Franklin Square

Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square Neighborhood

Nestled along Hempstead Turnpike, this Franklin Square neighborhood blends classic suburban charm with a vibrant local scene, featuring a mix of cozy single-family homes and bustling storefronts. Tree-lined streets, family-run eateries, and welcoming neighbors create a close-knit, energetic community at the heart of Long Island’s daily life.

Franklin Square offers a tranquil community with mostly single detached homes and some duplexes, featuring spacious residences with three or more bedrooms. The neighborhood’s calm atmosphere contributes to a peaceful environment, away from busy street noise. Conveniently located near multiple bus lines, residents have access to public transportation options within short distances. Essential amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes are easily accessible, making daily errands straightforward. Primary and high schools are also within close proximity. While the area is nestled among some slopes, it remains a pleasant setting with moderate accessibility, balancing quiet living and convenient access to local services.

Home buyers who prefer a slower-paced atmosphere will enjoy Franklin Square. Franklin Square is very quiet overall, as there tend to be low levels of noise from traffic. Even though this part of the Greater New York metropolitan area is not known for its lively ambience, its main streets can still be quite dynamic.

Highlights of Hempstead Turnpike

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🍽️ Franklin Square Restaurant Row

Stretching along Hempstead Turnpike, this vibrant restaurant row features beloved spots like Umberto’s Pizzeria & Restaurant, King Umberto, and Gino’s, making it a go-to destination for authentic Italian cuisine and longstanding neighborhood favorites.

🏫 Franklin Square School District 17

Serving families right off Hempstead Turnpike, this highly regarded school district anchors the community with its celebrated elementary and middle schools, creating a tight-knit feel and strong sense of local pride.

🛒 Franklin Square Shopping Plaza

Located at the intersection with New Hyde Park Road, this bustling shopping center features staple stores like Stop & Shop, Walgreens, and several local boutiques, offering residents convenient options for daily needs and errands.

🌳 Rath Park

A short drive from Hempstead Turnpike, Rath Park is the community’s recreation hub with its expansive pool complex, athletic fields, playground, and seasonal events that draw neighbors together year-round.

⛪ St. Catherine of Sienna Church

Situated right on Hempstead Turnpike, this historic church with its stately architecture is a spiritual and cultural landmark, hosting not only services but also bazaars and community gatherings for generations of Franklin Square residents.

A Franklin Square Neighborhood

This October in Hempstead Turnpike

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

October 2–11, 2026

Oktoberfest at Plattduetsche Park

Plattduetsche Park, 1132 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, NY • Varies by day

This is the most hyper-local pick for Franklin Square residents, taking place directly on Hempstead Turnpike. Enjoy German food, beer, live music, and traditional dancing across multiple Friday, Saturday, and Sunday celebrations, plus an October 14 Oktoberfest evening at The Hive with specials and contests.

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October 4, 2026

Vinny Ten Racing Race & Show Expo

Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale, NY • 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Car enthusiasts and families can make an easy Hempstead Turnpike outing of this motorsports expo. The event features live autocross racing, more than 650 performance and show vehicles, vendors, displays, food, and family-friendly entertainment, making it a lively nearby alternative to a typical fall weekend activity.

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October 10, 2026

Frontline Fest

Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale, NY • 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

This free, family-friendly community festival is close to Franklin Square and directly accessible from Hempstead Turnpike. Activities include 3-on-3 basketball, wellness and yoga, Lotería, a kids zone, food trucks, musical performances, DJs, and community-focused healthcare advocacy. Registration is required to attend.

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October 10, 2026

Hope 'n Soles Walk

Eisenhower Park, Holly and Cherry Picnic Area, 1899 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY • 7:30 AM–10:30 AM

Residents looking for an active, meaningful morning can join this family-friendly one- or two-mile walk along Hempstead Turnpike. Strollers are welcome, and the event supports organ, eye, and tissue donation awareness. It offers a low-key outdoor activity within a reasonable drive from Franklin Square.

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October 17–18, 2026

Mineola Fall Festival

Mineola Memorial Park, 195 Marcellus Road, Mineola, NY • 12:00 PM–6:00 PM

A nearby regional option for a full fall afternoon, this free-entry festival combines live music, food trucks, beer and wine, seasonal shopping, a vendor village, pumpkin activities, and kids programming. Mineola is a practical short trip from Franklin Square for residents wanting a larger community autumn event.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Hempstead Turnpike

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Hempstead Turnpike

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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