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Top Outdoor Activities In Ithaca, New York

Step into the heart of Ithaca, where waterfalls tumble through gorges and vibrant College Town buzzes with life. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a Finger Lakes regular, these outdoor activities offer the perfect way to view Ithaca’s must-see sights up close. Explore iconic campuses and lively streets as you uncover what makes this Waterfall Wonderland unforgettable. Adventure awaits around every corner—let your journey begin!

Adventurers exploring in Ithaca!

Outdoor Experiences in Ithaca, New York

Get ready for an adventure-packed lineup of outdoor activities in Ithaca, each expertly designed to showcase the city’s energy and charm. Our experiences blend creative challenges with sightseeing, guiding you from the historic halls of Cornell University to the spirited atmosphere of local hotspots. Every activity is unique—expect laughter, friendly competition, and surprises that reveal why Ithaca is a top destination for outdoor fun. Dive in and discover something new at every turn!

Top Rated
Big Red Cornell card image
green star 5.0 (724 reviews)

Big Red Cornell

Cornell University, Ithaca, New York

Enjoy all the green space on the Big Red campus of Cornell University!

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From Music to Monuments: An IC Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (66 reviews)

From Music to Monuments: An IC Hunt

Ithaca College, Ithaca, New York

Why did the student ace Ithaca? Because this scavenger hunt tests your wit, not finals!...

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Ithaca Bar Crawl card image
green star 5.0 (63 reviews)

Ithaca Bar Crawl

Downtown, Ithaca, New York

Discover Ithaca's nightlife with a self-guided, gamified bar crawl featuring trivia and...

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More Hunts Nearby

Can't find what you're looking for in Ithaca? Check out these great scavenger hunts within 30 miles.

18.8 mi away
Moravia‘s Main Street Madness Hunt Scavenger Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (274 reviews)

Moravia‘s Main Street Madness Hunt Scavenger Hunt

Downtown, Moravia, New York

Moravia: where history flourishes! Unearth the treasures of downtown on our thrilling...

See Top Rated Ithaca Hunt
19.3 mi away
Winning Watkins Glen Adventure Scavenger Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (320 reviews)

Winning Watkins Glen Adventure Scavenger Hunt

Downtown, Watkins Glen, New York

Get ready to explore Watkins Glen like never before! This scavenger hunt will lead you...

See Top Rated Ithaca Hunt
19.7 mi away
 Cortland scavenger hunt card image
green star 5.0 (272 reviews)

Cortland scavenger hunt

Downtown, Cortland, New York

Cortland is apple-y amazing! Join our two-mile scavenger hunt Downtown for historic...

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24.1 mi away
Marathon Merriment Hunt Scavenger Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (262 reviews)

Marathon Merriment Hunt Scavenger Hunt

Downtown, Marathon, New York

Race to treasures in Marathon, NY‘s Downtown district! Join our scavenger hunt for...

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28.6 mi away
Eagle Eye: The Elmira Campus Quest card image
green star 5.0 (69 reviews)

Eagle Eye: The Elmira Campus Quest

Elmira College, Elmira, New York

Explore Elmira College with a self-guided, app-led tour packed with trivia and photo...

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28.8 mi away
Elmira‘s Enchanted Escapade Scavenger Hunt card image
green star 5.0 (276 reviews)

Elmira‘s Enchanted Escapade Scavenger Hunt

Downtown, Elmira, New York

Join our thrilling scavenger hunt in Downtown Elmira, NY! Uncover hidden gems, from River...

See Top Rated Ithaca Hunt
about outdoor activities

An Epic Ithaca, New York experience

Experience pure excitement as you explore Cornell University Scavenger Hunt,Ithaca College Scavenger Hunt,Ithaca Bar Crawl alongside iconic landmarks and tucked-away treasures throughout Ithaca—from colorful street art corners to historic plazas.
Gather your friends or family for trivia quests, daring photo missions, and playful challenges that rack up points in our easy-to-use app—compare scores instantly and share big wins together!
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How Our Ithaca, New York Outdoor Activities Work

Our expert team has researched over 3,050 cities—including more than 50 across the Northeast—to design immersive outdoor activities tailored just for places like Ithaca. Each experience blends clear directions with custom routes featuring challenge quizzes at must-see stops.

