Ithaca and the Finger Lakes are known as wine regions, but it’s also the most important cider region in the US. Making it the perfect destination for cider tasting. With the highest density of craft cideries in NY state, take time to explore beyond Ithaca and across the Finger Lakes Cider Trail. Please contact the venue directly with questions for reservations and check seasonal hours of operation.
Recommendations by day
Day #1
Begin with a visit to the Honeybee Embassy to appreciate the power of pollinators. You are close to the village of Trumansburg and Black Diamond Cider. Walk and taste through one of the oldest Finger Lakes cider orchards and learn how they make their cider. The orchard contains over 100 varieties of apples and pears—many of them rare heirlooms and European varieties selected especially for their cider-making qualities.
Continue on to Finger Lakes Cider House, open daily year-round, to enjoy a full range of cider styles. For a true locally grown food, enjoy a seasonal lunch in this contemporary barn setting.
We also recommend a stop at Indian Creek Orchards for their famous apple cider donuts. This bountiful and beautiful setting invites you to slow down and enjoy the season.
For an early dinner make your way to Ithaca’s world-famous natural foods restaurant, Moosewood. For 45 years this restaurant has been serving vegetarian & vegan entrees featuring local produce while writing fourteen internationally acclaimed cookbooks.
In the spring and summer, enjoy a drive out to Eve's Cider with tastings by reservation hosted on their farm.
Year-round, head to South Hill Cider for a guided tasting in their spacious tasting room. Or opt for outdoor seating where you can take in the spectacular views. You will find housemade snacks and small plates to perfectly pair with cider. Check their music schedule, and depending on the time of year you can either reserve a firepit or plan to pick your own bouquet while you're there.
On your way back info Downtown Ithaca, have some fun at Liquid State Brewing in the West End. In addition to a rotating selection of local cider on draft, you will find craft NA beverage and Finger Lakes beers, wines, and spirits.
End the night with a visit to The Rook for elevated and reimagined comfort, soul, and street food. From duck-fat fried chicken and collard greens to pierogies and donuts, there are delicious small bites for everyone here.
Don't just take it from us. Finger Lakes and Ithaca-area cideries have received top accolades in national competitions in recent years. We are proud of the recognition our cideries continue to receive from the trade and media.
Platinum - Golden Russet / Porter's Perfection from Black Diamond Cider (2023 Great American Cider Competition) Grand Award/Best in Show - Kite & String Cider/Finger Lakes Cider House (2021 Great American Cider Competition)
