As we get older, we grow to appreciate just how lucky we are to be able to live in the Empire State. Some of us at one point or another may even leave New York, but somehow it always seems that we find ourselves coming back home for one reason or another. While we all will have our own specific reasons for why this place is one that we hold so near and dear to our hearts, here are just 15 undeniable reasons why this great state will always be home to us.
1. Some of our country's best state parks can be found here in New York, places where we've been able to experience some of our most favorite adventures.
Many of our favorite natural wonders and trails can be found within our state parks, magical spaces that some of us are lucky enough to call our backyard.
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2. And speaking of special places, we all have that one secret location where we can go to get away from it all.
One of the best parts about being a New York resident is that there are so many secret places you won't be able to find through Google. We all have our own little getaway that we can always visit to take a break from the chaos of life.
3. Because living anywhere else that doesn't have New York's four beautiful seasons feels like a crime.
Sure some of our neighboring states of the Northeast get to experience all four seasons just like we do, but there's something extra special about experiencing spring, summer, fall and winter here in New York. From the hot summer days that are filled with sunshine to our powdery wonderland in the winter, there's nothing like it.
4. Speaking of seasons, our fall foliage is something we highly anticipate every single year.
Everyone has their favorite season, but we can all agree on the fact that there's nothing like enjoying New York's fall foliage. Vibrant colors, crunchy leaves and a cool breeze are just a few of the reasons why this season will forever win over our hearts.
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5. Taking the time to enjoy a scenic drive through any of our remote areas is our favorite way to loosen up.
Everyone knows that New York City is out of this world, but our state is also home to plenty of other cities of various sizes that will charm the socks right off of you.
7. Forever holding a special place in our hearts, our mountains will always keep us coming back home.
Exploring the many mountains of New York is something that everyone should experience. From our tallest mountains in the Adirondacks to the unbelievable scenery you'll experience while adventuring through the Catskills, our trails will always make us feel warm and fuzzy about our state.
8. Sure we have plenty of mountains, but our wide open spaces melt our heart just as much.
Where things are always so much simpler, wide open spaces like the one pictured above our just one of the many reasons why we love to call New York home.
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9. The natural wonders feel endless; New York's waterfalls look like they've been pulled straight out of our dreams.
Visiting other states where waterfalls can be found few and far between is one of the most heartbreaking experiences. Thinking about growing up without the many waterfalls we have here in New York is a thought that seems just cruel. What would we be without our waterfalls?
10. We'll never stop comparing our charming small towns to every other one we ever come across.
All of our small towns have their own unique and delightful qualities that make them special, while it's hard to pick a favorite, there's definitely certain towns we find ourselves revisiting time and time again.
11. Because no one can replicate our favorite New York dishes.
Other places can try to recreate our favorite things like New York style pizza or even wings, but there's specific dishes that have come out of New York that you won't be able to enjoy anywhere else other than here in our state.
12. Because once you're a New York fan, you'll never stop being one.
You can take us out of New York but you can't take the New York out of us! No matter what sport is your favorite or which team you root for, once you're a New York fan you'll always be one.
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13. There's nothing better than waking up in New York to see one of our unforgettable sunrises.
From Lake Ontario and Lake Erie to the great big ocean, New York finds itself surrounded by water. Aside from the beaches you'll find along those great big bodies of water, there's also plenty that we love more than anything tucked away on our smaller lakes that are inland.
It's easy to forget how spoiled we are when it comes to living in the Empire State! What will always make New York home to you? For more state pride, see if you've ever caught yourself doing any of these 11 Extremely Weird Things Only People From New York Do!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
If you've lived in New York long, then you already know just how special of a state this is. But sometimes after you've been here for a while it becomes easy to forget about all of the things that we take advantage of while we get to call this place our home. Here to remind you of some of our most unique attractions and incredible destinations, take a look at some of the unique things that make living in New York so great!
