Location
New York is a state located in the Northeastern region of the United States, bordering New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The Hudson River and the St Lawrence River form its northern border, while it is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Great Lakes Region to the west. New York is located approximately 1,000 miles east of the Mississippi River.
Regional Climate
New York is considered to be humid continental, with four distinct seasons. Winters are typically cold and snowy across much of the state, while summers are warm and humid across most regions. Temperature changes from the south to the north tend to be more extreme, with winters in the south being milder and summers in the north being warmer. In the western part of the state, the Great Lakes influence the climate, creating more relaxed and cooler summer temperatures.
New York City
The most populous city in the state, and one of the largest in the country, is New York City. It is located at the southern tip of the state, on the islands of Manhattan, Staten Island, Long Island, and part of the mainland. It is also the primary business and financial center of the United States, and is home to the New York Stock Exchange, the largest in the world.
Transportation
Situated at the heart of the dense Northeastern population hub, New York is the hub of regional transportation and commerce links. The state is served by several airports, including the two busiest in the world: JFK International Airport, located in Queens County on Long Island, and LaGuardia Airport, located in Queens County. Both airports serve hundreds of flights every day, to a multitude of domestic and international destinations. The state is also served by numerous highways, including the New York State Thruway, a critical connection linking the state’s north and south regions.
Culture
New York has a vibrant culture, which has been shaped over the years by the diverse mix of residents who have made the area their home. The city has many iconic cultural attractions, such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Statue of Liberty and Central Park. The city also has a thriving theatre scene, which is highlighted each summer by the popular outdoor Shakespeare in the Park performances at the hallowed Delacorte Theater in Central Park.
Education
New York is also regarded as one of the most educationally advanced states in the country, with a wide range of educational opportunities. It is home to an impressive number of renowned universities, including Columbia University and New York University. Both universities are consistently ranked in the top 10 of the United States’ education institutions. New York also serves as home to some of the most prestigious high schools in the country, including Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan, which is the oldest public high school in the US.
Economy
New York’s economy ranks in the top 10 of all US states, and it is one of the most productive states per capita. This is largely due to the presence of many large-corporations, such as Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and JP Morgan Chase, which have their headquarters located in the state. This creates a ripple effect, with many other businesses locating headquarters and employing citizens throughout the state.
Tourism
New York City is arguably the world’s most iconic tourist destination. It attracts visitors from all over the world, all hoping to experience its unique blend of art, culture, and historical landmarks. From the bright lights of Times Square to the hustle and bustle of Central Park, the city’s omnipresent energy and vibrancy capture the imagination of all who visit.
Cuisine
New York is home to a wide selection of regional cuisines and fare, with dishes from countries all over the world represented in the state’s restaurants and eateries. This includes classic American dishes, such as hamburgers and hotdogs, as well as Italian pizzerias, Mexican taquerias, and Chinese restaurants. And of course, no trip to New York would be complete without trying a New York bagel or a slice of the city’s signature thin-crust pizza.
Sports
Sports are a huge part of the New York experience, with professional teams located in almost every major sport. From the Yankees in baseball to the Rangers in hockey, and the Giants in football, New York teams have been among the most successful in the country. Additionally, the state is home to numerous collegiate teams, including Princeton, Cornell, and Syracuse, which are all regularly featured in the NCAA tournament.
Fashion
New York is also one of the fashion capitals of the world, with its many famous department stores, boutiques and designer brands. Shopping along 5th Avenue, Broadway, and Union Square offers visitors a glimpse into the world of high end fashion, from iconic names like Prada and Gucci, to lesser known, yet still fashionable, local designers.
Entertainment
From the Rockefeller Center to Madison Square Garden, visitors to New York can always find some form of entertainment. Whether it be music, films, theater, art galleries, or festivals, the city is always brimming with activity. Times Square is always a popular destination, as it draws thousands of tourists each year, all drawn in to witness the luminescent lights of the electric billboard.
Night Life
New York is renowned for its bustling night life, with its numerous bars, clubs and lounges. From boisterous sports bars to sophisticated cocktail lounges, there is something for everyone in the city at night. There are also several exclusive rooftop bars and restaurants located around the city, offering stunning views of the skyline and the Hudson River.
