Fall and Winter in Central, NY are beautiful times of the year, but can also get pretty chilly! In Downtown Ithaca, there are a number of different restaurants and bars serving delicious seasonal beverages, that will help you warm up in the cooler New York seasons. Plus, Downtown Ithaca provides a unique aesthetic that makes for a warm and welcoming area to spend time with friends and family around the holiday seasons!
1. Argos Inn: Outdoor fire pits & cabanas + hotel suites with fireplaces
2. The Strand at Canopy by Hilton: Cozy up to the large fireplace or nosh tasty pie from their woodfired pizza hearth.
3. Coltivare: Enjoy a tasty mixed beverage at the bar and bask in the warm glow of their barside wood-fired pizza oven.
4. Hotel Ithaca: Nothing says weekend retreat after a hike through the fall foliage or a fireplace inside your suite!
1. Watershed: Find a tasty beverage for every flavor from hot toddies to mixed cocktails, draft beers to hot tea.
2. Nowhere Special: Mixologist and owner, James Dean, crafts masterful modern and traditional mixed beverages from a variety of rare and artisnal elegance.
3. Bar Argos: The bar inside Argos is dripping with old school elegance.
4. Monks on the Commons: Stylish, chic and serving up some of the best mixed drinks in town, plus a rotating hard cider on draft too!
5. Alley Cat Cafe: Take your coffee up a notch with an added shot of CBD oil in your brew.
6. Press Cafe: Artisnal espresso bar featuring spiced chai lattes too.
7. Nothing Nowhere: Mixed coffee beverages crafted with unusual spices and flavors. Bartering welcome.
8. Bike Bar: A bar themed after Ithaca’s way of life, bicycles.
9. Greenhouse Cafe and Lounge: Handcrafted cocktails. Celebrating the bounty of NY Plants are for sale.
During your visit, you may notice an incredible con struction project underway a short walking distance from the Commons.
The existing Green Street Garage around and above Cinemapolis movie theater has undergone a signifi cant vertical transformation utilizing space in our growing community!
This large whole-block project is both the Asteri and the Ithacan development projects. Together, these projects will result in the construction of two glorious 11-story buildings with 181 affordable housing units above a state-of-the-art community conference center, retail space, and 200 market rate apartments. It will transform Green Street with reimagined public spaces and necessary infrastructure updates.
The Green Street Garage portion of the project has now reopened, with the Conference Center and housing anticipated in 2024.
Cayuga Street Garage: conveniently located across the street from Hotel Ithaca and near the Tompkins County Public Library.
Hourly Fee: $1/$10 max. Free on the weekends
Seneca Street Garage: located across from the Commons near Hilton Garden Inn. Hourly Fee: $1/$10 max Free on the Weekends
On-Street Parking: Parking Fee: $1.50 per hour. To use the system, register online at parkmobile.io or download the mobile app.
Green Street Garage: Hourly Fee: $1/$10 max Free on the Weekends
Once registered, use the mobile app, internet, or Parkmobile’s toll free number 877-727-5730 to pay for parking (Note: if you don’t have a smartphone you can still set up a Parkmobile account and pay for parking by calling the toll free number).
Parking spaces for people with disabilities are available both on the street and inside garages near entrances and elevators.
More information can be found at Call: (607) 274-6570 | Email: clerk@cityofithaca.org
Additional information about this project is available at downtownithaca.com/greenstreetgarage
When people think of Ithaca, they often think of Cornell University, Ithaca College, the gorges, or the Ithaca Commons. Our awardwinning three-block pedestrian mall downtown is the city’s cultural and economic center and a truly iconic feature of Ithaca.
at upscale restaurants such as Lev Kitchen, Mia Tapas Bar & Restaurant, Monks on the Com mons, Simeon’s American Bistro, Pasta Vitto, and Thompson and Bleecker while Waffle Frolic pro vides a variety of freshly prepared breakfast and lunch options. For quick slices head to Casablanca Pizzeria or Sammy’s Pizzeria. Authentic Asian dishes can be found at Kimchi serving authen tic Korean cuisine or Sushi Osaka offering many freshly wrapped sushi options and traditional Jap anese cuisine. A fun hangout for millennials is Nothing Nowhere where you’ll find tasty specialty cafe-style beverages and interest ing chatter from the baristas.
Traveling with Children? Check out Alphabet Soup where you’ll find dozens of educational toys, puzzles, games, books, and more! Plus, stop by The Brain Shoppe for various brain teasers for the whole family to enjoy. You should also explore the Sagan Planet Walk, named after famed Cornell University astronomer Carl Sagan, a scale model of the solar system which originates with the sun on the Commons and stretches 3/4 mile to the Sciencenter. The inner ring planets all fit on a short section of Bank Alley.
The Ithaca Commons is a popular regional destination filled with independently owned clothing boutiques including Benjamin Peters, T-Shirt Express, Breathe, and Petrune; gift shops like Sunny Days, Home Green Home, and Mockingbird Paperie; art and crafts stores including 15 Steps, American Crafts by Robbie Dein, One World Market feature handmade crafts by highly skilled artisans; and you can find popular name-brand footwear at Cobblers Cottage and Homegrown Skateshop, and stores like Autumn Leaves Used Books that feature recycled item. Plus, the finest worldwide beverages at Cellar d’Or Wine and Cider Shop which offers tastings of their products, and The Cornell Store featuring all things Cornell University and selling Cornell Dairy cheese curds, ice cream, and maple syrup. Also, don’t forget to grab some name-brand gear for your outside adventures at the Outdoor Store and handcrafted, warm, cozy, and stylish sheepskin garments at Ithaca Sheepskin.
These unique shops and restaurants are housed in some of the most interesting and historic architectural facades in the area.
In the Center Ithaca food court, you’ll find freshly prepared, quick eats establishments — Lou’s Cafe (grilled street food and Purity Ice Cream), Adam Grill (Mediter ranean Halal food), Tian Jin and Tibetan Momo Bar (authentic dumplings and other popular Asian cuisines) and Sangam Indian Cuisine
FUN FACT: Ithaca has more than 100 waterfalls within 10 miles of downtown. If you put them all together, it’s a waterfall 7,342 feet tall and 1.39 miles of falling water!
on the Commons in the directory starting on page 25.
Enjoy gourmet foods and hand-mixed cocktails and spirits
The Gateway Plaza and East State is another niche area downtown to explore at the east end of the Commons, offering visitors and residents mouth-watering dining and culturally rich opportunities. Angelhearts Diner, in the plaza, offers a grand selection of vegan cuisine. For some American fare, grab some freshly baked pizza slices from Domino’s.
Gateway Plaza offers our bestkept secret, the pleasant views of the Six Mile Creek Nature Area, a dedicated pedestrian walkway that extends to Coltivare on Ca yuga Street.
Across the street from Gateway Plaza is our boutique B&B, Argos Inn and Argos Warehouse, an event space. Housed in a historic mansion, Argos Inn has 13 luxurious guest rooms, each equipped with a private bath, cozy bedding, and original works of art by local and renowned artists. Innovative and historic cocktails are an absolute must-try in the world-class Bar Argos where you’ll find an ex tended outdoor bar and cabanas.
