Summer and Fall

Summer activities: summer by the lake is amazing!  The sun was pretty shy this past summer but usually the sun is shining for part of the day and there are midday showers and thunder.  The weather in the summer is erratic and changes every 15-30 minutes at times.  It reminds me of a tropical place like Costa Rica.  I would HIGHLY suggest renting a boat on Cayuga Lake and exploring.  It will make you have pride in where you live- at least it did for me.  Suggested activities: tubing, boating, jet skiing, swimming in the many gorges, visiting the many vineyards, farmer's market, various state parks, etc.  Summer by the lake (with bug repellent and sunscreen) is like no other! Cool story- the lakes were formed during the last ice age!

 

Stewart Park on Cayuga Lake

Robert Treman State Park

Fall in Ithaca is absolutely "gorges!"  <-- I'm sure you noticed this on every shirt and mug in town.  This is a reference to the many gorges in town.  As a Californian, I thought summer was my favorite season until I saw the vibrant tree leaves in Ithaca in autumn.  I would suggest venturing out to Watkins Glenn in mid October.  It is an unforgettable sight!  A drive or bus ride to NYC from Ithaca will also show you the true beauty of central NY.  Various festivals and activities in town in the fall including: the Apple Festival, Ithaca Chili Cook-off with over 30 restaurants participating, Oktoberfest, Ithaca Film Festival, Restaurant Week, etc.

 

Stewart Park

Cornell Campus in the fall

Winter prep: invest in snow tires if you have a car, a very warm winter coat and snow boots.  I would suggest purchasing vitamin D as it is a problem here in the winter since the sun pretty much hides all winter.  Winter is long but magical at times and filled with snow activities nearby.


When in doubt, visit this page.  And this one.