Ten Town Names in New York That Will Cause an Existential Crisis on Your GPS

New York State is full of towns with names so odd, confusing, or downright hilarious that even the most advanced GPS might pause for a moment of existential dread. Here are ten town names in New York that are guaranteed to make you—and your navigation system—question reality:

1. Coxsackie

Pronounced “COOK-sack-ee,” this Greene County town shares its name with a virus, but thankfully, that’s where the similarity ends. Your GPS might not know what to do with this one.

2. Butternuts

Located in Otsego County, Butternuts sounds more like a cartoon insult than a real place. Yet, over 1,700 people call it home.

3. Climax

A hamlet in the town of Coxsackie, Climax is a name that prompts double takes and awkward silences—especially when paired with its parent town.

4. Horseheads

This Chemung County town’s name conjures up strange images and even stranger questions. The story behind it is just as peculiar as the name itself.

5. Chili

No, it’s not pronounced like the spicy stew. Locals say “CHY-lie,” which is sure to trip up outsiders and voice assistants alike.

6. Swastika

Despite the unfortunate connotations, Swastika in Clinton County predates the symbol’s 20th-century infamy. Still, it’s a name that’s bound to cause confusion and discomfort.

7. Wappinger

This Dutchess County town’s name, derived from an Algonkian word, is a challenge for both tongues and tech—expect a few wild guesses from your GPS.

8. Neversink

Located in Sullivan County, Neversink sounds like a place that’s tempting fate. The name originated from a mispronunciation by early settlers.

9. Throop

Named after a governor, Throop sounds more like a sound effect than a town. Your GPS might just give up and say “throop” as a placeholder.

10. Poughkeepsie

A classic case of “how do you even say that?” This Hudson Valley city is notorious for stumping both newcomers and navigation systems. (It’s “Puh-kip-see,” for the record.)

These names are more than just oddities—they’re a testament to New York’s rich and sometimes bewildering history. If your GPS ever hesitates, don’t blame the technology; blame the Empire State’s love for the wonderfully weird.

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