Things to Do in Ithaca, NY: A Local’s Guide to Exploring the Gorges and Beyond
- Allen Williams
- Jul 20
- 3 min read
Tucked away in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is a small town with a big personality. From breathtaking gorges to a buzzing arts scene, this is a place where you can hike a waterfall in the morning, sip local wine in the afternoon, and catch live music downtown at night. Whether you’re a nature buff, foodie, culture seeker, or just passing through, here’s your go-to guide for what to do in Ithaca, New York.
Get Outside: Nature is the Main Event
They don’t say “Ithaca is Gorges” for nothing. Outdoor lovers will feel right at home with our miles of scenic trails, waterfalls, and state parks.
Must-See Trails and Parks:
Buttermilk Falls State Park – Stroll past cascading waterfalls and take a dip in the natural pool.
Taughannock Falls State Park – Home to one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies.
Robert H. Treman State Park – Offers rugged trails, swimming holes, and stunning views.
Cascadilla Gorge Trail – A beautiful walk that runs right through the heart of town, linking downtown with the Cornell campus.
Cornell Botanic Gardens – A peaceful place to wander among themed gardens and native plants, totally free to explore.
Feed Your Curiosity
From fossils to fine art, Ithaca has no shortage of ways to engage your brain.
Museums and Learning Spots:
Sciencenter – Interactive exhibits for all ages, especially fun for families.
Museum of the Earth – Packed with fossils and prehistoric wonders, including a full-size mastodon.
Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art – A free art museum on Cornell’s campus with rotating exhibitions and a panoramic view of Cayuga Lake.
Catch a Show or Indie Film
Ithaca’s creative scene punches well above its weight.
Live Arts and Culture:
State Theatre of Ithaca – Catch everything from national music acts to comedy shows in a historic venue.
Hangar Theatre – A local gem offering top-notch theatrical productions year-round.
Cinemapolis – A cozy independent theater showing indie, documentary, and international films.
Explore the Town
Quirky, artsy, and walkable—Ithaca’s downtown and surrounding neighborhoods are full of charm.
Top Spots to Stroll and Shop:
The Commons – A pedestrian mall full of local shops, street performers, and great food.
Ithaca Farmers Market – Saturdays and Sundays from April through December at the lakefront—come for the produce, stay for the samosas and live music.
Iconic Eats – Grab a famous veggie dish at Moosewood, a bagel sandwich at Collegetown Bagels, or farm-to-table flavors at Agava.
Sip and Savor: Local Drinks
Ithaca sits at the start of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, and the region is brimming with vineyards, breweries, and cideries.
Where to Drink Local:
Ithaca Beer Co. – A big player in the NY craft beer scene with a taproom and outdoor space.
Liquid State Brewing – A laid-back spot with rotating craft selections.
South Hill Cider – Exceptional cider and views just a short drive from downtown.
Play Hard: Get Active on the Water
Love the lake life? Rent a kayak or paddleboard and head out onto Cayuga Lake. There are also great options nearby for hiking, biking, sledding, or cross-country skiing, depending on the season.
Don’t Miss These Local Events
Plan your visit around one of Ithaca’s signature events and see the community come alive.
Ithaca Festival (early June) – Music, art, parades, and street food.
GrassRoots Festival (late July, Trumansburg) – One of the best roots and world music festivals in the Northeast.
Apple Harvest Festival (late September) – Apples, cider, and crafts galore.
Porchfest (September) – Dozens of porches turn into live music stages in one of Ithaca’s most beloved DIY events.
Ithaca is the kind of town where nature, art, food, and fun collide in unexpected ways. Whether you’re coming for a weekend or a lifetime, there’s always something to explore—and probably a waterfall just around the corner.