As you explore on foot through each activity, tackle trivia at historical markers or snap creative photos at public art installations—all tracked via our award-winning app that tallies your points so you can compare scores citywide.

Man on a scavenger hunt walking tour
Hunt Map Ithaca
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Top Outdoor Attractions In Ithaca

Outdoor activities in Ithaca take you on a whirlwind tour of it's most celebrated attractions—from ivy-clad university quads to art-filled alleyways and bustling bar scenes near Cayuga Lake. Experience vibrant murals, storied landmarks, and hidden gardens that capture the city’s eclectic spirit. Each site comes alive with interactive challenges designed for all ages, making every outing memorable whether you are sightseeing or planning a day trip.

Click on each location to see related activities.

1

Morrill Hall

Explore the roots of Cornell at Morrill Hall. This historic gem, nestled in the Finger Lakes Region, is perfect for outdoor photo challenges and local trivia. Discover the legend of it's time capsule!
2

Bailey Hall

Pause at Bailey Hall and soak in the Upstate NY charm. Known for it's rich acoustics, this spot is a favorite for outdoor concerts and local trivia. A must-visit on your Ithaca adventure.
3

Albert R. Mann Library

Mann Library stands out with it's striking design in Cornell Town. Once used for weather research, it is a unique spot to snap photos and enjoy Ithaca's scenic vibes.
4

Triphammer Falls

Experience Gorges Galore at Cornell Falls, where eco-friendly vibes meet history. Perfect for photo challenges, this spot offers breathtaking views and occasional rainbow mist after rain.
5

Sibley Hall

Sibley Hall blends seamlessly into it's surroundings—an essential stop on any walking tour through College Town USA. Locals whisper it was meant to be taller; enjoy the Scenic Ithacan delight!
6

Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art

Marvel at the museum's concrete silhouette against Cayuga Lake—a landmark loved by art enthusiasts. It's unique shape preserves Libe Slope views, making it ideal for outdoor exploration games.
7

McGraw Hall

McGraw Hall's classic facade tells tales of Cornell's past—a walking tour highlight with prime spots for local trivia and fun facts about it's foundation.
8

McGraw Tower

Listen to McGraw Tower’s iconic bells play daily since 1868—a tradition that fills the air with music during your campus walking tour.
9

Andrew Dickson White House

Explore the intricate carvings of this landmark, a must-see in Cornell Town. Perfect for photo challenges, it offers a unique glimpse into Ithaca's artistic flair and local legends.
10

Whalen Center for Music

Discover outdoor fun in the Gorges City. Explore hidden corners and enjoy Cayuga Lake views. Locals say the best photo ops are at sunrise. Ithaca is an eco-friendly adventureland for all explorers.
11

Gannett Center Library

Step into Waterfall Wonderland and feel the mist on your face. Outdoor activities abound near Cornell Town, where locals picnic by the falls. Ithaca Farmers Market is just a short walk away.
12

William Grant Egbert Monument

Enjoy a day trip through Upstate NY Getaway spots with scenic trails and local art installations. College Town USA is known for it's vibrant outdoor events—locals love sunset walks here.
13

Textor Disc

Take in Cayuga Lake views while exploring eco-friendly paths lined with wildflowers. The Wine Trail Hub buzzes with activity—insiders recommend visiting during golden hour for magical light.
14

Class of 1992 Armillary Sphere Sundial

Outdoor enthusiasts flock here for hiking trails that wind through lush greenery and past historic landmarks. Locals whisper about secret picnic spots only found by keen explorers.
15

Athletics and Events Center

Explore Finger Lakes Region charm with riverside strolls and birdwatching opportunities galore. Eco-friendly adventureland vibes make this a favorite among those seeking peaceful escapes.
16

The Rhine House

Discover the majestic Ithaca Falls, a must-see in the Gorges City. Feel the mist on your face as you enjoy this natural wonder, a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Ithaca.
17

Liquid State Brewing Company

Explore the Cornell Botanic Gardens, an eco-friendly adventureland in College Town USA. Wander through diverse plant collections and enjoy peaceful outdoor activities in Ithaca's natural beauty.
18

