 for Harry F. Guggenheim (the nephew of Solomon R. Guggenheim) and his then-wife Caroline Morton, Falaise is, in our opinion, the highlight of this park.
The home is interesting for a variety of reasons and, for the most part, is exactly the way Harry Guggenheim left it. During the tour, you'll gain insight into the influence that the Guggenheim family had on space travel and the newspaper industry. You'll also see the room where it is said that Harry Guggenheim's friend, Charles Lindbergh, completed his first book, We.
The tour guide will also point out some very interesting architectural elements on this French Medieval style house. Outside, these elements include the lava stone columns and smeared brick construction. Inside, you'll see antiques such as art by known artists and their schools as well as wood carvings, 1920's and 1950's furniture and clothing which was worn by Harry Guggenheim. Harry's horse racing trophys and memorabilia may be of particular interest to racing fans as well.
Open May through October, Falaise can be toured Thursdays through Sundays at noon, 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm (with exceptions during the Medieval Festival in September when there are several days that no tours are permitted).
SANDS POINT PRESERVE:
127 Middleneck Road
Port Washington, NY 11050
516-571-7900
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