Just down the street, you’ll discov er a connecting street teeming with activity. Don’t miss Bike Bar Ithaca, a cyclist-themed pub, next to Old Goat Gear Exchange, an outdoor apparel and gear recycler selling new and used gear to gether, or enjoy vegetable-driven dishes and tasty mixed cocktails at The Greenhouse Cafe and Cocktail Lounge or at The Strand inside of Canopy. Also, make an appointment for self-care at Alta Spa!
Plus, there’s The Community
School of Music & Art, a dynamic meeting place for artists, com munity members and educators to explore ideas, artistic expres sion, and creativity together. And, on the other side of the street, our newest development, City Cen tre, offers luxury apartments with the finest amenities. There you’ll find Collegetown Bagels which has the longest list of handcrafted sandwiches in the city, some of which are named for local celebri ties, and Ithaca Ale House offer ing a fun sports bar setting with signature gourmet burgers.
Aptly named for its concentration of diverse dining options, Restaurant Row is home to some of the best chefs in the region and sought-out foodie paradise. 15 of Downtown Ithaca’s 65 restaurants are located on this one block of Aurora St. in Downtown.
The variety is eclectic! At one end where Aurora intersects the east end of the Commons, Viva Taqueria offers freshly prepared and inexpensive Mexican food while at the other end of the street, Asia Cuisine boasts an expansive array of Japanese, Chinese and Korean comfort dishes--their sushi roll menu is vast! Ultra-modern hangouts like Luna Inspired Street Food, allow you to order your worldly favorite street food directly from your phone.
Suppose you need a sophisticated beverage concocted by a skilled mixologist to complete your meal. In that case, you must dine at Simeon’s American Bistro, Monks on the Commons, Mercato, or Le Cafe Cent-Dix. Need a place guaranteed to satisfy your brews and burgers craving? Head into Red’s Place, Mahogany Grill, or Ithaca Ale House. For a selection of brewed coffee and specialty drinks, stop into Ooy’s Deli, and find tasty breakfast and lunch sandwiches at the new Hound and Mare. Plus, check out our newest eatery, Revelry Yards, featuring casual lunch and dinner experiences.
When the weather is nice, half the town will be dining al fresco out front of the restaurants.
Restaurant Row also offers a variety of specialty services and shopping, too!
Alta Spa & Salon, P6 308 E. State St.
Full range of skin, hair, and body care services
Bool’s Flower Shop, Q5 209 N. Aurora St.
Ithaca’s oldest flower shop since 1894!
Cayuga Nail Spa, P2 115 N. Aurora St.
Offering manicures and pedicures
Alley Cat Cafe 312 E Seneca St
Pet adoption & related items for sale
Your CBD Store: 308 E Seneca St.
Contemporary Trends, P1 121 N. Aurora St.
Contemporarytrends.com
Scandinavian & domestic furniture & accessories of good design
Narrative Space, Q6 213 N. Aurora St. #1
Specializing in future hand-me-downs and eventual heirlooms
Old Goat Gear Exchange, P7 320 E. State St.
Quality new and used outdoor clothing and gear
Press Bay is an exciting and resilient ecosystem and serves as a signpost for how hip downtown can be. Located on West Green Street, a short walk west of the Commons, and just one block to the east of Green Street’s transit hub, Press Bay Court joins Press Bay Alley.
Press Bay Court is a series of micro-retail spaces carved from an existing building previously housing Ithaca Photo. This “court” is bordered by a large courtyard/ performance space that offers special programming throughout the warmer months. Found in its micro spaces is Hair.Color.Art, a trendy salon providing highquality hair services for all ages in a creative, community-supporting studio space; One Ring Donuts Reopening in the fall under new ownership. Boxy Bikes offering top-notch bike repair service. Plus, enjoy the best slices of cheese cakes in the Finger Lakes at Rashida Sawyer Bakery
Neighboring the Court, you’ll find Press Bay Alley, a series of microretail spaces in a row of converted storage bays that formerly housed newsprint for the Ithaca Jour nal, The Alley is home to Lucky Hare Brewing Co. pouring farm brewed beer; Mama Said Hand Pies crafting handmade pies loaded with locally sourced in gredients; Halal Grocery, Sparks and Embers carrying indie brand home goods and apparel; the Press Cafe artisan espresso bar; and Circus Culture, the region’s only circus performance school.
If you’re in need of a quick trim or a haircut before venturing around town, visit True Dat Barber Shop or Big Time Barber Shop.
Across from the street from Press Bay, you’ll find Odyssey Bookstore, a quaint independently owned shop filled with the latest titles, classic reads, and childrens books, too!
Ithaca, NY is highly regarded as a foodie paradise, and Downtown Ithaca is an essential reason for this.
Press Bay Court and Alley are more than just a micro retail and dining attraction, but also a lifestyle hangout filled with activity and entertainment all year long.
The Lucky Hare Brewing Stage in Press Bay, quite literally a chic rehabbed loading dock-turned stage hosts live music performances on Thursday evenings throughout the summer and fall. The Alley and Court also transform into holiday markets on Tuesday nights before major feast holidays including the week of Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter.
Bicyclists, you can now make minor repairs to your bike or fix a bike flat while you’re downtown. Check out the new, accessible, easy to use bike repair station in Press Bay Court.
Cayuga Street to find this historic, multi-level, multi-use building.
This former high school building was originally designed by famed architect William Henry Miller and later transformed into a center showcasing an assortment of one-of-a-kind independently owned shops including Ithacamade, a gift shop selling hand crafted pottery, home decor, and apparel including Silk Oak cloth ing; Fibers, a women’s fashion boutique featuring handwoven jackets, colorful pashminas, and handcrafted jewelry. Plus, there’s Luna Love Holistic Hair Studio offering customized haircuts, organic color services and Reiki energy; and three casual eateries: Moosewood Restaurant, the world-famous vegetarian pioneer, and Cafe Dewitt, which is legendary for its weekend brunch. Plus, satisfy your sweet tooth with the rich and creamy homemade ice cream at Cayuga Lake Creamery.
This unique urban mall also in cludes Pasttimes Antiques Boutique, a member-owned retail cooperative, Buffalo Street Books, and Greenstar Oasis Natural Foods. Additional specialty stores in the mall offer everything from modern toys at The Cat’s Pajamas, rare coins at Cayuga Coins, a grand collection of healing stones, crystals, geodes, fossils at Sunshine’s Creative Designs, and high-quality, brandname musical instruments at Ithaca Guitar Works.
Each year, Local First Ithaca publishes The Guide To Being Local. Filled with stories, photo graphs, coupons, and local tidbits, this book is a great gift for anyone who loves to support our indieowned businesses. The booklet is available for purchase at many shops in Downtown Ithaca including Ithacamade and Buffalo Street Books.
The shopkeepers and restaurateurs, many of them being lifelong locals, are sure to offer you a truly authentic Ithacan experience!
