Ithaca, New York, is not just a college town; it’s a vibrant community filled with activities and attractions that cater to families and children. Nestled in the Finger Lakes region, this charming city offers a variety of outdoor adventures, educational opportunities, and fun-filled attractions that make it an ideal destination for families. Here’s a look at some of the best kid-friendly activities and attractions in Ithaca.
Ithaca Children’s Garden
The Ithaca Children’s Garden is a magical place designed for children to explore and learn about nature. With hands-on gardening activities, interactive exhibits, and whimsical sculptures, kids can immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. The garden also hosts seasonal events and workshops, providing families with plenty of opportunities to engage.
Address: 121 Turtle Ln, Ithaca, NY
Cayuga Nature Center
The Cayuga Nature Center, located just outside of Ithaca, boasts miles of hiking trails, a waterfall, and the famous six-story treehouse. The center offers educational programs and nature walks that are ideal for families wanting to learn more about the local ecosystem. The surrounding area is also excellent for birdwatching and observing nature.
Address: 1420 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY
ScienCenter
The Sciencenter is an engaging hands-on science museum that captivates children of all ages. With interactive exhibits, a large multi-level playground, and a miniature golf course, kids can actively participate in playful learning. The museum also hosts special programs and events designed for young explorers, making it an excellent destination for family outings.
Address: 601 1st St, Ithaca, NY
Sagan Planet Walk
The Sagan Planet Walk, part of the ScienCenter, is a scale model of our solar system with a ratio of 1:5 billion. The walk spans approximately three-quarters of a mile, starting in the Ithaca Commons and concluding at the ScienCenter. Along the route, you’ll find 11 large stone monuments that represent the Sun, each of the planets, and other celestial bodies, such as an asteroid. The information at these stations is regularly updated as new discoveries about the universe are made. This exhibition is free to the public.
Fun Fact: There is another station in the memorial at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center on the University of Hawaii’s Hilo campus representing Alpha Centauri. This addition makes the Sagan Planet Walk the largest exhibition in the world.
Address: 171 Ithaca Cmns, Ithaca, NY
Museum of the Earth
The Museum of the Earth is a unique destination that specializes in paleontology, geology, and natural history. If you have dinosaur enthusiasts or aspiring paleontologists in your family, this museum should be at the top of your must-visit list. Many of the exhibits are hands-on, presenting information in a fun and engaging way that is easy to understand.
Address: 1259 Trumansburg Rd, Ithaca, NY
Lively Run Dairy
Lively Run Dairy is a great place to visit with kids. In the Spring (after May 1st), you can bottle feed baby goats. It is an amazing experience! You can buy goat food to feed the other goats all season long as well. While you are there, why not partake in a cheese tasting?
Address: 8978 Co Rd 142, Interlaken, NY
Grab a Bite to Eat
Get a Sundae at Purity
Did you know that Ithaca is the birthplace of the ice cream sundae? Purity has been serving delicious sundaes since 1936. It’s a great spot for lunch and, of course, an ice cream sundae afterward. While the lunch menu isn’t extensive, their toppings list is impressive, featuring 25 different toppings you can add to your burgers or sandwiches.
Address: 700 Cascadilla St, Ithaca, NY
Alley Cat Cafe
Have you ever wanted to visit a cat cafe? You can do so in Ithaca! There, you can enjoy coffee or tea from an impressively extensive menu, along with a selection of sandwiches and baked goods. (Sorry, carnivores—this cafe offers strictly vegetarian and some vegan options.) After your meal, you can play with the cats in the cat room, but be sure to make a reservation first. They also offer cat yoga!
Address: 112 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY
Easy to Visit Waterfalls
Ithaca Falls
Standing at 150 feet tall and 175 feet wide, this waterfall is one of the most stunning and accessible in the Ithaca area. The walk to the falls is less than a quarter of a mile and is flat, allowing visitors to get very close to the water. Additionally, there is a beautiful park nearby that serves as a great spot to relax and enjoy the picturesque scenery along Fall Creek.
Address: Lake St, Ithaca, NY
Triphammer Falls
Triphammer Falls is a substantial double-drop waterfall that is relatively easy to see, though it can be a bit challenging to reach due to limited parking. Located on the Cornell University campus, the area often attracts a lot of visitors. It felt crowded during our visit, and we found ourselves juggling to get a good photo of the falls.
Address: University Ave & East Ave, Ithaca, NY
Wells Falls
Wells Fall is a beautiful natural attraction that showcases a stunning series of four cascading waterfalls. The tallest waterfall drops gracefully from a height of 30 feet, followed by a charming 15-foot cascade and a gentle 5-foot descent. The harmonious blend of these waterfalls creates a picturesque setting, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts and local visitors alike. This waterfall is known as Businessman’s Lunch Falls because it was a popular lunch spot for downtown office workers.
Taughannock Falls
Taughannock Falls State Park is a beautiful state park situated on the west side of Cayuga Lake. It features the tallest single-drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, standing at an impressive height of 215 feet. This stunning waterfall is easy to access, with a scenic overlook just a few steps from the parking lot and a flat gorge trail that leads to the base of the falls.
Address: 1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY
Buttermilk Falls
Buttermilk Falls State Park is an excellent destination for a day of exploration and outdoor fun. The park offers several hiking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful waterfalls. The gorge trail at Buttermilk Falls can be a bit challenging for younger children. However, older kids will enjoy the flowing cascades and the stunning eroded wall of the gorge, all while having the opportunity to explore nature and spot wildlife.
Address: 106 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY
Cascadilla Gorge Trail
This is a true hidden gem located in the heart of the city. The breathtaking gorge trail is three-quarters of a mile long and features eight stunning waterfalls. As you ascend the gorge, the waterfalls become increasingly impressive. The trail runs very close to the water, with only a metal rope as a barrier, so you are literally just steps away from many of the falls.
Places to Cool Off
Taughannock Falls
Taughannock Falls State Park has a swimming area on Cayuga Lake, but on a hot day, you will also see people wading in the creek.
Address: 1740 Taughannock Blvd, Trumansburg, NY
Buttermilk Falls State Park
Buttermilk Falls features one of the best swimming areas in the Finger Lakes! The “pool” is part of the creek and is located at the base of the park’s largest waterfall. During the summer months, it becomes an ideal spot for families looking to cool off, and kids will enjoy splashing around in the water.
Address: 106 E Buttermilk Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY
Robert Treman State Park
Robert Treman State Park features a fantastic swimming area located beneath a waterfall. The water is usually clear and cool, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. Designated swimming zones are available, with lifeguards often on duty during the peak season to ensure safety. The park also provides amenities such as changing rooms and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for families and nature lovers to enjoy a day outdoors.
Address: 105 Enfield Falls Rd, Ithaca, NY
Myers Marine Park
Nestled along the serene eastern shores of Cayuga Lake, this enchanting park features a lifeguarded swimming area, inviting visitors to dive into its sparkling waters. The park also includes a small lighthouse, camping facilities, boating options, and a fishing pier, along with numerous amenities for picnics. This park is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a true gem for all who get the opportunity to enjoy this charming park.
Address: 1, Lansing, NY
Do you know of other places in Ithaca that are kid-friendly? Let me know in the comments.