Think back to right before you went off to college. Sure, you were both excited and nervous to leave, but if you were anything like me, you were dying to get out of your “boring” hometown and move on to something new. But now that the end of the semester is approaching and it’s almost time to go on break, here are some of the top things you definitely miss most if, like me, you’re from Rockland County.
1. Blu fig
Need I say more? That amazing pasta and delicious chicken parm is all that’s been on our minds since the day we left, and you better believe you’ll run into at least five old classmates when you go there over break.
2. Congers Lake
Whether you’re there for the exercise or for the prime Insta opportunity, it’s one of the main attractions of Rockland, and another place you’ve definitely been multiple times with your friends. Plus it’s an absolutely perfect place to watch the sunset.
3. Twist & Shake
Although it’s closed for the season, it was undoubtedly the best ice cream in the area. Is it bad if i’m already counting down until summer break?
4. The Palisades Mall
Okay, okay, I know it’s overrated and usually the last resort for plans, but it’s still somewhere to go out of the house, and there’s always something to do there, whether it’s eat (Chipotle, IHOP, Yard House), watch a movie, go shopping at one of the many stores, or even just walk around and people watch.
5. Pizza
This applies especially if you went to school far away or out of state, because we can all agree nobody knows pizza like New York, and we’re convinced all other states’ definition of “pizza” is very loosely put.
6. And for that matter, bagels
And so many great options to get them. We each have our favorite, either David’s, Goldberg’s, Bagel Boys… the list goes on.
7. Rockland Bakery
I still can’t even drive by without audibly moaning over the delicious bread smells. If that makes me weak, so be it.
8. The proximity to the city
It’s convenient—getting into the city is a quick train ride away, but we’re just far enough away that we’re not constantly caught in the hustle of it.
9. Rockland Lake
Another great resort if you’re looking for someplace to walk outdoors with friends, or capture that beautiful sunrise shot.
10. Close to New Jersey
It’s the best of both worlds—we get to take advantage of New Jersey’s lower gas prices, no clothing tax, and not having to pump our own gas—without actually having to live in New Jersey! I mean, come on, can it be any better than that?
11. The people that make all of the above that much better
So thanks, Rockland, for being a great place to come home to. We may not always appreciate you, but know that you're always gonna be home, and that's where our hearts will be. See you for Thanksgiving!
