Wells Falls, Ithaca

Wells Falls, also known as Businessman’s Lunch Falls, First Dam Falls, or Van Natta’s Falls, is a striking 65-foot, multi-tiered waterfall located just minutes from downtown Ithaca. This cascade, divided into four distinct drops-30 feet, 5 feet, 15 feet, and a hidden upper section-flows along Six Mile Creek, Ithaca’s main drinking water source. Despite its natural beauty, what truly sets Wells Falls apart is its historical backdrop: the abandoned Van Nattas Pumping Station, built in 1893.

This old structure once served a dual purpose-pumping water for the city and generating electricity during the first half of the 20th century. Before the city expanded, the site also hosted the Van Natta & Jones Mill, a flour-producing facility. Though long abandoned, the station’s weathered façade, sealed windows, and industrial remnants add an eerie, photogenic charm to the landscape, making it one of the most unique waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region.

Historically, the waterfall earned its nickname “Businessman’s Lunch Falls” because office workers from downtown Ithaca would venture here to enjoy their midday break. While swimming is prohibited today, the site remains a popular scenic spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with dogs allowed on leash. Accessing Wells Falls requires navigating Ithaca’s hilly streets and some tricky turns, but the reward is a rare blend of natural beauty and industrial history, offering a glimpse into the city’s past while enjoying the serene power of the cascading water.