Begin your trip by hiking nine miles of trails at Robert Treman State Park, featuring stellar views of the gorge and upper and lower falls. The park has 12 waterfalls including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls. A pool located in the lower park is a great spot for summer swimming. While in the area, take a tour of picturesque Cornell University, once called the "First American University" by educational historian Frederick Rudolph. This Ivy League institution, founded in 1865, is both a private university and land-grant institution of higher learning in New York state. The 230-acre Sapsucker Woods is a perfect spot for birdwatching. It's home to Cornell University's Lab of Ornithology, which houses exhibits about birds and provides guided tours. Stroll the nearby Cornell Plantations for beautiful gardens and an arboretum. Visitors can experience many facets of nature here.
A visit to Cayuga Lake, one of New York's Finger Lakes, provides magnificent scenery of the lake and falls. The serene environment is perfect for hiking, bicycling, fishing and boating. The lake is adjacent to restaurants, wineries and bars for your dining and enjoyment. While touring downtown Ithaca, visit the Ithaca Falls Natural Area. A short two-minute walk from the street will bring you to these impressive falls. The falls offer a place to collect your thoughts and take fabulous pictures no matter the season. Ithaca's Sciencenter has more than 250 exhibits that your family will love, including a space exhibit with a flight simulator, interactive earthquake exhibit, tide pool touch tank and more. During warmer months, visit the outdoor science park and partake in putting fun at the miniature golf course.
Wind down with Choice Hotels in Ithaca to recharge for another day of adventure. The beauty and adventure of Ithaca await you and your family.