Location: Ithaca
Top Things to do in Ithaca
10 Things to Do in Ithaca That You Shouldn't Miss
"Ithaca is gorges" can be read on proud t-shirts across New York State, and there is definitely truth in advertising. Sitting on the shores of Cayuga Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes, the hilly town of Ithaca is surrounded by dense forests, towering waterfalls, and many gorges. The natural beauty has a distinctly academic feel, as local universities have filled the woods with museums and education centers like The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, which features a 220 acre wildlife sanctuary.
Restaurants in Ithaca
1. Robert Treman State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 999 reviews
Reviewed By n02578845 - Cortland, New York
Absolutely beautiful park, well kept trails, lots of stairs- so it's a good work out. Nice swimming hole. Nice views of the water and wilderness. Go early in the morning for your hike and avoid people. I think parking is 10$ or something, but they're not always there.
2. Cornell University
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 595 reviews
Reviewed By Leon L - Hong Kong, China
Cornell's reputation and academics are without doubt. However, the campus itself is not a tourist attraction. Apart from a couple eye-catching architecture like the Law School or the Statler, the school is just a collection of administrative and educational buildings like any other colleges. Parking is also difficult to find.
3. Cayuga Lake
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 294 reviews
One of the largest of New York's Finger Lakes, this area is used for swimming, boating, fishing and other outdoor recreational activities.
Reviewed By Cam2Travel - Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Taughannock Falls State Park is a must see, especially after a wet season. My family and I were lucky enough to view the tallest falls, this side of the Rockies, during the summer when we had heavy rain. If parked at the visitor's center, you can park for free and look down at the falls. The center specialists can direct you to the lower parking lot where you have to pay to park, and walk 1.5 miles round trip to the falls. Best part about paying for parking is your receipt gets you in to other state parks for free the same day. Worth the adventure!
4. Ithaca Falls Natural Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 154 reviews
Reviewed By kenmkboy - Breaux Bridge, Louisiana
wow, what an amazingly easy waterfall view. my wife and I drove around the beautifull campus area only to discover this beautiful waterfall and gorge from the bridge. easy , short hike to this refreshing testimonial to nature's creativity.
5. Cascadilla Gorge Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 126 reviews
Reviewed By Prawet J - Washington DC, District of Columbia
If you visit Ithaca and/or Cornell University, spare an hour to walk the Cascadilla Trail. It is located on Cornell campus. The trail will take you through beautiful gorge and connect you to other nature trail on and near the campus. A beautiful trail with beautiful scenery around campus. Two small waterfalls provide great feeling for the walk. Don't miss it. It is an easy walk.
6. Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 371 reviews
Reviewed By RMPgh - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Ok I'm a birder but what's not to like about this stunning building, paintings, murals, sound sculpture by designer of Vietnam Memorial, active bird feeders, trails around the pond and through the woods. Less active visitors could sit in the lobby and watch birds at the pond or sit outside. The personnel at the entry were very friendly and welcoming as was the gift shop woman.
7. Cornell Botanic Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 280 reviews
Cornell Botanic Gardens inspires people - through the cultivation of 150 acres of specialty gardens, conservation of plants and 3400 acres of natural areas, and the education of lifelong learners - to understand, appreciate, and nurture plants and the cultures they sustain. The botanic gardens are located at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY and are open year-round, dawn to dusk, free of charge. The Nevin Welcome Center and Gift Shop is open Mon, Tues, Wed, Thu, and Sun 9:00 - 5:00 p.m. Fri - Sat 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Reviewed By RoadTripIzzy - Toronto, Canada
Obviously the reviewers who write before me haven’t been to a real botanical garden. This is definitely more of an arboretum with a small garden then a formal botanical garden. Some teaching gardens, some sculptures etc. Overall not at all impressive - nice gift store though.
8. Ithaca Waterfalls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
Reviewed By Gastronome37 - Regensburg, Germany
As they say, Ithaca is Gorges. And every gorge has its waterfall or falls. I've read that there are about 150 waterfalls in the Ithaca area, and I've only scratched the surface. But those that I've seen are spectacular (although in the dry season, they may disappoint). My favorites are Ithaca Falls, Buttermilk Falls and Treman State Park Falls. The latter two allow swimming below the falls. In short, visiting some of the Ithaca waterfalls will be one of the highlights of any trip to Ithaca.
9. Sciencenter
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 131 reviews
The Sciencenter inspires excitement for science through interactive exhibits and programs that engage, educate and empower. The hands-on museum offers visitors of all ages more than 250 exhibits, educational programs, a gift shop, an outdoor science park and a seasonal miniature golf course. Look, touch, listen & discover at the Sciencenter. The Sciencenter is open Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm and Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm. Open Mondays in July and August and holiday Mondays. The Sciencenter is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day.
Reviewed By ErinKristin - West Islip, New York
My husband had to go to Cornell for work so I went with him along with our children. We were looking for something to do while he was at work. It was a perfect place to visit for my children ages 4 & 19 months....MoreThank you for the wonderful review, Erin. We are pleased to hear that you and your family enjoyed your recent visit to the Sciencenter. We hope you're able to visit us again soon. Best, Amy Gaulke Public and Media Relations Manager Sciencenter
10. Ithaca Farmers Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 256 reviews
Reviewed By RMPgh - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Wedding reception held here and the center floor is smooth enough for dancing. The layout worked for long tables then sit-down buffet dinner. Caterers grilled meats just outside the covered area. Separate stalls for bar and dessert were used. String lights above and I'd suggest lamps on tables for sufficient light depending on dining time. Dock very pleasant.
Ithaca residents enjoy the farm produce on farm stand days.
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