Enjoy a luxurious spa day, hike to beautiful waterfalls, or take a peaceful walk—these are just a few ways Ithaca helps you reconnect or spark something new. No matter the season, from snowy winters to colorful springs and vibrant autumns, Ithaca’s scenery makes every moment together feel special.
Intimate dinners, inviting museums, and a vibrant arts scene open the door to memories you’ll want to relive again and again. Let Ithaca inspire your next romantic adventure.
Boutique Stays and Inns Perfect for Two
Where you stay can make your getaway even more special. After a day of exploring, it’s nice to relax and enjoy a romantic evening together. Ithaca has plenty of cozy BnBs, welcoming inns, and stylish boutique hotels to choose from.
If your idea of bliss is pure relaxation, LaTourelle Inn & Spa is for you. Indulge in soothing massages, melt away stress in the sauna, and sink into the warmth of a bubbling hot tub. With on-site yoga, wine tastings, and live music, you might just find yourself wishing your weekend would never end.
Want something close to town after a memorable date night? Hotel Ithaca puts you just steps from Ithaca Commons, the city’s lively hub for dining and entertainment. If you want true elevated hospitality, The Statler Hotel at Cornell, will not disappoint.
If your idea of romance means escaping the bustle, retreat to a cozy cottage or cabin in Ithaca’s scenic outdoors. Each morning, you’ll wake up to peaceful views, from winter woods to fresh spring greens, enjoying both privacy and easy access to the city.
Spend an afternoon strolling around one of Ithaca’s beautiful art museums, or visit working artists along the Ithaca Art Trail. If you want to learn something new together? Walk through the Museum of the Earth and discover the history of our planet.
Make your date night unforgettable by catching one of Ithaca’s standout events. See a national touring act at the State Theatre, enjoy an indie film at Cinemapolis, or discover local talent at a lively brewery show. These are the moments you’ll treasure for years.
Sometimes, the most memorable dates are the ones you create together. Stroll through the farmer’s market and find local treasures, share a laugh at a comedy show, or paddle across Cayuga Lake before grabbing a bite from a downtown food truck. Make every moment your own.
Scenic Moments & Outdoor Beauty to Explore Together
Ithaca’s serene landscapes can be the perfect backdrop for quality time with your love — just bring a good pair of walking shoes. The sound of rushing water and the views at Ithaca’s waterfalls are perfect for creating beautiful memories you’ll cherish forever.
Take in the dramatic cascades of Taughannock Falls and Buttermilk Falls, two of Ithaca’s most beloved spots. With over 150 waterfalls to discover, it’s easy to find a hidden gem where it feels like you have the world to yourselves.
If you want some privacy in nature, Ithaca’s hiking trails are great for long talks and quiet moments together. The Gorge Rim and Trail Loop in Robert H. Treman State Park offers four miles of peaceful scenery and more than 12 waterfalls where you and your partner can pause to enjoy the views and each other’s company.
Create unforgettable memories together by trying some of Ithaca’s many adventure activities. Go mountain biking on the Black Diamond Trail, rent a canoe at Taughannock Falls State Park, or, if the weather is nice, spend time at the beach at Myers Point.
If you’d rather take it easy, enjoy a relaxed afternoon walk along the Cayuga Waterfront Trail. It’s a peaceful way to unwind together.
And if your preferred trail involves wine, Ithaca has you covered. Follow the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail to discover the Finger Lakes’ award-winning wineries. Savor a bottle together and spend an indulgent afternoon tasting, sipping, and feasting to your heart’s content, surrounded by views that make it all taste better.
Intimate Dining & Local Flavor
Begin your Ithaca date night with a romantic dinner at one of the city’s acclaimed restaurants. Moody lighting, thoughtful dishes, and a cozy atmosphere promise an evening you’ll never forget.
Taverna Banfi, in the heart of Cornell University campus, serves delicious Tuscan-inspired meals with local ingredients. Mia, led by well-known local chef Lex Chutintaranond, creates sustainable dishes that blend Asian flavors.
Try seasonal Italian dishes at Gola Osteria, where you can pair your meal with local and Italian wines. Or choose upscale comfort food at Rook, where you’ll find creative takes on American classics.
In Ithaca, romance is everywhere. Cozy inns, hidden cabins, peaceful hikes, and lively performances come together to create a weekend full of moments you and your loved one will remember for years.
So why wait? Find a cozy inn or B&B and start planning the romantic Ithaca escape you’ve been thinking about.
