40 Facts About Ithaca

Ithaca: A Place of Rich History and Culture

Nestled in the Finger Lakes region of New York, Ithaca is a small city with a big personality. Known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and prestigious educational institutions, Ithaca offers a unique blend of urban and rural experiences.

1. 01Ithaca is home to Cornell University, an Ivy League institution founded in 1865.
2. 02The city also hosts Ithaca College, known for its strong programs in music, theater, and communications.
3. 03Ithaca's name is derived from the Greek island of Ithaca, home of Odysseus in Homer's epic, "The Odyssey."
4. 04The city was founded in 1790 by Simeon DeWitt, a surveyor who named it after the Greek island.
5. 05Ithaca was a significant stop on the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved people escape to freedom.

Natural Wonders Abound

Ithaca is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including gorges, waterfalls, and lakes. These natural wonders attract tourists and nature enthusiasts from all over the world.

6. 06Ithaca is famous for its gorges, with the slogan "Ithaca is Gorges" highlighting this natural beauty.
7. 07There are over 150 waterfalls within a 10-mile radius of downtown Ithaca.
8. 08The tallest waterfall in Ithaca is Taughannock Falls, which plunges 215 feet, making it higher than Niagara Falls.
9. 09Cayuga Lake, one of the Finger Lakes, borders Ithaca and is the longest of the Finger Lakes at 38 miles.
10. 10Buttermilk Falls State Park, located just outside the city, features a stunning series of cascades and pools.

A Hub for Education and Innovation

Education and innovation are at the heart of Ithaca's identity. The city is a hub for cutting-edge research and academic excellence.

11. 11Cornell University has produced 61 Nobel laureates, contributing significantly to various fields of study.
12. 12Ithaca College's School of Music is one of the top music schools in the United States.
13. 13The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a world leader in the study and conservation of birds.
14. 14Ithaca is home to the Boyce Thompson Institute, a premier plant research center.
15. 15The city has a high concentration of PhDs per capita, thanks to its academic institutions.

A Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene

Ithaca boasts a lively arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and festivals that celebrate creativity and diversity.

16. 16The Hangar Theatre, located in a renovated airplane hangar, offers a variety of performances year-round.
17. 17Ithaca hosts the annual Ithaca Festival, a celebration of music, art, and community.
18. 18The State Theatre of Ithaca, built in 1928, is a historic venue for concerts, films, and live performances.
19. 19The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University houses over 35,000 works of art.
20. 20Ithaca is known for its vibrant street art, with murals and installations adorning many buildings.

Culinary Delights and Local Flavors

Food lovers will find plenty to savor in Ithaca, from farm-to-table restaurants to unique local specialties.

21. 21The Ithaca Farmers Market, established in 1973, features over 160 vendors selling local produce, crafts, and prepared foods.
22. 22Moosewood Restaurant, a pioneer in vegetarian cuisine, has been a staple in Ithaca since 1973.
23. 23Ithaca is home to several wineries and breweries, thanks to its location in the Finger Lakes wine region.
24. 24The city is known for its diverse food scene, with restaurants offering cuisines from around the world.
25. 25Purity Ice Cream, founded in 1936, is a beloved local institution known for its homemade ice cream.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Ithaca is dedicated to sustainability and environmental stewardship, with numerous initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint.

26. 26The city has a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.
27. 27Ithaca is home to EcoVillage, one of the largest and oldest ecovillages in the United States.
28. 28Cornell University has a robust sustainability program, including LEED-certified buildings and renewable energy projects.
29. 29Ithaca's public transportation system, TCAT, is committed to reducing emissions with hybrid and electric buses.
30. 30The city has numerous community gardens and urban farms promoting local food production.

Outdoor Adventures Await

For those who love the great outdoors, Ithaca offers a plethora of activities to enjoy its natural beauty.

31. 31Hiking trails abound in Ithaca, with popular spots including the Cayuga Trail and the Finger Lakes Trail.
32. 32The city is a haven for birdwatchers, with Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary offering prime birding opportunities.
33. 33Ithaca's gorges provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing and bouldering.
34. 34Cayuga Lake is perfect for kayaking, sailing, and fishing.
35. 35Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the area's parks and trails.

A Community That Cares

Ithaca is known for its strong sense of community and commitment to social justice and inclusivity.

36. 36The city has a long history of activism, with numerous organizations dedicated to social and environmental causes.
37. 37Ithaca is a sanctuary city, providing protection to undocumented immigrants.
38. 38The Ithaca Health Alliance offers affordable healthcare services to the community.
39. 39The city has a thriving cooperative movement, with businesses like GreenStar Cooperative Market leading the way.
40. 40Ithaca's community centers and organizations provide support and resources for residents of all ages and backgrounds.

Ithaca's Unique Charm

Ithaca's got a lot going for it. From its stunning waterfalls to the prestigious Cornell University, there's something for everyone. The town's rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse food options make it a must-visit. Whether you're hiking the gorges, exploring the museums, or just enjoying the local vibe, Ithaca never disappoints.

The community here is tight-knit and welcoming, adding to the town's unique charm. It's a place where nature and culture blend seamlessly, offering a little bit of everything. If you haven't been, it's time to add Ithaca to your travel list. You'll find plenty to see and do, and you'll probably leave with a few new favorite spots. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience all that Ithaca has to offer.