Unforgettable Things to Do in Ithaca, NY

Exploring Ithaca's Culinary Scene

Ithaca, New York, is a vibrant city with a diverse culinary scene, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. The city's food scene reflects its rich culture and love for fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Popular Cuisines in Ithaca

According to data updated on 4/8/2024, the most popular cuisine in Ithaca, NY is Italian. This is no surprise considering the city's strong European influences and commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. However, Italian cuisine is just the tip of the culinary iceberg in Ithaca.

From Farm to Table restaurants, cideries, breweries, wineries, to coffee shops, Ithaca features a variety of dining experiences. Each establishment caters to different culinary preferences, ensuring that every visitor has a plethora of options to explore and enjoy.

Must-Visit Restaurants in Ithaca

With over 50 places to eat in Downtown Ithaca Commons, visitors are spoilt for choice. The area boasts a diverse array of eateries, including coffee shops, upscale dining establishments, pubs, and dessert spots, all offering delectable local cuisine and craft beverages.

One of the top-rated restaurants in Ithaca, as per OpenTable, is The Mouzon House Restaurant. Known for its exceptional service, delightful ambiance, and exquisite dishes, it's a must-visit for any food lover.

Ithaca's restaurants pride themselves on sourcing fresh produce, meat, and cheese from local farms and farmers markets across the Finger Lakes region, embracing the Farm-to-Table dining movement. This commitment to freshness and quality is evident in the dishes served across the city, making every meal a memorable experience.

In essence, exploring the culinary scene is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable things to do in Ithaca, NY. From traditional dishes to innovative culinary creations, there's something to satisfy every palate. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a casual diner, the city's vibrant food scene promises to leave a lasting impression.

Festivals and Events in Ithaca

One of the many attractions in Ithaca, NY that brings the city to life is its vibrant festival scene and cultural events. If you're looking for things to do in Ithaca, NY, immersing yourself in these local gatherings is a must.

Vibrant Festivals in Ithaca

The city of Ithaca plays host to a variety of festivals throughout the year, showcasing the region’s talent, and highlighting its multicultural influences. Some of the notable festivals include the Ithaca Festival, Apple Harvest Festival, Ithaca Porchfest, Winter Lights Festival, Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival, and Owego Strawberry Festival.

These festivals offer a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage, bringing together locals and tourists alike to celebrate and appreciate the unique character of Ithaca. From music and art to food and wine, each festival offers a unique theme and experience, adding to the richness of things to do in Ithaca, NY.

The table below provides a glance at some of the festivals held in Ithaca:

Cultural Events and Markets

In addition to the lively festival scene, Ithaca also hosts a variety of cultural events and markets throughout the year. These events include live music performances, tasting experiences such as wine and spirits, and an Anniversary Party featuring wine, spirits, and food, inviting the community to celebrate three generations of family ownership.

Cultural events in Ithaca provide a platform for local artists, musicians, chefs, and artisans to showcase their talents, offering visitors a first-hand experience of the city's vibrant arts scene. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who appreciates art and culture, these events offer a range of entertainment options.

From waterfalls and state parks to art, theater, wineries, and outdoor recreation, Ithaca is a city that offers a plethora of activities and attractions to its visitors. By attending these festivals and events, you can get a real feel for the city's culture and community, making your visit to Ithaca, NY, a truly unforgettable experience.

Outdoor Activities in Ithaca

Outdoor enthusiasts will find an array of activities to enjoy in Ithaca, NY. Ranging from hiking to biking and running, the city offers numerous trails that cater to different levels of difficulty and lengths.

Hiking Trails in Ithaca

Ithaca is home to an array of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views and opportunities to connect with nature. Among the most popular ones are trails in Taughannock Falls State Park, Robert H. Treman State Park, and Buttermilk Falls State Park, each catering to different levels of difficulty and lengths for individuals and families to enjoy outdoor activities.

According to AllTrails, there are 30 hiking trails in Ithaca, providing ample options for avid hikers and casual walkers alike.

Biking and Running Trails

For biking and running enthusiasts, Ithaca offers a range of trails. One of the favorites among mountain biking enthusiasts is Shindagin Hollow State Forest, which offers short, intermediate, and long loops ranging from 4.8 to 15.5 miles. Characterized by a flat-steep, hard-packed natural setting with forest and wildlife, it provides a diverse biking experience.

The Cayuga Waterfront Trail, totaling 6 miles, offers a flat, paved path with waterfront views, linking several points of interest including the Visitors Center, Stewart Park, Ithaca Farmers Market, Children’s Garden, and Cass Park. It's an ideal location for a relaxing bike ride or run.

According to AllTrails, 21 walking trails and 16 running trails are available in Ithaca, offering plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Indulging in outdoor activities is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Ithaca, NY. The city's diverse trails provide an excellent way to explore its natural beauty while enjoying a healthy and active lifestyle. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a biking enthusiast, or a casual runner, Ithaca has something to offer for everyone.

Arts and Culture in Ithaca

Ithaca, NY, is a treasure trove of arts and culture, offering visitors a wide range of experiences from art galleries and museums to theaters and performing arts. This vibrant arts scene is among the key attractions that make Ithaca a must-visit destination.