Making up the west end of the Ithaca Commons, West State and Cayuga Street is an ideal area to find more unique shops and boutiques including Handwork, a community artisan co-op; Comics for Collectors, carrying comics, graphic novels, and fantasy games for all ages; V’s Hair Salon, SewGreen where you’ll find stylish womenswear made by American designer Eileen Fisher. Plus, there’s Mane and Wigs for quality hair care products. Also, Adrina Dietra selling vintage inspired intimate apparel & apothecary goods.
These corridors also host an array of locally owned and operated eateries and shops including the upscale Coltivare Culinary Arts Center and Restaurant which is owned and operated by Tompkins Cortland Community College as an institution for culinary and farm-to-table education. West State and Cayuga houses such diverse cuisines as Hawi Ethio pian Cuisine, Gorgers Sub Shop with its worldly take on sandwich es, Thai Basil, authentic Mexican food restaurant Bickering Twins along with Capital Corner offering Chinese dishes and sushi, and Nowhere Special Libations Parlor. Plus, you’ll find The Watershed a cozy tavern; and The Downstairs, a private event space with 22 taps and Chef Tammy Cacciotti’s delectable bites.
Some of the best entertainment and nightlife in the Finger Lakes happens on West State Street at the historic State Theatre of Ithaca. The State has been
entertaining and enriching the community since December 6th, 1928, when a once automobile garage and showroom was converted and opened as the State Theatre. The 1,600 seat theatre hosts multiple nationally recognized acts throughout the season. A complete shows listing can be found at stateofithaca.com
Additional entertainment on this end of downtown includes
The Upstairs at Lot 10, the perfect space to see live music while enjoying craft brews and mixed drinks. Also, you can check out The Rest and State of the Art art galleries.
During your stay, enjoy a grand selection of on-demand indie movies from our locally owned and operated movie theater, Cinemapolis. You can find a list ing of recently released films at cinemapolis.org.
2022
September
1:CFCU Summer Concerts 2: Gallery Night 5: Labor Day 8:CFCU Summer Concerts 9: State Theatre: Dinosaur Jr. 15:CFCU Summer Concerts 21: State Theatre: An Evening with They May Be Giants 23: State Theatre: Gary Clark Jr. 30-Oct 2: Apple Harvest Festival October 7: Gallery Night & State Theatre: Kathleen Madigan 8: State Theatre: Joe Pera 13: DIA 25th Anniversary Event 6-16 Greater Ithaca Art Trail 9: State Theatre: Popovich Comedy Pet Theater 14: State Theatre: Regina Spektor 15: State Theatre: Paula Poundstone
22: State Theatre: Steven Wright 27: State Theatre: Mania the ABBA Tribute 28: Halloween Downtown & State Theatre: Kindred Spirits November 4: Gallery Night 8: State Theatre: Ani Difranco 12: State Theatre: Almost Queen 16: State Theatre: Nate Bargatze 24: Thanksgiving 25-28: Shop Small Weekend TBA - Holiday Market at Press Bay Shop Small Weekend December 2: Gallery Night 9: State Theatre: Blackberry Smoke 2-10: Winter Lights Festival & Chowder Cook-Off TBA- Santa’s Arrival TBA - Holiday Market at Press Bay
2023
January
1: New Year’s Day 6: Gallery Night 16: Martin Luther King Jr. Day February 3: Gallery Night 16-28: Ithaca Loves Teachers 20: President’s Day March 3: Gallery Night 5: State Theatre: DAKHABRAKHA TBA- Chili Cook- Off
– Special Events & Promo tions
– Music & Culture Events happening in Tompkins County – National events/holidays celebrated locally
Downtownithaca.com
Want to know more about events happening downtown, check out our website for complete descrip tions, event maps and perfor mance schedules.
Facebook.com/downtownithaca
Get the latest information and updates of things happening in downtown from our Facebook page.
Ithacaevents.com
Get in the know about all events, big and small happening all over Ithaca and Tompkins County. Or ganized by Visit Ithaca
Art
Gallery Night Ithaca is a monthly event in Downtown Ithaca featuring new art exhibits inside galleries and shops around the downtown district. Take self-guided walking tours of window art displays or check out exhibits inside galleries that have reopened with socially distant viewing options. Gallery Night Ithaca is made possible in part with a grant from the Community Arts Partnership.
Every first Friday of the month, 5:00-8:00 p.m. GalleryNightIthaca.com
To celebrate fall this year, Downtown Ithaca will welcome farmers, cideries, and of course, apple growers to showcase their harvest bounty throughout the week...plus farmers market and cider trail happening on the commons and inside downtown shops and restaurants in the district.
Shops and restaurants will also feature apple & cider-themed menus and goods for sale too, all of which will be on a Cider Trail passport. Residents and visitors will be able to collect stamps from shops & eateries they visit during the week to win prizes!
Fri, Sept. 30th- Sun, Oct. 2nd 2022 downtownithaca.com/apple-harvest-festival
Warm up in the bitter cold with lots and lots of chilis for sample during this awesome winter foodie event!
The annual Chili Cook-Off, pits 30+ local and regional restaurants against each other, in a battle for the hallowed titles of Best Meat Chili, Best Vegetarian Chili and People’s Choice Chili in Ithaca! Also, sample plenty of craft beverages from local breweries, wineries and cideries...guaranteed to cool off your palate from the heat!
More information at downtownithaca.com
When the weather starts to get colder and the holiday season is just around the corner, Downtown Ithaca transforms into a winter festival for all to enjoy! With fun winter activities for the whole family, nightime silent discos, an assortment of food and dif ferent season beverages and more!
More information at downtownithaca.com
For more information about parking downtown, please visit the cityofithaca.org/705/Parking-Infor mation
Downtown Ithaca currently has 3 public parking struc tures for a combined 2,000 parking spaces available. The newly rebuilt Green Garage reopened in early September. All garages are conveniently located for walkable access to anything downtown.
Seneca Garage 202 E. Seneca St.
Cayuga Garage 235 S. Cayuga St. Green Garage 120 E. Green St.
Customers are encouraged to pay at garage pay machines conveniently located near garage elevators before they get in their cars and drive away. There are also credit-card only pay machines at the exit gate in case you forget.
Parking Rate: $1/hour - Short term, 2-hour parking spaces available Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday………..2:00am - 11:00pm Saturday & Sunday……..FREE
Parking downtown is FREE on weekends inside all the garages and on the street. During the week, free parking on the street starts at 6:00PM and ends at 9:00 AM the next morning. Inside garages during the week, parking is free 11:00PM-2:00AM.
Parking pay stations are centrally located on each block and accept cash/coin, credit or debit cards. You only have to pay once for the day and can move your car around to various downtown or Collegetown metered parking areas.
On-street metered parking is cur rently $1.50/hr. Minimum parking purchase for credit card payments is $0.50. No minimum for cash/coin purchases.
You can also pay with your smartphone by downloading and using the Parkmobile app (smartphones). The app allows you to easily pay to park from the comfort of your car.
Parkmobile is a convenient app used in other cities around the U.S. and will send you notifica tions when your time is running out. You can easily extend your time by following prompts in the text message.
Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) buses make getting downtown easy and conve nient. TCAT’s main hub is centered around the Ithaca Commons so almost every bus route passes through the downtown area. For bus stop locations, maps, and schedules, visit tcatbus.com or call 607-277-RIDE (7433).
