Things To Do
in Ithaca
Ithaca sits at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake in upstate New York, surrounded by dramatic gorges and rolling hills. The city is anchored by two universities—Cornell University and Ithaca College—creating a lively, cerebral vibe paired with small-town charm. Visitors come for waterfalls, hiking, and lake views, then linger for a vibrant dining and arts scene.
With distinct seasons and a strong sense of community, Ithaca rewards explorers with continual new scenery and events year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ithaca Commons, a vibrant pedestrian mall filled with local shops and eateries. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at a cozy café, sipping on locally roasted coffee while watching the morning bustle. Take some time to explore the unique boutiques and artisan shops that showcase the creativity of the community.
After your morning exploration, head to the nearby State Theatre of Ithaca for a guided tour of this historic venue. Following the tour, grab lunch at a popular farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes local ingredients and seasonal dishes. Spend your afternoon visiting the Johnson Museum of Art, where you can admire an impressive collection of artworks and enjoy stunning views of the gorges from the museum’s terrace.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque waterfront at the Ithaca Farmers Market. Indulge in dinner at one of the many eateries along the water, perhaps sampling some artisanal pizza or fresh seafood. Wrap up your evening with a live music performance at a local bar or venue, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the Ithaca nightlife.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before setting off to explore the stunning waterfalls of Ithaca. Visit Buttermilk Falls State Park, where you can hike along well-maintained trails that wind through lush forests and lead you to breathtaking waterfall views. Spend some time capturing the beauty of the cascading waters and the surrounding landscape.
After your morning hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Continue your adventure by visiting nearby Robert H. Treman State Park, where you can hike the scenic trails and discover more waterfalls, including the impressive Lucifer Falls. Take a moment to relax by the swimming area, where you can cool off during the warm afternoon.
Return to Ithaca and dine at a restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, perhaps trying some fresh pasta or seasonal vegetables. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Cayuga Lake waterfront, taking in the stunning sunset over the water. End your day with a visit to a local ice cream shop for a sweet treat to cap off your adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Lunch for one at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $120-250 |
| 🚌Public transit weekly pass | $15-40 |
| 🧺Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning year-round natural scenery with accessible gorges and lake views
- Strong farm-to-table and vegetarian-friendly dining scene
- World-class universities contribute cultural events, museums, and research drives
- Compact downtown with walkable streets and frequent markets
- Hilly terrain can be challenging for some walkers or bikers
- Winter travel can be cold and snowy with potential transportation delays
- Smaller city amenities compared with major metro areas
- Limited late-night dining options beyond certain districts
Places to Visit in Ithaca
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic waterfall shot with a broad cascade and accessible viewing platforms along the Gorge Trail.
Picturesque gorge with a pedestrian bridge crossing the stream and several vantage points along the trail.
A dramatic 215-foot waterfall with expansive viewpoints and a sweeping amphitheater of cliffs.
Long open-water views, sailboats, and sunsets over the lake from docks and park edges.
Iconic quad lawns, McGraw Tower, and architectural landmarks that provide collegiate backdrops.
Lush forested trails with river scenery and carved gorge walls ideal for nature photography.
Food in Ithaca
Ithaca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal grains, greens, roasted vegetables, and a squash or apple component, commonly found at farm-to-table spots and during market weeks.
Must-Try!
Fresh trout prepared with local produce and simple, seasonal accompaniments at waterfront restaurants.
Crumbled local goat cheese with crisp apples, greens, and a light vinaigrette; a staple on many menus in the area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend market offering local produce, baked goods, prepared foods, crafts, and live music with waterfront views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for meetings or tours; greeting with a simple hello is common. Small talk about the weather or the university is typical in social settings.
Stay on marked trails, pack out trash, and respect natural areas to preserve the gorge landscapes.
Campus areas are busy; be mindful of student traffic and campus events; quiet in libraries and study spaces is valued.
Safety
Tipping in Ithaca
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant waitstaff typically expect 15-20% tipping on the pretax amount; bartenders and service staff also rely on tips. For takeout, tipping is appreciated but smaller (around 5-10%).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted;/mobile wallet payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Cash is always welcome, and some smaller venues may have limited card options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with humidity; thunderstorms are common in the late afternoon. Great for lake activities, outdoor dining, and festival atmospheres downtown.
Spectacular fall foliage and cooler temps; perfect for hiking, photography, and campus events. Expect crowds around peak leaf-viewing periods.
Cold and snowy, with icy trails and festive decorations downtown. Layer up for outdoor exploration and enjoy warm drinks and indoor venues.
Milder weather and blooming trees; rain is common. Good for new growth in gorges and early farmers market return.
Ithaca at Night
Hiking in Ithaca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Chain of trails along the gorge with several overlooks and easy to moderate hikes.
Iconic waterfall with sweeping viewpoints and a straightforward hike.
Network of trails around rivers, lakes, and gorges with shaded switchbacks and waterfalls.
Short, scenic trails with a classic waterfall photograph opportunity.
Airports
How to reach Ithaca by plane.
Local, small regional airport with domestic flights and convenient access to Ithaca.
Major regional hub about 60–70 miles from Ithaca with more flight options.
Another larger option about 140 miles away, useful for longer trips or connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cornell University and Ithaca College bring a large student and academic population, contributing to a diverse, educated urban core.
A mix of long-time residents, families, and retirees adds stability and a community-oriented vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Intercollegiate sports across football, basketball, hockey, and more; great for campus atmosphere and games.
NCAA Division III teams across several sports, with local game-day energy.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ithaca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ithaca has a strong vegetarian scene, with many menus featuring vegetable-forward options and flexible substitutions.
Many spots offer vegan dishes or easily adaptable plates; ask about dairy-free sauces or egg-free options.
Most restaurants can accommodate gluten-free needs with careful menu choices; many provide dedicated gluten-free options on request.