The Best College Town In New York
While almost everyone knows about New York City and New York State, few people have heard of Ithaca. This is arguably New York State's best college town. Ithaca is home to the Ivy League School, Cornell University. The university adds culture to the town with art collections, beautiful gardens, and exhibits. Besides Cornell, Ithaca is known for its natural beauty and is full of waterfalls. Home to a unique blend of youthful student energy, vibrant local culture, thriving restaurants, outdoor recreation, and community spirit, Ithaca has earned a well-respected place as New York's top college town. Here, we explore what makes this college town so great.
Why it is The Best College Town
Ithaca is home to the prestigious Ivy League school, Cornell University. The school has called Ithaca home since it opened in 1865. Known for its competitive admission rate, accepting only 10 percent of applicants, Cornell has more than 23,000 students. Home to a great college with an astounding reputation, Ithaca is a town with a vibrant, youthful energy. Ithaca offers a unique small-town feel while offering big-city amenities to appeal to students. Ithaca also has lots of outdoor recreation options. The town is fairly green since it is surrounded by New York State, State Parks, and places to hike and go to waterfalls.
On the weekends, students can enjoy the thriving live music scene or check out the local restaurants. The town's unique blend of small-town atmosphere, community spirit and well-renowned colleges makes Ithaca the best college town in New York.
Community and Campus Life
Campus life is vibrant in Ithaca, home to two colleges that shape its community and culture. Cornell University organizes numerous events to foster a strong sense of community among students. Each semester, students can enjoy Movies on the Arts Quad, where they and their friends can bring blankets and watch films outdoors under the stars. At the start of each semester, students should look out for ClubFest, organized by the Campus Activities Office and the Willard Straight Hall Student Union Board. This event is a longstanding tradition that introduces new students to the various clubs at Cornell. Another cherished tradition is Slope Day, dating back to 1901. It includes a main concert, Slope Fest on Ho Plaza, and breakfast offerings provided by Cornell Health.
Being such a big part of the community, students frequent the local businesses around Ithaca. Ithaca Commons is a popular place for students to go shopping. It is a two-block pedestrian mall with a record shop and book store.
Beyond student events, Ithaca also hosts annual community events, from concerts to farmers' markets. An event not to miss is the town's Annual International Rutabaga Curl. The event takes place at the last outdoor market of the year and is a fun way to lift community spirit.
Local Culture and Recreation
The Downtown Ithaca Commons is a favorite destination for spending a leisurely afternoon. This four-block, pedestrian-only area offers constant activity and excitement. Located near Cornell University, it's an ideal place to grab a meal and explore local shops with friends. For those interested in art and history, the Cornell Art Museum and the Tompkins County History Center are worth visiting. Ithaca also features the Museum of Earth, which showcases the planet's history from prehistoric times to today.
Outside the downtown, Ithaca has plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. The town is known for its waterfalls. Ithaca and the surrounding area have more than 150 waterfalls. Some of the waterfalls can be seen just past Cornell University. Buttermilk Falls State Park is a popular spot to go to enjoy waterfalls and hike through a beautiful forest area.
To unwind after a day of exploring in Ithaca, a popular spot to go is the local State Theater. Here you can enjoy local entertainment. The theater houses 1,600 seats and has over 75 performances every year. They have everything from concerts, theatrical productions, comedy shows, and classic movies, to dance performances, readings, and community performances. Standing since 1928, a visit to the theater is a great way to enjoy an evening in one of the town's most beloved buildings.
A Thriving Restaraunt Scene
In addition to theaters, shops, and waterfalls, Ithaca boasts lively nightlife with distinctive bars, clubs, and restaurants. The Watershed is a popular local bar, set in a cozy, book-themed social space, known for its excellent cocktails and comfort foods. For late-night eats, many locals favor the Short Stop Deli, open since 1978, which offers delicious and affordable subs. Franco's is the go-to place for pizza lovers, serving New York-style slices daily, including vegan options for those avoiding dairy.
Ithaca is also home to cute cafes and restaurants. The town has four coffee roasters and more than a dozen independent cafes, making it easy to grab a cup of joe in the morning. Ithaca Coffee Company has been open for roughly 40 years and is a local must-try. Those looking for more than coffee to start their day should check out Creekside Café for a locally sourced, homemade breakfast. Café Alléchant is another great spot to go for breakfast. The café and eatery is in a local art gallery and serves unique, pretty food. Other local favorite restaurants include NorthStar House, Lev Kitchen, and Gola Osteria.
Local Festivals
Enjoy the comfort of local cuisine at the town's annual Apple Harvest Festival and Cider Week. Here, locals come together to celebrate the bounties of the fall harvest in September and enjoy warm apple pastries and fresh-brewed cider. In December, Ithaca also has a beloved seasonal Cook-off. The festivities take place downtown, where local chefs battle for culinary supremacy. In the summer months, Ithaca also has multiple music fests. In July, the Trumansburg Fairgrounds get ready for the Grassroots Festival, a four-day music event celebrating a range of artists. In June, Stewart Park prepares for the annual Reggae Fest. This festival is unique since it is held to support Cayuga Lake protection and restoration.
Why it's a Great Place to Live For Anyone
Considering the amenities in Ithaca, the town is a great place for students. However, even those not attending a lecture hall can enjoy the town. Ithaca is perfect for nature lovers, considering the town's proximity to local parks and waterfalls. Ithaca is located on the southern tip of Cayuga Lake. This is the longest of the 11 Finger Lakes and makes the town perfect for those looking to enjoy lake life. Imagine waking up each day to swim, kayak, or paddleboard to your heart's joy. This is possible in Ithaca. The town also has a vibrant downtown and is the perfect place to spend time with friends. The Ithaca Commons is a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy a local craft beer or do some local shopping. From adventures exploring waterfalls to a thriving local restaurant scene and cultural events throughout the year, it's easy to see why Ithaca is a town for more than college students.
Why Visit Ithaca
Ithaca is brimming with natural beauty, local culture, and a lively, youthful atmosphere, making its appeal easy to see. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy over 150 waterfalls, ensuring there’s always something to explore. The town also hosts a rich local culture, featuring distinctive restaurants and cherished annual events. Prospective students aiming for a prestigious college might consider Cornell, whose campus amenities and the vibrant town create a memorable college experience.
Whether you are a student, teacher, or family looking for a new vacation spot, Ithaca has something for everyone. The best way to experience the charm of Ithaca is to visit the town yourself. Next time you are looking to take a day trip, consider paying Ithaca a visit. Seeing the waterfalls alone is worth the trip.
