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View of Montauk from outside the city.

Culture, Montauk

Montauk Arts & Culture - Past & Present

By Editor 2022, July

The past is alive and well! The “good old days” of Montauk, when this sleepy hamlet at the end of the earth was a salty mix of fishermen, surfers and artists. Step back in time and experience the rich history of one of Long Island’s oldest villages or experience one of the new cultural centers of the Hamptons. The East End has long been a destination for artists and creatives. This rich heritage is reflected in the multitude of cultural institutions that call the area home.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Second House is the oldest structure in Montauk. Originally built in 1746, the home has been restored and is open to the public. Next, stop by the Montauk Indian Museum, designed to preserve the history of the land’s original inhabitants. Enjoy hands-on experiences such as flint-knapping, tanning of hides, Native American cookery, basket-making, blow-gun hunting, and wampum-making.

Exterior of the famous Lobster Roll.

THE LOBSTER ROLL

A famed filming location, a historical artifact and a fantastic place to get an authentic Montauk lobster roll. This iconic spot has been the best casual seafood stop on the East End since the 1950s. For the ultimate vintage food crawl, continue on to Clam Bar, for delicious fried seafood.

PARRISH ART MUSEUM

The oldest cultural institution on the East End is now located in a sleek 8,000 sq ft new home. The museum focuses extensively on work from Long Island artists colonies, and boasts originals from Roy Lichtenstein, Jackson Pollock and William Merritt Chase, as well as a rotating program of temporary exhibits. 

POLLOCK-KRASNER HOUSE

Tread the paint-splattered floor, where Pollock’s footprints are still visible. Browse shelves lined with Krasner’s personal novels and dozens of jazz records. Tour the exhibition of photographs and text panels outlining both artists’ lives and careers. Then, participate in a hands-on drip painting workshop and take home your own Pollock inspired masterpiece. Jackson Pollock described the area as having “iridescent light” perfect for creating a masterpiece. Experience world famous works of art in the setting that inspired their creation. 

Signage leading to Montauk's Point Lighthouse.

THE LIGHTHOUSE

The world-famous Montauk Point Lighthouse provides unforgettable 360° views of the Block Island Sound, Atlantic Ocean and beyond. After snapping the perfect picture from the top of the lighthouse, tour the grounds and museum and discover more about this iconic monument symbolizing the nation’s role as a beacon to early settlers.

THE WATERMILL CENTER

The Watermill Center is a laboratory of inspiration and performance, which provides a unique environment for a global community of emerging and established artists and thinkers to gather and explore new ideas together. Tour the artists’ residence quarters, take in an exhibit or design your own interactive creative experience.

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