Ithaca, New York, is a vibrant city that comes alive at night. Beyond its renowned Cornell University, Ithaca offers a diverse range of activities perfect for evening adventures. Whether you're a student, a visitor, or a local looking for something new, this guide explores 33 unforgettable things to do at night in Ithaca. This comprehensive list caters to various interests, ensuring you'll find the perfect nighttime activity, no matter your preference.
Exploring Ithaca's Nightlife: Bars & Breweries
1. Sample Local Craft Brews: Ithaca boasts a thriving craft beer scene. Visit breweries like Ithaca Beer Company, Purity Brewing Company, or Three Fingers Brewing Company for a taste of locally brewed goodness. Enjoy live music, sample flights, or simply relax with a pint.
2. Enjoy Live Music at a Local Pub: Many pubs and bars in Ithaca feature live music throughout the week. Check local event listings to find blues, jazz, folk, or rock performances that suit your taste. The Nines is a popular choice, known for its eclectic musical acts.
3. Sip Cocktails at a Trendy Bar: Ithaca's cocktail bars offer creative and sophisticated drinks. Explore the mixology scene at places known for their unique ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails.
4. Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard: Several vineyards just outside Ithaca offer evening wine tastings. Enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by scenic views and delicious wines.
Cultural & Artistic Pursuits After Dark
5. Catch a Show at the State Theatre: Experience a variety of performances at the historic State Theatre of Ithaca, from Broadway shows and concerts to independent films.
6. Attend a Performance at Cornell University: Cornell University often hosts performances by its renowned arts departments. Check their events calendar for theatre productions, musical concerts, and dance performances.
7. Visit the Johnson Museum of Art (Evening Events): While not always open late, the Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell occasionally hosts evening events, including special exhibitions and lectures. Check their website for a schedule of night-time offerings.
8. Explore Ithaca's Art Galleries: Several art galleries in downtown Ithaca stay open late on certain evenings or host special evening events. Discover local artists and unique artwork during your night out.
Outdoor Adventures Under the Stars
9. Stargazing at a Dark Sky Location: Ithaca's location offers opportunities for stargazing. Find a spot away from city lights for an unforgettable view of the night sky. Consider visiting a nearby park or even venturing a little further outside of town.
10. Night Hike on a Scenic Trail: Numerous trails around Ithaca offer beautiful night hikes. Pack a flashlight, wear appropriate shoes, and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature under the stars. Remember to prioritize safety and stick to well-lit trails.
11. A Nighttime Stroll Along the Waterfront: Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the Cayuga Lake waterfront. The views of the lake illuminated by the city lights create a magical ambiance.
12. Attend an Outdoor Concert or Event: During warmer months, check local event listings for outdoor concerts and festivals that take place in the evenings.
Food & Drink Experiences After Sunset
13. Indulge in a Delicious Dinner at a Fine Dining Restaurant: Ithaca's culinary scene includes several fine dining restaurants offering exceptional cuisine and an elegant ambiance.
14. Enjoy a Casual Dinner at a Local Eatery: Explore Ithaca's diverse range of casual dining options, from cozy cafes to vibrant taverns. Try a local favorite, and savor the community atmosphere.
15. Late-Night Pizza or Ice Cream: After a night out, satisfy your cravings with a slice of delicious pizza or a scoop of creamy ice cream from a local spot.
16. Coffee Shop Hopping: Ithaca has numerous coffee shops that offer a cozy atmosphere to unwind and socialize with friends into the night.
Unique & Unconventional Nighttime Activities
17. Attend a Ghost Tour: Embrace the spooky side of Ithaca with a guided ghost tour of the city's historic districts. Learn about local legends and urban myths.
18. Bowling Night: Enjoy a classic night of bowling with friends at one of Ithaca's bowling alleys.
19. Visit a Bookstore (Late Night Events): Some bookstores may host evening events such as author readings or poetry slams. Check local listings for opportunities.
20. Escape Room Challenge: Test your problem-solving skills and teamwork with friends by participating in an escape room challenge.
21. Game Night at a Board Game Cafe: Many board game cafes offer a welcoming atmosphere to spend an evening playing board games and socializing.
Exploring Ithaca's Natural Beauty After Dark
22. Night Photography: Capture the beauty of Ithaca at night through photography. Explore different locations and experiment with lighting and long exposures.
23. Drive or Bike along the Scenic Gorge Trail: (Depending on season & lighting) The Gorge Trail offers stunning views, even at night. Be mindful of safety and lighting conditions.
24. Lakeside Picnic: Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a romantic evening by Cayuga Lake under the stars.
25. Watch the Sunset over Cayuga Lake: While not strictly nighttime, catching the sunset over Cayuga Lake offers a beautiful transition into the evening.
Activities for the Cornell Community
26. Attend a Cornell Sporting Event: Cheer on the Cornell Big Red at a nighttime sporting event, such as a basketball or hockey game.
27. Explore the Cornell University Campus at Night: The Cornell campus is breathtaking at night, particularly the iconic McGraw Tower. Take a nighttime stroll to appreciate the architecture and atmosphere.
Relaxation & Rejuvenation at Night
28. Relax at a Spa (Evening Appointments): Many spas in Ithaca offer evening appointments for massages, facials, and other relaxing treatments.
29. Enjoy a Quiet Night In: Sometimes the best night out is a night in. Curl up with a good book, watch a movie, or simply relax and unwind.
Beyond the City: Nighttime Adventures Nearby
30. Visit a Nearby Stargazing Site: Escape the city lights and find a nearby location ideal for stargazing. Several dark sky locations exist within a reasonable driving distance.
31. Drive Through Scenic Country Roads: Enjoy a scenic nighttime drive through the beautiful countryside surrounding Ithaca.
32. Visit a Nearby Town for a Different Nightlife Experience: Explore neighboring towns for a change of scenery and a different type of nightlife.
33. Take a Nighttime Train Ride: For a unique experience, consider a nighttime train ride through the picturesque landscape.
This comprehensive guide provides a diverse range of options for enjoying the nightlife in Ithaca. Remember to check websites and local listings for hours, schedules, and age restrictions. Have a fantastic night out exploring all that Ithaca has to offer!
