The 25 Best Things to Do in Ithaca, NY

Nestled in the heart of New York's Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is a vibrant city that lives up to its playful slogan: "Ithaca is gorges!" This picturesque destination seamlessly blends natural beauty with a rich intellectual atmosphere, creating a unique tapestry of experiences for visitors of all interests.

Home to both Cornell University and Ithaca College, the city buzzes with an energetic, youthful vibe. But Ithaca's appeal extends far beyond its academic roots. The surrounding landscape is dotted with breathtaking gorges and waterfalls, offering outdoor enthusiasts a playground of hiking trails and scenic vistas. Meanwhile, the city's thriving arts scene, farm-to-table restaurants, and eclectic shops provide a cultural smorgasbord that rivals many larger urban centers.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway in a charming college town, Ithaca offers a little bit of everything. Let's dive into the 25 best things to do in this Finger Lakes gem.

Explore the Natural Wonders of Buttermilk Falls State Park

Kick off your Ithaca adventure with a visit to Buttermilk Falls State Park, a natural wonderland just minutes from downtown. The park's centerpiece is a series of cascading waterfalls that tumble down a steep gorge, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that's perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Lace up your hiking boots and hit the Gorge Trail, which winds its way up alongside the falls, offering stunning views at every turn. For a more leisurely experience, pack a picnic and relax in the lower park area, where you'll find a natural pool at the base of the falls – ideal for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.

Key Information:

• Location: 112 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Dawn to dusk, year-round
• Admission: $8 vehicle entrance fee (May-October)

Why Visit: Witness the raw beauty of Ithaca's famous gorges up close and personal.

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photos.

Marvel at Taughannock Falls State Park

Prepare to be awestruck by Taughannock Falls, one of the most impressive natural wonders in the Eastern United States. This 215-foot plunge waterfall drops dramatically into a rock amphitheater, creating a scene that rivals the grandeur of many Western parks.

Take the easy ¾-mile trail to the base of the falls for an up-close view that will leave you speechless. For a different perspective, head to the Overlook Point, where you can gaze down upon the falls and the surrounding gorge. In winter, the frozen falls transform into a glittering ice palace, offering a completely different but equally stunning experience.

Key Information:

• Location: 1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY 14886
• Hours: Dawn to dusk, year-round
• Admission: $8 vehicle entrance fee (May-October)

Why Visit: Experience one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains.

Insider Tip: Visit after a good rainfall for the most impressive water flow, but be prepared for muddy trails.

Stroll Through the Cornell Botanic Gardens

Escape the hustle and bustle of campus life with a serene walk through the Cornell Botanic Gardens. This living museum spans over 4,000 acres, featuring meticulously curated gardens, an arboretum, and natural areas that showcase the region's diverse plant life.

Don't miss the Robison York State Herb Garden, where you can learn about medicinal and culinary plants, or the Tropical Greenhouse, which offers a warm respite on chilly days. The gardens change with the seasons, from spring's colorful blooms to fall's fiery foliage, making it worth visiting year-round.

Key Information:

• Location: 124 Comstock Knoll Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Gardens open dawn to dusk; Visitor Center 10am-5pm (April-October)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in a world of botanical beauty and tranquility.

Insider Tip: Pick up a free map at the Nevin Welcome Center and follow the self-guided tour for fascinating insights into the gardens' history and plant collections.

Discover Art at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum

Art enthusiasts and curious minds alike will find plenty to admire at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art. Housed in an iconic I.M. Pei-designed building on the Cornell campus, this world-class museum boasts a collection of over 35,000 works spanning six millennia.

From ancient Asian artifacts to contemporary American paintings, the museum offers a global journey through art history. Don't leave without heading to the top floor, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of Cayuga Lake and the surrounding hills – a work of art in itself.

Key Information:

• Location: 114 Central Ave, Ithaca, NY 14853
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience a diverse array of art in a stunning architectural setting.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's website for their rotating exhibitions and free public events, including guided tours and art-making workshops.

Shop and Dine at Ithaca Commons

Ithaca Commons is the beating heart of downtown, a pedestrian mall that serves as the city's social and commercial hub. This four-block area is lined with an eclectic mix of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and street performers, creating a lively atmosphere that captures Ithaca's unique spirit.

