12 insights from locals about visiting New York State

Having spent 18 years in New York State, I've gathered valuable knowledge about this diverse, fourth-most populous state. Here are some local tips on where to go, what to do, what to eat, and how to navigate the Empire State for an unforgettable experience.

1. Remember, New York State is NOT New York City.

If there's one takeaway from this article, it’s that New York State is distinct from New York City. This distinction is crucial for those living outside the city, like in the Catskills, Western, and “Upstate” regions. The state boasts immense diversity in its population, politics, geography, and cuisine, so don't confuse the city with the state—explore as much as you can.

2. So, what defines Upstate New York?

The definition of “Upstate” varies depending on whom you ask, and residents of New York State will likely continue to debate where it truly begins. Generally, it refers to a loosely defined region starting above Westchester County (the county just north of New York City) and extending to the Adirondacks. For those familiar with the Midwest, “going Upstate” is akin to “heading up north.”

3. Explore the trails

With over 180 state parks, 150 mountain biking paths, and 700 multi-use and single-use trails, New York State is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The newly established 750-mile Empire State Trail begins in Lower Manhattan, travels north to Albany, then branches west to Buffalo and north to Rouses Point at the Canadian border. You can bike the 360-mile Erie Canalway, tackle the 46 high peaks in the Adirondacks (the largest publicly protected area in the contiguous U.S.), or explore the Autism Nature Trail—the first of its kind nationwide.

4. Don't forget a warm coat and a swimsuit

As a vast and varied state, New York offers activities for every season. In the summer, enjoy swimming at Long Island’s beaches, biking along the Hudson River, and boating in the Thousand Islands. When winter arrives, indulge in seasonal fun like snowmobiling, snow tubing, and skiing on over fifty downhill and cross-country ski trails. Year-round activities include hiking (especially during the vibrant fall foliage), brewery tours, and museum explorations, ensuring you’ll never be short on things to do.

5. Carry cash with you

Although most businesses in the state accept credit cards, small street vendors (like hotdog or pretzel carts in New York City) often only take cash. This is also true for small towns and rural areas where you’ll find farm stands selling locally made products such as cheese, milk, jam, honey, wine, maple syrup, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Some of these stands may operate on an honor system, where you place your payment in a small honesty box. If you visit in the fall, consider engaging in seasonal activities like apple picking or pumpkin picking.

6. Sample diverse regional cuisines

When in Rochester, don’t miss their famous Garbage Plate, and in Buffalo, the chicken wing capital of the world, be sure to explore the Buffalo Wing Trail. Indulge in iconic sandwiches like pastrami on rye in New York City, Beef on Weck in Buffalo, and Spiedies (pronounced “speedies”) in Binghamton. If you venture to Long Island, be sure to try the oysters and visit some of the numerous wineries. Speaking of wineries, New York State ranks as the third largest wine producer in the U.S., offering plenty of wineries and cideries along the North Fork of Long Island and in the Hudson Valley and beyond.

7. You can navigate New York State without a car (though it’s beneficial)

The renowned five-borough subway system and extensive bus routes of New York City Transit offer fairly reliable, 24-hour service, but public transportation is available throughout the state as well. You can take the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) to reach Long Island, the Metro-North Railroad for trips to Upstate New York and Connecticut, and Amtrak to travel nearly anywhere else in the country. Several bus companies, including Greyhound, Bolt, Megabus, and Peter Pan, also provide routes from New York City to various destinations across the country.

That said, having your own vehicle gives you added flexibility and the option to book accommodations that aren’t limited to bus or train access.

8. Turning right on red may (or may not) be allowed

Generally, renting a car in New York State isn’t necessary unless you wish to explore remote State Parks or small towns that aren’t reachable by train or bus. However, if you choose to drive, there’s an important rule to remember. In most of the state, drivers are allowed to turn right on a red light unless stated otherwise, but in New York City, turning right on red is illegal unless indicated (which is rarely the case). Unfortunately, there’s little signage to inform you of this; it’s something you’re expected to know. When in doubt, just wait at the red light, and if turning right is permitted, you’ll likely hear a honk from the driver behind you.

9. Avoid eating pizza with a knife and fork

While this mostly applies to New York City, using utensils for pizza is generally frowned upon. Hold your slice by both crust ends and fold it in half to keep the cheese from spilling out. That’s the classic way to savor a New York slice, but feel free to do your own thing...as long as it doesn’t involve a fork and knife.

10. Many parts of New York are accessibility-friendly

Travelers with disabilities should explore the Accessible New York guide for a wealth of useful information. It includes resources on adaptive skiing, wheelchair-accessible travel from Niagara Falls to New York City, and a list of museums that provide ASL tours for deaf guests and tactile tours for individuals who are blind or have low vision.

11. Immerse yourself in history and heritage

New York State boasts numerous historic sites that have sparked significant global movements, such as the Stonewall Inn in New York City’s West Village, known as the birthplace of the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement. Seneca Falls in Western New York played a pivotal role in the US women’s suffrage movement and is home to the Women’s National Hall of Fame. Nearby in Rochester, you can visit the Susan B. Anthony House, and in Auburn, the Harriet Tubman Home stands as a testament to the life of the remarkable abolitionist. Additionally, in Lake Placid (within the Adirondacks), you can tour the farm and historic site dedicated to abolitionist John Brown.

12. Political polarization is a reality

Diverse political opinions are prevalent throughout the United States, but due to New York City's liberal reputation, some visitors mistakenly believe the entire state shares this outlook. While New York State conservatives may not align as rigidly with those in the South and Midwest, they are certainly not liberal. You'll likely encounter pro-conservative political signs in Long Island and Upstate New York, areas known for their strong hunting and pro-gun cultures. Engaging in political discussions can provide insight into local sentiments, but be aware that conversations can become heated, and you should avoid assuming someone's beliefs based solely on their appearance.