5 Things That Are Great About Living in New York State

If you put aside high taxes and endless road construction, living in the Greater Binghamton area and New York State in general, is pretty awesome.  We are fortunate to have such a diverse state that offers so much to so many people of all ethnicity and backgrounds.

Here are some of the great things about living in the Southern Tier and New York State in general:

1)  Parks - Most people in the Binghamton area take our parks for granted.  Chenango Valley State Park is a natural wonder and you add that to the many free county and city parks, and you have a quick and easy instant vacation getaway for you and the family. Easy to walk, run, ski or just get lost in, take advantage of all the free things these parks offer.

2)  Water and Waterfalls -  Binghamton is located near some amazing waterways.  While I wish we were using our historic rivers more, there are 11 lakes close by, the largest and most visited of which are Cayuga, Seneca, Canandaigua, Skaneateles and Keuka. Some of my favorite outside time is spent around Ithaca and Watkins Glenn.  If you haven't ever visited the gorges and waterfalls of New York State, or it's been a long time since you've seen them, put this on your list of things to do in 2016.  Watkins Glen and Robert Treman, Buttermilk and Taughannack in Ithaca are a must to see.  If you want to travel a little further, don't forget about the famous Niagara Falls featuring the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls.

3)  Arts - The Southern Tier has always been rich in the arts. The curtains at Binghamton University, the Forum and local theaters including the Cider Mill Playhouse, Schoor Family Firehouse Stage/Goodwill Theatre, Chenango River Theatre, EPAC, Ti-Ahwaga Community Theater and others, showcase all the local talent we have originating or visiting the Binghamton area.  Science centers like Roberson Museum and the Kopernik Observatory always offer some fun, new and exciting programs and events for all ages.

4)  Wine Country -  I'm surprised at the number of people that have never taken an hour drive to visit New York State Wine Country.  If you're not a wine lover, you may want to know that there are many beer tastings offered now in Wine Country.  The Finger Lakes region boasts more than 100 wineries, breweries and distilleries, many offering tours and tastings.

5)  The Big Apple - With Binghamton being so centrally located, it makes for some quick day trips including New York City.  Now how many times have you been on vacation and told people you live in Upstate New York and they ask you how close you are to the Empire State Building?  The Big Apple is a major world destination with over 50 million visitors flocking to its' many sites.

So what are your favorite things about living in the Greater Binghamton area and New York State?  As always, reach out with your comments.