De Ruyter is a part of the Central New York region known as "the heart of New York." Major attractions include De Ruyter Lake and the Apple Creek Country Club. Each year in the winter season there is the Toughnioga Winter Carnival. Among the local companies in De Ruyter are Centro's Hotel and Erma's Variety Store and Flea Market. One of the best places to visit when you are in De Ruyter is Stonewood Farm, which produces and sells maple syrup and honey. The De Ruyter Central School District provides education for the town as well as the neighboring communities of Sheds, Cuyler, and Lincklaen. Famous residents of De Ruyter include Ezra Cornell, founder of Cornell University.