Day trip: Make it one for the books in Sag Harbor
Canio's Books, in business since 1980, is the anchor of Sag Harbor's literary scene. Credit: Ian J. Stark
Sag Harbor has long been a favorite destination for writers and readers alike. The East End village is mentioned in Herman Melville’s “Moby-Dick;" was home to John Steinbeck, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature; and is today anchored by Canio’s Books, a long-standing independent bookstore known for its lively readings. Here’s how to enjoy the best of Sag Harbor’s literary offerings in one day:
Start with a self-guided Literary Sag Harbor Walking Tour via an app that can be downloaded. The tour starts at the Windmill on Long Wharf, where a sign honors Steinbeck, and ends at 19 Ninevah Place, a home often visited by poet Langston Hughes. The tour lasts two hours with a total of 22 stops throughout the village, including the homes of Colson Whitehead, Betty Friedan, James Fenimore Cooper and more. The Sag Harbor Walking Tour App is free and can be downloaded for Apple and Android.
Stop by Canio’s Books, a literary staple since 1980. In-store browsing is not an option, but you can order books online or call beforehand to place a request. The store is open for curbside pickup daily between 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 290 Main St.; 631-725-4926, caniosbooks.com.
After all that walking, fuel up at LT Burger. This restaurant is in part of what used to be Black Buoy, a fishermen's bar that was one of Steinbeck’s favorites. Curbside pickup and delivery are available for an assortment of hearty burgers like the Route 27 topped with caramelized onions, peppered bacon, "smoky catch-up" and Mecox cheddar; salads; shakes; smoothies and more. 62 Main St.; 631-899-4646 ltburger.com.
