New York consistently ranks among the most popular states in the US to travel to. The Empire State is free to adopt any name in the naming contest. The state is deeply rooted in its Native American past.
In essence “calling it how you see it,” the regions and natural features subsequently gave rise to places such as Poughkeepsie, which is still one of the state’s most well-known, mispronounced towns.
Chautauqua
Although it may be difficult to pronounce, the namesake of the county and lake where the town is located on the western coast is straightforward: Shuh-taw-kwuh.
About 30 minutes from the southeast side of Lake Erie, surrounded by verdant state woods, it invites you to escape the city for a refreshing summer getaway.
After hiking, visitors love taking refreshing dips in Camp Pendergast, which is a highly regarded base.
The institution that offered well-liked adult education programs and entertainment during the late 19th and early 20th centuries was Chautauqua.
Among the many “halls,” the institution’s spinoffs around town serve as regional cultural hubs for events, performances, and get-togethers.
The Norton Hall, the little Bratton Theater, and neighborhood shops are just a few of the many venues in the creative town where one may appreciate art, crafts, and designs. Visit Andriaccio’s Restaurant to refuel with fine Italian cuisine.
Poughkeepsie
This Dutchess County town on the east bank of the Hudson River is more confusing than its name—is it a city?
Taking center stage is the City of Poughkeepsie, which functions as a distinct entity within the larger town of the same name. In Wappinger Indian, the name translates to “reed-covered lodge by the little water place.”
Poughkeepsie maintained its small-town traditions even after becoming a hub for manufacturing and commerce, where the Smith Brothers produced cough drops for the first time in 1852.
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However, it is still one of the most well-known Upstate towns in the Empire and is mispronounced, even by native Americans, due to the inverted middle and end sounds and the use of a “f,” as in cough.
Don’t miss the thrilling Walkway Over the Hudson State Park and the drive-in theater for a complete “Puh-kip-see” experience.
Oneonta
Many people identify Oneonta with the Mohawk Valley’s rich Indian American heritage and the nation’s favorite activity because it is home to a reputable SUNY. The name “Oneonta” comes from the Native American language and means “place of open rocks.”
It was first known as McDonald’s Mills and changed to Milfordville in 1817. It’s conveniently accessible by Interstate 88 and situated halfway between Albany and greater Binghamton.
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After a steep journey, Oneonta greets you with a rich history as an Indian council site that is now the center of the Tri-County region of Otsego, Delaware, and Schoharie.
When the iconic Damashke Field first opened as Elm Park in 1906, it featured legendary performers like Rogers Hornsby and Babe Ruth.
In addition to Susquehanna Trail Campground in Oneonta, New York, Cooperstown All-Star Village is a well-liked place to stay.
Neahwa Park is a large, pet-friendly green space that features a playground, tennis courts, baseball fields, and an ice park.
Sag Harbor
This unincorporated community, which is part of both Southampton and East Hampton, is literally more than meets the eye. It is named after a tuber, a staple crop that resembles potatoes and is grown by the local Pequot people.
Sag, which is not your average Hamptons hamlet, is really unique and features boutiques, fashionable restaurants, and stunning beaches.
Sag is still most known for its whaling past and for keeping the otherwise stuffy area “cool,” even though it has long been a popular summer vacation, in part because of the beachside lifestyle.
The “see-to-be-seen vibe” is more applicable to gifted people and their creations, such as those at the Grenning Gallery.
In addition, there are a lot of hidden natural areas worth discovering, as well as hidden gems like coffee shops and bars. Visit the town’s waterfront and local market after spending the morning at Grindstone Coffee & Donuts.
No matter the season, everyone should plan a trip to Havens Beach, which includes the Old Fort and the stunning white Old Whalers Church of Sag.
Penn Yan
With so much to see and do, you might not even consider the fascinating name. It is home to lakes, waterfalls, and lovely town greens right outside your door.
Get a taste of the area’s historical life at the little YCHC Oliver House Museum, which is named from its geolocation on the Pennsylvania border rather than a person.
The Windmill Farm & Craft Market, which is anchored by a Main Street that seems like it belongs in a storybook, is a seasonal market where people can meet and purchase local products like enormous pots of honey and freshly dug creamer potatoes.
Elm Street, the town’s main thoroughfare, is where Keuka Outlet Trail begins. It then winds its way toward Seneca Lake, passing waterfalls en route. In the 1800s, Cascade Falls, which fueled the region’s several mills, is a great place to have a picnic.
Follow the trail all the way to Dresden on the western side of Seneca and stop at the appropriately named Trails End restaurant. Back in town, surf-and-turf with woody elements is served at the popular local restaurant Keuka.
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