BUS FARE: $1.50
Seniors & Youth (6-17) $.75
Correct change only | Anywhere in Tompkins Co.
POPULAR ROUTES:
Bus service between Cornell & the Commons: Routes 10 & 30(week), 70 & 72(weekends) & Route 90 (nights except Sunday) Service between Ithaca College & the Commons: Route 11
The relocated Intercity Bus Depot makes its home at 131 E. Green Street. Riders can board Greyhound, Shortline, Coach, and other bus lines serving New York City, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia.
This new location for the Intercity Bus Depot is conveniently lo cated next to TCAT’s Green Street bus stop, which is major transfer station for the local bus service to all parts of Tompkins County.
Ourbus Pick-up & drop-off for travelers riding on Ourbus is located at 130 E. Seneca St. out in front of Starbucks and the Hilton Garden Inn.
Ithaca Dispatch (607) 277-TAXI, ithacataxi.biz University Taxi (607) 272-3333 Collegetown Cab (607) 588-8888
Ithaca is now served by Lyft and Uber. Download the app on your smartphone to access and start using it to get to and from downtown. Surge pricing may apply.
Downtown Ithaca is becoming a safer and more convenient place to bike thanks to efforts by the City of Ithaca, local initiatives and community members.
Check out Bikewalktompkins.org to learn more about riding your bicycle in Downtown Ithaca. The site includes maps and guides highlighting bike lanes trails, and bike boulevards for safer city cycling.
You’ll also find on the map featured in this guide locations of covered bicycle parking facilities within the district.
Art and craft galleries, independent boutiques, home and kitchen décor, music and sport stores line the Ithaca Commons and surrounding streets making Downtown Ithaca the most diverse shopping district in Tompkins County. The Ithaca Commons – a unique pedestrian center lined with locally-owned establishments – is at the heart of it all.
Cayuga Coins K1 Dewitt Mall, 277-3301
Collectible coins and stamps
Pastimes Antiques K1 Dewitt Mall, 277-3457
Ithaca’s fun, affordable antique shop
Art Galleries
Community Arts Partnership ArtSpace J16
110 N. Tioga St. (Inside the Tompkins Center for History & Culture), 273-5072
A gallery for the exhibit of works by local artists. New exhibits monthly.
Community School of Music & Arts (CSMA) P8
330 E. State St., 272-1474
Classes for all ages. Gallery featuring exhibits by local and national artists
The Ink Shop Printmaking Center & Olive Branch Press P8
330 E. State St., 2nd floor, 277-3884
Printmakers’ center, fine art press and gallery
Jon Reis Photography F8 102 W. State St., (607) 272-1966
Commercial & fine art photograher State of the Art Gallery F11 120 W. State St., 277-1626
Fine painting and sculpture exhibits Mix Art Gallery 156 E. State Street
The Rest 113 W. State Street
Autumn Leaves Used Books J9
115 The Commons, 273-8239 60,000 used books and 40,000 records all under one roof.
Buffalo Street Books K1 Dewitt Mall, 273-8246 Ithaca’s community-owned cooperative bookstore
Christian Science Reading Room J4
117 S. Cayuga St., 272-1650
Selling The Christian Science Monitor, Bibles and other Biblebased books
Comics for Collectors Q4 124 W. State St., 272-3007
Fantasy, trade paperback, lim ited editions and new publishers of comics
Odyssey Bookstore D3 115 W. Green St., 269-5800
Something to read for everyone.
Children
Alphabet Soup 109A
171 The Commons, 272-6885 Fun, creative, educational and interactive toys, puzzles & books
Cat’s Pajamas K1 Dewitt Mall, 272-5582
Ithaca’s store for kids & kids at heart
Adrina Dietra E15
111 W. State St., 286-0123
Luxury lingerie & apothecary goods for women and men.
Benjamin Peters J24
120 The Commons, 273-1371
Fine men’s clothing; footwear for men & women
Breathe J16
171 The Commons, 273-3700
Fashions for women of all sizes and all body types
Cobblers Cottage J34
150 The Commons, 273-2951
Quality women’s shoes & ac cessories
Fibers K1 Dewitt Mall, 277-2777
Art to wear, jewelry, accessories and more
Homegrown Skateshop J19
104 The Commons, 273-0430
Skateboards, shoes & clothing
Ithaca Sheepskin J28
134 The Commons, 277-0833
Handcrafting quality sheepskin garments since 1979
Loose Threads J23
118 The Commons, 275-3359
Fun & funky clothes for women
Narrative Space Q6
213 N. Aurora St.#1, 319-0067
Specializing in future hand-medowns and eventual heirlooms
One Stop Kicks
107 S Cayuga St. New and second-hand footwear
Petrune J26
128 The Commons, 277-1930
New & vintage clothing, an tiques & accessories
Seredipity Q4
205 N. Aurora St.
Woman’s clothing and acces sories, opening in October.
Urban Outfitters I4 131 E. Green St., 216-1527
Hip fashion and accessories for men & women
Fabric & Yarn SewGreen F7
112 W Green St., 319-4106
Store w/reuse mission of previously-owned fabrics, yarn & Eileen Fisher Renew fashions
Florist
Bool’s Flower Shop Q5
209 N. Aurora St., 272-8410
Ithaca’s oldest flower shop since 1894
15 STEPS J16
171 The Commons, 272-4902
American crafts, extraordinary jewelry, clothing, jewelry and chocolates.
American Crafts by Robbie Dein J38
158 The Commons, 277-2846
Supporting American crafters for 44 years; “Life’s a Gift”
Book Sale Gallery E7
103 W. State St., 272-1906
Adult novelty & gift shop
Handwork F8
102 W. State St., 273-9400
Ithaca’s cooperative craft store
Ithacamade K1
Dewitt Mall, 272-1396
Featuring creative Ithaca art ists and products
Mockingbird Paperie J30
142 The Commons, 319-0556
Artful papers, stationery & gifts
Multi-Faceted Minerals J51
218 The Commons, 319-5499
Providing gems, minerals and custom jewelry
One World Market J16
171 The Commons, 256-0616
Fair trade gifts that give twice Sunny Days of Ithaca J16
171 The Commons, 319-5260
Gifts and souvenirs from Ithaca, the Finger Lakes & beyond
The Brain Shoppe J49
210 The Commons, 277-7577
Brain teaser puzzles, STEM kits, and fun stuff for all ages
The Cornell Store J18
102 The Commons, 272-1513 Cornell apparel and merchan dise
Tibet Store J7
107 The Commons, 272-3785 International gifts from the Far East
T-Shirt Express J49
116 The Commons, 273-6667 The place for Cornell, Ithaca College & “Gorges” merchandise
Uncle Toddy’s IthacaN Flea Market by Sunny Days, J16
215 The Commons, 319-5260
A showcase for the new Sunny Days of Ithaca main store at 171 The Commons and for Sunny Days sale items.