Browse through quirky boutiques selling everything from vintage clothing to handcrafted jewelry. When hunger strikes, you'll find cuisines from around the world, from farm-to-table American fare to authentic international dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to chat with local shop owners – they often have the best tips for exploring the city.

Key Information:

• Location: Downtown Ithaca
• Hours: Varies by business, generally open daily
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: Experience the vibrant heart of Ithaca's community and culture.

Insider Tip: Visit during one of the Commons' many festivals, like the Apple Harvest Festival in fall, for an extra dose of local flavor and fun.

Engage Your Mind at the Sciencenter

Curious minds of all ages will find plenty to explore at the Sciencenter, an interactive museum that makes learning about science and technology a hands-on adventure. With over 250 exhibits, there's something to capture everyone's interest, from a climb-on model of the Mars rover to a musical sound lab.

Kids will love the outdoor science park and mini-golf course, while adults can geek out over the Curiosity Corner's rotating exhibits on cutting-edge research. The immersive displays and experiments bring scientific concepts to life in ways that are both educational and entertaining.

Key Information:

• Location: 601 1st St, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm
• Admission: $12 for adults, $10 for children (3-17), free for children under 3

Why Visit: Spark your curiosity and learn through play at this family-friendly science museum.

Insider Tip: Plan your visit for the first Sunday of the month when admission is just $1 per person.

Take a Cosmic Journey on the Sagan Planet Walk

Embark on a scale model tour of our solar system with the Sagan Planet Walk, named after Cornell's famous astronomer, Carl Sagan. This unique outdoor exhibit stretches from the Commons to the Cornell campus, with each planet represented by a station along the way.

As you stroll the 3/4-mile route, you'll gain a new perspective on the vastness of space and the relative sizes of our celestial neighbors. Each station includes informative plaques that offer fascinating facts about the planets, making it an educational experience for space enthusiasts of all ages.

Key Information:

• Location: Starts at the Commons and ends at the Cornell Space Sciences Building
• Hours: Accessible 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Gain a tangible understanding of our solar system's scale while exploring downtown Ithaca.

Insider Tip: Download the audio tour from the official website for added insights as you walk.

Uncover Local History at The History Center

Step back in time at The History Center in Tompkins County, where the rich tapestry of Ithaca's past comes to life. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the area's development, from its Native American roots to its industrial heyday.

Explore engaging exhibits that showcase everything from vintage photographs to interactive displays about local innovations. The center's collection of over 750,000 artifacts tells the stories of the people and events that shaped Ithaca into the city it is today.

Key Information:

• Location: 110 N Tioga St, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm
• Admission: Suggested donation of $5 for adults, $3 for children

Why Visit: Gain a deeper appreciation for Ithaca's rich cultural heritage and historical significance.

Insider Tip: Check out the center's calendar for special events, including walking tours that bring local history to life.

Savor Farm-to-Table Cuisine at Moosewood Restaurant

No visit to Ithaca is complete without a meal at the legendary Moosewood Restaurant, a pioneer in the vegetarian and farm-to-table movements. Since 1973, this collectively-owned eatery has been serving up creative, globally-inspired vegetarian fare that even meat-eaters rave about.

The menu changes daily based on what's fresh and in season, ensuring a unique dining experience every time. From hearty soups to innovative main courses, each dish showcases the bounty of the Finger Lakes region. Don't skip dessert – their famous fudge brownie is the stuff of local legend.

Key Information:

• Location: 215 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Monday-Saturday 11:30am-9pm, Sunday 11:30am-8pm
• Price Range: $15-$25 per entree

Why Visit: Experience a piece of culinary history and enjoy delicious, locally-sourced vegetarian cuisine.

Insider Tip: If you love your meal, pick up one of Moosewood's bestselling cookbooks to recreate the flavors at home.

Hike the Cascadilla Gorge Trail

For a quintessential Ithaca experience, lace up your hiking boots and tackle the Cascadilla Gorge Trail. This scenic path connects downtown Ithaca to the Cornell campus, winding alongside Cascadilla Creek and its series of beautiful waterfalls.

