by Robbie Dein
158 East State St On the Downtown Ithaca Commons (607) 277-2846 | Manager@ACRD.biz Shop Online Anytime at www.MyAmericanCrafts.com AMERICAN CRAFTS
Come See, Feel, Play... Get Inspired! Sharing the Art & Soul of America’s Finest Artisans Life’s a Gift Pottery u Art Glass u Jewelry u Woodwork u Fiber Accessories
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 03 @DOWNTOWNITHACA | #DOWNTOWNITHACA #DOWNTOWNITHACA 5 DOWNTOWN GROWTH 6 AREAS TO EXPLORE 7 The Ithaca Commons 8 Gateway Plaza & East State St. 9 Restaurant Row 10 Press Bay 12 Dewitt Mall 13 Cayuga & West State St. 14 EVENTS CALENDAR 16 CELEBRATIONS 18 GETTING AROUND 21 SHOPPING 25 ART GALLERIES 26 MAP 30 DINING 33 SERVICES 34 ADVENTURES 38 WHERE TO STAY 39 Community Wifi This guide is produced by: Downtown Ithaca Alliance, 171 E. State St., 607-277-8679 A not for profit organization charged with the revitalization, development, promotion, and management of downtown Ithaca. The Downtown Ithaca Alliance makes every attempt to provide accurate information. Plea se bring any changes to our attention so we can make corrections for the next guide. The area code for Ithaca is 607. Contents
OUTDOOR DINING SCENE
Our city is bursting with life during Spring, Summer, and Fall! It’s absolutely gorgeous in Ithaca, or so you may have heard, and restaurants all over downtown open their patios and porches for outdoor dining. Good friends, great food, and refreshing bevs...It’s laid-back city vibes for days when the sun goes down and the city nightlife comes alive.
Areas in Downtown with Outdoor Dining:
1. Aurora Street: Viva Taqueria, Red’s Place, Luna Inspired Street Food, Mahogany Grill.
2. Dewitt Mall: Moosewood Restaurant and Greenstar Oasis.
3. Press Bay: A collective outdoor dining experience with common area tables & chairs. Tuck into some tasty treats and drinks from Mama Said Handpies, One Ring Donut, Press Cafe, or Lucky Hare Brewing.
4. The Commons: Simeon’s American Bistro, Kimchi, Pasta Vitto, Sammy’s Pizzeria, Mia
Back Patios & Side Nooks:
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1. Just A Taste,
2. Kilpatrick’s Publick House,
3. Alley Cat Cafe,
4. Collegetown Bagel,
5. Angelhearts Diner,
6. Ithaca Ale House
7. Argos Inn,
8. The Strand Cafe at Canopy by Hilton,
9. Pizza Aroma
DOWNTOWN ITHACA IS GROWING
During your visit, you may notice an incredible construction project underway a short walking distance from the Commons.
The existing Green Street Garage around and above Cinemapolis movie theater has undergone a significant 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.
Parking Options During the Construction Period
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
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 05
Areas to Explore
THE ITHACA COMMONS
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.
Kitchen, Mia Tapas Bar & Restaurant, Monks on the Commons, Simeon’s American Bistro, Pasta Vitto, and Thompson and Bleecker while Paris Baguette provides 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 authentic Korean cuisine or Sushi Osaka offering many freshly wrapped sushi options and traditional Japanese cuisine. A fun hangout for millennials is Nothing Nowhere where you’ll find tasty specialty cafe-style beverages and interesting 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, 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 Homegrown Skateshop, and stores like Autumn Leaves 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
Plus, checkout Angry Mom Records for a grand selection of vinyls, CDs, Cassettes and more!
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’s Grill (Mediterranean 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!
Check out a complete listing of businesses on the Commons in the directory starting on page 25.
