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Table of Contents
Autumn is just around the corner and school is about to begin. If you will be studying at Ithaca College or Cornell University, or if you’re planning a trip to visit the finger lakes, you can’t miss these things to do that are unique to Ithaca, NY! All of the things that I listed below are perfect for warmer months (late spring – early fall).
If you’re an incoming freshman, congrats! Make the most out of your experience. Studying in Ithaca is really special. I myself studied there too, and despite the cold weather and difficult school work, I can safely say that it’s a gorgeous place where I grew a lot, experienced many new things, and made lifelong friends.
Nature 🍃
Ithaca and the finger lakes region are known for their many waterfalls and beautiful gorges. In fact, Ithaca’s slogan, “Ithaca is gorges,” is tribute to the 150+ waterfalls within 10 miles of downtown Ithaca. These are my top five most beautiful spots around Ithaca for a good hike and a scenic view.
Watkins Glen State Park
Although this is a bit over a half-hour drive from Ithaca, this is my personal favorite hike in the whole region. Housing a whopping 19 waterfalls, I think that this is the most beautiful hike I’ve been on during my time living in Ithaca, and I’ve done most hikes a couple of times. If you’re already in the region, I highly recommend giving this state park a visit, as its beautiful glen creates truly a unique experience you will never forget. Watkins Glen to me looks like a magical fairytale setting, and the pictures speak for themselves.
There are two trails you can take here– the Gorge Trail to see all the magnificent waterfalls and the Rim Trail which takes you around the gorge. I recommend doing the Gorge Trail which is open from mid-May to late-October. The hike is 1.5 km long one way and there is a seasonal shuttle available for those who don’t want to hike the same trail back.
You can check out more information about Watkins Glen on their website or this comprehensive guide.
If you don’t have enough time to see Watkins Glen, or it’s not on your way to Ithaca, there are plenty of other hikes you can visit closer to Ithaca, my favorite of which I listed below.
Buttermilk Falls State Park
The next on this list has 10 waterfalls for you to see and is a perfect spot for everyone. For those who don’t want to go on a hike, there’s a swimming area with a lifeguard and diving board to swim in the natural waters, as well as a picnic area with green grass, tables, and benches. Both of these can be accessed by car and are located right at the entrance to the park. If you’re looking to hike, you can go along the scenic and short half-a-mile hike on the Gorge Tail to see all the waterfalls.
For more information, see the NY parks website or this comprehensive guide.
Cascadilla Gorge
The stunning Cascadilla Gorge is conveniently located in the heart of Ithaca and can be accessed at either the Cornell Campus Entrance by the Law School, or at the Lower Gorge Entrance situated between College Town and Downtown Ithaca. This 1.3-mile hike is great for people who don’t have a car, but still want to go on a hike, as you can easily get there by foot.
Check out Go Finger Lakes for more info.
Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls State Park is easily my second-favorite nature spot on this list. In fact, it used to be my phone’s wallpaper for quite a while because I found it to be so calming when I was there. Its beautiful layers of limestone, shall, and sandstone that carve out the 400ft gorge make you feel so small and leave you in awe. Unlike some of the other gorge hikes on this list, Taughannock is really wide in comparison and it gives a much different feel. Here you can hike the rewarding (and easy) 3/4-mile Gorge Trail, which will take you straight into the gorge to see the waterfall from below.
Although this spot only has one waterfall, it’s much worth to see as its 215 ft. drop makes it the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi. For perspective, Niagra falls is 165 ft.
If you don’t want to hike, you can always visit the overlook and visitor’s center, which is located at 2381 Taughannock Park Road, Trumansburg NY 14886.
See the NY State Park website for more up-to-date information or this guide.
First Dam (Wells Falls)
Known as First Dam by the local students, Wells Falls is a great place for a dip in the natural waters. It’s also a popular location for gorge jumping, however do this at your own risk– it’s dangerous and in the past has lead to deaths.
Like Buttermilk Falls, you can swim here, but note that there isn’t a lifeguard so make sure you swim with caution. The water here is now used for Ithaca drinking water, however something that makes this spot unique is that it’s situated right beside an abandoned power-plant that used to harness the power of the falls and provide electricity to locals.
To get to first dam, you have to hike a really short (but somewhat steep) 0.2 mile unmarked trail which is located by a bridge near Giles St. The visit Ithaca website‘s directions for getting there are: “Follow Rt. 79 east from the Commons 1mi and turn right on Giles St. Turn left into the trailhead parking area marked Mulholland Wildflower Preserve, just before the bridge.”
