Dogs truly are our faithful companions, bringing so much happiness into our lives. And when we venture out to discover new places, it's reassuring to find destinations where our furry friends are welcome. Located in New York State, Ithaca and Tompkins County are both incredibly dog-friendly, making this area a top choice for pet owners. To make things even easier for those living in or visiting the region, we have put together a comprehensive guide to all the best pet-friendly locations in Ithaca.
Enjoy miles of trails, shopping, outdoor dining establishments, and places to stay with your dog throughout Ithaca and Tompkins County!
Ithaca Dog-Friendly Activities
Ithaca Commons
Back to Top of ListCome explore the lively and charming pedestrian shopping and dining area known as Downtown Ithaca Commons, or simply "The Commons." Located in the heart of Ithaca, this bustling district welcomes you and your furry companion to enjoy outdoor dining and visit locally-owned businesses that allow pets inside. You can also catch a concert or street performer while strolling through the area. To keep the area clean and tidy, there are several pet stations conveniently located around The Commons. Enjoy your visit and be sure to clean up after your pet!
Here are some highlights to enjoy while you are downtown:
Shopping
- Sunny Days of Ithaca
- The Outdoor Store
- Odyssey Book Store
- Alphabet Soup
- One World Market
- Home Green Home
- Mockingbird Paperie
- Dewitt Mall
One of the many historic buildings in the downtown area. With numerous small locally owned shops, services, and the famous Moosewood restaurant, this is everything you need in one spot!
Downtown Dining and Aurora St.
Aurora St. has gained its reputation as being the food mecca of Ithaca. Ithaca is a food lover's paradise - offering a variety of pet-friendly restaurants to choose from, all offering fantastic food that can be enjoyed in their outdoor dining areas. Be sure to contact the restaurants below to make sure they are allowing outdoor seating/dogs during the time of your planned visit as it is usually weather-dependent.
Revelry Yards
Craft Beverages
Back to Top of ListMost Cayuga Lake Wine Trail member wineries are typically pet-friendly however, we recommend calling before you visit to double-check.
Come here for a unique experience of small-batched brews, food trucks, and outdoor seating for a casual beer and dinner.
Personal Best Brewing
Ithaca's newest independent micro-brewery and taproom focuses on crafting quality brews. Personal Best offers an expansive outdoor area.
The Cellar d'Or- is a family-owned wine boutique specializing in small-production estate-bottled wines and ciders.
Six Mile Creek Winery and Vineyard
With its proximity to Downtown Ithaca, this would be a must-stop for your spur-of-the-moment wine tasting. Having a vineyard on site, you can walk through the rows and enjoy the breeze.
Located near La Tourelle and Sweedler Nature Preserve, South Hill Cider offers lots of outdoor space with gorgeous views overlooking Ithaca. In the mood for a small bite or cider flight? This is the place to be!
Greater Ithaca Area
Back to Top of ListAs a multi-use trail, the East Ithaca Recreation Way is the perfect place for a long, safe walk with your dog. Totaling 3.55 miles in length, this former railroad bed location runs through the Cornell Botanic Gardens on the northern section of the trail and the Pine Tree Wildlife Preserve, East Ithaca Nature Preserve, and the town’s Tudor Park on the southern section.
Another repurposed railroad area, the South Hill Recreation Way provides opportunities for running, bicycling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and of course dog-walking. Leash up your four-legged friend to explore the beautiful trail, and discover the many creek crossings and small gorges along the way. The trail is open year-round.
Located parallel to South Hill Recreation Way, the Six Mile Creek Natural Area offers additional hiking opportunities with your pup. This diverse ecological area consists of everything from waterfalls and streams to forests and meadows of goldenrods.
State Parks
Back to Top of ListLeashed dogs are welcomed on various trails and campsites throughout New York State Parks. At Robert H. Treman, Taughannock Falls, and Buttermilk Falls, campsite guests, and hikers are welcome to bring up to two pets with them. Pets are not permitted in guarded beach areas, playgrounds, or inside buildings. Get some exercise with your dog and enjoy hiking the trails at state parks near Ithaca.
Cayuga Waterfront Trail
Back to Top of ListStewart Park, situated on the southern end of Cayuga Lake, is a beloved park in Ithaca. Its stunning views of the lake make it an ideal spot for a picnic, watching the sunset, and enjoying some quality time with your furry companions.
Ithaca’s only dedicated waterfront restaurant, The Boatyard Grill is the place for lakeside dining in Ithaca. With its expansive outdoor patio, this is a must-dine for those who want a scenic meal.
Cass Park
Located on the west side of Cayuga Lake, Cass Park is a direct connection to the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, off the trail find plenty of open fields and even an enclosed dog park! There are two separate sections of the park so that large and small/older dogs can all enjoy the park with other dogs similar in size and ability.
Black Diamond Trail
Back to Top of ListFrom Ithaca to Trumansburg the former Black Diamond Express has been repurposed into a pedestrian multi-use trail system. Starting at Cass Park in the west end of Ithaca, this trail takes you through 8.5 miles of woods, waterfalls, and countryside. If you want the perfect secluded experience this is the one for you!
Once you get to the northernmost part of the trail, you have arrived at Taughannock Falls State Park. Two miles from the heart of the small town we call Trumansburg.
Trumansburg
Back to Top of ListThis hidden gem is home to some amazing restaurants, shops, artist studios, and even a brewery! Take your pet down the sidewalk and enjoy the small-town feel while only being about 20 minutes from Downtown Ithaca.
Nestled in the beautiful Village Park, seasonal vendors bring all the fruits of their labor for your enjoyment. Bring your pet along, get some local products that are sourced from within 35 miles of Trumansburg, and venture around the park!
Trimmer's Ice Cream
Family-owned and operated in Trumansburg, Trimmer's makes for a great spot to cool off with a frozen treat.
Located 5 miles outside Ithaca, Bet the Farm is a great spot to hang out and sip on a glass of wine and take your pup on a walk through the vast fields that surround the winery.
Dryden
Back to Top of ListDryden Lake
The Jim Schug Trail is a multi-use, year-round trail. Stretching for 5.5 miles, this trail is perfect for when you just need a relaxing escape.
Just outside of Dryden on your way into Ithaca, you will find Hopshire Farm and Brewery. Hopshire is a family-owned establishment that boasts its vast outdoor areas and its “green” indoor space.
Pet-Friendly Lodging in Ithaca
Back to Top of ListIf you are visiting Ithaca with your dog, you’re going to need to stay somewhere that allows pets. Luckily for you, there are several hotels and campgrounds that are pet-friendly throughout Ithaca. Here are a few with special amenities.