Enjoy gourmet foods and hand-mixed cocktails and spirits at upscale restaurants such as Lev
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 7
L R A D E M O H Y E L L A K N A B SENECA STREET GREEN STREET E M.L.K., JR / STATE STREET T E E R T S A G U Y A C T E E R T S A G O T T E E R T S A R O R U A 79W 79E 79 79W 96B DEWITT MALL THE COMMONS PEDESTRIAN MALL CITY CENTRE GATEWAY PLAZA PRESS BAY ALLEY & COURT THE ITHACA COMMONS PEDESTRIAN MALL E M.L.K., JR / STATE STREET
Areas to Explore
GATEWAY PLAZA & EAST STATE STREET
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 Cayuga 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 extended outdoor bar and cabanas.
Just down the street, you’ll discover 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 together, 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, community members and educators to explore ideas, artistic expression, and creativity together. And, on the other side of the street, our newest development, City Centre, 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 celebrities, and Ithaca Ale House offering a fun sports bar setting with signature gourmet burgers.
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E A Y R D M O H Y E L L A K N A B SENECA STREET GREEN STREET W M.L.K. JR / STATE STREET T E E R T S A G U Y A C T E E R T S A G O T T E E R T S A R O R U A 79W 79E 79W 96B AURORASTREET HUDSON STREET 79 E STATE STREET DEWITT MALL THE COMMONS PEDESTRIAN MALL CITY CENTRE M.L.K., JR / STATE STREET GATEWAY PlAZA & EAST STATE STREET PRESS BAY ALLEY & COURT
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!
Areas to Explore RESTAURANT ROW
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
112 N. Cayuga St. Pet adoption & related items for sale
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
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 9 HOME DAIRY ALLEY BANK ALLEY SENECA STREET GREEN STREET W. M.L.K., JR. / STATE STREET CAYUGA STREET TIOGA STREET AURORA STREET 79W 79E 79 79W 96B AURORASTREET HUDSON STREET E.M.L.K,JR./STATESTREET DEWITT MALL PRESS BAY ALLEY & COURT THE COMMONS PEDESTRIAN MALL GATEWAY PLAZA CITY CENTRE RESTAURANT ROW LOCATED HERE!
Shopping in the Restaurant Row Area:
Your CBD Store: 308 E Seneca St.
Areas to Explore
PRESS BAY ALLEY & COURT
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; The Gallery, providing fresh gourmet donuts, SewGreen for all your sewing & crocheting needs and Boxy Bikes offering top-notch bike repair service. Plus, enjoy the best slices of cheesecakes 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 Journal, The Alley is home to Lucky Hare Brewing Co. pouring farm brewed beer; Mama Said Hand Pies crafting handmade pies loaded with locally sourced ingredients; 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!
RESTAURANT ROW
Ithaca, NY is highly regarded as a foodie paradise, and Downtown
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Y L L Y R A M O H Y E L L A K N A B SENECA STREET GREEN STREET W M.L.K. JR / STATE STREET T E E R T S A G U Y A C T E E R T S A G O I T T E E R T S A R O R U A 79W 79E 79 79W 96B AURORASTREET HUDSON STREET E M.L.K. JR / STATE STREET CITY CENTRE PRESS BAY ALLEY & COURT LOCATED HERE! GATEWAY PLAZA THE COMMONS PEDESTRIAN MALL DEWITT MALL
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.
Bike Repair Station:
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.
DOWNTOWN ITHACA GIFT CARDS
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 11
Accepted at over 100 shops and restaurants in Downtown Ithaca! Purchase online at downtownithaca.com, by phone: (607) 277-8679 or in person at the Downtown Ithaca Alliance office in Center Ithaca.
The shopkeepers and restaurateurs, many of them being lifelong locals, are sure to offer you a truly authentic Ithacan experience!
DEWITT MALL Areas to Explore
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 handcrafted pottery, home decor, and apparel including Silk Oak clothing; 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 includes 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, photographs, 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.
