While Ithaca provides countless opportunities for fun over the summer—swimming in the lake, hiking the many trails, visiting the farmers market, and more—there are numerous pastimes to enjoy during the winter months as well. From outdoor exploration to local festivals, locals and tourists alike can experience everything wintry Ithaca has to offer.
A popular Ithacan attraction is the large number of gorges in the surrounding area. While some trails are closed over winter, many remain open year-round. Taughannock Falls, the tallest waterfall in New York, has three nearby trails that are gorgeous in winter when draped under a blanket of snow. Buttermilk Falls, just southwest of Ithaca, is another excellent option for those wishing to go winter hiking. Buttermilk Falls State Park is additionally very close to the Robert H. Treman State Park, which offers more scenic views for outdoor explorers in any season. With frozen waterfalls and frost-covered forests, both of these parks are stunning in winter. Ithaca Falls is another great sight at which to watch the seasons change. Its easy-to-access location makes it popular year-round.
Another option for those wishing to spend time outdoors is skiing. Just outside of Ithaca is Greek Peak, a family-friendly ski resort with various trails for skiers of all levels as well as gear to rent. Cross-country skiing is also a great winter pastime. The Lime Hollow Center for Environment and Culture has a Nordic ski center where cross-country ski equipment can be rented and several ski trails can be accessed. The center also has other winter sports equipment, such as snowshoes, for rent. Ice skating at our local Cass Park, The Rink, or sometimes even on Cayuga Lake is another popular activity for Ithacans in winter.
While Ithaca offers a variety of outdoor attractions, there are also many things to do inside. Climbing at Cornell’s Lindseth Climbing Center is a great option for those wanting to stay active and have a lot of fun while staying warm. The center offers daily passes and climbing equipment for rent as well as classes from experienced climbers.
The Winter Farmers’ Market, held on Saturdays throughout the winter, is less well known than its summer counterpart but definitely should not be missed. A variety of local vendors set up stands throughout the atriums of Triphammer Marketplace with unique products to offer. Khmer Angkor Cambodian Food, a beloved flavor of the summer market, serves their delicious cuisine throughout the winter alongside Wide Awake Bakery, New York Cider Company, Mama Said Hand Pies, Humble Hills Farm, and Crosswinds Creamery. In addition to flavorful offerings at the winter market, the Winter Farmers’ Market also features creative products from local artists such as Carolina Perez and Laurel Branch. This wonderful community attraction is a must-see for locals, and a lovely experience for tourists as well.
Some annual winter events in Ithaca include the Ice and Lights Festival on Ithaca Commons on December 1 and 2. Visitors can admire the numerous ice and light sculptures on display around downtown, enjoy an ice carving demonstration on Saturday, and attend a unique Silent Disco. Ithaca Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker at the State Theater is a great way to spend an afternoon. Their three shows are scheduled for December 15 through 17.
These are just a few of the many fun activities available around Ithaca in the winter. Make sure to check them out, and hope you enjoy them!