Activities 👟
You can’t miss these activities to get a true Ithaca experience.
Picking Produce at a Local Farm
Located in upstate New York, the Ithaca area is home to many farms where you can pick your own produce straight from mother earth. This is a great activity for the whole family! Grisamore Farms and Indian Creek Farm are two great options for picking berries, apples, pumpkins, and much more (depending on the season). Indian Creek Farms has incredible apple cider donuts Sundays – Thursdays between 11:00AM and 5:00PM 😋. If you’ve never had an apple cider donut, now’s your chance to try one.
Ithaca Farmers Market
If you’re in Ithaca during the growing season you absolutely must head to the Ithaca Farmers Market. It’s an open-air market so if it’s cold outside make sure to bring your sweater or jacket. Open on Saturdays and Sundays on the elegant shores of Cayuga Lake, here you can find fresh produce and plants, arts and crafts, local jams, breads, cheeses, wines, and more! Even international cuisines such as Mexican, Greek, and Sri Lankan. This is a fun place to grab something to eat, find a bench or sit on the grass, and just enjoy both the food and the view. To see a list of vendors as well as the hours, head to the Ithaca Farmers Market website.
If you just missed the weekend, there are markets in Ithaca for almost every day of the week!
Apple Fest
The Apple Harvest Festival happens only one weekend a year during the autumn where Ithaca is colored in fiery oranges, yellows, and reds. So if you happen to be in the area while it’s happening, you have to go! The streets of downtown Ithaca will be lined with booths having fresh local produce from local farmers, animals, delicious baked goods, and so much more. This street fair is fun for people of all ages, so be sure not to miss it!
For more information including dates see the downtown Ithaca website.
Explore Downtown Ithaca and The Commons
If you like the charm of a cute, quaint, little town, this is the place for you. The Commons is a pedestrian-only street in the heart of downtown Ithaca riddled with various local small businesses. Take a stroll through though downtown Ithaca’s local restaurants, boutiques, artisanal stores, restaurants, and more. It’s a great place if you’re looking for a souvenir such as some university swag an iconic “Ithaca is Gorges” tee shirt.
Visit a Winery (or Brewery)
If you’re of-age, you can visit one of the many wineries in the region. This is perfect for a date night or an elegant night out with friends and family. I’ll be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of wine (it’s way too bitter for me, I can only drink Moscato 😭), but here are two my friends have recommended:
- Americana Vineyards
- Sheldrake Point Winery
If you’re more of a beer type of person, then you can always hit up a local brewery. Founded in 1998, Ithaca Beer Company is a family-run brewery in Ithaca that makes over 20,000 barrels of beer every year. You could also check out their restaurant called the Taproom.
With over 100 different wineries and breweries, it can be a hard choice, but here’s a more in depth guide to the wineries of finger lakes.
Where to Eat 🍔
Did you know Ithaca has more restaurants per capita than New York City? This may be due to Cornell’s renowned food science and hospitality programs. If you’re planning a trip to Ithaca, make sure you check out the food scene.
☕ For Breakfast or a Coffee – Collegetown Bagels
If you want a real college experience, look no further than Collegetown Bagels. They have a delicious variety of bagels and coffee, and are perfect for a midnight snack, a study break, or just a normal coffeeshop breakfast. I personally use to love their variety of flavored coffee drinks (with names often referencing pop-culture). My favorite was called the Jasmine– it had an aromatic floral lavender flavor and was delicious. People also love their pizza bagels as a midnight snack, but they’re good all day round. There are currently three locations, so you can grab a bagel wherever is convenient for you.
Honorable Mentions
- Waffle Frolic
- Ithaca Cat Cafe (if you love cats you have to go here)
🌯 For Southwestern Food – Agava
381 Pine Tree Road Ithaca, NY 14850
Agava is one of Ithaca’s signature farm-to-table restaurants. Their seasonal menu of southwestern cuisine is sourced by fresh locally grown produce and their full service bar boasts plenty of delicious cocktails. Often hosting live music and events, this makes Agava a great spot for dinner and drinks. View their menu here.
🇪🇹 For Something Exotic – Hawi Ethiopian Cuisine
113 South Cayuga Street Ithaca, NY 14850
This restaurant is so good. Colorful and packed with flavor, you can try a handful of different dishes with their delicious combo meals. The first and only Ethiopian restaurant in Ithaca, it’s suitable for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. View their menu here.