Art Galleries and Museums

Ithaca is abundant in art galleries, studios, museums, and artfully planned events. These spaces offer visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in art and even purchase original artworks to take home.

For those interested in exploring local art, the Greater Ithaca Art Trail and Downtown Ithaca provide excellent starting points. These resources guide art enthusiasts through the artistic offerings of the area, helping them delve deeper into the local art scene [7].

To navigate these artistic treasures, visitors can also make use of resources such as the Downtown Visitor Center. Located at 110 N Tioga St, the center provides information and guidance for a fulfilling experience of the local arts and cultural offerings.

Theatres and Performing Arts

The theatrical and performing arts scene in Ithaca is just as impressive. The State Theatre of Ithaca offers an Ithaca Arts Odyssey, a year-round performance schedule of theatre arts for visitors to enjoy during their stay in Ithaca, NY.

In addition, Ithaca boasts a variety of venues for those interested in experiencing live performances. These offerings add to the vibrant arts and cultural scene of the region, ensuring that there is always something for everyone to enjoy.

In summary, whether you're an art enthusiast or a theatre aficionado, Ithaca has something to offer. Its rich arts and culture scene is sure to provide a memorable experience for all visitors.

Wine Tasting and Brewery Tours

One of the unique attractions in Ithaca, NY is its thriving wine and craft beverage scene. The city boasts an array of Finger Lakes wineries and craft breweries that offer tastings and tours, making it a must-visit destination for wine and beer enthusiasts.

Finger Lakes Wineries

The Finger Lakes region is renowned for its wineries, and Ithaca is at the heart of this wine country. Visitors have the option to schedule an organized wine tour or explore independently along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. This trail includes a diverse array of wineries, each offering a unique tasting experience, picturesque vineyard views, and the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, a visit to the Finger Lakes wineries promises an unforgettable experience. Remember to plan ahead and make reservations where needed, especially during peak seasons. Visit Ithaca

Craft Beer and Spirits Tastings

In addition to its wineries, Ithaca is also an up-and-coming destination for craft beer, cider, and spirits tastings. The city is home to several breweries and distilleries that produce a wide variety of beverages, from unique craft beers and refreshing ciders to artisanal spirits. Visitors can embark on a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process, sample a selection of brews, and even meet the brewers behind these creations. Many of these establishments also host events and live music, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're a craft beer aficionado or simply enjoy a good pint, Ithaca's craft beverage scene is sure to impress. Visit Ithaca

Exploring the wineries and breweries in Ithaca, NY is a delightful way to experience the city's rich culinary landscape and local culture. As you sip on a glass of fine wine or a pint of craft beer, you'll get a taste of the passion and craftsmanship that go into every bottle. This, along with the stunning natural surroundings and warm hospitality, makes wine tasting and brewery tours one of the top things to do in Ithaca, NY.

Visitor Resources in Ithaca

Planning a visit to Ithaca, NY can be an exciting endeavor. To help visitors navigate and make the most of their stay, several resources are available. These include the official visitors guide and E-news, both of which provide up-to-date information on various things to do in Ithaca, NY.

Official Visitors Guide

The official visitors guide is a comprehensive resource, providing a wealth of information on the many attractions and activities Ithaca has to offer. Visitors can access the guide online or order a free guide to be delivered to their home.

The guide covers a range of topics, from culinary delights to art galleries, hiking trails, and more. It's a great place to start when planning your itinerary, ensuring you experience all the unforgettable moments Ithaca has to offer, such as witnessing rainbows in the mist of waterfalls or gaining insights from acclaimed speakers at Cornell University.

E-news and Information Sources

Staying up-to-date with the latest events and happenings in Ithaca is made easy with E-news. Interested visitors can sign up to receive updates directly in their inbox, ensuring they are always in the know about exciting activities and events in the area.

For more specific interests, like food and drink options or arts and culture, additional resources are available. The Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau provides a free visitor guide and E-news specifically for food and drink enthusiasts [2]. Art lovers can explore resources like the Greater Ithaca Art Trail and Downtown Ithaca for more information on the local art scene.

For face-to-face assistance, the Downtown Visitor Center in Ithaca, NY, is a great resource. Located at 110 N Tioga St, the center provides information and guidance for a fulfilling experience in the area.

By leveraging these resources, visitors can plan and experience an unforgettable trip, full of the wonder and excitement that Ithaca has to offer.

References

[1]: https://www.opentable.com/nearby/restaurants-near-me-ithaca

‍[2]: https://www.visitithaca.com/food-drink/

‍[3]: https://www.uniquelodgingofithaca.com/ThingsToDo/festivals.html

‍[4]: https://www.visitithaca.com/events/event-calendar/

‍[5]: https://www.visitithaca.com/things-to-do/

‍[6]: https://www.visitithaca.com/things-to-do/outdoor-recreation/hiking-biking-running-trails/

‍[7]: https://www.visitithaca.com/things-to-do/arts-culture/museums-galleries/