The trail offers a moderate hike with stone staircases and well-maintained pathways, making it accessible for most fitness levels. As you ascend, you'll be treated to stunning views of the gorge and its cascading waters, with plenty of spots to pause and soak in the natural beauty.

Key Information:

• Location: Starts at Linn Street and ends at College Avenue
• Hours: Open May to October, dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience Ithaca's famous gorges up close and enjoy a picturesque walk between downtown and Cornell.

Insider Tip: Wear sturdy shoes with good traction, as the stone steps can be slippery when wet.

Taste Local Flavors at the Ithaca Farmers Market

Immerse yourself in Ithaca's vibrant local food scene at the Ithaca Farmers Market. This bustling marketplace brings together over 160 vendors, offering everything from farm-fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to handcrafted goods and ready-to-eat meals.

Stroll through the open-air pavilion, sampling local specialties and chatting with farmers and artisans about their products. The market's picturesque location on Cayuga Lake's inlet adds to the charm, making it a perfect spot to grab lunch and enjoy waterfront views.

Key Information:

• Location: Steamboat Landing, 545 3rd St, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Saturday 9am-3pm (year-round), Sunday 10am-3pm (May-December)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience the best of Ithaca's local food and craft scene in one lively location.

Insider Tip: Arrive early for the best selection, especially if you're after popular items like seasonal fruits or freshly baked goods.

Explore the Unique World of Gourdlandia

Step into the whimsical world of Gourdlandia, a truly one-of-a-kind Ithaca experience. This "gourd craft artist adventure" showcases the incredible versatility and beauty of gourds, transformed into everything from intricate lamps to musical instruments.

Artist Graham Ottoson's studio is a feast for the eyes, filled with gourd creations that push the boundaries of this natural material. Visitors can learn about the gourd-growing process, watch demonstrations of gourd-crafting techniques, and even try their hand at creating their own gourd art.

Key Information:

• Location: 272 Van Ostrand Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: By appointment only
• Admission: Free, but donations appreciated

Why Visit: Discover a unique form of art and craft that you won't find anywhere else.

Insider Tip: Call ahead to schedule a visit, especially if you're interested in participating in a gourd-crafting workshop.

Catch a Show at the State Theatre of Ithaca

For a night of entertainment, head to the historic State Theatre of Ithaca. This beautifully restored 1928 vaudeville palace now serves as the city's premier performing arts venue, hosting an eclectic mix of concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical productions.

The theatre's ornate interior, with its gilded decorations and plush red seats, provides a grand backdrop for performances. From nationally touring acts to local talent, the State Theatre offers a diverse calendar of events that cater to all tastes.

Key Information:

• Location: 107 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Box office open Tuesday-Friday 10am-5pm, and 1 hour before shows
• Admission: Varies by performance

Why Visit: Experience world-class entertainment in a stunning historic setting.

Insider Tip: Check the theatre's website for upcoming shows and buy tickets in advance, as popular events often sell out.

Visit the Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will find plenty to chirp about at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. This world-renowned center for the study of birds offers visitors a chance to explore exhibits on avian biology, listen to the largest collection of natural sound recordings in the world, and observe birds in their natural habitat.

Take a stroll along the trails of the Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary, keeping an eye out for the diverse bird species that call this 230- acre preserve home. The visitor center's immersive exhibits and live bird feeder cameras provide fascinating insights into the world of ornithology.

Key Information:

• Location: 159 Sapsucker Woods Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Visitor Center open Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Gain a new appreciation for birds and their habitats at this world-class research facility.

Insider Tip: Download the free Merlin Bird ID app before your visit to help identify the birds you spot on the trails.

Sample Local Brews at Ithaca Beer Company

Quench your thirst with a visit to Ithaca Beer Company, a local brewery that's been crafting exceptional beers since 1998. Known for their flagship Flower Power IPA, this brewery offers a wide range of styles to suit every palate.

Take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process and the company's commitment to sustainability. Afterwards, relax in the taproom or on the outdoor patio, where you can pair your pint with farm-to-table pub fare. The brewery's picturesque setting, surrounded by hop fields and gardens, adds to the enjoyable experience.

