Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life or an exciting trip with friends and family, Ithaca has something for everyone. A charming and vibrant city within New York’s Finger Lakes region, it offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure amidst nature. We drove 3.5 hours from Long Island to Ithaca for a quick weekend trip, and the picturesque town absolutely blew us away.

First, we explored Buttermilk Falls. True to its name, its cascading water has a frothy appearance almost like, well, buttermilk. The waterfall itself is about 165 feet tall and flows into a deep swimming hole. This becomes a popular spot for locals and tourists alike during the summer months.

To reach the falls, we hiked along the well-maintained trails that wind through lush forests and rocky terrain. Along the way, we were treated to stunning views of the surrounding gorges and valleys.

Our next stop was Robert Treman State Park, which covers more than 1,000 acres and features scenic trails and enchanting waterfalls. The most visited spot is the Enfield Falls swimming area. This incredible swimming hole sits at the base of a series of cascading waterfalls. Many visitors take turns jumping off the diving board when the pool is open. There are also plenty of picnic tables and grills nearby where you can enjoy a meal with family and friends.

After stopping by the Enfield Falls, we followed the Gorge Trail along Enfield Creek through a narrow gorge with several waterfalls along the way. This trail is considered moderately difficult due to its steep inclines and numerous stairs. However, it offers incredible views that are well worth the effort.

For more details on what to do during a long weekend in Ithaca, watch this video:

Olivia Taylor-Chew is a Long Island, New York based budget travel blogger who is on a mission to “See the World & Save a Dollar!” She is the co-founder of ChewsToExplore, a budget travel blog site and YouTube channel.