1. You’ve Been to Canada for Beer
Growing up near the border meant one thing: road trips to Canada for beer. The drinking age was lower, the bars were cooler, and the duty-free shop was a rite of passage. You probably had a passport before you had a driver’s license. And you definitely bragged about it to your friends from downstate.
It wasn’t just about the alcohol—it was about the freedom. The thrill of crossing the border made you feel worldly, even if you were just going to a Tim Hortons. And yes, you still think Canadian beer is better.
2. Wegmans Is a Religion
Wegmans isn’t just a grocery store—it’s a way of life. The prepared foods, the bakery, the cheese section—it’s all elite. You grew up thinking every supermarket was like this, and then you moved away and realized how wrong you were. Now, every visit home includes a pilgrimage.
You’ve defended Wegmans in arguments, recommended it to strangers, and maybe even cried in the parking lot. It’s that serious. And if you know, you know.
3. Stewart’s Shops Are Sacred
Forget 7-Eleven—if you grew up in Upstate, Stewart’s was your go-to for literally everything. Ice cream, gas, milk, coffee, lottery tickets, and that one weird snack you didn’t know you wanted. It’s not fancy, but it’s family. And yes, you have a favorite Stewart’s location.
The ice cream is legendary, the coffee is oddly good, and the vibe is pure comfort. Stewart’s isn’t just a convenience store—it’s a cultural institution. And if you’ve moved away, you miss it more than you’d like to admit.
4. “Upstate” Is a Constant Argument
If you grew up in Upstate New York, you’ve spent way too much time explaining where that actually is. People from NYC think anything north of the Bronx is “upstate,” while you know that real Upstate starts somewhere around Albany—or maybe even farther. You’ve had heated debates about whether Westchester counts (it doesn’t), and you’ve probably rolled your eyes at someone who says they’re “from New York” but means Manhattan. Geography here is personal.
This constant identity crisis is part of the Upstate experience. You’re not the city, and you’re not the sticks—you’re somewhere in between, and proud of it. It’s a badge of honor to be misunderstood. And you’ll defend your region like it’s your hometown sports team.
5. Lake Effect Snow Is a Personality Trait
If you’re from Buffalo, Rochester, or Syracuse, you know that “lake effect” isn’t just a weather term—it’s a way of life. It means waking up to a foot of snow that wasn’t in the forecast. It means digging out your car every morning for six months. And it means having a snowblower that’s worth more than your couch.
You’ve learned to respect the Great Lakes and fear the radar. And you’ve definitely used “lake effect” as an excuse for being late. It’s not just snow—it’s a regional identity.
6. You Grew Up on Apple Cider and Cider Doughnuts
Fall in Upstate New York isn’t just a season—it’s a full-blown lifestyle. Apple picking, hayrides, corn mazes, and cider doughnuts were annual traditions. You had a favorite orchard, and you judged others based on theirs. And yes, you still believe no one does fall better.
The smell of fresh cider and cinnamon sugar is pure nostalgia. It’s not just about the apples—it’s about the ritual. And if you’ve moved away, you know fall just doesn’t hit the same anywhere else.
7. You Know the SUNY Stereotypes
Whether you went to one or not, you know the reputations of every SUNY school. Binghamton was for the brainiacs, Oswego was for the party kids, and Geneseo was for the overachievers who didn’t want to leave home. You probably had friends at at least three of them—and stories from all of them.
The SUNY system was a rite of passage for Upstate teens. It was affordable, accessible, and full of personality. And even if you left the state, you still compare every college to your SUNY experience.
8. Snow Days Are a Myth
In Upstate New York, two feet of snow doesn’t mean school’s canceled—it means leave earlier and bring your boots. You grew up with snowbanks taller than you, and you learned to shovel before you learned to drive. Remote car starters, seat warmers, and window scrapers weren’t luxuries—they were survival tools. And you definitely wore shorts the first time it hit 40 degrees.
People from warmer states panic at a dusting, but you? You’ve driven through whiteouts to get to a 7 a.m. hockey practice. Snow is just part of life. And if you ever did get a snow day, it felt like winning the lottery.
This post 8 Things You’ll Only Understand If You Grew Up in Upstate New York was first published on American Charm.
