If you’re thinking about attending college in Upstate New York, social media is a great way to get familiar with the area and learn about what New York is known for besides New York City. Upstate is unique in its own way—from the capital buildings to the Adirondack Mountains, it's honestly an awesome place to study, intern, and have the time of your life in college.
To get a feel for what life in Upstate New York is all about, break out your phone and check out these Instagram accounts that epitomize Siena's surroundings and beyond.
1) Stewart's Shops (@stewartsshops)
Admired by literally everyone around these parts, Stewart's Shops is more than just a gas station or local convenience store chain. It's the go-to spot for the most amazing homemade ice cream and milkshakes, coffee, road trip snacks or the last minute milk run.
2) Fort Orange General Store (@fortorange)
This retail shop in downtown Albany embraces the city’s historic roots (Fort Orange was the original name of the first permanent Dutch settlement in New Netherland, the present day home of Albany) and features goods from up-and-coming creators right here in the 518.
3) I LOVE NEW YORK (@iloveNY)
If you’re not too familiar with the state of New York, I Love NY is the perfect account to get a sweeping overview of the state’s most beautiful destinations—including a lot upstate. Scrolling through their high-quality pics will have you starting your road trip bucket list for long weekends and summer breaks.
4) Two Buttons Deep (@twobuttonsdeep)
A Troy, NY based entertainment company, Two Buttons Deep covers “stuff worth talking about” from Upstate New York and beyond. You’ll find the most popular viral videos on their feed mixed in with hyperlocal coverage of some of the best events in the 518. Plus, it was started by two college kids who aren’t much older than you. In other words, their content is super relatable and worth keeping an eye on if you’ve got an entrepreneurial spirit.
5) Saratoga Spring Water (@saratogawaterco)
An upstate icon, Saratoga Spring Water's blue glass bottle is reminiscent of all things Saratoga Springs—a favorite tourist spot with great restaurants, parks, and of course the famous Saratoga Race Course. You can expect to see every cool, creative use of the blue bottle on this feed as well as a behind-the-scenes look at "Spa City," which is just about 30 minutes north of Siena.
6) Adirondacks (@adirondacks_ny)
The Adirondack Mountains are a huge part of what makes Upstate New York so cool, and you’ll want to climb one (or all!) of the 46 high peaks after seeing how beautiful the views are up there. Even when you can’t get out and explore Mother Nature, this feed will get you pretty close to a breath of fresh air.
7) SIENA COLLEGE (@sienacollege)
And if you really want to see what it’s like to be on a college campus in Upstate NY, give Siena College a follow. From campus shots to student life, see what it's like to live out all four seasons as a Saint. Got a question? Slide into our DMs and we’ll send you in the right direction.
