Ithaca is a vibrant and eclectic college town that has captured the hearts of residents and visitors alike, nestled in the heart of New York's Finger Lakes region. Home to both Cornell University and Ithaca College, this small city of just over 30,000 people is a hub of intellectual curiosity, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.
From its stunning gorges and waterfalls to its thriving downtown district and world-class institutions, Ithaca offers something for everyone. Whether you're a student, a nature lover, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, you'll find plenty to explore and enjoy in this unique and welcoming community.
History
Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement
The land that is now Ithaca has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with the Cayuga Nation of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy being the most prominent group in the region. The Cayuga people lived in villages along the shores of Cayuga Lake and its tributaries, and they relied on the land and water for sustenance, transportation, and spiritual practices.
European settlement of the Ithaca area began in the late 18th century, with the first permanent settlers arriving in 1789. These early settlers were primarily farmers and traders, who were attracted to the region's fertile soil, abundant water resources, and strategic location along major transportation routes.
In 1817, the village of Ithaca was officially incorporated, and it quickly became a center of commerce and industry for the surrounding region. The opening of the Erie Canal in 1825 and the arrival of the railroad in the 1830s further spurred economic growth and development, and by the mid-19th century, Ithaca had become a thriving manufacturing and transportation hub.
Cornell University and Ithaca College
The history of Ithaca is inextricably linked to the history of its two major institutions of higher education: Cornell University and Ithaca College.
Cornell University was founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White, with the mission of creating a world-class research university that would be open to students of all backgrounds and disciplines. The university quickly became a leader in fields such as agriculture, engineering, and the sciences, and it attracted top scholars and students from around the world.
Ithaca College, on the other hand, was founded in 1892 as the Ithaca Conservatory of Music, with a focus on training musicians and performers. Over time, the college expanded its offerings to include a wide range of academic programs, from business and communications to health sciences and the humanities.
Together, Cornell University and Ithaca College have had a profound impact on the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Ithaca. They have brought thousands of students, faculty, and staff to the city, and they have fostered a culture of innovation, creativity, and intellectual curiosity that has shaped the character of the community.
20th Century Growth and Development
Throughout the 20th century, Ithaca continued to grow and evolve as a center of education, industry, and culture. The city's manufacturing sector thrived in the early decades of the century, with companies such as Morse Chain (now Borg Warner) and Ithaca Gun Company employing thousands of workers.
In the post-World War II era, Ithaca's economy began to shift away from manufacturing and toward education, research, and technology. The expansion of Cornell University and Ithaca College, along with the growth of other major employers such as the Ithaca City School District and the Tompkins County government, helped to drive this transition.
At the same time, Ithaca's countercultural scene began to flourish, with the city becoming a hub of political activism, environmental advocacy, and artistic experimentation. The Ithaca Commons pedestrian mall, which opened in 1974, became a center of cultural and social life, with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and public spaces.
Today, Ithaca continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and interests of its community. While the city faces challenges such as housing affordability, economic inequality, and environmental sustainability, it remains a vibrant and dynamic place that is deeply committed to the values of diversity, inclusivity, and social justice.
Geography and Climate
Location and Topography
Ithaca is located in the Finger Lakes region of central New York, approximately 225 miles northwest of New York City and 60 miles southwest of Syracuse. The city is situated at the southern end of Cayuga Lake, the longest of the 11 Finger Lakes, and is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and farmland.
One of the most distinctive features of Ithaca's geography is its dramatic topography, with deep gorges, waterfalls, and steep hillsides carved out by glacial activity and erosion over millions of years. The city is home to several iconic natural landmarks, such as Ithaca Falls, Cascadilla Gorge, and Buttermilk Falls State Park, which attract thousands of visitors each year.
Ithaca's unique topography has also shaped its built environment, with many of the city's streets and neighborhoods following the contours of the landscape. The downtown district, for example, is built on a hill overlooking Cayuga Lake, with steep streets and winding alleys that create a distinctive urban fabric.
