What to do in Ithaca, NY

Activities, attractions and tours

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A university campus with historic buildings, a large green lawn, and autumn foliage.

Ithaca Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Ithaca has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Ithaca, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Ithaca with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Ithaca

Ithaca is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Ithaca, and make it a breeze to explore Ithaca and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Ithaca to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Ithaca, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Ithaca.

Ithaca attractions

Ithaca has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Ithaca to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Ithaca.

Looking for things to do in Ithaca can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Ithaca or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Ithaca attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

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Recommended things to do in Ithaca

Number of things to do
2
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Finger Lakes Self Guided Driving Audio Tour: £15
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Ithaca

Stay near popular Ithaca attractions

A waterfall cascading over layered rock formations surrounded by dense green foliage.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

9.4/10 (950 reviews)
Cascading 165 feet through a scenic gorge, Buttermilk Falls captivates with its natural swimming pool and woodland surroundings. Hike the Gorge and Rim Trails for spectacular views of waterfalls.
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Where to stay in Ithaca

Find the best Ithaca areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ithaca
Learn more about Ithaca
A street sign for 'Aurora St N' and 'Ithaca Commons' with autumn trees in the background.

Downtown Ithaca

While visiting Downtown Ithaca, you might make a stop by sights like State Theatre of Ithaca and Ithaca Commons.

A waterfall surrounded by autumn foliage in a forested gorge.

Fall Creek

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Fall Creek and surrounding area, you can visit Ithaca Falls Natural Area and Ithaca Farmers Market.

A covered walkway with stone pillars and glass windows, surrounded by greenery and a clear sky.
Photo by Shannon Willitts
Open Photo by Shannon Willitts

Collegetown

When in Collegetown, you can plan a visit to Ithaca Commons and State Theatre of Ithaca, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

College Hill Historic District

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in College Hill Historic District and surrounding area, you can visit Ithaca Falls Natural Area and Ithaca Commons.

A waterfall cascading into a clear pool surrounded by lush greenery.
Photo by Erica R Hopper
Open Photo by Erica R Hopper

South Hill

Unique features of South Hill include the waterfalls and coffee shops. Make a stop by Buttermilk Falls State Park or Butterfield Stadium while you're exploring the area.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Ithaca worth visiting?
Ithaca offers an interesting mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or local culinary flavours, there are many things you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Ithaca?
Sciencenter and Museum of the Earth are two good places to start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Ithaca while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ithaca?
The top tourist attraction in Ithaca is Buttermilk Falls State Park, so don't forget to put it on your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Ithaca?
Three days in Ithaca is more than enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Buttermilk Falls State Park, Robert H. Treman State Park and Hangar Theatre are among the most popular sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a while longer to explore nearby hotspots like Horseheads.
Is Ithaca a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Ithaca, such as Hangar Theatre and Six Mile Creek Vineyard, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 3 kms (2 miles) from central Ithaca is South Hill and Northeast Ithaca is 5 kms (3 miles) away.
What are some activities to do in Ithaca with kids?
Deciding what to do in Ithaca with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with teenagers or toddlers, there's a range of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone entertained here.
What to do in Ithaca for adults?
Six Mile Creek Vineyard and Cornell Lab of Ornithology are just a few of the things to do in Ithaca. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Ithaca?
In Ithaca, Ithaca Farmers Market is a popular spot for anyone wanting to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Ithaca.

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