Ithaca is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests and fitness levels. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a lakeside picnic or embark on an invigorating hike through scenic trails, Ithaca’s natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. Explore the colorful landscapes with your family and discover why Ithaca is a top spot for enjoying the great outdoors in every season.​

Hiking and Nature Trails

There are plenty of hiking trails in the Ithaca area to keep you busy from spring to fall. At Buttermilk Falls State Park, you can explore five trails that wind through the beautiful woodlands.

Up for a longer walk? Take the 8.5-mile long Black Diamond Trail that runs from Cass Park to Taughannock Falls State Park to see the tallest free-falling waterfall in the northeastern United States.

If you'd like to stay closer to town, you can also explore the Cascadilla Gorge Natural Area, which connects downtown to the Cornell campus. Though not very long, the trail has eight sizable waterfalls for you to admire along the way.

Birding in Ithaca

Ithaca boasts prime birding spots like the Sapsucker Woods trails at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, where you can explore diverse habitats teeming with birdlife. Likewise, head to Beebe Lake near Cornell’s Martin Tang Welcome Center, where you might spot waterfowl and woodland species. Additionally, the Cayuga Lake Waterfront Trail provides excellent opportunities to observe birds along the scenic lakeshore, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Water Activities and Lakes

Nestled into the Finger Lakes Region, at the southern end of  Cayuga Lake, there is no shortage of water activities to enjoy in Ithaca. At some points along the lake, like Taughannock Falls State Park, you can swim in the refreshing lake water if there is a lifeguard on duty. You can also rent a kayak, canoe, pedal boat, or paddle board at Paddle-N-More Rentals, with locations at Myers Park, Taughannock Falls, and Stewart Park. Also, the lake’s Blueway Trail boasts markers to launch your own kayak or non motorized boat. For an exciting boat adventure, book a trip with Discover Cayuga Lake, offering themed boat tours from May to October.

Parks and Playgrounds

Need a place to entertain the kids? Explore the best playgrounds in Ithaca for the whole family. You can check out Stewart Park as you walk along the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, just a short walk away from the Ithaca Farmers Market. The Science Park and Curiosity Playground at Sciencenter is another fun, interactive space where children can learn about topics like music and physics while they play.

Picnicking and Outdoor Dining

Many of Ithaca's parks — like Buttermilk Falls, Cass Park, and Myers Park — have picnic areas for you to enjoy snacks and drinks while you take in the great outdoors. However, if you're not in the mood to prepare your own meal, there are still plenty of outdoor places to dine in Ithaca. 

Sit by the waterfront at The Boatyard Grill, where you can eat bistro fare and hear live music while enjoying the beautiful views of Cayuga Lake. Or, sample some classic comfort food in Northstar House’s backyard.

Plan your next outdoor adventure in Ithaca and make the most of every season. Be sure to check our events calendar for more outdoor activities and special events happening throughout the year!​