New York Public Library—City Island Branch

Like a gem in the middle of the Long Island Sound, this little-known branch of the New York Public Library (which opened in 1970 and was totally renovated in 1997) has a 1,000-volume ship collection (all about shipwrecks, naval history and pirates—aarrrgh!), an expansive children’s section and an outdoor garden for special events and activities. Plus there’s free Internet—all you have to do is call and make an appointment.