- Must visit
Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art
Cornell’s main art museum features global collections from ancient to contemporary works. A top cultural stop with changing exhibitions.
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Complete guide to Ithaca, NY
Things to do in Ithaca, NY
Discover the best of Ithaca, NY — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ithaca, NY trip today.
- Recommended
Sciencenter
Hands-on science museum downtown with interactive exhibits for families and curious adults. It highlights local ecology, engineering, and play.
- Recommended
Cayuga Nature Center
Educational center focused on local natural history, birds, and regional habitats. Trails and exhibits make it a strong family outing.
- Must visit
Ithaca Commons
Downtown pedestrian-friendly district with shops, events, public art, and historic buildings. It is Ithaca’s central place to stroll and people-watch.
- Must visit
Cascadilla Gorge Trail
Signature gorge park near downtown with dramatic waterfalls, stone trails, and bridges. One of Ithaca’s classic outdoor experiences.
- Must visit
Robert H. Treman State Park
Large state park with famed gorge rim views, swimming area, and accessible paths. A regional highlight for scenery and easy walks.
Chicken Riggies
Chicken riggies is upstate New York comfort food: spicy tomato-cream pasta with chicken and peppers, common on regional menus and loved for its rich, warming flavor.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Salt Potatoes
Salt potatoes are small potatoes boiled in heavily salted water until creamy, a Central New York picnic staple tied to the region's historic salt industry.
- Gluten-free
Cornell Chicken
Cornell chicken is a local classic from Cornell University: chicken marinated in an egg-and-vinegar sauce, then grilled for tangy flavor and crisp skin.
The Rook
Beloved casual spot known for inventive fries, burgers, sandwiches, and local ingredients in a relaxed downtown setting.
Mercato Bar & Kitchen
Established New American bistro with seasonal dishes, strong local sourcing, and a polished but comfortable atmosphere on Restaurant Row.
Moosewood Restaurant
Long-running Ithaca institution famous for creative vegetarian cuisine, global flavors, and a colorful, welcoming downtown vibe.
United States dollar ($)
Moderate for a small U.S. college town: hotels can be pricey on peak weekends, dining is mid-range, and local transit is low cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or screen prompts.
Flights to Ithaca, NY: related information
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