Douglaston, NY

Defined by elegant homes, mature trees, and gorgeous bay views, Douglaston is located in Queens, adjacent to Bayside and north of Little Neck and the Long Island Expressway. Those looking for a waterfront retreat in a picturesque neighborhood will appreciate the Douglaston Train Station, which takes visitors to nearby Manhattan in about an hour. Northern Boulevard serves as the main shopping area, lined with shops and restaurants. Another walkable shopping area is located along 235th Street.

Living in Queens, you might not expect the shady, wooded streets or the Udalls Cove Park Preserve. The preserve covers 30 acres of salt marsh and wetlands near Little Neck Bay and is ideal for hiking and wildlife-viewing. Alley Pond Park has wetlands, tidal flats, forests, and meadows -- it also features the largest high ropes adventure course in the Northeast. This park contains playgrounds, basketball courts, ball fields, fishing areas, hiking trails, tennis courts, dog-friendly areas, and the Alley Pond Environmental Center.