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L L Y A D M O H Y E L L A K N A B SENECA STREET GREEN STREET W M.L.K. JR / STREET ST T E E R T S A G U Y A C T E E R T S A G O T T E E R T S A R O R U A 79W 79E 79 79W 96B AURORASTREET HUDSON STREET E M.L.K., JR / STATE STREET CITY CENTRE PRESS BAY ALLEY & COURT DEWITT MALL LOCATED HERE! GATEWAY PLAZA
CAYUGA & WEST STATE
CAYUGA & WEST STATE
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, Alley Cats Cafe where you’ll enjoy local roast coffees, baked goods and adoptable kittens. Plus, there’s Mane and Wigs for quality hair care products. Also, Adrina Dietra selling vintage inspired intimate apparel & apothecary goods.
DINING & BEVERAGES
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 Ethiopian Cuisine, Gorgers Sub Shop with its worldly take on sandwiches, 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.
ENTERTAINMENT
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
Areas to Explore
CAYUGA & WEST STATE
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 listing of recently released films at cinemapolis.org.
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Y L A R A D M O H Y E L L A K N A B SENECA STREET GREEN STREET T E E R T S A G O T T E E R T S A R O R U A 79W 79E 79 79W 96B AURORASTREET HUDSON STREET E M.L.K., JR / STATE STREET CITY CENTRE GATEWAY PLAZA THE COMMONS PEDESTRIAN MALL PRESS BAY ALLEY & COURT CAYUGA & WEST STATE STREET LOCATED HERE! T E E R T S A G U Y A C W M.L.K. JR / STATE STREET DEWITT MALL
EVENTS CALENDAR
March
3: Gallery Night
3: Chef’s Table Tasting Dinner with Norfolk
*recurring weekly on Friday until March 31st, 2023
4: 25th Annual Downtown
Ithaca Chili Cook-Off
4: “At the Threshold” at the Cherry Gallery
*recurring weekly on Saturdays and Sundays until April 2nd, 2023
4: State Theatre: The Wood Brothers
5: State Theatre:
Dakhabrakha
8: Bar Argos: Argos Grove
Jazz Trio *recurring weekly on Wednesdays
9: State Theatre: Nikki
Glaser: The Good Girls Tour
17: St. Patrick’s Day
18: Fairy Fest 2023
25: Chat- Women of Newfield w/ Rosemary
Rowland @ History Center in Tompkins County
April
2: State Theatre: Twiddle
7: Gallery Night
8: State Theatre: Ithaca
Ballet Presents: Giselle
19: State Theatre: Father
John Misty w/Omar
Velasco
20: Thursday Night
Laughs @ The Downstairs
*recurring monthly on Thursdays until November
26: Chat- Is the Ithaca kitty the first calico cat? @ History Center in Tompkins County
27: State Theatre: Indigo Girls
May
4-14: Spring Writers
Literacy Festival
4: Thursday Karaoke Night @ Kilpatrick’s Publick House *recurring weekly on Thursdays until November
5: Gallery Night
5: State Theatre: Belle and Sebastian
6: State Theatre: Chris Distefano
8: CFCU Summer Concert Series
21: Ithaca College
Commencement
21: State Theatre: City and Colour
27: Cornell University
Commencement
29: Memorial Day
June
2-4: Ithaca Festival
*parade June 1st
2: Gallery Night
15: CFCU Summer Concert Series
22: CFCU Summer Concert Series
23-24: Ithaca Reggae Fest
29: CFCU Summer Concert Series
30- July 2nd: PRIDE
July
1-2: PRIDE
4: Fourth of July
6: CFCU Summer Concert Series
7: Funky Lunch
7: Gallery Night
13: CFCU Summer Concert Series
14: Funky Lunch
20-23: Finger Lakes
Grassroots Festival
27: CFCU Summer Concert Series
28: Funky Lunch
August
3: CFCU Summer Concert Series
4: Funky Lunch
4: Gallery Night
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5: Labor Day
10-14: Ithaca Is Books
Book Festival
10: CFCU Summer
Concert Series
11: Funky Lunch
11: Ithaca Artists Market
17: CFCU Summer Concert
Series
18: Funky Lunch
24: CFCU Summer
Concert Series
25: Funky Lunch
31: CFCU Summer Concert Series
September
1: Funky Lunch
1: Gallery Night
2-4: HupState Circus Festival
7: CFCU Summer Concert Series
9: Welcome Student Weekend
29-October 1st: Apple Harvest Festival
October
1: Apple Harvest Festival
6: Gallery Night
8: State Theatre: Napolean Dynamite: A conversation with Jon Heder, Efren Ramirez and Jon Gries
