Sophia Melvin & Ryan Reilly
Things To Do
Taughannock Falls State Park
Ryan and Sophie love chasing waterfalls and Taughannock is a must-see. The full Rim Trail is ~2.6 miles long with significant elevation changes, but the shorter Gorge Trail (1.5 miles) to the foot of the falls is almost entirely flat. There is a $9 cash fee per vehicle. Our engagement took place at the overlook which has free parking!
Robert H. Treman State Park
Treman is Sophie's favorite place to hike. She recommends starting at the Upper Park Entrance which offers more straightforward parking and the option of a shorter loop (~1.5 miles with a Lucifer Falls overlook) or the full out-and-back option (~5.5 miles). The stairs are not for the faint of heart. There is a $9 cash fee per vehicle.
The Ithaca Commons
The pedestrian portion of downtown Ithaca has amazing galleries of local artists, a plethora of dining options (e.g. the famous Moosewood!), live music, as well as book and gift shops.
Ithaca Farmers Market
A member-run cooperative with more than 130 active members who grow or produce their wares within 30 miles of the Ithaca pavilion, the Ithaca Farmers Market is a must. They have three categories of vendors: agriculture, food and artisan. Open Saturdays 9am-3pm and Sundays 10am-3pm.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Amazing opportunity for birders! A 425-acre sanctuary with over 5 miles of trails. Free day parking is located in the visitor lot closest to the Visitor Center entrance. The trails are free and open dawn to dusk.
Museum of the Earth
A frequent patron, Sophie encourages a visit to unlock your inner Dinosaur-phase child. Adult: $12.50, College Student (With school ID): $9.50. Open Thurs-Mon 10am-5pm
Atlas Bowling
$30/hour lane rental, $2 shoe rental per person. Lane or dining reservations recommended on their website. Their totchos are to die for.
Ithaca Beer Co
Famous for their Flower Power and Apricot Wheat, this brewery also offers a tasty fry flight with creative sauces. Hours: Wed - Thurs 4PM - 9PM, and Fri - Sun 12PM - 9PM
Americana Vineyards Winery
One of the many, many nearby vineyards. Open Fri- Sun 11am - 5pm.
Cayuga Lake Creamery
The best ice cream you will ever have in your entire life. Open Fri-Sun 12pm - 6pm.