Central New York : Cortland & Ithaca
What to do in Cortland and Ithaca?
I recently enjoyed a delightful four-day getaway exploring the charming cities of Cortland and Ithaca in Central New York, situated just a little over 200 miles north of the bustling metropolis of New York City. Both towns captured my heart with their picturesque landscapes and great food. During my stay, I immersed myself in the local eateries, points of interest, and art. Ithaca offers natural beauty, academic excellence, and a thriving cultural scene, while Cortland is a glimpse into quintessential upstate life and an ideal spot for skiing.
Experience Cortland and Visit Ithaca hosted this trip, but the commentary in this post is my own.
CORTLAND
Where to eat or grab a drink in Cortland?
The Exchange Restaurant
29 N Main St, Homer, NY 13077
The Exchange Bakery and Restaurant is the latest dining spot to grace Cortland and its neighboring area. The chic decor and creative menu draw inspiration from all over the world, offering lunch and dinner, as well as breakfast and lunch on specific days. The bakery has become a daily staple for many locals, with fresh bagels and sweet treats that keep them returning for more.
Dom’s Pick & Tip: I highly recommend making a reservation and asking about the chef's daily specials. The whole menu is fantastic, but if I came back, I would order the Bacon & Brie and Firecracker Scallops.
Carver’s Steakhouse
2177 Clute Rd, Cortland, NY 13045
A steakhouse is situated within the Greek Peak Mountain Resort, one of the most famous ski resorts in Central New York. The restaurant is popular among resort guests and locals due to its fantastic menu, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This place is kid-friendly and offers gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Dom’s Tip: Breakfast is available Thursday through Monday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and offers very filling portions.
BRIX
60 Main St, Cortland, NY 13045
BRIX has been a local favorite on Main Street in the historical district of Cortland since 2010. It offers a variety of delicious food options, including brick-oven pizza, gluten-free, plant-based items, and locally brewed beers. A spacious dining room and two bars make it a great place to bring friends and family or catch a game.
Dom’s Pick: Order the Caprese pizza and pair it with the Naked Lap Lager by Cortland Farm Distillery and Brewery.
Caperese pizza
Rex’s Pasta
1098 NY-222, Cortland West, NY 13045
This cozy woman-owned Italian American restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere and offers a range of Italian classics and creatively prepared dishes. One of their most popular dishes is the hot pasta, a delicious combination of angel hair pasta with oil, garlic, and hot peppers. When you visit this restaurant and take a seat, you'll be welcomed as if you're part of their family.
Dom’s Picks: Seared Scallops, Hot Pasta, and XXX Gatorade to wash it all down!
Where to grab coffee or tea in Cortland?
BRU 64
64 Main St, Cortland, NY 13045
Coffee shop on Main Street serving coffee, light bites, and beer and wine.
Dom’s Tip: With ample seating and later hours than most, it's a perfect spot to knock out a couple of emails.
Madam Hatter’s Tea House & Shopping Emporium
4 Main St, Cortland, NY 13045
A Black-owned business, it provides pre-made themed and custom-created gift baskets and several options for loose-leaf teas.
Dom’s Tip: They provide shipping for the items you find in-store, and check the video below to hear more from the owner.
The Corner Brew
1 W Main St, Dryden, NY 13053
Although not located in Cortland, this woman-owned cafe and event space is worth a trip for its creative coffee drinks, fresh bakery items, and breakfast options.
Dom’s Tip: If you drive between Cortland and Ithaca, this is a must-visit with STRONG wi-fi!
Sausage, Egg, & Cheese
Where to stay in Cortland?
Hope Lake Lodge @ Greek Peak Mountain Resort
2177 Clute Rd, Cortland, NY 13045
Hope Lake Lodge at Greek Peak Mountain Resort is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone seeking a peaceful getaway. This resort offers an array of year-round activities, such as skiing, hiking, and zip-lining, along with stunning views of the surrounding valleys. It's an excellent place to unwind. Additionally, it provides cozy and spacious accommodations suitable for groups or families, various dining options, and a relaxing spa.
points of interest/experiences in cortland
Center for the Arts of Homer
72 South Main Street, Homer, NY 13077
Since its inception, the Center for the Arts has established itself as one of the leading presenters of the arts in Central New York. It promotes community enrichment through exceptional entertainment and arts education.
Lime Hollow Center for Environment & Culture
338 McLean Road, Cortland, NY 13045
The Lime Hollow Nature Center encompasses 430 acres and trails available for all levels of hiking and trailing.
Greek Peak Mountain Resort
2000 NYS Rt. 392, Cortland, NY 13045
Greek Peak Mountain Resort is a year-round destination for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and more.