Climate and Weather
Ithaca has a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons and a wide range of temperatures and precipitation throughout the year. Summers are generally warm and humid, with average high temperatures in the low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s Celsius) and frequent thunderstorms. Winters are cold and snowy, with average low temperatures in the mid-teens Fahrenheit (around -10 Celsius) and an average of over 60 inches of snowfall per year.
Spring and fall are transition seasons in Ithaca, with mild temperatures and variable weather patterns. Spring is often wet and muddy, with frequent rain and occasional snow, while fall is known for its crisp air, beautiful foliage, and abundant apple harvests.
Ithaca's climate is influenced by its location in the Finger Lakes region, which creates unique microclimates and weather patterns. The deep, narrow valleys of the Finger Lakes can trap cold air in the winter, leading to temperature inversions and localized snow squalls. In the summer, the lakes can moderate temperatures and create cooling breezes, making Ithaca a popular destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Economy and Industry
Education and Research
Education and research are the backbone of Ithaca's economy, with Cornell University and Ithaca College serving as the city's largest employers and economic drivers. Together, these institutions employ over 10,000 people and generate billions of dollars in economic activity each year.
Cornell University, in particular, is a major research institution with a global reputation for excellence in fields such as engineering, computer science, agriculture, and the life sciences. The university's research expenditures exceed $1 billion annually, and its faculty and students are involved in cutting-edge projects and collaborations with partners around the world.
Ithaca College, while smaller than Cornell, is also a significant contributor to the local economy, with a strong focus on the arts, media, and communications. The college's School of Music, for example, is one of the top-ranked programs in the country, and its graduates have gone on to successful careers in performance, education, and music therapy.
In addition to Cornell and Ithaca College, Ithaca is home to several other educational institutions and research organizations, including Tompkins Cortland Community College, the Boyce Thompson Institute for Plant Research, and the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.
Technology and Entrepreneurship
In recent years, Ithaca has become a hub of technology and entrepreneurship, with a growing number of startups, incubators, and co-working spaces popping up throughout the city. This growth has been fueled in part by the talent and resources of Cornell University and Ithaca College, as well as by the city's vibrant and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
One of the most prominent examples of Ithaca's tech scene is Rev: Ithaca Startup Works, a business incubator and co-working space that provides support and resources to early-stage startups. Rev has helped to launch dozens of successful companies in fields such as biotech, clean energy, and software development, and has become a key player in the city's innovation economy.
Other notable tech companies and organizations in Ithaca include GrammaTech, a software security firm; Ursa Space Systems, a satellite intelligence company; and Rosie, an online grocery shopping platform.
Ithaca's entrepreneurial spirit is also reflected in its vibrant local business community, with dozens of independent shops, restaurants, and service providers that contribute to the city's unique character and economic vitality. From farm-to-table restaurants and artisanal food producers to boutique retailers and creative agencies, Ithaca's small businesses are a key part of what makes the city such a special place to live and work.
Tourism and Hospitality
Tourism is another important driver of Ithaca's economy, with the city's natural beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary scene drawing visitors from around the world. Ithaca's gorges, waterfalls, and hiking trails are particularly popular with outdoor enthusiasts, while its museums, theaters, and festivals attract art lovers and culture seekers.
The hospitality industry is a major employer in Ithaca, with dozens of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals catering to the needs of visitors. The city's restaurants and bars are also a big draw, with a wide range of culinary options that showcase the region's local and seasonal ingredients.
Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Ithaca include the Ithaca Commons pedestrian mall, the Sciencenter Children's Museum, the Museum of the Earth, and the Cornell Botanic Gardens. The city is also home to several major events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Ithaca Festival, the Apple Harvest Festival, and the Finger Lakes International Dragon Boat Festival.
Culture and Community
Arts and Entertainment
Ithaca is known for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with a wide range of cultural institutions, performance venues, and creative spaces that showcase the talents of local and visiting artists.
