Best Long Island New York Travel Books of 2026

The StreetSmart NYC Top 10 Map by VanDam is a laminated pocket-sized map of Manhattan that includes all the top attractions, museums, theaters, and shopping destinations. The map is designed with clear information and 3-D building illustrations, making it easy to read from three feet away. It also includes a 3D skyline poster of Manhattan skyscrapers and a subway map. The map is a graphic souvenir that you can hang on your wall. The top 10 must-dos are illustrated with a cheeky description revealing the New Yorker's perspective on the vertical city. Overall, this map is a must-have for tourists and locals alike who want to navigate the city with ease.

The Kids' Travel Guide - New York City is a fun, educational, and engaging book for kids who are about to visit or are curious about the city. Through the eyes of Leonardo, a cute tour guide, kids can explore the city's famous attractions, transportation system, history, and fun facts. The book includes challenging tasks, exciting quizzes, and coloring pages, making it a perfect companion for any young adventurer. The FlyingKids brand also offers interactive guides for other cities and countries worldwide. The book is an excellent gift for kids and a fantastic way to expand their horizons and introduce them to the world.

The Lost Boys of Montauk is a gripping and emotional account of the tragic event that happened in March 1984. The book follows the story of the four men who vanished at sea, leaving behind their families and loved ones. Amanda M. Fairbanks explores the reasons why this event has remained in people's minds for more than three decades and how grief can affect memories. The book is a compelling tribute to those who perished and a powerful reminder of the dangers of the sea. Overall, The Lost Boys of Montauk is a well-written and honest book that will leave readers with a deep sense of empathy for the survivors and the families left behind.

Better Living Through Birding is a captivating memoir, travelogue, and primer on the art of birding by Christian Cooper. The book takes the reader on a journey through Cooper's life as a self-described "Blerd" (Black nerd), avid comics fan, and expert birder. The author shares his experiences with migratory birds in Central Park, life-changing birding expeditions through Africa, Australia, the Americas, and the Himalayas, and the unexpected lessons he has learned from a life spent looking up. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in birding, memoirs, and Black biographies.

Moon New England Hiking is a comprehensive guide for hikers looking to explore the best outdoor getaways in Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. The book provides detailed descriptions of 150 hikes, including easy day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips, with maps and directions to each trailhead. What sets this book apart is its focus on nearby breweries, eateries, and campgrounds, making it a great resource for planning a complete outdoor adventure. With expert advice on gear, first aid, and protecting the environment, this book is a must-have for both seasoned hikers and first-timers.

American Lighthouses: A Comprehensive Guide To Exploring Our National Coastal Treasures is a stunning and informative book that offers a unique look into the history and architecture of over 450 lighthouses in the United States. Written by Bruce Roberts and Cheryl Shelton-Roberts, this fully illustrated guide provides readers with everything they need to know about visiting or viewing these beautiful navigational beacons. The authors' combined expertise in photography and lighthouse history make this book a must-read for anyone interested in historic architectural preservation. Overall, American Lighthouses is a well-researched and beautifully presented guide that is sure to delight both lighthouse enthusiasts and casual readers alike.

On Nobody Famous: Guesting, Gossiping, Gallivanting (Atlantic Editions) is a collection of dispatches chronicling the everyday adventures of two regular women in New York. The book features long-form journalism by Atlantic writers, drawn from contemporary articles or classic storytelling from the magazine’s 165-year archive. The highlights of the book include taking the Q train to Coney Island, an Uber to eat Garbage Plates, and a walk to a Crown Heights birthday party. This eclectic and endlessly funny book invites readers to get together and go nowhere with nobody all that famous. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to experience the everyday adventures of two regular women in New York.

North Carolina Off the Beaten Path® is a great guide for both locals and tourists looking for unique experiences in the Tar Heel State. The book offers a fresh perspective on well-known destinations, as well as hidden gems that many may not be aware of. From local dining to quirky cultural tidbits, the book covers all aspects of the state. The author, James L. Hoffman, a North Carolina native, and Sara Pitzer, a transplanted Yankee, have done an excellent job of showcasing the state's diversity. Overall, the book is a must-read for anyone looking for an adventure off the beaten path.

The Hamptons Kitchen: Seasonal Recipes Pairing Land and Sea is a celebration of the simple elegance of the Hamptons and its back-to-basics approach to dining. The book is divided into seasonal chapters and features recipes that make the most of local East End produce, seafood, meats, and cheeses. The recipes are paired with local wines and beers to create a true Hamptons dining experience. With 60 color photographs, this book is an irresistible celebration of everything local, and it's not only good for your body but also your mind and soul. Overall, a beautiful ode to the Hamptons lifestyle that can be adapted to any local foodshed.

Soil and Spirit: Cultivation and Kinship in the Web of Life is a collection of essays by Scott Chaskey, a farmer and leader in the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) movement. The book combines Chaskey's commitment to food sovereignty and organic farming with his belief in the importance of microbial life and diversity of species. The essays trace Chaskey's development as a farmer and poet, from his time on a homestead in Maine to his travels across Ireland, China, and New Mexico. With literary quotes, poetry, and personal anecdotes, Soil and Spirit is an eloquent exploration of the interconnectedness of all life forms.