Juice bars
Empire Juice and Smoothie
112 W. Green St. Opening in fall
Groceries & Markets
Commons Market J57
122 N. Aurora St., 273-3236 Convenience store, lottery tickets
Greenstar Natural Foods Market K1 Dewitt Mall, 273-8213
Deli, fresh baked breads & pas tries, fresh brewed coffees, sushi
Ithaca Mini Mart E11
124 S. Cayuga St. Craft beer, soda, and sandwiches.
Press Bay Food Hub F15 110-1 W. Green St. pressbayalley.com/about-food-hub Providing a transfer hub for preor dered goods from local farms.
Shortstop Deli C1
200 W. Seneca St., 273-1030 Hot & cold sandwich deli & mini mart
Good Habits C1 New to the Commons! Mini mart Health Services
Ithaca Cayuga Optical Service J28
134 The Commons, 273-4231
Full service professional eye care center since 1948
Optivision of Ithaca J20
106 The Commons, 272-7441
Large frame selection and full lab facility
Contemporary Trends P1
121 N. Aurora St., 273-5142
Scandinavian & domestic furniture & accessories of good design
Mansour Jewelers J29
140 The Commons, 272-1810
Custom jewelry and onsite repairs. Schooley’s Jewelry J35
152 The Commons, 273-3471
Fine Swiss watches, fine diamonds & precious gems
Home Green Home J26
126 The Commons, 319-4159 Fresh choices for your eco-conscious home & lifestyle.
Sparks + Embers E17
118 W. Green S., 251-269-2111
Ithaca’s Lifestyle Boutique selling apparel, skincare, homeware, sup plies, and vibes.
Crane Hill Professional Massage K1
215 N Cayuga St # 77 Dewitt Mall, 351-1585
Massage Therapy
Healing Hands of Ithaca H3 108 W. Buffalo, 272-9002 Great massage, great location, great deal.
The Relaxation Point H3 108 W. Buffalo St., #1, 379-1639 An integrative holistic approach to massage.
Angry Mom Records J9 115 The Commons, 319-4953 40,000 used and new vinyl and CDs
Ithaca Guitar Works K1 Dewitt Mall, 272-2602 Stringed instruments & accessories; sales & service
Exscape Smoke Shop J37 156 The Commons, 256-4200 Vaporizers, tapestries, glass, incense Cayuga Smoke Shop 207 N. Aurora St. J21
Zaza Smoke Shop 101 E. State St. J21
Pharmacy/Herbal Medicine
Galvanic Skin, Aesthetics & Wellness J38 102 N Tioga St., 2nd Floor, 252-7900
Integrating nutrition, technology, medical aesthetics & experience.
Nature’s Apothecary J4 115 S. Cayuga St., 273-3100
A compounding pharmacy Your CBD Store Q2 308 E. Seneca St., (845) 244-0868
Full selection of CBD products
Ithaca Medical AestheciesQ2 108 N. Cayuga Suite 7
Alta Spa & Salon P6 308 E. State St., 273-6818
Full range of skin care, body care and hair care services
Beau Visage K1 Dewitt Mall, 272-2773 Full range of esthetic facial services
Big Time Barber Shop K1 112 W. Green St., 272-2773 A barber shop in Press Bay Court
Cayuga Nail Salon P2 115 N. Aurora St., 319-5028 Manicures and pedicures Center Hair Cutters J16 Center Ithaca, 272-8685 A comfortable shop for talk and styling
Changes Cutting Studio J57 120 N. Aurora St., 272-0090 Stylish atmosphere, exceptional results
God With Us Barber Shop J6 107 S. Cayuga St., 220-8427 Walk-ins welcome
Hair·Color·Art E15 112 W. Green St. #6 229-0200 Inclusive, welcoming space for people of all hair types.
Hairy Canary Clip Joint F6 116 N. Cayuga St., 273-2221 A “Best of Ithaca” favorite special izing in color, highlights and cuts
H & M Beauty Salon & Barber Shop J6 105 S. Cayuga St., 280-2062 Cuts, colors, perms, highlights. Spanish/English
Julie Stone Salon J25 124 E. State St., 275-3640 Center for tasteful & expert hair styling
Luna Love Holistic Hair Studio K1 Dewitt Mall, 414-2663 Full range of esthetic facial services
Mane & Wigs J6 109 S. Cayuga St., 339-0012 Beauty supply store
Narrative Space Q6 213 N. Aurora St. #1, 319-0067 Barber shop, grooming accessories
Salon Salon Q9 309 E. Buffalo St., 277-1245 Experienced & well-trained styl ists
Serenity’s Beautique J4
121 S Cayuga St, 321-9188
Salon that specializes In luxury lash extensions, lash lifts, lamina tion, waxing services, and more.
Studio F9
112 W. State Street Suite 108, 315-991-4090
Female Brazilian waxing and full body waxing services. Opening this fall.
Tru Dat E17
118 W. Green St., 220-7609
A barber shop in Press Bay Alley
V’s Hair Salon E10
118 S. Cayuga St., 275-9413
Cozy and relaxing studio-style salon
John’s Tailor Shop J18 102 The Commons, 273-3192 Fast, friendly service
Korik’s Custom Tailoring J49 208 The Commons, 272-1217
Established European tailor
Lena Gadgets J7
101 S. Cayuga St., 319-0966
Cell phone repair, service and accessories
Old Goat Gear Exchange P7
320 E. State St., 319-4388
Quality new and used outdoor clothing and gear
The Outdoor Store J48 206 The Commons, 273-3891 Serving Ithaca for over 50 years with all your sporting goods.
Here’s To You Tattoo
The Dewitt Mall, 215 N. Cayuga St. Studio 325 319-3103
Custom tattoos
Medusa Tattoo Studio F12 126 W. State St., 277-4474
Custom tattoos
Ithaca Piercing And Tattoo E11 120 S. Cayuga St., 256-7175 Piercing, tattooing and branding Bad Hombre 123 Cayuga St. Piercing, tattooing and branding
The Cellar d’Or Wine & Cider Shop J28
136 The Commons, 319-0500
Specializing in unique, estatebottled wines & hard ciders from around the world at all price points Sam’s Wine & Spirits E12 126 S. Cayuga St., 272-2827
Wines & liquors from all over the world, large selection of Finger Lakes wine
The amazing art galleries in downtown are showcasing the work of local artists and beyond. With frequently rotating exhibits, the galleries always have something new for you to explore.