One of the most prominent cultural institutions in Ithaca is the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University, which houses an extensive collection of art from around the world, including works by modern and contemporary masters such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol.
The State Theatre of Ithaca is another major cultural landmark, with a rich history dating back to the 1920s. The theater hosts a diverse lineup of live music, dance, and theater performances throughout the year, as well as film screenings and community events.
Other notable arts and entertainment venues in Ithaca include the Kitchen Theatre Company, which produces contemporary plays and musicals; the Community School of Music and Arts, which offers classes and workshops for all ages; and the Hangar Theatre, which hosts a summer season of professional theater productions.
Ithaca is also home to a thriving music scene, with a wide range of genres and styles represented in its clubs, bars, and concert halls. The Haunt, for example, is a legendary live music venue that has hosted everyone from local bands to national touring acts, while the Ithaca Underground is a volunteer-run organization that promotes DIY and experimental music.
Local Food and Drink
Ithaca is a food lover's paradise, with a thriving local and regional food scene that emphasizes fresh, seasonal, and sustainably sourced ingredients. The city's restaurants, cafes, and markets offer a wide range of culinary options, from farm-to-table fine dining to casual comfort food.
One of the most iconic food destinations in Ithaca is the Moosewood Restaurant, a vegetarian institution that has been serving up wholesome, delicious meals since 1973. The restaurant's cookbooks have sold millions of copies worldwide, and its influence can be seen in the many other vegetarian and vegan eateries that have sprung up around Ithaca in recent years.
Another notable culinary tradition in Ithaca is its farmers markets, which showcase the bounty of the Finger Lakes region's farms, orchards, and artisanal food producers. The Ithaca Farmers Market, which operates on weekends from April through December, is a beloved community institution that features over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to crafts and prepared foods.
Ithaca is also known for its thriving craft beverage scene, with several local breweries, cideries, and distilleries that have gained national recognition. The Ithaca Beer Company, for example, is a pioneering craft brewery that has been making award-winning beers since 1998, while the Finger Lakes Cider House is a collaborative venture that showcases the region's artisanal cider makers.
Community Engagement and Activism
Ithaca is a community that values civic engagement, social justice, and grassroots activism, with a long history of progressive politics and community organizing. The city has been at the forefront of movements for civil rights, environmental protection, and economic justice, and has a strong tradition of volunteerism and community service.
One of the most prominent examples of Ithaca's activist spirit is the Ithaca Hours local currency system, which was established in 1991 as a way to promote local economic development and community resilience. The system allows businesses and individuals to exchange goods and services using a locally printed currency, which helps to keep money circulating within the community and supports small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Another notable example of community engagement in Ithaca is the Friends of Stewart Park, a volunteer organization that has been working to restore and enhance one of the city's most beloved public spaces. The group has raised millions of dollars for park improvements, including the restoration of historic buildings, the creation of new playgrounds and trails, and the planting of trees and gardens.
Ithaca is also home to several non-profit organizations and advocacy groups that work on issues such as affordable housing, food security, and environmental sustainability. The Ithaca Neighborhood Housing Services, for example, is a community development corporation that provides affordable housing and homeownership opportunities for low- and moderate-income families, while the Groundswell Center for Local Food & Farming is a non-profit that supports sustainable agriculture and food justice in the region.
Education and Intellectual Life
Cornell University
As one of the world's top research universities, Cornell University is the intellectual and educational heart of Ithaca, with a profound impact on the city's culture, economy, and social fabric. Founded in 1865 as a land-grant institution, Cornell has a long history of excellence in teaching, research, and public service, with a mission to "discover, preserve, and disseminate knowledge."
Cornell is home to over 24,000 students from all 50 states and 120 countries, as well as more than 1,600 faculty members who are leaders in their fields. The university is organized into 14 colleges and schools, each with its own distinctive character and academic focus.
