Ever wondered what lies beyond the bustling metropolis of New York City? Long Island, a vibrant tapestry of landscapes, history, and communities, stretches eastward, offering a diverse experience that captivates residents and visitors alike.
From the iconic beaches of the South Shore to the serene vineyards of the North Fork, Long Island presents a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. The island, a prominent feature in the Atlantic Ocean, acts as a southeastern component of New York State. It is approximately 115 miles in length, starting from the boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens at the western edge, and extending to the easternmost point of Montauk.
Aspect | Details |
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Geographic Location | Southeastern New York, U.S., situated in the Atlantic Ocean |
Boundaries |
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Counties |
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Length | Approx. 115 miles (from Brooklyn/Queens to Montauk) |
Notable Features |
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Historical Data |
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Administrative Divisions | Each county is divided into cities, towns, villages, and hamlets. |
Outwash Plain | South of the terminal moraine, the outwash plain was the location of the Hempstead Plains, once one of the few natural prairies east of the Appalachian Mountains. |
Long Island's position, a mere extension of the larger New York metro area, creates a unique environment, shaped by its proximity to both the bustling city and the tranquility of the ocean. This map showcases state boundaries alongside major cities and towns. The region presents not just a geographic layout but also a glimpse into the area's socio-economic and cultural dynamics. This particular map also delineates key landmarks such as New York City, the Atlantic Ocean, islands, airports, and, crucially, the four counties that make up the island: Brooklyn (Kings), Queens, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. The presence of these counties defines the very essence of Long Island, offering a diversity that is unique to the area.
The islands western flank forms a critical part of the harbor of New York City, integrating Long Island directly into the economic and logistical fabric of the city. This juxtaposition between urban and suburban influences plays a pivotal role in defining the lifestyle and landscape of Long Island.
Understanding the nuances of Long Island geography becomes easier with a detailed map. This is particularly true for those unfamiliar with the regional vernacular. The terms "East End," "North Fork," "South Fork," and "South Shore" are frequently heard in local conversations, and this map serves to clarify these geographical references. The map includes a vast array of features, from the famous Hamptons to the sprawling network of towns and villages that pepper the landscape.
The land of Long Island carries with it a history shaped by geological and human events. A notable feature is the outwash plain, formed after the melting of glaciers. This flat expanse, located south of the terminal moraine, provided a unique environment, with one part of it, the Hempstead Plains, supporting one of the rare natural prairies found east of the Appalachian Mountains. The presence of terminal moraines, reaching up to 400 feet above sea level, further underlines the geological diversity of the island.
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The cartographic history of Long Island provides a fascinating look into how the area has been understood and presented over time. Notable maps from the 19th and 20th centuries, such as those from the Coast Surveys and atlases created by the Beers family and others, show the evolving understanding of the region. These maps, including those by J. Chace Jr. (1858) and E. Belcher Hyde (1902 and 1916), have played an important role in shaping the perception of the island.
The evolution of Long Island's geography, from its glacial origins to its current suburban sprawl, is a fascinating story. The influence of New York City, the presence of Long Island Sound, and the Atlantic Ocean all contribute to the character of the island. Exploring the boundaries of Long Island reveals the interplay between natural and human-made elements, illustrating the area's ongoing development.
The presence of four distinct counties helps define Long Island, with Brooklyn and Queens functioning as boroughs of New York City and Nassau and Suffolk counties mainly acting as suburban areas. This division is key in grasping the socio-economic and administrative structure of the region, where the influence of the city and the character of the suburbs intermingle.
Long Island's accessibility is enhanced by a network of airports, including Long Island MacArthur Airport, and major roadways, making it easy to access the island from across the United States and beyond. Airports like LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy International, along with major thoroughfares, support tourism and commerce.
The region has a dynamic nature, from Long Beach on the barrier island to the various towns and villages scattered throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. Each locality adds its own unique character to Long Island's comprehensive identity. Moreover, the location of Long Island, between Long Island Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, and the East River, makes it an extremely desirable location with different landscapes and activities, suitable to all types of interests.
LongIsland.com



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