Although Ithaca, NY is a small town (population 30,000), it has much to offer. Here is an abbreviated list of attractions that we recommend:

People say “Ithaca is Gorges” all of the time, and there’s a reason for that: the many creeks that bisect the town boast over a hundred waterfalls (large and small). There are dozens of state parks around Ithaca, most of them featuring beautiful waterfalls. Two that we recommend are: Robert H. Treman State Park – This is an amazing park that looks like it comes straight out of Lord of the Rings, and Buttermilk State Park – Drive right up to a huge waterfall and then take a day hike on the trails. Both of these parks also have swimming areas within view of the falls (though the water is typically cold!). The whole Finger Lakes region is known for its waterfalls, and we encourage you to check them out!

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Ithaca Farmers’ Market – This is where we’ll officially tie the knot. In the morning, it is a bustling market with fresh fruits and vegetables, delicious cambodian cuisine, bakeries and breakfast burritos, local crafts, music, flowers and people enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

The Finger Lakes Region is dotted with dozens of wineries, most of which specialize in white and ice wines. Six Mile Creek Vineyard is especially close to Ithaca, has friendly staff and views of sweeping hillsides. For a comprehensive list of local wineries or to schedule a wine tour, click here.

 Cornell Lab of Ornithology – We highly recommend visiting! Not that we’re biased… For those who don’t already know, Charles and Erin both work here. Charles manages the Visitor’s Center and surrounding Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary, and Erin studies bird song.

Ithaca Commons – Downtown Ithaca is centered around this walking plaza, open only to foot traffic. A great place to take a stroll, have a cup of coffee, window shop and people watch.

Cornell University – This is said to be one of most beautiful campuses in the country. If you like architecture or history, you would enjoy taking a stroll around here. While on campus, take some time to see the art collections and one of Ithaca’s best views at the Johnson Museum of Art. Can’t find it? Just look for the building that looks like a sewing machine… If you get hungry, walk on over to Collegetown, adjacent to campus. This portion of Ithaca was zoned for high-density student living, and features some of the best cafes and restaurants around. And when you’re thirsty, stop on in at Ithaca’s best bar, the Chapter House.

Collegetown – This is a portion of Ithaca that was zoned for high-density student living. It is chock full of cafes, stores, and one of the best bars around, the Chapter House.

Museum of the Earth – Dinosaurs, fossils, digging in the dirt… If you’re a paleontology buff, or your kids like dinosaurs, this would be a fun place to visit.

The Sciencenter – Interactive hands-on activities for all ages to learn about science in all its glory!

The Cayuga Nature Center