Katie & Nick
Things To Do
Robert H. Treman State Park
The park offers two great hikes to view the falls and a nice swimming area at the base of the large waterfall. You can hike through the gorge to the upper park or drive to the upper side and walk about 0.25 miles (0.4 km) down to Lucifer Falls, an impressive waterfall. Lucifer Falls is the very picture at the header of this page.
Buttermilk Falls State Park
Here, you may also enjoy a day of swimming at the waterfall's base. There are hiking and walking trails along the gorge, where you will climb multiple staircases and see many waterfalls along the way.
Taughannock Falls State Park
This park offers a shaded, relatively flat walk along the gorge to the waterfall. There is a swimming area as well for a relaxing visit to the park. The Gorge trail and Rim trial are a bit more strenuous but well worth the views. This is a must-see if you'd like to get a glimpse of one of Ithaca's many gorgeous waterfalls.
Cascadilla Gorge Trail
This waterfall is located within Ithaca and is a perfect escape on a hot summer day. The trail leads you up to the hills of Cornell University. As you hike upstairs, you'll follow along a waterfall. It's a beautiful hike and has great scenery.
Purity Ice Cream Co.
Purity Ice Cream is the place to get a sweet treat! They offer many unique and delicious flavors of ice cream and even burgers or salads. This is a must-do on a hot summer day.
Downtown Ithaca Alliance (The Ithaca Commons)
Ithaca Commons is a walking mall. If you stay in the Marriott downtown, you are just on the Eastern end of the mall. This is the place to explore downtown and stop into many retail shops, coffee shops, and restaurants.
Benjamin Peters
Benjamin Peters is a beloved store. Peter Parkes, Nick's father, owned the business and worked here for many years. If you check out the Ithaca Commons, this store is a go to.
Cayuga Wine Trail or Seneca Wine Trail
If you have an extra day in Ithaca, driving along Cayuga Wine Trail or Seneca Wine Trail is recommended. Several wineries and breweries offer beautiful views and tasty drinks. Ithaca Beer, Thirsty Owl, and King Ferry Winery are local favorites.
Ithaca Farmers Market
This is the place to be Saturday mornings in Ithaca. The market offers pastries, fruits, and veggies. Candles and T-shirts are also options. Plan to get there early because it will become packed in July.
Sciencenter
The Science Center is great for kids and fun for the whole family. To get there, you can drive or do the planet walk from Ithaca Commons to the Science center to see all the planets along the way.
Newman Municipal Golf Course
Got time for golf? This course is convenient for playing a round of 9 or 18. You may also check out Cornell University's Robert Trent Jones golf course for a bit more pricey round of golf.