Cornell Botanic Gardens, Ithaca

The Cornell Botanic Gardens is a stunning natural retreat adjacent to Cornell University’s main campus. Encompassing approximately 175 acres of botanical gardens and the F. R. Newman Arboretum, along with over 4,000 acres of natural areas throughout the Ithaca region, it offers a diverse and picturesque landscape for visitors to explore. Established in 1935, the gardens feature themed areas such as a heritage vegetable garden, a winter garden, and the decorative arts flower garden. The arboretum showcases an impressive collection of trees and shrubs, including many native to New York State, making it a vital resource for both education and conservation.

Visitors can wander more than 8 miles of scenic trails that meander through waterfalls, gorges, bogs, and meadows, offering a mix of meticulously designed spaces and wild, untouched beauty. Highlights include Beebe Lake and Falls Creek, which features multiple waterfalls and some of the region’s most captivating scenery. The gardens also maintain four additional spaces on Cornell’s central campus, providing year-round access to nature’s splendor. Open daily and free of charge, the Cornell Botanic Gardens attract nature enthusiasts, students, and travelers alike, offering tours, workshops, lectures, and academic courses.

The gardens play a significant role in the academic and cultural life of Cornell University and the broader community. They are part of the Ithaca Discovery Trail network and host various annual events such as the "Fall In" festival, Arbor Day celebrations, and the Cornell Reunion 5 Mile Run. Their commitment to sustainability and education is reflected in their LEED-certified expansions and their role in scholarly research. With a history rooted in Cornell's early dedication to agriculture and the natural sciences, the Cornell Botanic Gardens continues to be a treasured site for learning, recreation, and inspiration.