Some of Cornell's most renowned programs and departments include the College of Engineering, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the School of Hotel Administration, and the College of Arts and Sciences. The university is also home to several world-class research centers and institutes, such as the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source, and the Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future.
Cornell's impact on Ithaca extends far beyond its academic programs and research activities, however. The university is a major employer and economic driver for the region, with an annual budget of over $4 billion and a significant presence in fields such as technology, entrepreneurship, and real estate development.
Cornell is also deeply engaged with the Ithaca community through a wide range of outreach and service programs, such as the Cornell Cooperative Extension, which provides educational resources and support to farmers, families, and communities throughout the region. The university's students, faculty, and staff are also active volunteers and leaders in local organizations and initiatives, from community gardens and food banks to political campaigns and social justice movements.
Ithaca College
While often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Ithaca College is another important institution of higher education in Ithaca, with a distinctive mission and character. Founded in 1892 as a music conservatory, Ithaca College has evolved into a comprehensive liberal arts college with a strong emphasis on experiential learning, creative expression, and social responsibility.
Ithaca College enrolls over 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students in five schools: the School of Business, the Roy H. Park School of Communications, the School of Health Sciences and Human Performance, the School of Humanities and Sciences, and the School of Music. The college is known for its hands-on approach to education, with a wide range of opportunities for internships, study abroad, research, and community engagement.
Some of Ithaca College's most notable programs and facilities include the James J. Whalen Center for Music, which houses a 2,500-seat concert hall and state-of-the-art recording studios; the Park Center for Independent Media, which supports investigative journalism and media activism; and the Center for LGBT Education, Outreach, and Services, which provides resources and support for LGBTQ+ students and allies.
Like Cornell, Ithaca College is deeply engaged with the local community, with a strong commitment to service learning, community partnerships, and social justice. The college's students and faculty are involved in a wide range of volunteer and outreach programs, from tutoring and mentoring in local schools to working with non-profit organizations and advocacy groups.
Intellectual and Cultural Life
Beyond its colleges and universities, Ithaca is a city with a rich intellectual and cultural life, with a wide range of events, programs, and institutions that foster learning, creativity, and community engagement.
One of the most prominent cultural institutions in Ithaca is the Tompkins County Public Library, which serves as a hub of information, education, and entertainment for the entire community. The library offers a wide range of resources and services, from books and media collections to computer labs and meeting rooms, as well as a full calendar of events and programs for all ages.
Another important cultural institution in Ithaca is the History Center in Tompkins County, which preserves and interprets the history and heritage of the region through exhibits, archives, and educational programs. The center's collections include artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of Ithaca and Tompkins County from the indigenous peoples who first inhabited the land to the present day.
Ithaca is also home to several independent bookstores and literary events that celebrate the written word and the power of storytelling. Buffalo Street Books, for example, is a beloved community bookstore that hosts readings, book clubs, and other literary events, while the Spring Writes Literary Festival is an annual celebration of regional writers and writing that features workshops, panels, and performances.
In addition to these formal institutions and events, Ithaca has a vibrant informal intellectual and cultural scene, with countless discussion groups, reading circles, and creative collaborations that bring together people from all walks of life to explore ideas, share knowledge, and create new works of art and scholarship.
Challenges and Opportunities
Affordability and Gentrification
Like many desirable college towns, Ithaca faces significant challenges related to affordability and gentrification, with rising housing costs and development pressures that can strain the social and economic fabric of the community.
In recent years, Ithaca has seen a boom in luxury student housing and high-end apartments, which has driven up rents and property values and made it harder for low- and middle-income residents to find affordable places to live. This trend has been exacerbated by the growth of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb, which have taken many long-term rental units off the market and contributed to a shortage of affordable housing.
At the same time, Ithaca has seen significant investment and development in its downtown core and waterfront areas, with new hotels, restaurants, and retail spaces that have brought new vitality and economic activity to the city. While these developments have created jobs and tax revenue, they have also raised concerns about gentrification and displacement, particularly for communities of color and low-income residents.
