When it comes to making a big move to the East Coast, New York is a popular place for people to relocate to. With transplants living all throughout our state, we understand why so many people are excited to start calling the Empire State home. But if you happen to be one of the people that’s new here and you’re looking to feel more like a New Yorker and less like a tourist, try checking off this list of things to help make you at home!
1. Visit one of our famous state parks.
From Watkins Glen and Letchworth to Niagara Falls and Green Lakes, New York's state parks are simply the best.
2. Hike a High Peak.
Taking on a High Peak may feel like an intimidating challenge, but there are a few of our 46 mountains that aren't too bad for you to try and tackle! You won't regret hiking these trails once you see the view from their summits.
3. Go out along both Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
New York's lucky enough to claim territory along two Great Lakes and we couldn't be happier about it. The never-ending views of the water are always breathtaking.
4. Visit one of the greatest cities in the world.
The city that never sleeps, you won't find anywhere else like New York.
5. And then forever be furious that outsiders only ever care about the Big Apple.
It's not that we're denying the appeal of New York City, it's just that we know there's so much else to be seen within the state of New York!
6. Dine at one of our iconic restaurants.
There's plenty of restaurants and dishes that New York is known for. From things like garbage plates, speidies, and chicken riggies, you'll want to eat at one of our most well-known restaurants to understand our food mentality.
7. Acquire a taste for only New York style pizza.
Forget Chicago deep dish pizzas or anything else that you thought you knew, New York style is the only way to go!
8. Root for one of our teams from the sidelines.
Whether it's football or baseball or any other sport, you'll want to see a professional New York team play in person at least once in your life.
9. Visit the New York State Fair.
Head out to Syracuse at the end of summer to enjoy New York's State Fair, offering more fun and things for you to do than you could ever imagine.
10. Enjoy one of our unique festivals.
You'd be surprised at some of the themed festivals you can find hiding around in New York's small towns.
11. Soak in the relaxing views of one of our waterfalls.
Waterfalls of all sizes can be found hiding all over New York state, but there's some that you'll want to make a point to visit. Aside from crossing landmarks like Niagara Falls off of your bucket list, you'll also want to visit spots like Eternal Flame Falls.
12. Master how to drive in the snow.
A task that's easier said than done, this is something many New Yorkers are still trying to get down pat.
13. Visit one of our small Finger Lakes towns with a glass of wine in your hand.
Oh, the Finger Lakes! Where you can enjoy views of the water, small-town charm and some of the best wine and cheese that you'll ever have. Does it get any better than that?
14. Survive a snowstorm.
Yes, you did it! You're finally a New Yorker now! If you can learn to deal with the winter weather and survive a real snowstorm, you can officially forget about any other place that you previously called home.
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