New York

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New York - The Empire State

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Welcome to New York

New York is a state of immense diversity, influence, and natural beauty. Located in the northeastern United States, it borders Canada, several U.S. states, and the Atlantic Ocean. Known as the Empire State, New York plays a central role in culture, finance, and history. Its largest city, New York City, is a global hub for business, art, and innovation, while the state’s capital, Albany, reflects its deep historical roots.

Geography and Landmarks

From the towering Adirondack Mountains and the serene Finger Lakes to the iconic Niagara Falls, New York offers stunning landscapes. The Hudson River Valley and vast forests provide outdoor recreation and scenic beauty. The state also boasts one of the busiest transportation networks in the country.

Economy and Culture

New York’s economy is diverse, driven by finance, technology, healthcare, and tourism. New York City houses Wall Street, Broadway, and countless cultural institutions, making it a center for arts and entertainment. Upstate regions highlight agriculture, manufacturing, and higher education.

History and Legacy

As one of the original thirteen colonies, New York played a vital role in the American Revolution and the nation’s development. Today, it continues to shape America’s identity through leadership in business, culture, and innovation.

New York Symbols

Fast Facts and Interesting Facts

Fact	Detail	Interesting Facts
Region	Northeastern United States	New York City was the first capital of the United States after the Constitution was ratified. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France in 1886 and is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Niagara Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, straddles the New York–Canada border. The Adirondack Park in New York is larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon National Parks combined. New York City has the largest population of any U.S. city, with over 8.5 million residents. New York produces more apples than any other state except Washington. The first American chess tournament was held in New York in 1843. The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, connected the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean and revolutionized trade. New York is home to the United Nations headquarters, located in Manhattan. The first pizzeria in the United States opened in New York City in 1905 (Lombardi's).
Population	~19.8 million (2024 est.)
Area	54,555 sq mi (141,297 km²)
Statehood	July 26, 1788 (11th state)
Capital City	Albany
Largest City	New York City
Abbreviation	NY
Nickname	The Empire State
Geography	Features the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains, Hudson River Valley, Great Lakes shoreline, and Atlantic coast via NYC.
Bordering States	New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont; also borders Canada
Economy	Finance, media, tourism, technology, agriculture (apples, dairy), and manufacturing
State Tree	Sugar Maple
State Bird	Eastern Bluebird


Our Content
	Interactive and Printable New York Maps and Map Activities This section features numerous interactive and printable New York maps. Students can even use our Maptivation program to make their own New York map.

	History of New York New York was originally settled by the Dutch in 1624 as New Amsterdam and later taken by the British in 1664, becoming an important colonial port. It played a major role in the American Revolution and went on to become a center of immigration, finance, and culture in the United States.

	Famous People from New York New York has produced many influential Americans, including Alexander Hamilton, a Founding Father who shaped the nation's financial system, and Theodore Roosevelt, a dynamic U.S. President known for his progressive reforms. These leaders, both born in New York, left lasting legacies on the country's government and character.

	New York Literacy and Comprehension Exercises This section offers a variety of literacy and reading comprehension activities, including engaging passages with question sets, cloze reading exercises, and lessons on text elements and structure. These resources are generally suitable for students in grades 4–8.

	Fun New York Printables and Coloring Activities This section features fun and educational New York-themed coloring activities and printables, including state symbols, a state flag outline, a 'Welcome to New York' sign, and much more!

	Fun New York and United States Online Games This section provides some really exciting online games such as New York or Not New York, Collage America, Ameriquake, Conquer the States, Draw America, and several more.