State of the week: New York

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Where are we? The Empire state. The state that's known around the world, New York is the symbol of America -- from the skyscrapers of big business to the Statue of Liberty representing the millions of people who made new lives for themselves in the new world. But New York isn't just the Big Apple, and there are plenty of other reasons to visit this state.

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Lake Skaneateles in the Finger Lakes region. Perfect for a late summer or early fall vacation.

New York history: One of the original 13 colonies that became the USA, New York was 11th to ratify the constitution and become a state, which occurred on July 26, 1788. The Empire State has always been an extremely important state in the development of America and remains the center of American business today. But before New York became New York, it was known as New Amsterdam and owned by the Dutch. The colony fell to the British in the second Anglo-Dutch war, bringing about the city and state name we now know. The first and biggest battle of the Revolutionary War took place in New York in 1776 -- the Battle of Long Island, also known as the Battle of Brooklyn. Though these days, it's more political than literal, New York is still a battle ground in the USA. Most recently? Two New Yorkers were in the race for president: Rudy Giuliani and Hillary Clinton.

New York on the course: The Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale, N.Y., will host the 2009 U.S. Open. Its first run as a U.S. Open course was in 2002, and, as a state park course, Bethpage Black was only the second public course to host the national championship in the history of the tournament. The first course was Pebble Beach, and the third? Torrey Pines. All three places are locations of Tiger Woods' U.S. Open wins, by the way. Seems like those public courses are proving their worth. But the best part about the USGA adding public courses to the rotation is that everyone from said champion Woods to Average Joe can play it. You might not play it under U.S. Open conditions, but you can play the same fairways that today's greats have walked and won on.

New York off the course: In a state this big, there are a million things to do. If you like shopping, eating and being entertained, then of course head to the Big Apple. If you like to be wowed and wet, then head for the border -- Niagara Falls. If you like to rub sunscreen and shoulders with the rich and famous, head east to The Hamptons. If you like wine and relaxation, head north to the Finger Lakes region. The list goes on and on. Whatever takes your fancy, whatever time of year, New York can serve it up.

New York resort: Yes, yes, I know I said the Empire State isn't all about NYC, but if you're looking for a high-class hotel, look no further than the state's signature city. Finding a five-star hotel in New York City is like finding a cute dog at the pound. You just don't know which one you want to go home to. Luckily enough, if you're really bad at making decisions, you're pretty assured to be happy with whichever one you choose. If you want to close your eyes and point, we won't tell. But here are a couple of ideas to get you started. The Plaza: On Fifth Avenue beside Central Park, this is the quintessential New York hotel. The Ritz Carlton, Central Park: Great location, great reputation. The Waldorf Astoria: Technically, this Park Avenue hotel is a four star -- not a five -- but can you really think "New York hotel" without coming up with this one?

New York eats: Pizza, pizza, pizza. Sure, you can attain your every culinary fantasy in New York City from the bold to the bizarre. But nowhere in this country can you get a better slice of pie. It doesn't matter whether you're in the city or the 'burbs, if you see a little pizzeria, chances are, it'll have some of the best pizza you've ever had inside. Floppy, greasy, cheesy, meaty goodness. It's sure as heck not good for you, but oh it feels so great. Sprinkle a little parmesan and oregano on top, and you are in unhealthy heaven. And don't even think about leaving the crust on your plate.

New York culture: New York was the stepping stone to a new life for many an immigrant throughout America's history, and you can see where it all took place on Ellis Island. It's not just the Statue of Liberty. It's a genealogy center where people can trace their families and find out more about where they came from. Even if you know your family didn't come through this gateway to the USA, it's worth a visit to see who did.

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DiMarco at the 05 Presidents Cup.

New York golfer: Most people know him as a Florida Gator, but Chris DiMarco is actually from Huntington, N.Y. The three-time TOUR winner turned pro in 1990, and his first win came 10 years later in his neighbor state of Pennsylvania at the SEI Pennsylvania Classic. He hasn't won since the 2002 FBR Open, but he's still a major fixture on TOUR. He's most famous for his big (13-foot) putt and even bigger celebration at the 2005 Presidents Cup, where he played the hero for the U.S. Team with a 1-up victory over Stuart Appleby in Sunday singles matches to clinch the victory for the Americans.