Rockland County. Probably one of the closest counties to New York City, but everyone always claims that we live in upstate New York. Here's a few telltale signs that you're a part of the 845's Rockland County.
1. No one ever knows what you're talking about when you say you're from Rockland County, so you have to rattle off popular locations near home such as the Palisades Mall or Tappan Zee Bridge.
Once you finally say the Tappan Zee bridge, someone always has the nerve to say "Oh yeah, that's near Westchester." No. I'm from Rockland.
2. The Palisades Mall —
No matter what town in Rockland you're from, you've definitely been to the mall give or take a million times. Back in the middle school days, it was super cool to be dropped off by parents and to be able to walk around at night with friends. A great throwback of an eighth-grade night is going to dinner at Stircrazy then either catching a movie at AMC Loews or going ice skating then causing havoc in Target. You all know you have a love-hate relationship with the sketchy, sinking mall but it will always be the most convenient places to shop at.
3. Blu Fig —
The greatest restaurant in Rockland (or at least New City). Nothing beats getting some friends together and grabbing some lunch at Blu Fig. My personal favorite is A Penne A la Vodka Personal size Pizza but, some other favorites are buffalo or Caesar chicken salads, zucchini chips, or chicken parm sandwiches. 11 out of 10 customers will recommend.
4. Woodbury Commons —
Although the commons are not technically in Rockland, this is one of the greatest places around to go shopping. There's no better feeling than being able to get 3 new shirts from Under armor for 50 percent off or getting an on sale Michael Kors watch. Although the Nanuet Mall tried to compete with the Woodbury Commons as the superior outdoor shopping center, Woodbury Commons will always be hands down the best.
5. Hook Mountain —
One of the nicest views out there. An easy hike that connects both Congers and Nyack. There is no better overlook than standing at the top of Hook Mountain and staring out to the Hudson River. Hook Mountain is also one of the places where there's a 95 percent chance you'll see at least one picture on your newsfeed daily.
6. The Bagels —
Johns Famous, Davids, Bagel Boys, Nyack Hot Bagels, or Goldberg, there's no better tasting food when coming home from college or a long day of school than to eat a fresh bagel with butter. ( And for all you coffee drinkers, a snickerdoodle iced coffee with cream and sugar.)
No matter how many times you claim "Oh my god, I HATE it here", "Rockland is boring" or "I can't wait to get out of Rockland.", there is always a special part of the home in you are the heart. Whether you're from New City, Congers, Suffern, North Rockland, Nanuet, Pearl River or many More — Rockland will bring back some of the greatest memories of your childhood and leave you with a small part of your heart always wanting to return home.
