Treman State Park is one of the best parks in the area. It has amazing hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and a great swimming spot. Head up to Upper Treman for a great hike that isn't too exhausting. You get all the great views without the massive amount of steps to climb. Fun fact: If you buy a pass to get into one state park, you can visit any others for free that same day!
Buttermilk State Park is one of the parks closest to downtown Ithaca. It has a handful of hiking trials that are great for any age. Fun fact: If you buy a pass to get into one state park, you can visit any others for free that same day!
Taughannock is a bit of a drive out of town (about 15 minutes from downtown) but well worth the trip. It has the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi River with stunning views from both the top of the falls and the bottom! Fun fact: If you buy a pass to get into one state park, you can visit any others for free that same day!
Are your kids joining you for the weekend? The Sciencenter (where Charlotte had her first job) is an amazing, entertaining, and interactive museum where you and your kids can enjoy yourselves. They have great indoor activities and experiments as well as an outdoor mini golf course and playground.
August Moon Spa is another fantastic option for some much needed downtime while in Ithaca. They offer facials, body treatments, and massages and are part of a great hotel, La Tourelle. If you are looking for a more sophisticated stay while in town this is a perfect spot!
Ithaca Beer Company is a great local brewery and restaurant that is a must see. Tour their brewery, try a flight of beers, and chow down on their locally sourced dishes, all the while enjoying their gorgeous outdoor space. You can even just swing by for a beer and toss a frisbee around on their lawn.
Viva is our favorite spot in Ithaca and we always make sure to stop by while we are in town, even if it's just to their Taqueria (the take out portion of the restaurant). Their frozen raspberry margaritas and fajitas are Charlotte's favorite, while Jake tends to lean towards The Goat margarita and enchiladas.