Honorable Mentions
- Sangam Indian Cuisine
- Saigon Kitchen
🍕 For Pizza – Thomson and Bleeker
220 E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
If you’re in the mood for pizza, this place is known for its incredible and diverse selection of Neapolitan pizza. But that’s not all they have to offer. On their menu, you’ll find a choice of salads and pastas that you can pair with local beer or wine, all served with fresh healthy ingredients. This rustic spot is perfect for lunch or dinner, and you can view their menu here.
🌱 For Vegans – Angelhearts Diner
401 E State St Suite G-2, Ithaca, NY 14850
So unfortunately my favorite vegan place closed, but have no fear, there are plenty of other vegan options for Ithacans! One of these places is Angelhearts diner which serves plant-based hearty and comforting diner food. View their menu here.
🍚 For Poke – PokeLava
206B Dryden Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
I’ve eaten at this place way too many times during college to not include it in this list. If you’re a fan of poke bowls, or if you’ve never heard of them and want to try something new, head to PokeLava. It’s delicious and located right at the entrance of college town.
🍦 For Dessert – Purity Ice Cream
700 Cascadilla St, Ithaca, NY 14850
To satisfy your sweet tooth, try this homemade local ice cream shop where you’ll find unique flavors like Bulldog Crunch, Pumpkin Praline, and Madigan Mint. Founded by a Cornell graduate in 1936, Purity Ice Cream is known as “The Ice Cream of the Finger Lakes” so you surely can’t miss it when visiting Ithaca!
Where to Stay 🛏️
Here are some special places to stay with unique ambiance and calm upstate vibes.
The Statler
130 Statler Drive, Ithaca, NY 14853, Ithaca, New York 14853
I cannot have a list of where to stay without mentioning the Statler Hotel, which is located inside of the Cornell University campus (which is convenient if you’re dropping off your Cornell freshman at college). One of Cornell’s seven colleges is the School of Hotel Administration, which is the number one best school in the world for Hospitality and Hotel Management. These excellent students help run this luxurious hotel. It offers some state-of-the-art accommodations, award winning restaurants, and incredible service. For more information, including room types, other amenities, and availability, click here.
Price: $$$
Location: Cornell University Campus
Other information: Offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, pet-friendly, ATM on-site
Firelight Camps
1150 Danby Road (96B), Ithaca, New York 14850
This is perfect for all of you who want to go glamping ✨. The tented campsite offers an on-site spa, fitness center, a shared lounge, continental breakfast, and free wifi. Its magical outdoor setup is perfect for a cute romantic getaway for couples. Each tent comes furnished with a king bed (or 2 queen beds depending on what room you take), an electric heater to keep you warm, and balcony with outdoor seating. There’s a campfire that’s sparked every evening with delicious smore’s to give a true camping feel. Note that each tent accommodates up to 4 people. To get more info about this magical outdoor stay, click here.
Price: $$
Location: Right outside of Buttermilk Falls, and Ithaca College
Other information: Pet-friendly, free parking, cribs are available upon request
New Park Venue & Suites
1500 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850
If staying in a glamorous tent isn’t your style, but you still want your stay to have some character, check out the picturesque suites of New Park Venue & Suites. Although a bit further from Ithaca than the others, this spot is right by Taughannock Falls, so if you’re heading there, this could be the place for you. With a running stream in the property, you’ll find a beautiful garden and artsy suites equipped with a kitchenette, fireplace, TV, terrace and more. For further information with images about amenities and availability, click here.
Price: $$
Location: By Taughannock Falls, a bit further from Ithaca than the others, but still very close.
Other information: Pet-friendly, free parking,
William Henry Miller Inn
303 North Aurora Street, Ithaca, NY 14850
This Bed & Breakfast is adorable and is in an amazing location, very close to downtown Ithaca, Cornell University, and Cascadilla Gorge. When living in Ithaca, I would always pass by this Inn because it’s in such a central location. One of their highlights is that they offer afternoon desserts in addition to breakfast! To see more information including photos, room types, and other amenities, click here.
Price: $$
Location: Very central
Other information: Free parking, not suitable for families with children under the age of 12
Honorable Mentions
You can never go wrong with the Hilton. They actually have three locations in Ithaca that you can see here:
You can also find other places to stay in Ithaca using the map below:
Booking.comI hope that these ideas will help you on your trip to Ithaca and the Finger Lakes. And if you’re not planning a trip, I hope this blog post inspired you to go, as the beauty of this region is unlike anything you’ve seen before.
Map 📍
Here’s a map of all the places I’ve listed above to help you plan your trip.
And until next time,
Take a shans!
