Things To Do
in Ithaca
Ithaca, located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant college town atmosphere. Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, the city brims with cultural events and youthful energy. Surrounded by gorges, waterfalls, and beautiful lakes, it offers a unique combination of outdoor adventure and urban amenities.
The local community is known for its progressive values and commitment to sustainability, making Ithaca a welcoming destination for visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ithaca Farmer's Market to sample local produce and artisanal goods.
Hike the trails at Robert H. Treman State Park to see the beautiful Enfield Falls and take in the stunning scenery.
Enjoy dinner at Moosewood Restaurant, famous for its vegetarian cuisine, followed by a stroll along the waterfront.
Visit the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University to explore its impressive collection.
Take a guided tour of the Cornell Botanic Gardens and immerse yourself in the beauty of the various gardens.
Experience local nightlife at The Haunt, a popular venue for live music and dancing.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a Restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $100-200 |
| 🚌Public Transport Fare | $2 |
| 🍕Pizza Slice | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with waterfalls and gorges
- Vibrant cultural and academic atmosphere
- Rich variety of outdoor activities
- Cold winters may deter some visitors
- Limited public transportation options
- Higher cost of living compared to nearby towns
Places to Visit in Ithaca
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning 150-foot waterfall located near downtown, perfect for capturing breathtaking shots.
The campus features beautiful architecture and scenic views of the gorges, ideal for photography.
Known for its picturesque waterfall and trails, it offers plenty of opportunities for nature photography.
Food in Ithaca
Ithaca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crafted locally, Ithaca Beer is a must-try for beer enthusiasts, with a variety of styles to sample.
Must-Try!
The region is known for its wine production, especially Rieslings, which are a local specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market featuring local produce, baked goods, and crafts, perfect for a leisurely morning.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ithacans value courtesy; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected in daily interactions.
Residents are environmentally conscious; recycling and proper waste disposal are important.
Supporting local businesses and artisans is a cultural norm, reflecting community pride.
Safety
Tipping in Ithaca
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip service workers around 15-20% in restaurants, and similar for taxi drivers.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, although some local markets may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for hiking and outdoor festivals.
Warm weather invites visitors to explore lakes and waterfalls, with many outdoor events and concerts.
Autumn brings stunning foliage along the gorges, ideal for scenic drives and photography.
Cold temperatures and snowfall create opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.
Ithaca at Night
Hiking in Ithaca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that winds through the Cascadilla Gorge, offering breathtaking views of waterfalls and rock formations.
This trail features a beautiful creek and lush forest, providing a serene hiking experience just outside the city.
Airports
How to reach Ithaca by plane.
Located just 10 minutes from downtown Ithaca, this airport offers regional flights and is a convenient entry point for visitors.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
With Cornell University and Ithaca College nearby, a significant portion of the population consists of students from diverse backgrounds.
Many residents are passionate about outdoor activities, contributing to a community that values environmental conservation.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cornell University's football team garners local support, with games attracting large crowds.
With its proximity to lakes, rowing is a popular sport, with many enthusiasts participating in local clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ithaca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Ithaca cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, making it easy to find suitable meals.