Located in Tompkins County, Ithaca is nestled between New York City and Niagara Falls. It is a unique city located in the heart of NY's Finger Lakes region.
Not only is it a popular college town, but Ithaca is also one of the prettiest cities because of the abundance of nature here. Well, this city also has wineries, water sports, lakefront dining, and tons of outdoor adventures.
1. Fuertes Observatory
Be amazed at how many celestial bodies one can see from here. You can visit this place on Fridays no matter the weather. The public viewing is from 8 PM to midnight.
The tours of the historic observatory are given during the evening open hours. If the skies are clear on the day, telescopes are set up in order for visitors to look into the cosmos.
Operated by the Cornell Department of Astronomy, this observatory is located on Cornell's North Campus near Helen Newman Hall.
Also, there is a small museum in the observatory that presents a great look into the history of astronomy.
Location: 209 Cradit Farm Dr
2. Taughannock Falls State Park
This gorgeous park with stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and breathtaking views is centered around Taughannock Falls. If you lack time and can only visit a couple of places in Ithaca, this spot should definitely top your list.
The view of the Taughannock Falls is visible just steps above the parking lot. However, one can also hike the flat trail to the base of the waterfall to get a ravishing view.
Location: 1740 Taughannock Blvd
3. Ithaca Children’s Garden
Visiting Ithaca with your children? Ithaca Children’s Garden is the perfect spot for your little ones to play and explore the outdoors.
It is a three-acre space that is designed for kids to have an opportunity for creative as well as hands-on play with many unique play areas. Instead of the regular swings and slides, they have a sound garden, walk-through gardens, miniature houses, and a giant turtle.
One can also attend one of their signature events such as:
- International Mud Day
- Scarecrow Jubilee
- Festival of Fire & Ice
Location: 121 Turtle Ln
4. Ithaca Falls
Ithaca Falls, located in the east of downtown Ithaca, Cayuga Lake, and along Falls Creek, is one of the best waterfalls in New York. It is located in a residential area of the city. is
It is 105 feet high and also 175 feet wide. The top of this fall also has a dam, which is estimated at 10 feet high.
The flow here is moderate to high, however, it can get a little difficult during the spring season. Swimming is strictly prohibited here as it can be life-threatening.
5. Cayuga Nature Center
The beautifully designed six-story treehouse set is the highlight of this place. It is located in the woods high above a small waterfall. Well, both kids and adults can have fun here climbing and exploring.
This nature center is home to a butterfly garden, several miles of hiking trails, and some live animal exhibits. It provides both indoor and outdoor nature programs which encourages visitors to explore the natural history of the region.
The trails and treehouse are open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The main lodge is closed for the winter season, however, the trails are still accessible.
Location: 1420 Taughannock Blvd
6. Cornell University
If you are looking for free things to do in Ithaca, this just might be it. Most of the attractions here are free and open daily.
Here is a list of places you must visit at Cornell University:
A. D White Library: One of the most beautiful libraries in all of New York, it was established in 1891. It has over 30,000 books and ornate walkways. This space is open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Cornell Dairy Bar: This spot has been manufacturing milk and ice cream from the local cows at Cornell. It opened in 1880 and is a surely unmissable place.
McGraw Tower: Climb up the McGraw Tower, which is 160 steps. You can hear the 21-bell chime played by students' chime masters. You can also attend the Cornell Chimes concert.
7. Johnson Museum of Art
Johnson Museum of Art deserves a separate spot for things to see in Cornell because of just how amazing it is. It is located on the northwest corner of the Arts Quad.
It is a free art museum that features five different floors of exhibits that range from ancient Asian art to pieces by university students. The way each and every art piece shows artistic talent is surely fantastic.
Location: 114 Central Ave
8. Ludlowville Falls
If you are looking for nature things to do near Ithaca, Ludlowville Falls is the place to go It has large waterfalls along with a hidden cave.
Just a short drive away, it is located north of the city on Cayuga Lake's eastern shores. The waterfall is within the Ludlowville and is visible from both below and above.
The waterfall itself is 35-40 feet, along the Cayuga Lake. It is also a popular spot for fishing.
Going to the area near the base of the waterfall will require hiking down a short and steep trail. However, it will feel totally worth it when you get a closer look at the waterfall.
The small park here consists of a playground, pavilion, and basketball court, all perfect for kids in the park.
Location: Mill St, Lansing
9. Sapsucker Woods
Not many people really know about this place, but it is also one of the must-do things. Sapsucker Woods, a part of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, is a 230-acre nature preserve that features four miles of trails.
The trails here include wetlands, pond edges, forests, and old fields. It also follows boardwalks and mulched paths.
Location: 159 Samsucker Woods Rd
10. Cayuga Lake Wine Trail
Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is one of America's first wine trails. It is an absolutely gorgeous trail where you can choose your path, soak in the scenery, and make beautiful memories with your friends.
If you are more of a wine-and-dine person, this activity is perfect for you. You can explore the wineries as well as lakefront restaurants on your unforgettable day trips and getaways.
11. Cornell Botanic Gardens
Nature lovers are going to love Cornell Botanic Gardens. One should visit the place, especially during the spring season.
The rich diversity of plants such as conifers, herbs, rhododendrons, vegetables, grasses, and perennials, are all a must-see here. The gardens and natural areas here will keep you busy and fully captivated for hours.
Also, it is free of charge and is open year-round from dawn to dusk.
Location: 124 Comstock Knoll Dr
12. Cascadilla Gorge
The gorge has 6 large plunging waterfalls that are surrounded by beautiful man-made stone staircases and bridges.
The total length of this trail is about 1.5 miles out and back, which includes the upper loop. The hike would take about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
