Formerly known as the Central Leatherstocking region, in 2010 the New York State Department of Economic Development renamed the seven county area located just south of the Adirondacks, in the central section of the state and anchored by the Erie Canal as the Central New York Region.

Where did the previous "leatherstocking" name come from? It connects directly back to Cooperstown, in Otsego County. James Fenimore Cooper, son of William Cooper, the founding father of Cooperstown, became famous in the literary world for writing the "Leatherstocking Tales." The series of novels, depicting adventures of characters from early settlement times, actually helped to put Cooperstown on the map and drew the first tourists tothe area. The term "leatherstocking" comes from the type of clothing worn throughout the region by frontiersmen—a unique type of leather leggings. Even with the new name - the Central New York Region—the legacy of the Leatherstocking Tales is sure to live on through history.

Traditionally, the region has represented a sort of microcosm of New York State as a whole with its wide mix of experiences and attractions offered, from family-owned farmers markets and country style bed and breakfasts, to live musical shows and theatrical performances at upscale venues and high-end shopping at one-of-a-kind boutiques.

Put simply, no matter what name you call it, you'll be sure to find a little bit of everything New York-esque all in this one central, convenient location. 

The Central New York Region is made up of seven distinct areas each offering their own individual allure to visitors far and wide: Broome, Chenango, Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, Otsego and Schoharie. Each area presents their own slice of the "ultimate Americana" that is Central New York.