Situated about midway between the North and South shores, Bethpage is often described as a "wholesome" community where many families have lived for generations. "It's a great town to raise a family," said Gary Bretton, a lifelong resident. Many empty-nesters remain, some downsizing, but the area continues to entice buyers attracted to the schools and LIRR train station, said resident Mary Macaluso, an agent at Century 21 Prevete Real Estate in Plainview.

The hamlet has the look and feel of a village, with a thriving downtown along a portion of Stewart Avenue and Broadway. More shops, services and eateries can be found along Route 24, Hempstead Turnpike, and Route 107, Hicksville Road.

Bethpage's big claim to history is the Grumman-built module that landed on the moon in 1969. Other enterprises include Briarcliffe College, Goya Foods and Nassau County's first high-technology, small-business incubator.

Quiet neighborhoods feature a mix of capes, ranches, Colonials, high ranches, split-levels, split-ranches and new post-moderns, according to Macaluso. There are two types of senior housing in Bethpage, said town spokeswoman Phyllis Barry. One is a low-income, 37-unit complex on Benkert Street. The other is the Golden Age housing complex. Each has age, income and residency restrictions, and there is a waiting list.

Bethpage State Park offers extensive recreational opportunities, including five golf courses. The park hosted the U.S. Open Championship in 2002, and the Open returns to the world-class Black Course there in 2009. The Bethpage Community Park on Stewart Avenue, which has swimming pools and playing fields, will have a new indoor ice-skating rink, replacing the outdoor rink, Barry said.

- Lisa Doll Bruno (1/20/2006)