Take a Wholesome Walking Tour of Ithaca, New York - Explore the Charming Gems of This Beautiful City

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Ithaca, New York? Join us as we take you on a walking tour that will leave you enchanted by the beauty and charm of this picturesque city. In this edition of the Look Up America Series, we are excited to showcase the hidden gems that make Ithaca an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious wanderers alike.

The beauty of Ithaca lies in its diverse landscapes and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you are a nature lover or a history aficionado, this walking tour has something for everyone. So, put on your comfortable shoes, pack your camera, and let's get started!

Starting Point: Downtown Ithaca Commons

Our journey begins at the heart of Ithaca - the Downtown Ithaca Commons. This pedestrian-only street is lined with unique shops, delicious restaurants, and entertainment venues. Take your time to explore the local boutiques and art galleries, and don't forget to indulge in some scrumptious delicacies at the famous Ithaca Farmers Market.

A Walking Tour of Ithaca, New York (Look Up, America! Series)

by Doug Gelbert(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1331 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	28 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Once you have soaked in the vibrant atmosphere of the Commons, make your way towards Ithaca's iconic landmarks.

Renowned Landmarks: The Cascadilla Gorge Trail and Cornell University

As you continue your walking tour, you'll encounter the breathtaking Cascadilla Gorge Trail. This scenic trail offers stunning views of waterfalls, lush greenery, and picturesque bridges. Make sure to capture the beauty of this natural wonder as you make your way towards the next highlight of the tour – Cornell University.

Cornell University, a prestigious Ivy League institution, is not only known for its academic excellence but also for its stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through its picturesque campus and marvel at the historic buildings that house world-class education and research facilities.

The Cultural Side: Ithaca Falls and State Theatre

As you continue your exploration, you'll come across Ithaca Falls – a majestic 150-foot waterfall nestled amidst beautiful natural surroundings. The sound of rushing water and the scenic beauty will leave you in awe. Capture this magical moment and enjoy a peaceful break at one of the nearby picnic spots.

For those seeking a taste of Ithaca's vibrant cultural scene, a visit to the State Theatre is a must. This historic theater hosts a variety of performances including live music, plays, and film screenings. Check the schedule and catch a show that captures your interest.

Delights for Nature Lovers: Ithaca Botanical Gardens and Cayuga Lake

As we near the end of our walking tour, we cannot miss the enchanting Ithaca Botanical Gardens. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the diverse flora and fauna that call this garden home. Take a leisurely stroll through the numerous gardens, including the famous herb garden and the stunning rhododendron garden.

To conclude your walking tour, we recommend heading towards the serene Cayuga Lake. This expansive lake offers mesmerizing views, tranquil boat rides, and opportunities for water-based activities. Bask in the serenity of the surroundings and take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable journey you have experienced.

: Discover the Magic of Ithaca

As our walking tour of Ithaca, New York comes to an end, we hope you have fallen in love with the charm of this city. The Look Up America Series aims to uncover the hidden gems that make the United States such a captivating country to explore. Ithaca is a testament to the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural scenes that can be found in every corner of America.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to Ithaca, embark on this memorable walking tour, and let the beauty of this city leave an everlasting impression on your heart.

A Walking Tour of Ithaca, New York (Look Up, America! Series)

by Doug Gelbert(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1331 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	28 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

There is no better way to see America than on foot. And there is no better way to appreciate what you are looking at than with a walking tour. Whether you are preparing for a road trip or just out to look at your own town in a new way, a downloadable walking tour from walkthetown.com is ready to explore when you are.

Each walking tour describes historical and architectural landmarks and provides pictures to help out when those pesky street addresses are missing. Every tour also includes a quick primer on identifying architectural styles seen on American streets.

Perched at the southern end of the Cayuga Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes, Ithaca has always been defined by its unique topography. The gorges and waterfalls for what it is famous are ballyhooed today to attract people to the city; historically they have made it difficult for folks to get here. In the 19th century the railroads went elsewhere along easier routes and in the 20th century the interstate system similarly bypassed the city - there is no highway within a half an hour of Ithaca.

The first settlers with names like Yaple and Dumond and Hinepaw came west from the Hudson Valley after the Revolutionary War to claim land in the Finger Lakes region offered as a reward for service. Ithaca was planned by Simeon DeWitt, the State Surveyor General, and it was named by him in 1804 because of its location within the Town of Ulysses - the ancient Greek whose home was on the island of Ithaki.

In the 1820s New York was in the throes of a canal craze and Ithaca saw itself as a budding water-based metropolis. In 1821 businessmen put a steamboat, The Enterprise, on the lake. Ground was broken in 1825 for a grand new hotel, the Clinton House, to accommodate the anticipated water traffic. The village bustled into the 1830s but those railroads didn't come and the Panic of 1837 did and Ithaca's growth essentially stagnated.

One who came and stayed was Ezra Cornell. an itinerant carpenter who was hired by Colonel Jeremiah S. Beebe to manage his flour mill of Fall Creek. Cornell became involved with the construction of lines for the new telegraph and invented the idea of protecting wires on wooden poles with glass insulators. He parlayed his ingenuity into a fortune as a founder of the Western Union company. Cornell drifted into the New York State Senate and Assembly and used the state’s Morrill Land Grant to create Cornell University on farmland located on East Hill.

Ithaca was known for producing high-quality shotguns and clocks as well but it would be Cornell University and the Ithaca Conservatory of Music that opened in 1892 and became Ithaca College in the 1960s that came to define the city, that was incorporated in 1888. Today there are about 30,000 residents of Ithaca and 30,000 students in the city. We'll probably see plenty of both on our walking tour that will start on a patch of land that has remained undeveloped since it was set aside 200 years ago...