For a complete list of experiences in Cortland, click here.
Ithaca
Where to eat or grab a drink in Ithaca?
South Hill Cider
550 Sandbank Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
South Hill Cider is a family-owned cidery in Ithaca, NY, committed to producing premium, handcrafted ciders using traditional methods and locally sourced apples. Each sip reflects the surrounding orchards' terroir, embodying the Finger Lakes's essence. Visitors enjoy warm hospitality and stunning views, making it a perfect destination for cider enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Dom’s Tip: I recommend the guided tasting and grabbing lunch from their menu.
Smoked Turkey Melt
The Greenhouse Cafe & Cocktail Lounge
320 E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
The Greenhouse is a sustainable restaurant in Ithaca, NY. It uses local ingredients and offers an eclectic range of dishes in a charming greenhouse setting. Whether you're there for brunch or dinner, you can savor the flavors of the Finger Lakes region while supporting local farmers.
Dom’s Tip: Explore their wine menu, as it showcases local wine makers from the New York State.
Northstar Public House
202 E Falls St, Ithaca, NY 14850
Northstar Public in downtown Ithaca offers a diverse menu with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a laid-back vibe and promises a memorable dining experience. It caters to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.
Dom’s Pick: Order the fish and chips.
Taverna Banfi
130 Statler Dr, Ithaca, NY 14853
Taverna Banfi is an Italian restaurant at the Statler Hotel on Cornell University's campus. It offers a blend of sophistication and warmth and uses locally sourced ingredients. Whether you enjoy pasta, meats, or seafood, Taverna Banfi is the place to savor each moment in an atmosphere of timeless charm and impeccable hospitality.
Dom’s Tip: The brunch buffet is perfect for large groups or picky eaters. However, a reservation is highly recommended.
Nowhere Special Libations Parlor
114 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
This bar came highly recommended by locals as the perfect place to grab a nightcap.
Dom’s Tip: Double-check operating hours before visiting. They don't accept parties larger than 6 without a reservation.
Where to grab coffee or tea in Ithaca?
Botanist Coffeehouse
1201 N Tioga St, Ithaca, NY 14850
Visit the woman-owned coffee shop near Ithaca Falls for beverages, baked goods, and plants.
Dom’s Tip: Make this stop before or after visiting Ithaca Falls.
Where to grab stay in Ithaca?
Canopy by Hilton
324 E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
Canopy by Hilton is a modern hotel located in the heart of downtown Ithaca, NY. The rooms are spacious and comfortable and feature contemporary decor. The hotel's lobby includes a restaurant that offers local beers and wines from the region and surrounding areas.
Suite room
points of interest/experiences in Ithaca
Ithaca Waterfalls
Ithaca and the surrounding area have more than 150 waterfalls — carved out by glaciers that formed gorges millions of years ago, and someone is available to hike for the best views. For a list of waterfalls and locations, click here.
Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art
114 Central Ave, Ithaca, NY 14853
The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art is an art museum situated on the main campus of Cornell University. It's free for all visitors to enter and is where you can find a collection of more than 35,000 works of art. In addition, the museum offers breathtaking views of Cayuga Lake.
William T. Williams
Nila’s Cry, 1974
Press Bay Alley
118 W Green St, Ithaca, NY 14850
Press Bay Alley is a unique marketplace in Ithaca, NY. It houses various businesses, including food vendors, artisans, and local entrepreneurs. It supports small businesses and often hosts events to promote them.
The Dewitt Mall
215 N Cayuga St Enter on Buffalo or, E Seneca St, Ithaca, NY 14850
DeWitt Mall in Ithaca, NY, offers shops, eateries, and services in a historic building. It features diverse businesses, including boutique stores, cafes, and professional services. It supports small businesses and provides a welcoming space for the community to gather and shop.
For a complete list of experiences in Ithaca, click here.
Questions
What airports do you recommend flying into Cortland or Ithaca?
The Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (ITH) is the closest airport to Cortland and Ithaca, New York. It offers convenient access to the Finger Lakes region.
Do I need a car in Cortland and Ithaca? What is transportation like?
Renting a car to visit Cortland would be necessary, but in Ithaca, Uber and Lyft are well-established in this area. Depending on the length of your trip and the points of interest you would like to visit, you may want to consider a rental.
Are there any additional resources you recommend while visiting Cortland or Ithaca?
I am glad you asked, and I recommend Visit Ithaca or Experience Cortland, the official tourism website.
Would you return to Cortland or Ithaca to visit?
I ABSOLUTELY WOULD! I am looking to return during warmer temperatures or the beginning of fall.
If you have any additional questions, please feel free to comment below!
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