Ithaca (New York) Travel Guide

Discover all the amazing things to do, see, eat, and experience in Ithaca (New York) with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ithaca (New York)

Located in the Eastern Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, Ithaca is a vibrant college town that’s surrounded by natural beauty. It is home to the Ivy League institution, Cornell University, which adds to the city’s bustling energy and cultural vibrancy, with over 20,000 students in attendance. Ithaca boasts of a vibrant art scene, stunning natural wonders, and a growing culinary scene.

If you’re planning a trip to Ithaca, we’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share with you all the must-visit attractions, the best places to eat, drink and stay, and everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Ithaca (New York)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The History Center in Tompkins County

Explore the rich history of Ithaca at The History Center in Tompkins County. The museum offers exhibitions, lectures, and guided tours to help visitors understand the heritage of Ithaca.

Johnson Museum of Art

The Johnson Museum of Art, located on the Cornell University campus, holds an impressive collection of art spanning from ancient times to contemporary American and European work. The museum’s collection embraces art spanning the globe, and the rotating exhibitions are not to be missed.

The Museum of the Earth

The Museum of the Earth in Ithaca is a fantastic museum that highlights the natural history of the earth and life on earth. The museum showcases a vast collection of fossils and interactive exhibits that make it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Natural Attractions of Ithaca (New York): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ithaca Falls

One of Ithaca’s iconic natural landmarks, Ithaca Falls, is a must-visit. The waterfall has a height of around 150 feet, and its mist can be felt from a distance. The park surrounding the falls is pristine, and it is an excellent spot for a picnic or a hike.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

Buttermilk Falls State Park is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and camping. The park has several trails leading to the waterfall that cascade down a series of steps, making it a perfect spot for pictures and picnics.

Taughannock Falls State Park

The Taughannock Falls State Park offers another impressive view of natural wonders. Here, visitors can witness the stunning Taughannock Falls, which stands at 215 feet, making it the highest waterfall in the Eastern Finger Lakes region. The park has a robust trail system, and hiking trails lead to the waterfall as well as the lake at its base.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ithaca (New York)

Ithaca has an extensive range of bicycle and hiking routes that promise to please both novice and experienced adventurers. A few of the most popular hiking/biking trails include:

The Black Diamond Trail

This trail spans 8.4 miles, from Ithaca to Taughannock Falls State Park, making it a perfect way to take in the area’s natural beauty.

Robert H. Treman State Park

The park has over 9 miles of hiking trails that lead visitors to the 115-foot Lucifer Falls, as well as several swimming holes. Additionally, the park has nine miles of trails for mountain biking enthusiasts, with varying difficulties to cater to all levels of experience.

The Cayuga Waterfront Trail

This trail is part of the “Rails-to-Trails” project and runs along the edge of Cayuga Lake, offering spectacular views of the water and the surrounding nature. It offers a great opportunity for a leisurely bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Ithaca (New York): Activities and Tours

Ithaca Farmer’s Market

The Ithaca Farmer’s Market is a local favorite, offering fresh produce, artisan craft products, and delicious prepared food. This market not only has vendors from all over the Finger Lakes region but also hosts live music, offering visitors a great chance to see and experience the local culture.

Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

The Finger Lakes region in New York is synonymous with wine tourism, and the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail offers visitors a chance to sample wines from over fifteen wineries in and around Ithaca.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ithaca (New York)

Day 1

Get familiar with Ithaca’s history by visiting The History Center in Tompkins County and taking a tour of the Cornell University campus.

Day 2

Experience the natural beauty of the area first hand by visiting Taughannock Falls State Park.

Day 3

Go mountain biking at the Robert H. Treman State Park for a day of adventure.

Day 4

Take a leisurely day exploring the local culture at the Ithaca Farmer’s Market and head over to a nearby winery for a wine tasting tour.

Day 5

Visit Buttermilk Falls State Park for a day of swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

Day 6

Take a day trip to the nearby town of Skaneateles to experience the charm and beauty of small-town America.

Day 7

Wrap up your trip by heading out to one of Ithaca’s excellent restaurants and enjoy a locally-sourced meal.

Food and Drink Scene of Ithaca (New York)

Must-Try Dishes

No matter where you go in Ithaca, you’ll find delicious food with locally-sourced ingredients. Make sure you try the following dishes:

Purity Ice Cream

This small ice cream shop, located in Ithaca’s center, is a local favorite. Their handmade ice creams flavors vary daily, but are always delicious.

Ithaca Bakery

Ithaca Bakery is an essential part of the local culture, making fresh bread, bagels, pastries, and cakes daily. Their sandwiches are also must-tries.

