Hudson Valley Places We’ll Probably Never Call by Their New Names
If you grew up in the Hudson Valley, chances are there are a few places you'll never call by their "official" name. It doesn't matter how many years have passed, how many new signs have gone up, or how often the new name shows up. For many longtime locals, the original name is here to stay.
Maybe it's habit. Maybe it's nostalgia. Or maybe the new names just never felt right.
We all have at least one. Here are some of the biggest Hudson Valley places that people still refuse to rename.
Tappan Zee Bridge
This one might be the undisputed champion.
Officially, it's been called the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge since 2017, but ask just about anyone in the Hudson Valley for directions, and they'll probably tell you to "take the Tappan Zee." The original name has become so ingrained in local culture that many people don't even think twice before saying it. There have even been repeated efforts in Albany to bring the Tappan Zee name back in some form because so many New Yorkers never accepted the change.
Benedictine Hospital
While healthcare systems have merged and facilities have been consolidated over the years, you'll still hear plenty of people in Ulster County say they're heading to Benedictine. The Kingston hospital is now part of HealthAlliance Hospital, but for generations it was simply Benedictine Hospital. If you tell someone who's lived here for decades you're going to HealthAlliance, don't be surprised if they answer, "Oh... you mean Benedictine?"
St. Francis Hospital
The same thing happened across the river.
Officially known today as MidHudson Regional Hospital, many Dutchess County residents still call it St. Francis. The name carried decades of history, and old habits are hard to break.
Shoppes at South Hills
Sure, the signs now say Shoppes at South Hills, but let's be honest. Media Play and the movie theater are both long gone, but for a lot of Hudson Valley residents, it will always be South Hills Mall.
Mid-Hudson Civic Center
Technically, it's now the Majed J. Nesheiwat Convention Center. But ask longtime Kingston, Dutchess, or Orange County residents where they saw their first concert, circus, hockey game, or trade show, and they'll almost certainly say, "The Civic Center."
The old name has decades of memories attached to it, making it nearly impossible for many locals to adopt the new one.
Dutchess Stadium
The same can be said for the place where the Hudson Valley Renegades play. Many residents still call it Dutchess Stadium, even though it's officially Heritage Financial Park. The ballpark has gone through a couple of name changes over the years, but for many locals, it'll always be "The Dutch." Whether you're talking about catching a Renegades game, fireworks night, or a concert, the original name is still the one that comes naturally.
It's Just a Hudson Valley Thing
Every region has places that people refuse to rename, but the Hudson Valley seems especially loyal to its landmarks. Once a name becomes part of everyday conversation, it's tough to replace it.
Are there any places we missed? Let us know through our station app above.
Six Hudson Valley Places We'll Never Call by Their New Names
Gallery Credit: CJ
New Yorkers Loved Back To School Shopping At These Stores
Gallery Credit: Getty Images
