Greeting from Ithaca, NY



Welcome to Ithaca, NY – Your New Hometown


Nestled in the heart of New York’s scenic Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is more than just a college town—it’s a vibrant, welcoming community celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and progressive spirit. Whether you're heading to Cornell University or Ithaca College, you'll find that Ithaca offers the perfect mix of academic excellence and off-campus adventure.


Nationally Recognized for Good Reason:
Ithaca has earned praise from national outlets for its unique character and lifestyle:

  • Emerging Nature Destination of the Year – Luxury Travel Guide
  • #2 Best Small College Town – USA Today
  • One of the Best Places to Live – Men’s Journal
  • Healthiest City in New York State – 24/7 Wall Street


A Place of Natural Wonder & Exploration:
Located within the Finger Lakes American Viticultural Area, Ithaca is just a short drive from over 120 wineries, offering students weekend adventures in the state’s largest wine-producing region. Outdoor lovers can hike gorges, paddle on Cayuga Lake, or explore over 150 waterfalls, many within city limits.


A Smart, Growing Community:
With a metro population just over 100,000 (and growing), Ithaca’s economy is driven by education, healthcare, and innovation. Cornell University is the area’s largest employer, followed by BorgWarner and the Ithaca City School District. Despite its small size, the city is culturally and intellectually rich—just like the students who call it home.


Things to Explore While You're Here:

  • Taughannock Falls – The tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rockies, just minutes from downtown.
  • Ithaca Farmers Market – Lakeside community market featuring over 150 local farmers, artisans, wineries, and eateries.
  • Cornell Botanic Gardens – Beautiful gardens and wild spaces offering trails, study areas, and natural retreats across 3,600 acres.
  • Namgyal Monastery – The North American seat of the 14th Dalai Lama, located on South Hill, offering classes and events.
  • Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art – A world-class museum with collections from every continent, right on Cornell’s campus.
  • Sciencenter – Interactive science museum perfect for hands-on learning and family visits.
  • Museum of the Earth – Explore 4.5 billion years of natural history, including dinosaurs and Ice Age fossils.
  • Cayuga Nature Center – Environmental education center featuring animal exhibits, a six-story treehouse, and wooded trails.
  • Hangar Theatre – A converted airplane hangar turned professional theater venue, hosting shows year-round.
  • Local Festivals – From Apple Fest to Chili Cook-Offs and Porchfest, there’s always something happening in Ithaca. Visit visitithaca.com for a full event calendar.


Whether you’re here for four years or more, Ithaca is the kind of place that sticks with you. With its tight-knit community, unforgettable landscapes, and endless opportunities for exploration, it’s no wonder so many students stay long after graduation.