27: Halloween in Downtown
November
3: Gallery Night
23: Thanksgiving
TBA: Shop Small Weekend
TBA: Holiday Market at Press Bay
December
1-9: Ice and Lights Festival
1: Gallery Night
2: Chowder Cook-Off
9: Santa’s Arrival
TBA: Holiday Market at Press Bay
ONLINE CALENDARS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS:
DOWNTOWN ITHACA
Downtownithaca.com
Want to know more about events happening downtown, check out our website for complete descriptions, event maps and performance schedules.
Apple Harvest
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. Organized by Visit Ithaca
Summer Sale
Ithaca Festival Craft Show
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 15
CELEBRATIONS IN DOWNTOWN
Gallery Night Ithaca
Art Gallery Exhibits in Person & Virtually
Every first Friday of Each Month
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 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
CFCU SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
During the summer, Downtown is simply the best place to relax and unwind, especially Thursday evenings at the CFCU Summer Concert Series that kicks off in mid-June at the Bernie Milton Pavilion stage in Bank Alley on the Ithaca Commons!
The series is a FREE outdoor concert series open to the public held every Thursday evening from 6-8 pm, starting in June and running through mid-September. Local and national acts perform music in genres including jazz, blues, reggae, folk, hip hop, country, bluegrass, rock, and more. The concerts are for all ages, so bring the whole family! And, stick around for dinner and enjoy Downtown Ithaca’s evening nightlife.
THURSDAYS / 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
JUNE - SEPTEMBER
Bernie Milton Pavilion
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APPLE HARVEST Festival
Presented by: Tompkins Community Bank
To celebrate fall this year and every year, Downtown Ithaca will welcome farmers, cideries, and of course, apple growers to showcase their harvest bounty throughout the week. there will be a 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 & ciderthemed menus and goods for sale too.
SEPTEMBER 29th - OCTOBER 1st, 2023
downtownithaca.com/apple-harvest-festival
PRIDE WEEKEND
Ithaca is LOVE
Join us for our Downtown Ithaca Pride celebration! Education, health screenings, drag show performances, a Parade and more will be going on through the weekend. We believe Pride is for everyone, from families to performers, and events will offer a variety of activities so everyone can find something to enjoy.
June 30 - July 2, 2023
More information at downtownithaca.com
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Photo by Sheryl Sinkow
GETTING AROUND
PARKING & TRANSPORTATION On-Street Pay Stations
For more information about parking downtown, please visit the cityofithaca.org/705/Parking-Information
Garage Parking Downtown
Downtown Ithaca currently has 2 city-owned parking structures downtown for a combined 2,000 parking spaces available with a third garage about to under go construction and slated to re-open near the end of 2021. Both 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.
All Garages Are Automated SelfPay Parking
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
FREE PARKING on Weekends & EVENINGS
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.
Parkmobile SmartphonE App
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 notifications when your time is running out. You can easily extend your time by following prompts in the text message.
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TCAT Bus Service
Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) buses make getting downtown easy and convenient. TCAT’s main hub is centered around the Ithaca Com mons 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
INTER CITY BUS DEPOT
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 located 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.
