Parks and Recreation

Tompkins County boasts two City parks on the water, an off leash dog park, a children’s garden, four state parks, state forests, a national forest, a bustling farmers market and waterfalls a plenty. When guests asks us what they should do for the day it’s hard for us to recommend just one place. For a complete list you can pick up a visitors guide in our lobby or use these links to find out what activities are available at each location. If you’d like to get out on the lake there are a couple of boating options.

Ithaca Farmers Market

Located on the inlet and the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, our farmers market has been providing us with locally grown products and handmade crafts since 1973. The current market pavilion was completed in 1988 and styled after 13th century European cathedral. All vendors must grow/produce their products within a 30 mile radius of Ithaca.

Stewart Park

Stewart Park is located at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake and a little over a mile away from the Inn. While there is no swimming, the park has pavilions for rent, a duck pond, a playground, tennis courts, a golf course and a bird sanctuary. The Visitors Bureau is next door.

Taughannock Falls State Park

Taughannock Falls is the tallest single drop waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. It’s an easy one mile hike into the falls or you can park at the top entrance and walk down to the overlook. The park is located on both sides of Rt 89 with the falls on one side and Cayuga Lake on the other. There is swimming and boat rentals (non-motorized) as well as a concession stand and live music in the summer most Saturday nights.

Buttermilk Falls State Park

Buttermilk Falls is a cascading waterfall. There are hiking trails along the gorge and rim as well as a swimming area at the bottom.

Robert H. Treman State Park

Just down the road from Buttermilk Falls, Treman State Park has a winding trail that takes you past 12 waterfalls, including the 115 ft Lucifer Falls. There are lots of picnic areas as well as swimming in a stream fed pool.

Ithaca Boat Tours

Ithaca Boat Tours offers both educational and recreational boat tours. You can learn about Cayuga Lake and the history of the area or enjoy a glass of wine with friends while attending one of their special events.

Viva Taqueria

Pasta Vitto

Ithaca Ale House

Mahogany Grill

Simeon’s American Bistro