Explore Ithaca
Cornell University
Far Above Cayuga’s Waters … founded in 1865 Cornell University delivers a unique combination of Ivy League academics with Land-Grant know how that positively impacts both our world and our local agriculture and economy. The many faces of Cornell show differently throughout the year. From a vibrant spring in the Cornell Botanic Gardens and Plantations to a cozy winter stroll through the Johnson Museum of Art, Cornell offers something for every visitor no matter what time you choose to explore Ithaca. Beyond natural beauty and higher learning, Cornell’s community shines in the Arts and in Athletics. Go to a concert, cheer on the Big Red, climb the 161 steps to the top of McGraw Tower for a chimes concert or visit the Cornell Dairy Bar for some tasty treats. No matter what your passion, add fuel to your personal fire at Cornell!
Robert Treman State Park
One of Ithaca’s most popular destinations, Treman State Park is an oasis of adventure less than 15 minutes by car from the Thomas Farm. Hike past 12 waterfalls including the 115 foot Lucifer Falls with its spectacular view down the gorge. In the summer, take a refreshing dip in Enfield Creek beneath a beautiful cascading waterfall … there’s nothing more refreshing on a hot summer day! Conveniently located near Dennis’ Homemade Ice Cream …a great place to reward yourself after a challenging hike through the gorge.
Shindagin Hollow State Forest
A quick 15 minute drive from the Thomas Farm B&B, Shindagin Hollow State Forest is a hiker’s and mountain biker’s paradise. The forest covers more than 5200 acres including 16 miles of mountain bike trails and a wide assortment of hiking that includes a 5.7 mile stretch of the Finger Lakes Trail. Rolling hills, pristine streams and well marked trails make this a great spot to get back in touch with nature.
Moosewood Restaurant
In 1983 Nancy received The Moosewood cookbook from a friend. For many years this cookbook provided us with delicious recipes that our whole family enjoyed. When our son arrived in Ithaca to attend Cornell in 2003, we were pleasantly surprised to learn that there was also a wonderful restaurant behind those tattered pages! World renowned and as vibrant as ever, the Moosewood has been delighting diners since 1973. Located in the historic DeWitt Mall the restaurant remains a local favorite for its wonderful vegetarian food and welcoming customer service.
bickering twins
Corey and Kevin Adelman are identical twin brothers originally from northern NJ. Kevin attended IC and studied in Bolivia as part of his schooling. After living on and off in Bolivia for two years, Kevin became enamored by Latin culture and Latin food. Corey joined Kevin in Ithaca in 2015 and they began creating the concept for Bickering Twins as a "pop-up" restaurant while continuing to hone their culinary skills. Fast forward to today and Bickering Twins is now a “go to” restaurant for our guests looking for fresh Latin American food, unique drinks and great people!
lev kitchen
A relatively new arrival onto the Ithaca dining scene, Lev Kitchen has quickly become one of our favorites. They feature flatbread (malawach) and cuisine from the Levant (a historical area in the eastern mediterranean region). As their website touts … “malawach, the best thing you’ve never had!” And while the food is great so are the people and their mission. If you have the time, take a look at their website to get a glimpse into the mindset behind this wonderful restaurant.
Ithaca College
Theory, Practice, Performance … the core of the Ithaca College experience. Founded in 1892 as a music conservatory, IC continues its history of learning, trying and doing in each of the five schools within the College that deliver more than 100 degree programs. For more than 30 years IC has been included in the US News and World Report Top 15 for regional university rankings and highlighted by several other organizations/publications for their Film, Business and Communication programs. Looking for music, any type of music? Did you know that Ithaca College students and faculty perform free concerts nearly every day of the school year? Venture up South Hill for a totally different perspective on Ithaca and beyond.
Taughannock Falls State Park
A scenic 30 minute drive from the Thomas Farm B&B up the west side of Cayuga Lake brings you to Taughannock Falls State Park, one of the true gems of our region. Hike to the namesake falls and have your breath taken away as the Taughannock Creek falls 215 feet through the 400 foot deep gorge … the falls is actually 33 feet higher than Niagara Falls! Trails to get there range from an accessible, flat, hard packed path to the challenging North and South Rim trails. Across the street from the falls and gorge is a lovely picnic area, marina/boat launch and beach on Cayuga Lake. The views here are priceless and during the summer months the frequent lakeside concerts are a perfect ending to a wonderful day in Ithaca.