Taxi Service
Ithaca Dispatch (607) 277-TAXI, ithacataxi.biz University Taxi (607) 272-3333 Collegetown Cab (607) 588-8888
UBER & LYFT
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.
Biking in Ithaca
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.
Also, “A new way to explore Ithaca!” Introducing, Ithaca Bikeshare- “A class 1, pedal-assist electric bikeshare network servicing residence and visitors of Ithaca, New York.”
How it works: (Step 1) Register, (Step 2) Release, (Step 3) Ride, and (Step 4) Park.
To learn more about Ithaca Bikeshare and to register visit: Ithacabikeshare.org
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 19
20 - GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023
SHOPPING
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.
DIRECTORY
Antiques & Coins
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 F11
156 E. State Street
The Rest F11
113 W. State Street
Books
Autumn Leaves 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, limited 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
Clothing & Shoes
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
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, antiques & accessories
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 21
SHOPPING
Seredipity Q4
205 N. Aurora St.
Woman’s clothing and accessories, 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
Gift Shops
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
Envious Bags AA
215 N. Cayuga St. (Dewitt Mall)
Vegan Leather handbags and accessories
Handwork F8
102 W. State St., 273-9400
Ithaca’s cooperative craft store
Ithacamade K1
Dewitt Mall, 272-1396
Featuring creative Ithaca artists 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 merchandise
Tibet Store J7
107 The Commons, 272-3785
International gifts from the Far East
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 J36
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 & pastries, fresh brewed coffees, sushi
Ithaca Mini Mart E11
124 S. Cayuga St.
Craft beer, soda, and sandwiches.
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
Home DEcor
Contemporary Trends P1
121 N. Aurora St., 273-5142
Scandinavian & domestic furniture & accessories of good design
Jewelers
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
LIFESTYLE
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, supplies, and vibes.
22 - GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023
Massage Services
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.
Music Stores
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
Smoke Shops
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
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
Salons, Barbers & Skincare
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
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
Galvanic Skin, Aesthetics & Wellness J38
102 N Tioga St., 2nd Floor, 252-7900
Integrating nutrition, technology, medical aesthetics & experience.
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 specializing in color, highlights and cuts
H & M Beauty Salon & Barber Shop J6
105 S. Cayuga St., 280-2062
Cuts, colors, perms, highlights. Spanish/English
Ithaca Medical
Aesthetics Q2
108 N. Cayuga Suite 7
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 stylists
Serenity’s Beautique J4
121 S Cayuga St, 321-9188
Salon that specializes In luxury lash extensions, lash lifts, lamination, waxing services, and more.
The Pretty Peach Wax
Studio F9
112 W. State Street Suite 108, 315-991-4090
Female Brazilian waxing and full body waxing services. Opening this fall.
V’s Hair Salon E10
118 S. Cayuga St., 275-9413
Cozy and relaxing studio-style
salon Services
360 Moment
215 N. Cayuga St. (Dewitt Mall)
Offering an in-person and Mobile experience.
Boxy Bikes AA
116 W. Green St.
Bike purchase and repair services
Cayuga Nail Salon P2
115 N. Aurora St., 319-5028
Manicures and pedicures
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
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 23
SHOPPING
accessories Sporting GoodS
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.
