Visit Ithaca

Located in the heart of New York State’s Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is a progressive, culture-rich destination known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class educational institutions, and exceptional food and wine. It offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural depth, and culinary quality—all in a welcoming, inclusive setting.

With four distinct seasons, an abundance of local products, and a progressive community spirit, Ithaca is an ideal destination for UK travellers seeking something authentic, scenic, and easy to explore. International access is simple, with direct flights to JFK (New York City) and Dulles (Washington, D.C.), and convenient car travel from major cities such as Philadelphia, Boston, and Toronto. Whether as part of a broader Northeast USA itinerary or as a standalone getaway, Ithaca is easy to reach and rewarding to discover.

Ithaca is famed for its dramatic gorges and waterfalls—over 150 within a 10-mile radius—including Taughannock Falls, which, at 215 feet, is taller than Niagara Falls. The area’s glacial terrain makes it a year-round playground for hiking, photography, and outdoor recreation. Explore state parks like Robert H. Treman, Buttermilk Falls, and Taughannock Falls, or enjoy paddling and boating on Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes.

The city’s energy is amplified by the presence of Cornell University and Ithaca College, fostering a vibrant atmosphere filled with art exhibitions, live music, public lectures, and special events. At the heart of it all is the Downtown Ithaca Commons, a walkable hub featuring independent shops, inviting cafés, and lively seasonal festivals like the Ithaca Festival and Apple Harvest Festival.

Ithaca also lies along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail—America’s first organized wine trail—renowned for its award-winning Rieslings. The region also boasts outstanding cideries, breweries, and distilleries, many offering tastings with scenic views and locally sourced menus. The waterfront Ithaca Farmers Market is a visitor favorite, showcasing fresh regional produce, handmade crafts, and international cuisine each weekend.

Accommodation options are equally diverse, from boutique lakeside inns and cozy countryside B&Bs to stylish downtown hotels. Ithaca makes a great base for day trips across the Finger Lakes. Nearby highlights include the Corning Museum of Glass, MacKenzie-Childs in Aurora, Waterloo Premium Outlets, and Destiny USA in Syracuse.