Moosewood Restaurant

From the original sustainable kitchen, Moosewood Restaurant is vegetarian-friendly. The restaurant offers one of the best vegan and vegetarian dining experiences in the Finger Lakes.

Local Beverages

Ithaca is known for its micro-brewing industry, with many local breweries and wineries. Make sure to try:

Ithaca Beer Company

A favorite with locals, the Ithaca Beer Company offers delicious local brews in a fun and homey atmosphere.

Ports of New York Winery

This family-run winery creates wine styles that are unique to the Finger Lakes region.

Where to Stay in Ithaca (New York): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

La Tourelle Resort and Spa

This upscale resort located on the outskirts of town is the perfect place to stay for travelers who want to experience luxury and relaxation. It enjoys a beautiful view of the rolling hills, while still offering easy access to the center of town.

Hotel Ithaca

Located in the town center, the Hotel Ithaca is a comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation option that offers easy access to all the city’s attractions.

What to Buy in Ithaca (New York): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ithaca Soy

Ithaca Soy is produced locally and is a vegan-friendly food product that adds a unique flavor dimension to many dishes.

Cayuga Pure Organics

Cayuga Pure Organics offers organic grains, beans and flours that are grown in fields located near Ithaca.

Local Culture and Customs of Ithaca (New York)

Ithaca is known for its laid-back and accepting attitude, making it an open and friendly community. Its embrace of diversity means that the culture is as rich and diverse as its people.

Best Time to Visit Ithaca (New York)

The best time to visit Ithaca is in the summer months from June to August, when the weather is warm, and the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes is at its peak. Ithaca’s fall season, however, is also very popular, offering the region’s famous foliage season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ithaca (New York)

Do:

  • Visit the farmer’s market for locally grown produce and artisan products.
  • Explore the natural wonders of the area.
  • Enjoy the unique local cuisine offerings.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or dispose of waste irresponsibly
  • Don’t disrespect the natural environment
  • Don’t take unnecessary risks or disrupt public safety

Safety and Health

Safety in Ithaca (New York)

Ithaca is a safe place to travel, with low crime rates and a friendly and welcoming community. However, it is always advisable to take basic safety measures such as keeping your valuables safe and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Ithaca (New York)

Ithaca has two excellent hospitals, so visitors can rest easy while visiting. It is worth noting that during peak allergy season, the area may be more challenging for people with allergies.

Getting to Ithaca (New York): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ithaca (New York)

The nearest airport is the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, which is about a ten-minute drive from the city center. There are also several more major airports in and around New York, including Syracuse Hancock International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive from Ithaca.

Bus Stations Near Ithaca (New York)

Buses are an excellent and affordable way to travel to Ithaca. The primary bus providers in the area are Greyhound and Trailways, both of which have stations in downtown Ithaca.

Other Options

Taxis, rental cars, and ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are available in Ithaca.

How to Get Around in Ithaca (New York)

Ithaca is best explored on foot, but for those that would prefer, public transport is available through TCAT, a local bus company. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from Ithaca (New York): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Watkins Glen State Park

Just 30 minutes south of Ithaca, Watkins Glen State Park is a beautiful natural wonder with cascading waterfalls, unique rock formations, and a winding gorge trail.

Seneca Lake

Seneca Lake is a beautiful and serene location that’s perfect for a day trip. Visitors can go for a swim, rent a boat for a peaceful day spent on the water, or join a fishing tour.

Conclusion

Ithaca, New York, is an exciting and vibrant destination, offering adventure, culture, and natural beauty - all set against a friendly and welcoming community. With this comprehensive guide, planning your next trip to Ithaca is easy, and we hope you will experience all the best things Ithaca has to offer.

View of East Hill, Ithaca View of East Hill, Ithaca Cascadilla Creek in winter Cascadilla Creek in winter Clinton House, a historic and still functioning building right next to the Commons Clinton House, a historic and still functioning building right next to the Commons Bailey Hall at Cornell University Bailey Hall at Cornell University Martha Van Rensselaer Hall, Cornell University Martha Van Rensselaer Hall, Cornell University F.R. Newman Arboretum, Cornell University F.R. Newman Arboretum, Cornell University Memorial stained glass for Chaney, Schwerner and Goodman in Sage Chapel, Cornell University Memorial stained glass for Chaney, Schwerner and Goodman in Sage Chapel, Cornell University Hemlock Gorge, on the Cornell campus Hemlock Gorge, on the Cornell campus Southern Tier Expressway Southern Tier Expressway