Things To Do
Cascadilla Gorge Trail
A short, paved, beautiful hike from the Fall Creek neighborhood uphill to the campus of Cornell University. (Note: It does involve several staircases). You can walk to the trailhead from downtown in just a few minutes. Kalie humbly thinks that if you do only one thing in Ithaca, you should 1000% do this.
Ithaca Falls
A beautiful waterfall right on the edge of the Fall Creek neighborhood. This is the most accessible of the waterfalls in town. You can see it from the sidewalk! Lincoln Street Diner and The Botanist coffeeshop are nearby.
Ithaca Farmers Market
A popular weekend market with local produce, wine and cider, artisan goods, local art, breakfast, lunch, coffee, and live music, on the shore of Cayuga Lake. It is a 20 min. walk from downtown Ithaca or a short drive.
Cornell University
The campus where Kalie works, right in town but high up on a hill, has a great art museum, walking paths, botanic gardens, a bookstore, and several of the famous gorges. The nearby Collegetown neighborhood has some casual restaurants but most of them are not great so grab a coffee instead.
Taughannock Falls State Park
A short, flat walk along a creek to a towering waterfall. If you're looking for a low-key, 30 min. walk that isn't quite a hike, this is a fantastic alternative to the other waterfalls. Across the street is a lakeside park with a playground, a picnic area, and the beach where Tom proposed to Kalie.
Robert H. Treman State Park
Scenic, hilly hikes to another stunning gorge. There is also a famous swimming hole at the base of a waterfall that has a lifeguard and does not require a hike to reach. A great place for a picnic with friends and a great place to bring kids.
Watkins Glen State Park
A bit further afield - about 35 minutes from central Ithaca by car - is Kalie's favorite gorge trail. After walking through this enchanted landscape, you can visit the many wineries and breweries around Seneca Lake.
Moosewood
An iconic vegetarian restaurant, located in the center of town near the hotels.
Hawi
Our favorite restaurant in town! Their Ethiopian food got us through the pandemic.
Gimme! Coffee
Our neighborhood coffee shop. There are two locations in town, with the same delicious pastries and coffee.
Purity Ice Cream Co.
Our beloved ice cream shop. They're catering the sundae bar at the wedding reception, but you might want to go back for more.
Cayuga Lake Wine Trail
There are a number of wineries on the western edge of Cayuga Lake with tasting rooms, food, and views. You can also find breweries, cider houses, and ice cream spots along the route.