Tattoos
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 E11
123 Cayuga St.
Piercing, tattooing and branding
Wines & Liquors
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
24 - GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023
ART GALLERIES
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 History 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 artists 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
The Ink Shop Printmaking Center & Olive Branch Press
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
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 25
26 - GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 26 // Cinemapolis Movie METERED LOT Six Mile Creek Walk City Police & Cour t Hotel Ithac a Playground Dewitt Park City Hall H O M E D A IR Y A L L E Y W. M.L.K., JR. / STATE STREE T W. GREEN STREE T CLINTON STREE T W. SENECA STREE T W. BUFFALO STREE T E. BUFFALO STREE T N. C A YUGA STRE E T S. C A YUGA STRE E T S. GEN E V A STRE E T N. GEN E V A STRE E T E. SENECA STREE T E. GREEN STREE T C olti v a r e THE C PRESS B A Y ALL E Y (coming 2017) Dewitt Mall The T Cen Hist Cultu Tompkins Financial Harolds Square P ED E S Tompkins Financial ( c om i n g 2018 ) Circus Culture J10 J9 J8 J7 J6 J5 J4 J3 J2 J35 J34 J32 J30 J29 J28 J27 J26 J25 J24 J23 J22 J21 J20 J19 J18 J45 F7 F6 F8 F9 F10 F11 F12 F3 B4 B3 B2 A4 E1 E2 E3 E4 E6 E7 E8 E5 E9 E10 E11 E13 F15 E16 E12 E15 A1 A2 D5 D4 D3 D2 D1 i 1 i 2 i 3 i 4 A3 B1 F4 F1 F2 J44 J43 J42 J41 J40 K6 K5 K3 L1 H4 H3 H2 H1 C5 C4 G7 G8 G9 G10 G6 G5 G4 G3 G2 G1 G13 G12 G11 C3 C2 C1 L2 L3 K1 K2 E17 PRESS PAY COURT UNDER CONSTRUCTION Green Garage
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 27 City Centre Coming Soon Senec a Way Argos Inn inemapolis Theatre GREEN ST. GARAGE Bernie Milton Pavilion V isi t or C en t er E. M.L.K., JR. / E. STATE STREET PROSPECTSTREET HUDSONSTREET TIOGA STRE E T N. A U R O R A STRE E T S. ARORUA TESTRE SENECAWAY Gateway Commons COMMONS TO CORNELL UNIVERSITY TO ITHACA COLLEGE B A N K A L L E Y Marriott Hotel City Centre (coming soon) Tompkins enter for ory and Culture Center Ithac a Pedestrian Mall Retail Shops Dining & Nightlife Culture & Enter tainment to T RIA N M AL L Canopy by Hilton Bike Path Bike Rack J37 J38 J48 J49 J50 J17 J1 J52 J54 J55 J56 J57 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 J58 J59 J51 J53 J36 J40 J39 J46 J47 J16 R1 R2 S2 S1 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 Q6 Q7 Q8 M2 M1 K6 N1 N2 N3 Q9 S3 P10 TIOGA STRE n P9 P8 CSMA P10 CONSTRUCTION THROUGH 2022 // 27 Under Construction
28 - GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 Art Bags Beverages Books Candles Cards Chimes Clocks Honey Jam Jewelry Journals Magnets Maple Mugs Nightlights Ornaments Patches Pins Postcards Puzzles Sauces Snacks Soap Stickers Sunglasses Sweatshirts Tapestries T-shirts Umbrellas Wine accessories nd more! One-stop shopping for eveerything that makes Ithaca & the Fiinger Lakes so inc redibly special… The beauty The creati vity The spirit …much MORE th a souveenir shop 171 The Coommons • 607-319-5260 www.SunnyDaysNY.com Come in for your FREE GIFT! (no purchase required)
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 29 Order Online Bagels & Coffee Fresh Baked Treats Sandwiches & More 118 N. Aurora St. Ithaca, NY 14850 Wednesday-Sunday 8am-2pm FibersIthaca 215 N. Cayuga St. DeWitt Mall Ithaca NY 14850 607/351-4684 Contemporary Designs • Marimekko & Handwoven Fabrics FibersIthaca on Facebook Local Artisans Custom Creations Jewelry Fashion Art
DINING
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!
Bars & Nightlife
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
Seven of Jazz Club E9
106 S. Cayuga St., 2 floor bar & club 272-7224
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
Dining
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
112 N. Cayuga 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. L D K
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
Capital State Kitchen F2
138 W. State St., 272-1388
Sushi and Japanese cuisine.
