Ithaca Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Ithaca

Ithaca, New York, blends history, academia, and natural beauty into a lively yet laid-back setting. Located in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is known for its waterfalls, liberal spirit, and deep ties to higher education-Cornell University and Ithaca College anchor the town's intellectual atmosphere.

The name "Ithaca" comes from the Greek island glorified by Homer in his epic poem Odyssey. It is a nod to the classical education of early American settlers, who found poetic symmetry in the area's hilly terrain and storied past.

Originally inhabited by the Native American Iroquois tribe, the region saw European missionary activity as early as 1657. After the Revolutionary War, it was opened for settlement through the Central New York Military Tract, with land granted to veterans.

In the early 19th century, Ithaca developed into a trade hub for salt and gypsum, spurring infrastructure projects. Incorporated in 1888, the city became known for innovations like the ice cream sundae (invented in 1892) and the Ithaca Kitty, a popular early stuffed toy.

During the 20th century, Ithaca had a thriving silent film industry and was known for its political activism regarding civil rights. Martin Luther King Jr. came to speak here twice in the 1960s. The annual Ithaca Festival, which often takes place on the Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian-friendly stretch filled with shops, street performers, and year-round events, frequently centers around themes promoting "a political statement into a cultural and festive event.”

A few blocks away, Restaurant Row showcases Ithaca’s culinary diversity, offering everything from farm-to-table eateries to international flavors. Among the standouts is the legendary Moosewood Restaurant, famous for pioneering vegetarian cuisine since the 1970s.

For those interested in history, Clinton House is an architectural landmark that once served as a grand hotel. Another historic structure, the State Theatre of Ithaca, continues to host live performances, maintaining its role as the city’s premier entertainment venue since 1928.

Beyond the city streets, nature asserts itself in full force. The Cascadilla Gorge Trail is a scenic path that winds through rocky waterfalls and lush greenery, just minutes from downtown. This is a reminder of why Ithaca proudly claims “Ithaca is Gorges” as its motto.

If planning a visit, why not check out our handy self-guided tour of the local places of interest? Explore Ithaca's storied past, vibrant present, and stunning landscapes-because once you visit, it’s hard not to fall in love with this Finger Lakes gem.