Ithaca farmers market
In 2023 the Ithaca Farmers Market celebrated their 50th anniversary. The market is a member-run cooperative with more than 130 active members who grow or produce their wares within 30 miles of the waterfront Ithaca pavilion. They have three categories of vendors: agriculture, food and artisan, and each business has been through an application and jurying process to guarantee quality. You’ll find a full spread at the market with something for everyone —a variety of eat-on-site and take-out entrées, baked goods and beverages to delight every taste, as well as fresh produce, free-range eggs, meat and cheese, specialty foods, and fine art and crafts.
Copper Horse Coffee
The Thomas Farm is proud to serve Copper Horse Coffee. Located just a few miles west of us on Route 79/Slaterville Road, our neighbors at Copper Horse are great business partners. Not only do they roast some incredible coffee, foremost they’re nice people. While their shop is a dedicated roastery, they welcome retail customers looking for great coffee and a nice selection of branded goods. Stop by to say hello to Jesse and his team. Not only will you love the coffee but you’ll get a good sense of our incredible Ithaca small business community.
hawi ethiopian
Located in downtown Ithaca, Hawi provides a great option for those looking for a unique dining experience. Hawi is a small BYOB restaurant featuring tasty dishes in a welcoming setting. Injera bread is central to many of the dishes as you use it to dip, scoop and combine several offerings that make up many of the traditional meals. Although the kind wait staff will be glad to provide you with a fork, we highly recommend the injera experience as you explore the tasty vegan, vegetarian and meat dishes offered.
brewer’s kitchen & taproom
Located just a short drive from the Thomas Farm, Brewer’s is a great choice for those days/nights when downtown Ithaca might be too busy. Born from a coffee truck (another good website read), Brewer’s provides a strong pub menu that includes many vegetarian options to be enjoyed by all (think roasted brussel sprouts and cauliflower wings). While the outside seating is a great space to enjoy in nice weather, the inside seating section is bright and cozy anytime.
Want More Info … Visit Ithaca!
Visit Ithaca is the official website of the Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau as well as a wonderful resource for anything and everything Ithaca. Their “Things to Do” and “Food and Drinks” sections provide both visitors and residents alike with a comprehensive list of restaurants and things to do in our wonderful city and area. Take a look, we’re sure that you’ll find even more reasons to stay with us longer … either this visit or your next!
buttermilk falls state park
Buttermilk Falls State Park takes its name from the foaming cascade formed by Buttermilk Creek as it flows down the steep valley side toward Cayuga Lake. The upper park has a small lake, hiking trails through woodlands and along the gorge and rim, picnic areas and playing fields. The lower park has a campground, natural pool and playing fields, beyond which is Larch Meadows. Larch Meadows is a wetland area through which a nature trail winds. In the lower park, the Rim and Gorge trails are approximately 1.5 miles round trip. Both trails start off with a bang (they’re steep!) but the gorge and views are well worth the effort!
Cornell Lab of Ornithology
It’s like living next door to the Smithsonian! The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is one of the world’s preeminent nonprofit conservation organizations and a global center for the study of birds and biodiversity. Started by Dr. Arthur A. Allen in 1915, the lab continues its focus on scientific discovery, innovation, teaching and conservation action. Located just a short 15 minute drive from the Thomas Farm B&B, the Lab always has something going on. From behind the scenes tours to lectures to bird walks, there’s something for everyone from the fledgling bird watcher (pun intended!) to the most ardent conservationist. While you’re there, explore the trails through Sapsucker Woods and don’t miss the incredible artwork that’s displayed throughout the Visitor Center.
The Antlers Restaurant
The Antlers is the epitome of comfort food. But don’t let this descriptor fool you, the menu at Antlers is always changing and is sure to tempt any taste. During the winter the blazing hearth provides a warm welcome that mirrors the friendly staff. Only a short drive from the Thomas Farm B&B, any time of the year is a good time at Antlers.
the heights
The Heights Restaurant and H Bar was established in 1995 by Culinary Institute of America graduate James Larounis and his wife Heidi. Located in the Village of Cayuga Heights and close to Cornell University, The Heights is a great place to celebrate a graduation, a Big Red win or to simply celebrate life. The restaurant has a casual, contemporary atmosphere and features Mediterranean-inspired American cuisine showcased with seasonal menus and locally sourced ingredients.
village tacqueria & Grill
Village Tacqueria is located in Dryden … a small town just north of us. While it’s a bit longer drive than heading into Ithaca (18 versus 13 minutes), we firmly believe the extra five minutes is so worth it! Ever since our first experience, we remarked how their food reminded us of the fresh Mexican food we used to enjoy in California. And for good reason … the restaurant is family owned and operated by SoCal natives who have brought their deliciousness eastward! We highly recommend this gem in Dryden.