Best Things to do in Ithaca

10 min read
09 February 2023

The biggest city within Ithaca, the largest of the cities in the Finger Lakes region of New York, Ithaca is a delightful, exciting city that has plenty going on. The city is located in a breathtaking location near the southern end of Cayuga Lake, it is famous for its home the Ivy League Cornell University and Ithaca College, and for the more than 150 waterfalls and numerous ravines that make up its beautiful surroundings.

Its large student population provides the city with a youthful vibe, Ithaca is also steeped in the past with beautiful older buildings, fascinating historic places, and incredible museums that are scattered across the city. Other activities to enjoy in Ithaca include exploring the vibrant cultural and arts scene and exploring the best eating and drinking options in upstate New York.

With plenty of outdoor pursuits and an array of breathtaking waterfalls and state parks close by, the lively university town of Ithaca as well as its popular tourist destinations are definitely worth a visit when you can.

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Cornell Lab of Ornithology

On the town's north-eastern border, there is the fascinating and well-known Cornell Lab of Ornithology. It is known around the world for its vital research, this state-of-the-art facility is home to fascinating and informative exhibitions, art, and outdoor activities that visitors can take advantage of.

Since it was established around 1915, the laboratory has grown tremendously and currently is home to hundreds of scientists and students who work at the lab. Every year, they conduct important and significant research on all types and species of birds, as well as their behaviors and population, and also on Earth's diversity of life.

Taughannock Falls State Park

With a myriad of stunning landscapes, scenic spots, and natural beauty, Taughannock Falls State Park is just a 15-minute drive north from downtown. In addition to boasting the largest single-drop waterfall in the States east of the Rocky Mountains, it also provides a myriad of fun outdoor activities and beautiful natural spots for visitors to be able to enjoy.

It is located along the picturesque coastline of Cayuga Lake, the popular park is named for the magnificent waterfalls that sit at the heart of the park. At sixty-six meters in the height, it is a stunning view. Two smaller waterfalls are that are also located along it. Taughannock Creek which meanders its traverses a gorgeous canyon.

In addition to biking and hiking around the park, and taking photos of the stunning waterfalls, visitors can also enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating on the lake, with fantastic camping and picnicking being offered.

Cascadilla Gorge Trail

Its path winds between Downtown Ithaca and Ithaca's Cornell University campus is another perfect spot to visit: the beautiful Cascadilla Gorge. Because of its stunning beauty, it draws both tourists and locals alike and has a wonderful trail that takes visitors along the charming creek.

Although it is located in the middle of the city the beautiful and tranquil gorge is far removed from the bustle of the city. The trail is just a little over two kilometers and is accompanied by six waterfalls that twinkle on the way.

It is relatively easy to walk It takes you through lush forests and over stone bridges, and then along the creek that flows with amazing landscapes and views that can be enjoyed every time you visit.

Johnson Museum of Art

In just about five minutes to the northeast of the city, you'll discover the impressive Johnson Museum of Art which has a massive collection of incredible works. It was designed by famous architect I.M. Pei building brutalist design was created by the renowned architect I.M. Pe with its unique design and concrete façade located on the Arts Quad of the main Cornell University campus.

The museum was established in 1953. The museum is now home to more than 35,000 artworks including African as well as Asian artifacts as well as artworks that are displayed alongside prints, photographs, and paintings. Alongside American artists like Georgia O'Keefe and Andy Warhol the masterpieces of Goya, Degas, and Matisse are also included.

Apart from admiring the incredible works, you are also able to climb up to the fifth floor, which offers one of the most stunning views of Ithaca as well as Cayuga Lake. The museum has a beautiful sculpture garden, as well as a variety of temporary exhibits and events The Johnson Museum of Art is certainly worth a visit.

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Ithaca Falls

The city and its environs have more than 150 waterfalls, the most stunning of them all is Ithaca Falls. Ithaca Falls is now protected as an area park, its pristine water and steep rock face can be seen in Fall Creek, not far from Cornell University. Cornell University campus.

The city's major tourist attractions reach more than 100 feet high and span over 175 feet in width. The waterfall was created millennia long, the massive waterfall is the most imposing of a string of waterfalls, which are scattered in the valley of hanging that runs through the town.

The water was once used to generate electricity for local industries, the water has become the top tourist attraction, walking around the park, and snapping pictures of the falls are popular activities.

Ithaca Farmers Market

If, instead of the beautiful outdoors, it's fresh food and fresh produce you're looking for If so, you'll be interested in the wonderful Ithaca Farmers Market. It's a very enjoyable and inviting area to visit Its numerous stand and stalls can be found in Steamboat Landing, along the shores of Cayuga Lake.

Since it first opened in 1973, the market has been a popular choice for tourists and locals alike. There are more than 150 vendors selling their fruits, vegetables, and fresh baked goods at the huge outdoor market. There are also coffee stands and food stalls that sell local wines as well as hand-crafted items for sale.

Downtown Ithaca

The primary area to shop, eat and have a drink in downtown Ithaca is a lively and historic district in the middle of town. It is located on the Commons and the Commons, the district is full of wonderful things to do and do. There are entertaining events, fun activities, and entertainment to be had.

The sprawling area extends over several blocks. the pedestrian-only zone is a delight to stroll through with many interesting shops and restaurants, along with vibrant bars, theaters, and an amazing art-house movie. When you walk around through the streets, you'll find attractive historical buildings, vibrant and imaginative murals, as well as educational and interesting installations that make up the Carl Sagan Planet Walk.

The area's lively atmosphere is the numerous street performers. A variety of performances, cultural events, and festivals take place in the city's center every year.

Cornell Botanic Gardens

A highly sought-after and beautiful spot to explore The charming Cornell Botanic Gardens lies right near the main campus. The gardens are home to hundreds of species of flowers, plants trees, and shrubs its beautiful pathways take you through everything from waterfalls and forests to meadows, bogs, and canyons.

Since it was established by the city in 1935, the beautiful gardens have grown and expanded, with a variety of charmingly diverse areas to visit. Although it's wild at times however, the rest of it is beautifully designed with an impressive arboretum as well as a decorative arts flower garden that is situated next to the garden of a historical vegetable and winter garden, among others.

In all, the trails run for 8 miles and meander past streams, ponds, and nature reserves that are secluded. Apart from exploring the beautiful sections, you can visit four other gardens that are part of the Cornell Botanic Gardens maintained on the central campus of Cornell University.

Cayuga Lake

The largest and longest among the Finger Lakes The beautiful Cayuga Lake, and its peaceful shores lend themselves to a variety of enjoyable outdoor pursuits. Since Ithaca is situated on the southern end of Lake Ontario, its stunning landscape and breathtaking views are accessible right from the heart of the city.

Cut out of Earth by glaciers in the last glacial period, it spans 38 km in length and spans 5.6 kilometers wide at its broadest point. Its shores are lined with state parks as well as protected nature zones that offer incredible mountain biking, hiking, and camping opportunities in the lush surroundings.

Alongside paddling and sailing around the lake's reflective waters people can fish and swim in more than a dozen wineries, as well as a few distilleries available near if you'd like to sample some of the region's tasty local food items.

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Alex Moralas 2
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