Key Information:

• Location: 122 Ithaca Beer Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-8pm
• Admission: Tours $5 (includes tastings), reservations recommended

Why Visit: Taste award-winning craft beers in a beautiful setting just minutes from downtown.

Insider Tip: Try the seasonal brews, which often incorporate local ingredients and showcase the flavors of the Finger Lakes.

Relax at Stewart Park

For a peaceful retreat with stunning lake views, head to Stewart Park on the southern shore of Cayuga Lake. This 178-acre park offers a perfect blend of recreational activities and natural beauty, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, watch sailboats glide across the water, or enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns. The park also features playgrounds, tennis courts, and a historic carousel, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Key Information:

• Location: 1 James L Gibbs Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Enjoy panoramic views of Cayuga Lake and experience a slice of local life in Ithaca.

Insider Tip: Visit during sunset for breathtaking views over the lake – it's a popular spot for photographers.

Discover the Wharton Studio Museum

Film buffs and history enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Wharton Studio Museum, which celebrates Ithaca's little-known past as a silent film production center. In the early 20th century, Wharton, Inc. produced popular serials and feature films right here in Ithaca.

Located in Stewart Park, the museum offers exhibits that showcase this fascinating chapter of cinematic history. Learn about the stars who once graced Ithaca's "streets of glory" and the innovative filmmaking techniques developed here.

Key Information:

• Location: Stewart Park, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Open year-round for self-guided tours
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Uncover a unique piece of Ithaca's history and its contribution to early American cinema.

Insider Tip: Check the museum's website for special events, including silent film screenings with live music.

Experience the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Ithaca serves as the perfect base for exploring America's first wine trail, the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. This scenic route features over a dozen wineries, each offering its own unique varietals and stunning lake views.

Sample award-winning Rieslings, Cabernet Francs, and ice wines as you make your way around the lake. Many wineries also offer tours of their vineyards and production facilities, providing insights into the winemaking process and the region's terroir.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations around Cayuga Lake
• Hours: Vary by winery, generally open daily 10am-5pm
• Admission: Tasting fees vary by winery

Why Visit: Taste the flavors of the Finger Lakes and enjoy picturesque lake views.

Insider Tip: Consider hiring a local tour company or designating a driver to safely enjoy your wine tasting experience.

Paddle on Cayuga Lake

Get out on the water and experience the beauty of Cayuga Lake up close with a kayaking or paddleboarding adventure. As the longest of the Finger Lakes, Cayuga offers plenty of space for water enthusiasts to explore its scenic shoreline and calm waters.

Rent equipment from one of the local outfitters and spend a few hours gliding across the lake's surface. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including herons and bald eagles that frequent the area.

Key Information:

• Location: Access points available at various parks along the lakeshore
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free lake access; equipment rentals vary

Why Visit: Gain a new perspective on the Finger Lakes landscape from the water.

Insider Tip: For a unique experience, book a sunset paddle tour to watch the sky transform into a canvas of colors over the lake.

Explore the Museum of the Earth

Embark on a journey through 4.5 billion years of Earth's history at the Museum of the Earth. This engaging museum, operated by the Paleontological Research Institution, offers a fascinating look at our planet's past, present, and future.

Marvel at full-scale dinosaur skeletons, examine ancient fossils, and learn about the forces that have shaped our world over millennia. Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays make complex geological concepts accessible to visitors of all ages.

Key Information:

• Location: 1259 Trumansburg Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
• Admission: Adults $9, Children (4-17) $6

Why Visit: Gain a deeper understanding of Earth's history and the evolution of life.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the Hyde Park Mastodon skeleton, one of the most complete mastodon skeletons ever found.

Attend a Performance at Ithaca College

Ithaca College's School of Music, Theatre, and Dance is renowned for its talented students and high-quality productions. Attending a performance here offers a chance to experience world-class entertainment at student-friendly prices.

From classical concerts and jazz performances to theatrical productions and dance recitals, the school's diverse calendar of events has something for every art lover. The stunning views from the campus hillside are an added bonus to your cultural evening.

Key Information:

• Location: 953 Danby Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Vary by performance
• Admission: Ticket prices vary, often with discounts for students and seniors

Why Visit: Experience high-quality performances in a variety of artistic disciplines.