Community Arts Partnership ArtSpace J39
110 N. Tioga St. (inside Tompkins Center for His tory and Culture), 273-5072
The ArtSpace is a multi-use space for the exhibit of works by local artists coordinated by the Community Arts Partnership of Tompkins County. A new exhibit hangs monthly throughout the year. Located inside the Visitor Center on the Ithaca Commons, at Center Ithaca, the location contains a wealth of information. artspartner.org
State of the Art Gallery (SOAG) F11
120 W. State St., 277-1626
State of the Art exhibits original works of fine art: paintings, drawings, photography, textiles, sculpture, collage, assemblage, and prints that express the unique personal vision of the gallery’s artists. Twice a year, the gallery hosts juried competitions—in March, the annual photography show and in December, an all-media (except photography) juried show. The gallery is a cooperative owned and operated by art ists of the Finger Lakes region of New York state and supported in part with funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, administered by the Community Arts Partnership. Wed.-Sun. soagithaca.org
Community School of Music & Arts P8
330 E. State St., 272-1474
For 50 years, CSMA has provided instruction in the visual arts, music, dance, theater and languages for students of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds, enriching the lives of more than 1300 students each year. In addition, the school hosts several gallery spaces with monthly rotating exhibits including First Friday music. csma-ithaca.org
P8
330 E. State St. (at CSMA), 2nd Floor, 277-3884
The Ink Shop Printmaking Center promotes fine art prints, works on paper, and artists’ books. Since 1999, The Ink Shop has operated a professional, open access, community-based printmaking facility and gallery. The Ink Shop offers exhibitions related to prints and works on paper including artist books, a “Talk Print” series in which artists present and discuss their work and techniques, Olive Branch Press, which publishes invited artists’ prints or artist books, workshops for established and emerging artists, and a year-round studio facility for printmakers and bookmakers. ink-shop.org
COVID-19 UPDATE: Please check online with each gallery to learn more about their visitation options & online resources.
Check out page 26 for a list of new eateries in Downtown Ithaca!
The dining scene in Ithaca is as flavorful and diverse as the community itself. Scattered throughout the downtown sector are a variety of dining establishments to fit every taste, budget, and occasion: from upscale bistros to casual cafes; from authentic delicatessens to intimate taverns. During the summer months outdoor dining is plentiful along the bustling sidewalks of downtown Ithaca too!
B L K Br W LN D
Breakfast Sunday Brunch Lunch Dinner Kid Friendly Local Beer/Wine Late Night (after 10pm)
Bar Argos S3
408 E. State St., 319-4437 Located in the historic Argos Inn.
Bike Bar Ithaca P7 314 E. State St., Bicycle-themed bar serving local craft beverages & spirits Chanticleer E8 101 W. State St., 272-9678 Historic tavern
Lot 10 Bar & Lounge E9 106 S. Cayuga St., 2 floor bar & club 272-7224 Temporarily Closed Lucky Hare Brewing E17 116 E. Green St., 546-2036
Freshest craft beer possible in the Finger Lakes
Moonies Bar & Nightclub J21 114 The Commons, (201) 625-2918 Relaxed atmosphere
Nowhere Special Libations Parlor F9 114 W. State St., (314) 669-4373
Serving beer and tasty cocktails Pete’s Cayuga Bar E10 116 S. Cayuga St., 272-9697
Since 1975
Sacred Root Kava Lounge & Tea Bar E1 103 S. Geneva St., 272-5282
Serving kava & organic & local teas
The Downstairs E4 121 W. MLK, Jr. St., 262-0047
22 Taps and Revelry Galore. The Range J10 119 The Commons, 555-1212 Western saloon-themed bar
The Watershed E4 121 W. MLK, Jr. St., 345-0691
Conversational atmosphere until 1am
15 Below Ice Cream J8 107 E. State St., 351-6452 Ice Cream & Ice Cream Sundaes frozen on a slab. Open Seasonally. L D K
Adams Grill
171 The Commons Halal cuisine and desserts
Alley Cat Cafe Q1 312 E. Seneca St., 319-5006 Coffee, pastries and a cat room Br L K
Angelhearts Diner R2 401 E. State St., 319 -4205 Vegan comfort food. Br L D K
Asia Cuisine J57 126 N. Aurora St., 256-8818 Korean & Chinese. L D K
Bickering Twins F7 114 N. Cayuga St. 319-0653 Authentic Latin American food L D K W LN
Center Cafe by Lou J16 171 The Commons Hot dogs, burgers and Shakes featuring Purity Ice Cream inside Center Ithaca
Café Dewitt K1 Dewitt Mall, 273-3473 Award winning brunch B Br L K
Capital Corner F2 140 W. State St., 272-7350 Asian cuisine. L D K
Capital State Kitchen F2 138 W. State St., 272-1388 Sushi and Japanese cuisine. D K LN
Casablanca Pizzeria J8
111A The Commons, 272-7777 Pizza, Mediterranean dishes & more L D K LN
Cayuga Lake Creamery K1 Dewitt Mall, 227-3987 Homemade ice cream using the finest ingredients from Interlaken, NY. L K
Collegetown Bagels P10 301 E. State St., 273-2848 Bakery & deli, great sandwiches Br L D K W
Coltivare I1 235 S. Cayuga St., 882-2333 TC3’s Farm to Bistro restaurant Br L D K W
Domino’s Pizza R1 311 E. Green St., 256-4000 Pizza, pasta, wings, sandwiches L D K LN
Gorgers F10 116 W. State St., 319-5046 Internationally inspired sub sand wiches. L D K
Hawi Ethiopian J5 113 S. Cayuga St., 277-4294 Ethiopian cuisine. L D Hound & Mare J56 118 N. Aurora St., 319-4463
Cafe serving breakfast, lunch and fresh baked goods!
B Br L
Ithaca Ale House P3 301 E. State St. Featuring microbrews and great food. L D K W LN
Ithaca Social Pub & Grille at the Hotel Ithaca D1 222 S. Cayuga St., 272-1000 Dining in classic American Style B L D K W LN
Jimmy John’s J57
122 N. Aurora St., 645-0075
World’s tastiest sandwiches L D K LN
Just a Taste Wine & Tapas Bar J56
116 N. Aurora St., 277-9463
Temporarily Closed Kilpatrick’s Publick House K5 130 E. Seneca St., 273-2632 Traditional Irish Pub Br L D K W LN
Kimchi J25
124 The Commons, 339-0790
Authentic Korean dishes L D K
Le Café Cent-Dix J54 110 N. Aurora St., 319-0750 Classic French bistro. D W
Let It Slide E9
106 S. Cayuga St., inside Lot 10 272-7224
Temporarily Closed
Lev Kitchen J52 222 East State St. Fast casual Middle Eastern Food Opening this fall!