The Watershed

Experience Cayuga Lake Views, a highlight of any Upstate NY Getaway. Engage in outdoor activities like kayaking or picnicking along it's shores while soaking up the scenic beauty of Ithaca.
19

Bar Argos

Visit the Ithaca Farmers Market, a vibrant hub for local produce and crafts. This outdoor market offers an authentic taste of Gorges City life and is a delightful stop for any visitor.
20

The Westy

Hike through Buttermilk Falls State Park, where cascading waterfalls await. This Waterfall Wonderland offers trails that lead to breathtaking views, perfect for outdoor adventures in Ithaca.
21

Deep Dive

Engage with interactive exhibits at the Sciencenter, where learning meets fun. This family-friendly attraction encourages exploration and curiosity about science in an engaging outdoor setting.
1

Morrill Hall

Explore the roots of Cornell at Morrill Hall. This historic gem, nestled in the Finger Lakes Region, is perfect for outdoor photo challenges and local trivia. Discover the legend of it's time capsule!
2

Bailey Hall

Pause at Bailey Hall and soak in the Upstate NY charm. Known for it's rich acoustics, this spot is a favorite for outdoor concerts and local trivia. A must-visit on your Ithaca adventure.
3

Albert R. Mann Library

Mann Library stands out with it's striking design in Cornell Town. Once used for weather research, it is a unique spot to snap photos and enjoy Ithaca's scenic vibes.

See our Top Outdoor Activities By Neighborhood

From lively College Town USA to scenic areas along Cayuga Lake Views, our outdoor activities let you explore neighborhoods known for their character and excitement. Each area offers fresh perspectives on what to do in Ithaca—click on these neighborhoods to see the related activity.

28.8 mi away
Cornell University card image
green star 5.0 (1 reviews)

Cornell University

Cornell University, Ithaca, New York

Cornell University in Ithaca is a top attraction with it's historic landmarks like Morrill Hall and Sibley Hall. Perfect for sightseeing, this area offers a blend of...

See Top Rated Ithaca Hunt
28.8 mi away
Ithaca College card image
green star 5.0 (1 reviews)

Ithaca College

Ithaca College, Ithaca, New York

Explore Ithaca College, where campus culture meets Gorges City adventure. Stroll past the Gannett Center Library and William Grant Egbert Monument for a sightseeing...

See Top Rated Ithaca Hunt
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12,000+ Reviews For our Hunts

See what people say about our outdoor activities in Ithaca

Our outdoor activities have earned glowing reviews from happy adventurers across Ithaca, New York—'The best way to see hidden gems!' With five-star ratings rolling in, locals and visitors alike trust us for unforgettable experiences packed with fun and discovery.