Insider Tip: Check the school's events calendar well in advance, as popular performances can sell out quickly.

Visit the Cayuga Nature Center

Immerse yourself in the natural world at the Cayuga Nature Center, a 120-acre preserve that offers hands-on environmental education experiences. The center features live animal exhibits, including a bald eagle and several species of reptiles and amphibians native to the Finger Lakes region.

Climb the six-story treehouse for a bird's-eye view of the forest canopy, explore miles of hiking trails, and learn about local ecosystems through interactive exhibits. The center's programs and displays emphasize the importance of environmental stewardship and conservation.

Key Information:

• Location: 1420 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm
• Admission: Adults $8, Children (3-17) $5

Why Visit: Connect with nature and learn about the unique ecosystems of the Finger Lakes.

Insider Tip: Check the center's event calendar for special programs like guided nature walks and wildlife presentations.

Explore the Ithaca Falls Natural Area

No visit to Ithaca is complete without seeing its namesake waterfall. The Ithaca Falls Natural Area offers easy access to one of the city's most impressive natural wonders, a 150-foot cascade that thunders down a steep gorge just a short walk from downtown.

A short, flat trail leads to excellent viewing spots of the falls, making this natural spectacle accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities. The area around the falls is a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and simply enjoying the cooling mist on a hot summer day.

Key Information:

• Location: Lake St &, Falls St, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Witness the power and beauty of one of Ithaca's most iconic waterfalls.

Insider Tip: Visit in spring when snowmelt increases the water volume, making the falls particularly impressive.

Discover Local Art at the State of the Art Gallery

For a glimpse into Ithaca's thriving arts scene, visit the State of the Art Gallery. This artist-run cooperative showcases the work of local and regional artists, offering a diverse array of styles and mediums.

The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions, ensuring there's always something new to see. From paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media works, the State of the Art Gallery provides a platform for emerging and established artists alike.

Key Information:

• Location: 120 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
• Hours: Thursday-Sunday 12pm-6pm, or by appointment
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Support local artists and experience the diversity of Ithaca's art scene.

Insider Tip: Time your visit for a First Friday Gallery Night, when multiple downtown galleries stay open late and often host special events.

Structuring Your Ithaca Trip for a 3-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored the best things to do in Ithaca, let's put it all together into a manageable 3-day itinerary. This plan balances outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights to give you a well-rounded taste of what Ithaca has to offer.

Day 1: Natural Wonders and Downtown Delights

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to Buttermilk Falls State Park. Hike the Gorge Trail and enjoy the cascading waterfalls.
• Lunch: Head to Ithaca Commons for lunch at one of the many local eateries.
• Afternoon: Explore the shops and atmosphere of the Commons, then visit the nearby State of the Art Gallery.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at the iconic Moosewood Restaurant, followed by a show at the State Theatre of Ithaca.

Day 2: Campus Culture and Lakeside Leisure

• Morning: Start with a stroll through the Cornell Botanic Gardens, then visit the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art.
• Lunch: Grab lunch at a campus eatery or head to Collegetown for more options.
• Afternoon: Take the Cascadilla Gorge Trail down to downtown, then relax at Stewart Park.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset cruise or paddling experience on Cayuga Lake, followed by dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

Day 3: Scientific Exploration and Local Flavors

• Morning: Visit the Sciencenter for some hands-on learning.
• Lunch: Experience the Ithaca Farmers Market for lunch and local products.
• Afternoon: Explore the Museum of the Earth or take a trip to Taughannock Falls State Park.
• Evening: Conclude your trip with a tasting at Ithaca Beer Company and dinner at their farm-to-table brewpub.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion. Ithaca has so much to offer that you could easily spend a week or more exploring all its attractions. Don't hesitate to adjust the plan based on your interests, the weather, or unexpected discoveries along the way. The joy of visiting Ithaca is in the exploration, so leave some room for spontaneity in your schedule.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a culture vulture, or a food lover, Ithaca offers a wealth of experiences that will leave you planning your next visit before you've even left. From its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant arts scene and innovative culinary offerings, Ithaca truly embodies its motto: "Ithaca is gorges" – in every sense of the word!