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New York, "The Empire State"
The exact origin of the nickname, "The Empire State," for New York is not known, but by 1820 it was renowned. George Washington had used the name, empire, as early as 1785, when he used it in the following way when referring to the state of New York; "the Seat of the Empire." The author, Alexander Flick, who wrote, History of New York State, stated that "The Empire State" was "universally acknowledged and accepted" by 1825 and used as early as 1819. Some say the nickname was given due to New York's wealth and resources, or to New York exceeding Virginia in population. Regardless of its exact origin, the nickname has been continued to be used all throughout the state of New York; Empire State Building, The Empire State Plaza, The Empire State Express (train route), Empire Service (Amtrak route from NYC to Buffalo), SUNY Empire State College in Saratoga Springs, and Empire State Games.
From 1957 - 1963, the vehicle license plates used "Empire State" as a slogan. In 1964-1965, the slogan was changed to "World's Fair." From 1966 - April of 2001, no slogan was used. Then, in April 2001, "The Empire State" slogan was used until April of 2010 when it changed to "Empire State." on the New York state license plates.
Explore the Regions of the Empire State
New York State is more than just the Big Apple — it’s a vast and varied landscape made up of distinct regions, each with its own story to tell. From the rolling vineyards of the Finger Lakes to the towering peaks of the Adirondacks, and from the historic Hudson Valley to the quiet beauty of the Southern Tier, every corner of the Empire State invites exploration.
Whether you're chasing waterfalls, touring craft beverage trails, walking through Revolutionary War history, or just soaking up local charm, New York’s eleven travel regions offer something for every kind of traveler — year-round.
Discover New York’s Unique Travel Regions
- Adirondacks: A wild paradise of mountains, lakes, and outdoor adventure.
- Capital-Saratoga: Home to Albany’s historic sites and Saratoga’s legendary horse racing.
- Central New York: Where rolling hills meet cultural gems and lakeside towns.
- Chautauqua-Allegheny: Rich in natural beauty, historic resorts, and artistic inspiration.
- Finger Lakes: Famous for world-class wineries, glacial lakes, and scenic drives.
- Greater Niagara: Iconic waterfalls meet vibrant cities like Buffalo and Niagara Falls.
- Hudson Valley: A blend of pastoral charm, farm-to-table food, and cultural heritage.
- Long Island: Beaches, vineyards, and seaside escapes just outside New York City.
- New York City: The five boroughs bursting with culture, cuisine, and global energy.
- Southern Tier: A peaceful stretch of countryside, perfect for slow travel and discovery.
- Thousand Islands-Seaway: A boater’s dream with island castles and St. Lawrence River views.
Plan Your New York State Journey
Every region of New York has its own heartbeat — its own traditions, tastes, and treasures. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong local, there’s always something new to uncover in the Empire State. Use the map below to explore destinations by region and start planning your next unforgettable adventure.
From city skylines to mountain peaks, the Empire State awaits.
