Nestled around its namesake park, Westwood is a welcoming neighborhood where tree-lined streets and classic Cape-style homes create a cozy, small-town charm. With a tight-knit community spirit and easy access to the Westwood LIRR station, it’s a peaceful haven with the perfect blend of convenience and neighborhood warmth.
Valley Stream offers a balanced mix of single detached homes and townhouses, predominantly featuring three-bedroom and larger options in a calm and inviting setting. Its convenient transit infrastructure includes multiple nearby train stations on several branches and numerous bus lines, making daily travel straightforward without reliance on a car. Cycling is simplified by gently sloping terrain that allows comfortable rides throughout the area. Accessible primary and secondary schools enhance convenience, complemented by nearby grocery stores and dining options including cafes and specialty shops. The neighborhood’s quiet streets combined with vibrant activity along main roads create an appealing living environment with diverse amenities close at hand.
Valley Stream offers a slower-paced environment. Valley Stream is quiet overall, as there are generally low levels of noise from traffic - although that is not the case closer to the railway line. Although this part of the Greater New York metropolitan area is not known for its vibrancy, its main streets are still quite energetic.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Located right in the heart of Westwood on Whitehall Street, Westwood Park offers a scenic pond, playgrounds, open green spaces, and well-kept sports fields, making it a popular spot for families, weekend picnics, and community gatherings.
The Westwood Long Island Rail Road station on Whitehall Street provides locals with convenient access to Manhattan and other parts of Long Island, serving as a commuter-friendly hub and boosting the neighborhood’s accessibility.
Westwood falls within the highly regarded Valley Stream School District 13, featuring neighborhood-focused elementary schools renowned for their dedicated staff, academic excellence, and strong community involvement.
Beloved by locals, Bella Pizza on Merrick Road near Westwood Park serves up traditional New York-style slices and tasty Italian dishes, drawing steady crowds for family dinners, quick bites, and takeout nights.
Running through the southern edge of Westwood, the Green Acres Road trail is prized by joggers, walkers, and cyclists alike, offering a safe and scenic route that connects residents to nearby attractions and parks.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
A festive family‑friendly 4th of July event in Valley Stream featuring food trucks, live entertainment, a DJ, magic show, face painting and fireworks—perfect for local residents looking to celebrate Independence Day close to home.
Weekly summer evening car show showcasing classic and modern cars with oldies music by a DJ—great for local enthusiasts and families strolling Downtown Valley Stream.
A hands‑on nature exploration event at nearby Jones Beach, ideal for families and nature lovers in Westwood/Valley Stream who want to enjoy a free, educational outing near the coast.
Long Island’s largest four‑day music, arts & cultural festival, featuring multiple stages, food court, artisan market and a kids’ zone—well worth a short drive for local families and music fans.
A summer reading program for children, teens and adults in Valley Stream with themed activities like scavenger hunts, “escape rooms”, dinosaur crafts and celebration events—great for local families looking to stay engaged all summer.
Stories, updates, and things to know in Westwood
Local characteristics and demographics for Westwood
