Any portion of New York State other than New York City and Long Island. Contains such "boring" things as the Finger Lakes, The Adirondak Mountains, large expanses of forest and farmland, a few relatively small cities, and numerous towns and villages of varying demographic levels. Not for those who have never left a city environment.
"Where do you live?"
"New York"
"Oh you're from the city?"
"No, I'm not. I'm from New York State"
"Ohhhh, you're from upstate"
"<groan>"
"New York"
"Oh you're from the city?"
"No, I'm not. I'm from New York State"
"Ohhhh, you're from upstate"
"<groan>"
by quietdream October 19, 2004