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This walking tour through Cornell University was engaging and informative. A must-do experience when visiting the beautiful city of Ithaca!
Daniel A.
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Loved using the ScavengerHunt.com app to guide us through Albert R. Mann Library! A great way to discover the best spots in town.
Sophia W.
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We had so much fun on this scavenger hunt style tour around McGraw Tower. Perfect for families wanting to explore together!
James R.
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Exploring Bailey Hall was a highlight of our trip. It’s a great thing to do in Ithaca, full of fascinating stories and sights.
Laura M.
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The self-guided tour at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art was such a cool experience. Highly recommend for art lovers visiting Ithaca.
Chris G.
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This outdoor activity around Triphammer Falls was breathtaking. A fantastic way to enjoy nature while learning about Ithaca's history.
Jessica D.
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What an amazing date idea! We explored Sibley Hall together and enjoyed every moment of this interactive adventure.
David B.
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A fun way to see iconic spots like Morrill Hall. This experience is perfect for anyone looking for things to do in Ithaca.
Sarah W.
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This was a great walking tour around Cornell University. I loved discovering hidden gems and learning about local history.
Michael S.
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I had a blast exploring the Andrew Dickson White House. Such a unique experience in Ithaca with lots of history to uncover.
Emily J.
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I really enjoyed this scavenger hunt style tour through the neighborhood. It made discovering local landmarks even more exciting!
Brian C.
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What a cool thing to do in Ithaca! We learned so much while exploring McGraw Hall and its beautiful surroundings.
Megan H.
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This interactive experience at Herbert F Johnson Museum of Art was so much fun! Highly recommend it for anyone visiting Ithaca.
Chris L.
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A must-do experience in Ithaca! I loved finding interesting facts about Andrew Dickson White House during my tour.
Laura G.
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The walking tour of Cornell University was amazing. I appreciated how it highlighted the unique architecture around campus.
Daniel M.
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Exploring Triphammer Falls was such a great outdoor activity. The scenery was stunning and made for an enjoyable walk.
Jessica W.
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This was a perfect date idea in the Big Peach. We discovered hidden gems while enjoying each other's company.
David B.
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We loved our family outing at McGraw Tower. The kids enjoyed the scavenger hunt and learning about local history.
Sarah D.
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What a fantastic experience walking around Sibley Hall. The history here is fascinating and made for an unforgettable day.
Michael S.
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I had a blast exploring Bailey Hall on this self-guided tour. It was a fun way to see the historic spots in Ithaca.
Emily J.
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I really loved using ScavengerHunt.com for my adventure in Ithaca. It made exploring feel like a fun game!
James W.
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The McGraw Hall tour was engaging and informative. Perfect for anyone wanting to dive into Ithaca's rich culture!
Sophia L.
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This was an amazing way to explore the Cornell University neighborhood. We saw so many points of interest along the way.
Daniel H.
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Exploring Sibley Hall was such a cool thing to do in Ithaca. I highly recommend this interactive experience!
Laura M.
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A great family activity! The kids enjoyed discovering the Andrew Dickson White House while learning about its history.
Chris G.
star star star star star
We loved our self-guided tour of McGraw Tower. It provided a unique perspective on the iconic sights of Ithaca.
Jessica D.
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This outdoor experience at Triphammer Falls was breathtaking. A must-do for anyone looking to enjoy nature in Ithaca.
David B.
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What a fantastic date idea! Strolling through Bailey Hall was romantic and we learned interesting local facts.
Sarah W.
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Our walking tour around Cornell University was an unforgettable experience. We discovered so much history and beauty.
Michael S.
star star star star star
I had a blast exploring the Herbert F Johnson Museum of Art. It was such a fun way to see Ithaca's hidden gems.
Emily J.
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This experience made for a memorable date night! We explored beautiful locations and learned so much about our city together.
Brian M.
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A wonderful way to spend an afternoon! The walking tour through Andrew Dickson White House offered insights into Ithaca's rich past.
Amanda L.
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The self-guided tour at Morrill Hall was enlightening and enjoyable. I highly recommend it for anyone wanting to explore local history.
Chris W.
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This interactive experience allowed us to uncover unique spots around Cornell University. A must-do for anyone visiting Ithaca!
Laura M.
star star star star star
We had such a great time with ScavengerHunt.com! It was an engaging way to see iconic spots like the Herbert Johnson Museum of Art.
Daniel G.
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Exploring Triphammer Falls was an amazing outdoor activity. The views were stunning, making it one of my favorite things to do in Ithaca.
Jessica D.
star star star star star
This experience was perfect for my family. The kids loved discovering hidden gems around Sibley Hall during our fun walking tour.
David B.
star star star star star
What a fun date idea in the Big Peach! We wandered through Bailey Hall and enjoyed every moment of our adventure together.
Sarah W.
star star star star star
The walking tour around McGraw Hall was fantastic. I loved learning about the architecture while enjoying the lovely Ithaca scenery.
Michael S.
star star star star star
I had a blast exploring the Albert Mann Library on this self-guided tour. Such a cool way to discover Ithaca's history and beauty.
Emily J.

FAQs.

LOCAL INSIGHTS

Fun Ithaca Facts and Hidden Gems

Ithaca began as a trading post along Cayuga Lake before blossoming into one of New York’s most eco-friendly adventure hubs. It's nickname 'Gorges City' comes from over 150 spectacular waterfalls carved by ancient glaciers right inside town.

Cornell University was founded here in 1865 with a mission of inclusivity—and today it's sprawling hillt
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