If you've yet to visit Ausable Chasm, this natural New York attraction should certainly be at the top of your bucket list. Known for being the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks, the park opened up to the public back in 1870 and has been providing visitors with adventure ever since.
Say the name of this dish to those who are from out of state and you'll most likely get a head-turning reaction. But here in New York? The term simply refers to one of our most famous dishes that we couldn't be more proud of. Straight out of Rochester, Nick Tahou's is where this hearty dish comes from and we'll never stop eating it.
3. A waterfall that has an actual flame inside of it. Yes, a flame!
There are quite a few waterfalls around New York that have unusual names, but Eternal Flame Falls actually describes exactly what it is. The waterfall in Orchard Park naturally emits gas, so when you spark a flame to it it stays naturally lit. Sometimes throughout the year, you'll find that the flame goes out but it can always be re-lit and forever living up to its name. This is one natural wonder that will drop your jaw.
That's right! If you visit the town of Lily Dale you'll get to experience what it's like to be surrounded by things that are a bit out of the ordinary. In order to live in the gated community of Lily Dale, one must be a Medium and pass a series of tests to prove that they actually are what they say they are. Open to visitors every year from June through September, there's nothing quite like this place.
5. And a town that will make you feel like you've stepped right into The Wizard of Oz.
A destination that's hiding right under our noses, the small town of Chittenango is actually the hometown of author L. Frank Baum! Embracing The Wizard of Oz lifestyle, in town you'll find a Yellow Brick Road Casino, a small poppy field, the All Things Oz Museum, and even a yellow brick road look-a-like sidewalk. You'll be blown away by all of the town's charm. It's one of the most unique places in New York!
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6. A strange little Shark Girl sitting by the water.
Visit Buffalo's Canalside and you'll find a quirky Shark Girl waiting for you to take a selfie with her by the water. The odd piece of art has been in the park since 2012, becoming one of those things that our residents either love or hate. Either way, we'll always have Shark Girl!
Aside from the fact that New York is home to the world's largest pancake griddle, things get even more strange when you learn that this unique cooking appliance is hanging for all to see on the side of a building in a small town. Out in the Finger Lakes in Penn Yan, the enormous griddle was used to make the world's largest pancake in 1987.
Have you ever had so much love for salt that you created a museum that's dedicated to it? No? Well, then you probably aren't from New York. Right in Central New York where you can find our true salt-loving residents, Liverpool is home to the Empire State's very own Salt Museum.
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9. The world's largest formation of Quartz conglomerate.
The sentence above may not sound like the most exciting attraction in the world, but once you see Olean's Rock City Park for yourself you'll quickly understand what all the hype is about. The park covers over 20 acres and features enchanting trails that will take you through some of the largest rock formations you'll find in New York.
10. A singing forest that's more magical than you could imagine.
If you haven't heard of The Wild Center up in Tupper Lake then there's a good chance that you've been living underneath one of the enormous formations at Rock City Park. This year the small town gem introduced their very own singing forest, where 24 speakers are hidden throughout the woods that play out Pete Weyer's magical composition "I Walk Towards Myself".
If you've ever found yourself traveling around the city of Buffalo and thought you were going crazy because you couldn't stop smelling Cheerios, don't be so hard on yourself. What some people may not know is that the General Mills plant can be found right along the Buffalo River, giving the city the aroma of one of your favorite cereals.
12. A house that's so spooky it was declared legally haunted.
If you haven't previously read our post about New York's legally haunted house, then you should. The story goes that this house that sits along the Hudson River is so creepy that a judge declared it to be legally haunted, a case that became famously known as the Ghost Busters Ruling. Eek!
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13. A 2-mile-long trail that brings you around and underneath a total of nineteen waterfalls.
Each state throughout our country has its own state park that they're famously known for, New York's being Watkins Glen. The enchanting state park is made up of gorgeous stone staircases and endless waterfalls that will leave you speechless. There's truly no place like home. Life in New York sure is special.
Take a look at this video on Watkins Glen State Park by @OnlyInYourState:
