Top Rated Attractions in Ithaca

The Cascadilla Gorge Trail is a scenic stretch, also referred to as a corridor, that connects the campus of Cornell University to downtown Ithaca. This short yet beautiful stretch is replete with a numbers of waterfalls. Hike along this trail and you can also find a bevy of vistas that command the attention of residents and tourists alike. Journey through this trail and take in the beauty of Ithaca's natural wonders that snake alongside Cornell Creek. This 1.3 miles (2.1 kilometers) long trail is a great place to explore for hiking enthusiasts.

The wondrous Ithaca falls begin their powerful descent from a height of 150 feet (45.72 meters) and meet the waters of Cayuga Lake. Although swimming is not allowed, the falls' plunge pool does invite anglers from across the country to fish for salmon. The scenic falls area is also an ideal spot for those who want to picnic with their family. History lovers in the meanwhile, can also explore 19th-Century ruins along the falls' south bank.

Cornell University, being a reputed Ivy League University, attracts hoards of students from all over the world year after year. Fostering a sense of oneness among its students, who hail from a wide range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds, it promotes out-of-the-box thinking, free thinking, creativity through a host of cultural programs and activities. Partake in co-curricular and extra curricular activities and blossom into the person you're meant to be. A passel of well-structured courses in streams like: humanities, sciences, law, education, technology give you the edge you need in life. Check their website for more details on courses and upcoming events.

This popular pedestrian zone, spread across four blocks in Ithaca's downtown is where both locals and residents convene or hang out for a relaxed time. Ithaca Commons centers around a host of shops, dining establishments and entertainment venues that cater to all kinds of visitors. There is something to do here, at any given time during the day. This zone also forms the setting for many of the city's festivals and events.

The Robert H. Treman State Park is a famous park bathed in natural glory. Spread across an area of 1110 acres (449 hectare), this state park is blessed with stunning waterfalls, natural pools and jagged cliffs with mossy growth and wild red flowers. This park has well-known hiking trails of various difficulties that run through the wilderness. It is equipped with several playing fields, picnic tables and campsites. An old miller's house located here is listed as a national historic landmark.

Ithaca is known for its waterfalls and sheer natural beauty, but the Buttermilk Falls State Park is, arguably, the most famous one. A part of this park was previously owned by the banker Robert Henry Treman and his wife. This 811-acres (328 hectares) park is a favorite with couples for exploring the powerful cascades amid wild trees and bushy growth. The gorges and jagged terrain presents challenging trails for hikers. This park is also an idyllic spot for hunting, fishing and white water rafting.