20 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About New York

The Empire State may seem like “just another place” for its residents. But, in honor of this weeks theme here are some intestering facts that will definitely change your mind! 

Starting out with the best…

1. The first pizzeria in the United States was opened in NYC in 1897. (Thank Goodness!)

Lombardi’s pizza was named Americas first pizzeria! Learn more HERE

2. The game of scrabble and the teddy bear were invented in New York.  

3. In NYC, it’s possible to get fined $25 for flirting with someone. 

For the sake of the Halloween spirit … and to get a bit creepier

4. Apparently, Albert Einstein’s eyeballs are stored in a safe deposit box in the City.

Now lets pay tribute to our famous pop-culture and entertianment.

5. King Kong climbed the Empire State Building because Apes climb to the highest elevation for protection. 

6. The longest running Broadway show is Phantom of the Opera opening in 1988.

7. Old Yankee Stadium was the first three-tiered sports facility in the United States.

8. Michael Jackson’s concert at Madison Square Garden during his Bad World Tour was voted the greatest concert ever. 

Hmmm…what else could NY possibly be famous for? Transportation! 

9. The subway is 722 miles!

10. New York was the first state to require license plates on cars.

11. New York taxis used to be all colors before 1970. Yellow was determined to be the safest most visible color to use. 

Can’t forget about landmarks!

12. The Empire State Building has its own zip code. 

13. The highest point in New York is Mount Marcy. Reaching 5,344 feet. (1,629 m) above sea level. 

14. The official name of the Statue of Liberty is “Liberty Enlightening the World”.

15. There’s over 9,000 benches in Central Park. 

Just some everyday knowledge 

16. NY State flower is the rose.

17. September 8 was New York’s 350th birthday.

18. Four former presidents were born in New York. Can you guess which 4?

19. The official NY motto is “Ever Upward”

 20. The slogan “I Love New York” comes from the title of the state song.

Learn the lyrics and other facts HERE!

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