Luna Inspired Street Food Downtown P2 113 N. Aurora St., 269-6139 A brick and mortar food truck L D LN
Mahogany Grill J55 112 N. Aurora St., 272-1438
American seafood & steak Br L D K W LN
Mama Said Hand Pies E17 118 W. Green St., 280-5941
Homemade handpies with flaky golden crust locally sourced ingredients L D K
Mercato Bar & Kitchen J54
108 N. Aurora St., 319-5171 Italian-inspired cuisine D W
Mia Tapas Bar & Restaurant J27
130 The Commons, 277-2000 High-end Pan-Asian cuisine. D W
Monks on the Commons p10 120 S. Aurora St., 272-2222 Soulful food & Sinful Cocktails. B L D W LN
Moosewood Restaurant K1
Dewitt Mall, 273-9610 Gourmet with a vegetarian emphasis L D K W
New Delhi Diamond’s Fine In dian Cuisine E13 106 W. Green St., 272-4508 Tandoori specialties L D K
Nothing Nowhere Cafe J26
126 The Commons, 483-8448 Coffee shop & Espresso bar inside Home Green Home. Br L D
One Ring Donuts E15 114 W. Green St. Locally made, seasonally inspired donuts L D K W
Ooy’s Deli Q3 203 N. Aurora St., 319-4022 Coffee, smoothies, pastries, and grilled items Br L D K
Pasta Vitto J17
215 The Commons, 882-9672 Authentic Italian fare and delcious des sets D K W
Press Cafe E17 118 W. Green St. Espresso bar in Press Bay Alley Br L D
Rashida Sawyer Bakery F15 110 W. Green St., 233-4061 Delicious cakes & baked goods crafted from time-tested recipes unlike any other! L D K
Red’s Place P4 107 N. Aurora St., 319-4486 A unique dining pub L D K W
Sammy’s Pizza J17
215 The Commons, 272-2666 Pizza, pasta, burgers, wings, and subs L D K W LN
Sangam Indian Cuisine J16 Center Ithaca Traditional Indian specialties L D K
Simeon’s on the Commons J53 224 The Commons, 272-2212 American bistro cuisine Br D W LN Shortstop Deli C1 200 W. Seneca St., 273-1030 Sandwich deli & mini mart B L D K LN
Starbucks K5 130 E. Seneca St., 256-0452 Specialty coffee & pastries L D K
Sushi Osaka J8
113 E. State St., 607-379-6128 fresh sushi, Japanese food L D K LN
Sweet Melissa’s C1 200 W. Seneca St., 277-0090 Ice Cream & sundaes Open seasonally, Late April - September L D K
Taste of Thai J50
216 The Commons, 256-5487
Award winning Thai cuisine. L D W Thai Basil Restaurant F10 118 W. State St., 319-4722
Authentic Thai food. L D
The Greenhouse Cafe & Cocktail Lounge P6 320 E. State St., 319-0223
Thoughtful drinks & provisions featuring locally grown/sourced ingredients.
L D W LN
The Strand Cafe P10 115 Seneca Way, 277-0230
Cafe bistro style food featuring locally sourced ingredients. B L D K W
Thompson and Bleecker J52 220 The Commons, 319-0851
Craft Neapolitan pizzeria and organic wine tavern. D K W
Tian Jin Foods J16 Center Ithaca, 917-731-2258
Dumplings & soups. L D
Tibetan Momo Bar J16 Center Ithaca, 216-7590
Japanese & Tibetan cuisine L D K Viva! Taqueria & Cantina P5 101 N. Aurora St., 277-1752
Fresh Mexican food, margaritas B L K
Waffle Frolic J32
146 The Commons, 319-0999 Waffle bar, coffeehouse, baked goods B L D K
CFCU Transformation Center J46 & J47
202 The Commons, 257-8500
Chase Bank p9
301 E. State St., 645-3119
Community Bank N1 200 E. Buffalo St., 101B, 272-4880
Key Bank L3 300 N. Tioga St., 273-1431
M & T Bank J40 118 N. Tioga St., 274-8948
Tompkins Community Bank k2 118 E. Seneca St., 273-3210
Tioga State Bank 311 E Green St., (888) 303-4872
In addition to the banks listed above, the following locations have ATM machines.
AFCU ATM J9
Inside Autumn Leaves Used Books 115 E. State St.
CFCU ATM J47
202 The Commons, 257-8500
Tompkins Community Bank Drive-Up J42 119 E. Seneca St.
Tompkins Community Bank ATM J39 110 N. Tioga St. at the History Center
M & T Bank ATM J17
Rothschild Building 215 E. State St., under the outdoor awning
Sunoco APlus Gas Station D2 210 S. Cayuga St.
Commons Market J57 122 N. Aurora St.
The State Theatre E5 107 W. State St.
Center Ithaca J16 171 E. State St.
Tompkins County Public Library I2 101 E. Green St.
Downtown Ithaca is host to an impressive array of events, activities and exhibitions, including the city’s many festivals which flood the spacious venue sometimes spilling out onto the adjacent streets.
Every season offers exciting entertainment opportunities. Entertainment venues are safely re-open ing with new admission guidelines in place. Plan ahead by reviewing venue attendance require ments. Proof of vaccine or negative COVID-19 test may be required for admission into concert halls.
The State Theatre E5 107 W. State St., (607) 277-8283
Ithaca’s historic State Theatre had its open ing night on December 6, 1928. The building dates to 1915 and was originally an automobile garage and showroom. Today the 1600 seat State Theatre offers a calendar of events featuring per formances of nationally recognized performers, outstanding regional groups, dance companies and theatre troupes. Please check the website for updates at stateofithaca.com or call 607-2778283.
Cinemapolis J1 120 E. Green St., (607) 277-6115
Where can you see more Oscar winning films plus all of your favorites? At Cinemapolis, Ithaca’s independent first-run movie theater! Open seven days a week, “The Mop” showcases the best in independent, international, and art house cin ema. The theater also features an array of special events and unique concessions including the best popcorn in Ithaca as well as home-baked treats and Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. Cinemapo lis is located in the Green Street parking garage complex. Find out more at: cinemapolis.org or call 607-277-6115.
The History Center in Tompkins County J39 110 N. Tioga St., (Inside the Tompkins Center for History & Culture), (607) 273-8284
The History Center is a must-see cultural destina tion, delivering vibrant exhibit and program expe riences. It is a captivating destination, providing a place for visitors to better understand the past, experience the present, and imagine the future of Tompkins County. As a must-see gathering point for both residents and visitors, the vibrant facil ity instills an appreciation for our community’s global impact and promotes further exploration into the community. Conveniently located in the same facility is the Downtown Visitors Center, where visitors can learn more about things to do in and around the county. thehistorycenter.net.
Tompkins County Public Library i 2
101 E. Green St., (607) 272-4557
The Library offers something for everyone –CDs and DVDs, classic works and contemporary titles, a diverse offering of programs and exhibits, digital resources, free internet and wi-fi. If you’re looking for it, you’ll find it at the Tompkins County Public Library! tcpl.org
Coltivare i1
235 S. Cayuga St., (607) 882-2333
Coltivare is our region’s culinary art, wine, and hospitality training center, operated by the local community college, TC3, utilizing produce grown from their own teaching organic farm. Along with teaching students, Coltivare offers the public its own restaurant that features unique and seasonal menus. The center also provides classes and work shops to the public. Coltivare has a spectacular event space for up to 250 guests and is perfect for any special occasion. The culinary lab and amphi theater are unique venues for workshops, cooking demonstrations and wine tastings. coltivareithaca.com
171 E. State St., (607) 272-4902
15 STEPS: Craft and Cooking Classes
From jewelry making to learning how to cook worldly cuisine, 15 STEPS offers weekly classes for everyone.
