The “I ❤️ NY” logo is so familiar in New York that it feels like it’s always been around. It’s so tied to the city, and now the state, that it’s hard to imagine a time when it wasn’t there, letting people show off their love for it.

But the truth is, this famous symbol was created in the 1970s when New York was experiencing a rough patch. The city had high crime rates, and the state was close to bankruptcy. To attract more tourists and boost the spirits of locals, New York State launched a campaign with the catchy slogan “I Love New York.”

According to MOMA.org, they needed a logo for the campaign, so they asked designer Milton Glaser for help. By then, Glaser was already well-known for his work, like the Bob Dylan poster and the header for New York magazine.

2010 National Design Awards Gala
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At first, Glaser submitted a simple design, which was quickly approved. But a week later, he had a new idea while riding in a cab. He called the campaign supervisor and convinced him to look at the new design. After a quick review, the fresh logo “I ♥ NY” was approved. Check out the rendering HERE.

The logo uses the American Typewriter font, which Glaser picked because it felt casual but still had a literary vibe. According to Creative Review, he compared it to a love note carved into a tree, something timeless and simple. Over the years, the logo has become one of the most recognized and copied logos in the world, used to show love for all kinds of people, places, and things.

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It’s also a registered trademark owned by the New York State Department of Economic Development, which has held the rights since the logo was first used in 1977. Today, it’s still used to promote tourism across New York State. You can see the above picture on I-87 of the Adirondack Northway. Even though Glaser designed it for free, the logo has become a symbol that’s stood the test of time.

27 of the Most Magnificent Landmarks Seen in Upstate New York

I've lived here my entire life, and I'm not sure I realized how beautiful the Empire State is. There's no shortage of stunning landscapes and breathtaking views throughout the great State of New York, especially this time of year!

It doesn't matter where you live, or where you travel, New York residents are never far from a gorgeous beach, a picturesque state park, or an awe-inspiring mountain.

In 2018, a photographer named Demetri Andritsakis made a 3-and-a-half-minute drone video called "Upstate New York By Air" that highlighted many of New York's breathtaking views.

Andritsakis submitted it to the 2018 New York State Fair Drone Film Festival, and deservedly so, he received a Gold Medal honor for his aerial work throughout upstate New York.

From the Adirondacks to the Catskills, Albany to Buffalo, and everything worth seeing, check out these spectacular pictures featuring 27 of the most magnificent landmarks in Upstate New York.

Gallery Credit: Brian Cody TSM Albany

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