To address these challenges, Ithaca has taken a proactive approach to affordable housing and community development, with a range of policies and programs designed to promote equity and inclusion. The city's Comprehensive Plan, for example, sets goals for increasing the supply of affordable housing and supporting mixed-income neighborhoods, while the Community Housing Development Fund provides financial assistance for affordable housing projects and programs.
Ithaca has also been a leader in promoting sustainable and equitable development, with a focus on green building, renewable energy, and community engagement. The city's Green Building Policy, for example, requires all new construction and major renovations to meet high standards for energy efficiency and environmental performance, while the Ithaca 2030 District is a collaborative effort to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in the downtown area.
Town-Gown Relations
Another challenge facing Ithaca is the complex relationship between the city and its universities, particularly Cornell. While Cornell and Ithaca College are vital anchors of the community, providing jobs, economic activity, and cultural resources, they can also create tensions and conflicts with residents and businesses.
One area of tension is the impact of student housing on neighborhoods and communities, with concerns about noise, trash, and parking that can strain relations between students and long-term residents. Another area of tension is the perception that the universities, particularly Cornell, are not paying their fair share of taxes and fees to support local services and infrastructure.
To address these challenges, Ithaca and its universities have worked to build stronger partnerships and communication channels, with regular meetings and collaborations between city and university leaders, as well as joint initiatives and programs that benefit the entire community. The Town-Gown Advisory Board, for example, brings together representatives from the city, the universities, and the community to discuss issues of mutual concern and develop strategies for collaboration and problem-solving.
Ithaca and Cornell have also partnered on several major projects and initiatives that have transformed the city and the region, such as the redevelopment of the Ithaca Commons pedestrian mall, the creation of the Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island in New York City, and the establishment of the Tompkins Center for History and Culture in downtown Ithaca.
Sustainability and Climate Action
As a progressive and environmentally conscious community, Ithaca has long been a leader in sustainability and climate action, with a range of initiatives and programs designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy, and build resilience to the impacts of climate change.
In 2019, Ithaca became one of the first cities in the world to commit to a Green New Deal, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. The city's Green New Deal plan includes a range of strategies and actions, from retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency to developing community solar projects to creating green jobs and workforce development programs.
Ithaca is also home to several innovative sustainability projects and organizations, such as EcoVillage at Ithaca, a pioneering co-housing community that combines sustainable living with social and economic justice; and the Ithaca 2030 District, a collaborative effort to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in the downtown area.
At the same time, Ithaca faces significant challenges related to climate change and sustainability, from the impacts of extreme weather events and flooding to the need to transition away from fossil fuels and build a more resilient and equitable economy. To address these challenges, Ithaca will need to continue to innovate and collaborate, building on its strengths in education, research, and community engagement to create a more sustainable and just future for all.
Conclusion
From its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene to its world-class universities and progressive values, Ithaca is a truly special place that has something to offer everyone. Whether you're a student, a retiree, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, you'll find plenty to love about this small but mighty city in the heart of the Finger Lakes.
At the same time, Ithaca is not without its challenges and contradictions, from the affordability crisis and town-gown tensions to the urgent need for climate action and social justice. As Ithaca looks to the future, it will need to grapple with these challenges head-on, drawing on its deep reserves of creativity, compassion, and community spirit to build a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient future for all.
Ultimately, what sets Ithaca apart is not just its natural and cultural assets, but its people - the students and scholars, the artists and activists, the entrepreneurs and visionaries who make this city such a dynamic and inspiring place to be. Whether you're a newcomer or a lifelong resident, Ithaca has a way of capturing your heart and imagination, inviting you to be part of something bigger than yourself and to make a difference in the world.
So if you're looking for a place to learn and grow, to explore and create, to connect and collaborate, look no further than Ithaca. With its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, this little city in upstate New York is truly one of a kind and a place that will stay with you long after you've left its rolling hills and shimmering lakes behind.