Get Bubble Tea at The Old Teahouse
Maybe it’s just me. But I never heard of this wonderful phenomenon until my first year at Ithaca. This tiny shop is nestled in between other unique restaurants in Collegetown, right outside of Cornell University. Drive by too fast and you just might miss it. They specialize in tons of different tea flavors, including everything from passionfruit to peach. And on the bottom of every cup, there are chewy little tapioca balls. Visit The Old Teahouse for an interesting, delicious, and refreshing drink.
Climb to the Top of Buttermilk Falls
I attended college here for three years and didn’t make it to the falls until the summer after my sophomore year. What a natural wonder I was missing out on! Buttermilk Falls State Park is located right outside the city of Ithaca, tucked in just far enough that it is easy to miss. There are dozens of picnic tables there, so pack a lunch and go with some friends. You’ll need them for encouragement as you climb the trail that runs right along side the falls. But when you get to the top it is totally worth it. Don’t forget your camera.
Check Out the Beautiful Pieces at the Ithaca Antique Center
I know this isn’t technically right down the road, but I love antiques. Especially ones that can still be used. The Ithaca Antique Center is different from other antique shops in this area because it is a warehouse that displays pieces from around 75 different dealers. It will take you all day to investigate each and every wonderful trinket, but it is definitely worth it. On my first trip, I left with a pair of real cowboy boots, 1970s style. That was enough to convince me to come back again.
Head Back to Collegetown for a Cream Cheese and Nutella Bagel at CTB
Call me crazy. This was my own confectionary creation, and consider yourself warned, it may result in a sugar coma. But it is so worth it. If sweet treats aren’t really your style, Collegetown Bagels (CTB) has tons of different bagel sandwiches that are sure to tickle your fancy. If you stop in, make sure to introduce yourself to Paula. She is the coolest bagel slinger I’ve ever known.
Go Gorge Jumping
Honestly, I have never done this. But I am definitely in the minority. Ask around and I am sure you will find a local who would love to introduce you to this heart-racing activity. Maybe before I graduate I can work up the courage. Maybe not.
Make Some Money by Selling Clothing to Trader K’s
Leave it to a broke college student to find any way to make some extra cash. Go through your old clothing, shoes, and accessories. Pick out the items you want to sell and take them down to this used clothing store in the Commons. It only takes them about 10-15 minutes to evaluate how much your items are worth. Then they give you store credit or cash on the spot. Good deal in my opinion. Once, I walked out with sixty bucks!
Order Breakfast Anytime at the State Diner
I’ve been there at 3 am. I’ve been there at 2 pm. No matter the time of day, the food is always delicious. Breakfast is served all day, and the lunch selections are nothing to scoff at. Keeping in mind my incredible sweet tooth, you can only guess what I order every time I go: chocolate chip pancakes. And if I’m feeling skinny, a chocolate milkshake. You just can’t go wrong at this diner.
Buy Yourself an “Ithaca is Gorges” T-Shirt
You haven’t truly experienced Ithaca until you own one of these tees. Enough said.
Pick Up Some Old Records at Autumn Leaves Used Books
There’s something fulfilling about glancing through old records. It makes you feel more “worldly”. This used bookstore is located right in the center of the Commons, and it houses thousands of different paperbacks, hardcovers, records, etc. If records aren’t really your thing, then pick up a book and read it right in the center of the Commons. The relaxing atmosphere is perfect for any casual reader looking to get lost in a story.
Head to Aladdin’s for Mediterranean Cuisine
This is by far my favorite place to go to dinner. The pasta dishes are out of this world, and the hummus and garlic flatbread appetizer is sure to satisfy even the toughest critic. Aladdin’s is located in Collegetown, right across the street from The Old Teahouse. Am I sensing a potential dinner and drinks combo?
