Amityville, NY
County: Suffolk
History

Amityville is a suburban village located in Suffolk County, Long Island, New York. The village has a rich history that dates back to the mid-1600s when Europeans first settled in the area. Here is a brief overview of the history of Amityville:
Early Settlement: The area that would later become Amityville was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Secatogue tribe of the Algonquin nation. In 1653, English settlers purchased land from the Secatogue tribe, and the area was named Huntington West Neck South. Over time, numerous other English and Dutch settlers arrived in the area.
Name Change: In 1846, the village's name was changed to Amityville, inspired by the abundance of amity shells found on the nearby beaches. "Amity" means friendship, and thus the name Amityville was chosen to reflect the peaceful and friendly nature of the community.
Growth and Development: During the 19th century, Amityville experienced steady growth. The South Side Railroad reached Amityville in the 1840s, connecting it to New York City and boosting development. The opening of a sugar beet factory in the late 1800s also attracted more people to settle in the area.
Leisure and Recreation: Amityville became a popular destination for recreational activities in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The beaches and waterfront areas along the Great South Bay drew large crowds, especially during the summer months. Several grand hotels were built in the area to accommodate tourists seeking a seaside resort experience.
Famous House: The village gained international recognition in the 1970s due to the infamous Amityville Horror. A book and subsequent movies were released, detailing a supposed haunted house located at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville. The house, known as the Amityville Horror House, drew curiosity seekers and became a significant part of the village's history.
Modern Day: Today, Amityville is a thriving suburban community with a population of over 9,500 residents. The village offers a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas. It has a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Amityville's rich history and proximity to the waterfront continue to attract visitors and make it a unique place to live.
Overall, Amityville's history is characterized by its early settlement, growth during the 19th century, recreational appeal, and the famous Amityville Horror House, which has become a part of popular culture.
Attractions

Amityville Historical Society
A museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Amityville and its surrounding area.
Argyle Park
A beautiful park with a lake, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails.
Amityville Beach
A serene and sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming during the summer months.
Mary Carleton Memorial Park
A waterfront park offering gorgeous views of the Great South Bay, with a playground, picnic area, and fishing dock.
Adventureland
A nearby amusement park packed with exciting rides, games, and attractions for the whole family.
Lauder Museum
A small museum that provides a glimpse into the lifestyle and history of the Native American Montaukett tribe.
South Shore Theatre Experience
A community theater that hosts various performances and offers acting classes and workshops.
Restaurants and shops
Amityville has a vibrant dining scene with a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines. There are also unique boutiques and specialty stores for shopping enthusiasts.
Belmont Lake State Park
Situated nearby in West Babylon, this state park features a lake for fishing and boating, picnic areas, trails, and playgrounds.
Tanner Park
Located in nearby Copiague, this park offers a beach, nature trails, tennis courts, and a playground for outdoor recreation.
Climate
Amityville, NY experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and cool winters. The area is influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which helps moderate temperatures throughout the year.
Summers in Amityville are typically warm and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24°C) in June to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 29°C) in July and August. However, heatwaves can push temperatures into the 90s Fahrenheit (above 32°C) at times. Nights are generally mild, with lows in the 60s Fahrenheit (around 15-20°C). Humidity levels can be quite high, especially in July and August, making it feel even hotter.
Winters in Amityville are cold but not severe. Average high temperatures in December and January range from the mid-30s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around 2-6°C), with colder temperatures at night falling below freezing. Snowfall is common, with an average of 27 inches (69 cm) per year, but heavy snowstorms are relatively infrequent. Precipitation is evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly higher amounts in the summer.
Spring and autumn in Amityville are typically mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (around 10-25°C). These seasons are marked by comfortable weather, although rainfall can be more frequent.
Overall, Amityville experiences a varied climate with distinct seasons, allowing residents to enjoy a range of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
Amityville, New York is a charming village located in Suffolk County on Long Island. It is known for its rich history, attractive residential areas, and a strong sense of community. While Amityville is relatively small in size, it is home to several distinct neighborhoods that offer their own unique characteristics.
The Village
The heart of Amityville is the Village, which is situated near the waterfront. It features picturesque tree-lined streets and a mixture of historic homes and newer developments. The Village is known for its vibrant downtown area, with independent shops, restaurants, and local businesses. It hosts various community events, such as festivals and parades.
Sunken Meadow
Located in the southern part of Amityville, Sunken Meadow is a residential neighborhood with well-maintained homes and a suburban atmosphere. It offers a peaceful environment with its tree-filled streets, parks, and good schools. The proximity to the Great South Bay also allows residents to enjoy various water activities.
North Amityville
Situated north of the Village, North Amityville is a diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. It consists of single-family homes, apartment complexes, and some industrial sites. It is known for its cultural diversity and affordable housing options.
Copiague
Although technically a separate hamlet, Copiague is often associated with Amityville due to its proximity and shared school district. Copiague is a vibrant community with a diverse population. It has a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and commercial areas. Copiague's close proximity to the waterfront allows for various recreational activities and access to the nearby South Shore beaches.
East Amityville
Located on the eastern side of the Village, East Amityville is a quiet and predominantly residential area. It is characterized by well-established neighborhoods with a mix of older homes and newer constructions. East Amityville provides a suburban lifestyle with easy access to amenities and is popular among families and professionals.
Overall, Amityville offers a range of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Whether you seek a bustling downtown area, a tranquil suburban environment, or a sense of community, Amityville's various neighborhoods have something to offer.