Cherry Grove, Gay village on Fire Island, Suffolk County, New York
Cherry Grove is a settlement on Fire Island with around 300 wooden houses connected by boardwalks and arranged along the waterfront. The buildings sit close together without streets or vehicles, creating a compact, pedestrian-focused community.
The settlement was founded in 1868 and grew into a hotel and residential area starting in 1880. Over the 20th century, it became an important destination and sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community.
The Community House serves as a gathering place for theater, music, and social events where visitors experience the heart of local creative life. The performing arts and seasonal celebrations shape how people spend their time together here.
Getting here requires taking a ferry from the mainland, as Fire Island has no roads or vehicles. Plan time for the crossing and expect to explore on foot, with most places within an easy walk.
The community is almost entirely car-free, relying on boardwalks and bicycles for getting around. This makes it one of the rare car-free places along the American East Coast.
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