Learn more at fifteensteps.com
Bar Argos S3
408 E. State St., (607) 319-4437
Nestled in the historic Argos Inn, Bar Argos prides itself on craft cocktails highlighting local ingredi ents. The setting is a lovely backdrop for evening libations with friends and colleagues. Check their events calendar for live music several nights per week, a book club, food truck nights, and more. argosinn.com
Bike Bar P7
314 E. State St., 100 (607)
Bike Bar is Ithaca’s lone bike-inspired tap room. Live music or entertaining events are held on Thursdays. bikebarithaca.com
The Upstairs at Lot 10 Bar E9 106 S. Cayuga St., 2nd Floor, (607) 272-7224
Lot 10 is Ithaca’s two floor cocktail lounge, food and night club, featuring daily drink specials, live entertainment, Let It Slide restaurant, DJ’s and dancing, along with a pool table and juke box. Lot 10 is the perfect destination for cutting loose and unwinding with friends. Check their events calendar for karaoke and comedy nights. More information available at: lot-10.com
The Downstairs P7 121 W State St, (607) 262-0047
The Downstairs is a small venue for music, performances, and community events. thedownstairsithaca.com
The Range J10 119 E. State St., 2nd Floor
The Range is Downtown Ithaca’s go to venue for Live Music and Dancing. They host a monthly Sal sa Night, Tango Night and Swing Dancing. They are proud to host many fund-raisers throughout the year. Stop in and check out their wide Brew selection, Happy Hour specials and Free Popcorn! therangeithaca.com
Five hundred generations ago, glaciers a mile high melted to a landscape of crystal lakes, jag ged gorges and thundering waterfalls. The water falls are found along creeks that flow into Cayuga Lake. Many parks with trails will have a gorge trail, which follows the creek and along the edge of the gorge there will be an overlook to the falls.
Connecting the Cornell campus to downtown (“the greenway connecting town and gown”). One of Cornell Plantations’ natural areas, this gorge is a natural greenway in the heart of an urban area. Gorge walk is 1.3 miles with many stairs. Enter at Linn St. near Downtown.
The cascading fall is Fall Creek’s final plunge to Cayuga Lake.. With a drop of 150ft and width of 175ft, Ithaca Falls is the region’s most powerful and most impressive. By 1817, a half-dozen mills were operating here, their ruins are still visible on the south bank. Directions: From Downtown Ithaca, take Aurora St. north 0.7mi to Lincoln St. Turn right, then take an immediate left onto Lake St. The falls will be on your right.
Additional waterfall and gorge experiences can be had close to downtown including Taughannock Falls State Park, Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert Treman State Park. For more information go to VisitIthaca.com or stop by and pick up your waterfall guide at the Visitor Center.
Hangar Theatre
801 Taughannock Blvd/Rte 89, (607) 273-8588
The Hangar Theatre is a professional regional theatre that opened in 1975, in a renovated municipal airport hangar. The Hangar Theatre is located just 2 miles from downtown Ithaca on Route 89 at the Treman Marina entrance of Cass Park. hangartheatre.org
The Kitchen Theatre
417 W. State St., (607) 273-4497
With a full lineup of productions, the Kitchen Theatre is “Bold, Intimate, and Engaging”. For scheduled produc tions see below. kitchentheatre.org
Discovery Trail
8 world-class locations in Ithaca connecting science, nature and culture. Cayuga Nature Center, Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Cornell Botanic Gardens, The History Center, Johnson Museum of Art, Museum of the Earth, Sciencenter, Tompkins County Public Library. Visit discoverytrail.com for detailed listings of events, exhi bitions and programs for all ages year-round.
If you are interested in extending your experience beyond the downtown area, Experience! The Finger Lakes can take you there with convenient pickup at the Hotel Ithaca. With guided tours, Experience! The Finger Lakes can drive you, or provide you with an itinerary to get the most out of your visit. For booking info visit experiencefingerlakes.com or call 607-233-4818.
The Sagan Planet Walk seeks to inspire wonder about the immense scale of the cosmos and our precious and fragile relationship with it.
The model, at 1 to 5-billion scale, just exactly fits in the 1,200-meter distance between the Ithaca Commons and the Sciencenter. The exhibit, represented by murals during Commons construction, begins adjacent to American Crafts at 158 The Commons.
Enjoy a cell phone audio tour narrated by Bill Nye, The Sci ence Guy, and the Asteroid station, featuring a touchable, 40-kg meteorite. Pick up your guidebook to the exhibit,
Passport to the Solar System, at the Sciencenter or Visitor Center, or start your audio tour by dialing (703) 637-6237. The tour takes approximately 30 minutes. The Sciencenter is located at 601 First St. in Ithaca and is part of the Discovery Trail discoverytrail.com For more infor mation visit sciencenter.org.
Looking to put together a well-rounded trip enjoying Downtown Ithaca and the fun outdoor activities around the area? Stop in at any one of the 3 Tompkins County Visitor Centers to craft your Ithaca experience or visit visitithaca.com
Downtown Visitor Center
110 N. Tioga St., Inside the Tompkins Center for History & Culture, (607) 273-7482
Tuesday - Saturday from 10am-5pm
Taughannock Visitor Center (seasonal)
Taughannock Park Rd., Trumansburg, (607) 209-0008
The Sagan Planet Walk, a scale model of the Solar System, is named in memory of Carl Sagan—a respected scientist and member of the Ithaca community for nearly 30 years.
Open seasonally, May - October at Taughannock Falls Overlook
Downtown Ithaca is host to three full service hotels (with more on the way) located within one block of the Ithaca Commons. With additional accommodation within walk ing distance or a short drive, you can find a place to stay that suits your family’s needs and your budget. For additional lodging options go to VisitIthaca.com or visit the Bed and Breakfast of Ithaca site at bbithaca.com
Argos Inn S3 408 E. State St., 319-4437 argosinn.com
Argos Inn, built in 1831, is currently on the state historic register and will soon be on the national historic reg ister. As well as guest rooms, Argos has a neighborhood cocktail lounge and event space, all lovingly restored over the course of two years into a Leed-certified boutique hotel.
The Hilton Garden Inn K5 130 E. Seneca St., 277-8900 hiltongardeninn.com
Situated on the Ithaca Commons, The Hilton Garden Inn is a fullservice hotel with 104 guest rooms, indoor pool, fitness center and onsite restaurants.
Hotel Ithaca D1 222 S. Cayuga St., 272-1000 thehotelithaca.com
Conveniently located Downtown, the Hotel Ithaca offers 181 guest rooms, banquet facilities, indoor pool, fitness center and a full-service restaurant and bar.
Ithaca Marriott Downtown on the Commons P10 120 S. Aurora St., 272-2222 marriott.com/ITHMC
The Ithaca Marriott inDowntown is a full-service branded hotel with 159 guest rooms and 3,000 square feet of meeting space. The Bar + Res taurant, Monks on the Commons, serves three meals a day featur ing locally sourced food with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Canopy by Hilton P10 324 E. State St., 277-0230 canopyithaca.com Ithaca’s newest hotel. The state-ofthe-art boutique hotel- Canopy by Hilton. This 125 room hotel features one of a kind local décor and The Strand bistro cafe with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredi ents and local craft beverage. The Canopy is only one of 11 Canopy Hotels built worldwide.
William Henry Miller Inn 303 N. Aurora, 256-4553 millerinn.com
Part of the East Hill Historic District, this lovely home was built in 1880 by Cornell University’s first student of architecture. Sumptuous breakfast offerings as well as evening dessert.
Inn on Columbia 228 Columbia St., 272-0204 columbiabb.com
Built in 1830 in the Greek Revival style and surrounded by scenic gar dens, architect/owner Kenn Young has designed interior spaces and furniture to provide guests with a re laxed and casual feeling of elegance.
