Things to do in Ithaca

Activities, attractions and tours

Buttermilk Falls State Park featuring tranquil scenes and a river or creek
Robert H. Treman State Park showing a cascade
Ithaca
Ithaca
Photo by HB Mertz
Photo by HB Mertz

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What to do in Ithaca

Popular places to visit

Cornell University

Cornell University

Take a campus tour or just explore the area around Cornell University, a top university in Ithaca. Discover the area's beautiful waterfalls and top-notch restaurants.

Cornell University
Buttermilk Falls State Park featuring tranquil scenes and a river or creek

Buttermilk Falls State Park

Enjoy an old-fashioned swimming hole at the base of this park’s creek and wander through the sprawling glen and wetlands.

Buttermilk Falls State Park
Ithaca Falls Natural Area

Ithaca Falls Natural Area

Explore the great outdoors at Ithaca Falls Natural Area and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls during your trip to Ithaca. Amble around the area's lakeside or seek out its hiking trails.

Ithaca Falls Natural Area
Cornell Botanic Gardens

Cornell Botanic Gardens

Explore the great outdoors at Cornell Botanic Gardens, a lovely green space in Ithaca. Stroll along the area's lakeside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Cornell Botanic Gardens
Ithaca Beer Company

Ithaca Beer Company

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Ithaca Beer Company during your travels to Ithaca. Discover the area's beautiful waterfalls and top-notch restaurants.

Ithaca Beer Company

Ithaca College

Explore the campus of Ithaca College during your travels in South Hill. Discover the area's beautiful waterfalls and top-notch restaurants.

Ithaca College

Ithaca Commons

You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Ithaca Commons during your visit to Ithaca. Discover the area's beautiful waterfalls and top-notch restaurants.

Ithaca Commons

State Theatre of Ithaca

You can make plans for a show at State Theatre of Ithaca during your trip to Ithaca. Discover the area's beautiful waterfalls and top-notch restaurants.

State Theatre of Ithaca

Ithaca Farmers Market

You can enjoy retail therapy at Ithaca Farmers Market during your visit to Ithaca. Discover the area's beautiful waterfalls and top-notch restaurants.

Ithaca Farmers Market

Areas of Ithaca

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Downtown Ithaca

While visiting Downtown Ithaca, you might make a stop by sights like State Theatre of Ithaca and Ithaca Commons.

Downtown Ithaca
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South Hill

While South Hill isn't home to many top sights, Ithaca Commons and State Theatre of Ithaca are some notable places to visit nearby.

South Hill
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East Ithaca

You'll enjoy the restaurants and wineries in East Ithaca. You might want to make time for a stop at Six Mile Creek Vineyard or Reis Tennis Center.

East Ithaca
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Fall Creek

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Fall Creek and surrounding area, you can visit Ithaca Falls Natural Area and Ithaca Farmers Market.

Fall Creek
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South Side

While South Side isn't home to many top sights, State Theatre of Ithaca and Ithaca Commons are some notable places to visit nearby.

South Side
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West Hill

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in West Hill and surrounding area, you can visit Ithaca Farmers Market and Hangar Theatre.

West Hill

Frequently asked questions

Is Ithaca worth visiting?
Ithaca offers an interesting mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or local culinary flavours, there are many things you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Ithaca?
Sciencenter and Museum of the Earth are two good places to start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Ithaca while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ithaca?
The top tourist attraction in Ithaca is Buttermilk Falls State Park, so don't forget to put it on your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Ithaca?
Three days in Ithaca is more than enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Buttermilk Falls State Park, Robert H. Treman State Park and Hangar Theatre are among the most popular sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Horseheads.
Is Ithaca a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Ithaca, such as Hangar Theatre and Six Mile Creek Vineyard, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 3 kilometres from central Ithaca is South Hill and Northeast Ithaca is 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Ithaca with kids?
Deciding what to do in Ithaca with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or toddlers, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone entertained here.
What to do in Ithaca for adults?
Six Mile Creek Vineyard and Cornell Lab of Ornithology are just a few of the things to do in Ithaca. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Ithaca?
In Ithaca, Ithaca Farmers Market is a popular spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Ithaca.