D K LN
Marrakech Casablanca
Mediterranean Cuisine 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
Empire Raw
Juice & Smoothie R1
112 W. Green St.
B L K
Gorgers F10
116 W. State St., 319-5046
Internationally inspired sub sandwiches. 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
30 - GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023
K
B L K Br W LN D Breakfast Sunday Brunch Lunch Dinner Kid Friendly Local Beer/Wine Late Night (after 10pm)
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
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
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 Indian 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
Ooy’s Deli Q3
203 N. Aurora St., 319-4022
Coffee, smoothies, pastries, and grilled items
Br L D K
Paris Baguette AA
125 E. State St.
Bakery and Cafe B Br L
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
Revelry Yards AA
111 N. Aurora St. 793-4132
Features a multi-faceted menu, an extensive wine list, and a microbrewery on the second floor. L D 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
Tableside AA
112 N. Cayuga Street in Clinton Hall. Farmers Market and Event Space.
L D W
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 Gallery E15
114 W. Green St.
Locally made, seasonally inspired donuts L D K
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
Yellow Deli AA
143 E. State St. 236-3772
Simple Homemade Food
L D K
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SERVICES
Banks
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
ATM Machines
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.
Public Restrooms
Center Ithaca J16
171 E. State St.
Tompkins County Public Library I2
101 E. Green St.
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ADVENTURES
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-opening with new admission guidelines in place. Plan ahead by reviewing venue attendance requirements. Proof of vaccine or negative COVID-19 test may be required for admission into concert halls.
Arts & CuLTure
The State Theatre E5
107 W. State St., (607) 277-8283
Ithaca’s historic State Theatre had its opening 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 performances 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 cinema. 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. Cinemapolis 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 destination, delivering vibrant exhibit and program experiences. 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 facility 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.
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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
Entertainment & Activities
Live Music
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 ingredients. 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
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 workshops 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 amphitheater are unique venues for workshops, cooking demonstrations and wine tastings. coltivareithaca.com
15 Steps
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
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 Salsa 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
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ADVENTURES culture
NATURE
Waterfalls: After all, Ithaca is Gorges!
Five hundred generations ago, glaciers a mile high melted to a landscape of crystal lakes, jagged gorges and thundering waterfalls. The waterfalls 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.
Cascadilla Creek Gorge
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.
Ithaca Falls
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 productions see below. kitchentheatre.org
TOURS & WALKS
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, exhibitions and programs for all ages year-round.
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Photo Credit: Christopher Ray courtesy of Visit Ithaca
Experience! The Finger Lakes
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 Science 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 information visit sciencenter.org.
Carl Sagan Planet Walk
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.
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
Open
seasonally, May - October at Taughannock Falls Overlook
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WHERE TO STAY
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 walking 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.
Hotels & Inns
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 register. 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 + Restaurant, Monks on the Commons, serves three meals a day featuring 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 ingredients and local craft beverage. The Canopy is only one of 11 Canopy Hotels built worldwide.
Bed & Breakfasts
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 gardens, architect/owner Kenn Young has designed interior spaces and furniture to provide guests with a relaxed and casual feeling of elegance.
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Hilton Garden Inn
Hotel Ithaca
Ithaca Marriott
THE MUSICAL
By Heidi Shreck
Co-produced with The Kitchen Theatre
MAY 30-JUNE 11 at The Kitchen
JUNE 15-JUNE 24 at The Hangar
JULY 6-JULY 15
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 39 801 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca HangarTheatre.org 607.273.ARTS SUBSCRIBE & SAVE JULY 27-JULY 30
Music by Elton John Book and lyrics by Lee Hall
A BROADWAY POPS CONCERT 49 Years of Hangar Theatre History
The Hangar Theatre KIDDSTUFF series runs June 22-August 6 BUY TICKETS NOW!
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NOTES
GUIDE TO DOWNTOWN ITHACA - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 - 41
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