Big Duck

Long Island


Yep, that was a 20ft cement bird you just passed on the highway, crafted in 1931 as a fitting tribute to the island's long-gone waterfowl-breeding industry, which once comprised more than 90 duck farms. The duck, which weighs 20,000lb, has been moved four times throughout history, returning to its original location on this former duck farm in Flanders. Of course, it's a major roadside attraction.

Memorabilia from the good old days, including photos of the Duck Queen Pageant, are displayed along with fun souvenirs (the shot glass is the most popular, but the Van Gogh–style framed painting is the best!). Volunteer Mr T is a real character if he is around when you pop in. The Wednesday after Thanksgiving is an especially good time to visit, when the duck is wreathed in Christmas lights.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Long Island attractions

1. Jamesport Farm Brewery

5.15 MILES

Wine isn't the only thing flowing in the North Fork – this farm-to-pint brewery grows its own hops (used in 90% of its brews) on its 43-acre property,…

2. Shinn Estate

8.77 MILES

This restored 1880s farmhouse and winery lures oenophiles in the know not only for its excellent, age-worthy wines often touted as Long Island's best …

3. Pugliese Vineyards

11.31 MILES

Producing wine since 1980, Pugliese does especially nice sparkling varieties.

4. Bedell Cellars

11.62 MILES

This estate prides itself on sustainable production practices. A gorgeous tasting room is a repurposed potato barn and serves charcuterie and artisanal…

5. Pindar Vineyards

11.87 MILES

Iconic Pindar retains the original flavor of North Fork wine, for it was here that the island's boutique industry began back in the 1970s. What was once a…

6. Lenz Winery

12.08 MILES

Established in 1978, this is one of the oldest North Fork wineries, and still one of the more eclectic, focusing on European-style wines. The sparkling…

7. Southampton Arts Center

12.21 MILES

A well-appointed space in a pretty brick building, the gallery features local artists, while the performance space has concerts, films and other events…

8. Southampton History Museum

12.31 MILES

Before the Hamptons were the Hamptons, there was this clutch of buildings, now nicely maintained and spread around Southampton. The main museum is Rogers…