Lewin Farms, Lavender By The Bay and Tanger Outlets Full-Day Tour

A Day Out From NYC: Visiting Lewin Farms, Lavender by the Bay, and Tanger Outlets

If you’re looking for a way to escape the busy streets of New York City and enjoy a combination of fresh produce, fragrant lavender fields, and some serious retail therapy, this full-day tour offers just that. For $85 per person, you’ll spend about 8 to 11 hours exploring the countryside and shopping at Long Island’s best spots—no car needed. Your day includes a visit to Lewin Farms, where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables, a stop at Lavender by the Bay on Long Island’s North Fork, and a few hours to hunt for bargains at Tanger Outlets.

What we really like about this tour is how it manages to blend nature, local food, and shopping into one manageable day. The drive is taken care of by a friendly, humorous Chinese-speaking guide, which takes the pressure off navigating unfamiliar roads. Plus, the stops are well-paced—giving us enough time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed. Another highlight is how accessible it is—no need to rent a car or figure out public transport—just sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

Of course, a potential hitch is the schedule: if Lewin Farms or Lavender by the Bay happens to be closed or not open on your day, you might need to adapt your expectations. And if you’re not a shopper or just want more time at the outlets, keep in mind that this is a guided tour with set stops and timings. Still, it suits those who want to combine a little bit of everything in a straightforward, hassle-free way.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, foodies, and bargain hunters who appreciate a relaxed, guided experience with plenty of opportunities to enjoy local flavors and unique sights without the stress of planning. Families with kids (especially those under 6) will also find it suitable, thanks to the organized transportation and friendly guide.

Key Points

• Convenient day trip from NYC with all transportation included
• Visit Lewin Farms to pick fresh produce and learn about local farming traditions
• See the stunning lavender fields at Lavender by the Bay, one of the largest in the USA
• Enjoy shopping at Tanger Outlets with three hours for deals and browsing
• Relaxed pace with a knowledgeable guide and plenty of treats along the way
• Ideal for those seeking a mix of nature, food, and shopping without the hassle of driving

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Lewin Farms: A Farm-Fresh Welcome

Your day starts early, leaving NYC around 6:30 am. The first stop is Lewin Farms, where we spend about 75 minutes. This family-run farm has a long tradition of offering a wide variety of crops you can pick yourself. Imagine strolling among neatly organized fields of strawberries, corn, or other seasonal produce—there’s something very satisfying about choosing your own food straight from the source.

According to reviews, Lewin Farms is a true farm-to-table experience. One traveler noted, “You can’t get any fresher or more local than this,” highlighting how special it is to see where your food comes from. The farm’s relaxed atmosphere lets you take your time, snap some photos, or even chat with the friendly staff about farming practices.

Lavender by the Bay: A Fragrant Getaway

After an hour and 15 minutes at Lewin Farms, the tour takes you to Lavender by the Bay in East Marion. This is one of the largest lavender farms in the United States and a top-rated spot for its stunning displays of purple blooms. Visiting here, you’ll see rows of fragrant lavender stretching as far as the eye can see, perfect for photos or just breathing in some calming scents.

While admission isn’t included if you choose the optional visit, many travelers find it worth the extra fee for the experience. The farm has been rated by Country Living as one of the top six lavender farms worth visiting. Expect to spend about 60 minutes wandering among the fields, enjoying the sights and smells. Some reviews mention the “stunning views,” and humorously, one traveler said, “It’s like a giant lavender cake—sweet and purple!”

Be aware that if Lavender by the Bay isn’t open (perhaps due to seasonal or weather issues), the itinerary may be adjusted accordingly. Still, most guests find this stop a highlight for its relaxing, sensory experience.

Tanger Outlets: Shopping at Its Best

The final major stop is Tanger Outlets in Riverhead, where you get about 3 hours to browse and shop. This outlet mall is well-known for offering discounted clothing, accessories, and designer brands. It’s a chance to hunt for deals on everything from Nike to Coach, making it a favorite among bargain hunters.

We loved the convenience of having a dedicated shopping window—no need to worry about missing out or rushing back to the bus. As one reviewer put it, “It’s the perfect way to combine a relaxing day with some serious shopping.” The outlet is easy to navigate, with plenty of seating and food options for breaks.

Returning to NYC: A Relaxed End

After a full day, your guide will escort you back to New York City, arriving roughly around 6:30 pm. The drive home gives you a chance to reflect on the day, maybe share a snack, and plan your next adventure.

Practical Details and What to Know

The tour is priced at $85 per person, which we think offers good value considering the transportation, guided commentary, and the variety of stops. The group size is capped at 55 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. The tour operates rain or shine—if weather causes a closure, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The guide, a humorous and friendly Chinese-speaking professional, makes the day smooth and engaging. Bottled water and snacks are included, so you stay hydrated and energized. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and cash for any personal expenses or optional admissions.

Kids under 6 can participate, though booster seats might be required on the bus. The tour also offers a fun way to collect a “Local Exploration” Travel Passport, with stamps earned at each stop—perfect for those who love a bit of travel storytelling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits those wanting an easy escape from city life, with a mix of natural beauty and shopping. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy fresh air, scenic views, and bargain hunting will find plenty to love here. It’s a particularly good choice for anyone who appreciates local food, fragrant flowers, and a well-organized, relaxed day.

If you’re looking for a more intense cultural or historical experience, this tour might feel a bit light on those elements. But if your goal is to enjoy a wholesome, straightforward day with plenty of variety, you’ll come away satisfied.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour from NYC offers a thoughtful blend of agriculture, aromatic lavender fields, and retail therapy. It strikes a balance between structured fun and freedom to enjoy each stop at your own pace. The price makes it accessible, especially considering the included transportation and snacks.

We appreciated how it makes a trip to Long Island’s countryside simple and stress-free, perfect for those who want a taste of rural life without the hassle of planning or driving. Whether you’re a foodie, a flower enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxed way to spend your day, this tour strikes a nice note of variety and value.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see a different side of New York State, combining scenic beauty with a bit of retail indulgence, all wrapped into one convenient day.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides professional transportation in a vehicle based on the number of guests, with a friendly guide to boot.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 to 11 hours, including travel, visits, and breaks.

Can children participate?
Absolutely. Children under 6 are welcome, though booster seats might be needed on the bus. Kids aged 3-11 receive a half-price discount in July & August 2025.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, cash for small expenses, and hydration.

What happens if Lewin Farms or Lavender by the Bay are closed?
If either farm isn’t open, the itinerary may be adjusted accordingly to ensure you still enjoy a fulfilling day.

Are there any food options included?
No, food and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy at the outlets or farm stands.

This guided adventure makes a lovely day trip for those wanting a taste of rural New York, fragrant fields, and outlet bargains—all in one relaxed, well-organized package.