Ithaca Commons, Ithaca (must see)

Ithaca Commons is the vibrant heart of downtown Ithaca, and serves as a cultural, economic, and social hub for residents and visitors alike. This award-winning, four-block pedestrian mall is home to over 100 independently owned businesses, offering an eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants. The Commons spans a two-block segment of State Street between Cayuga and Aurora Streets, with an additional one-block section known as "Bank Alley" extending north along Tioga Street.

Known for its dynamic atmosphere, Ithaca Commons is a year-round destination for festivals, performances, and public events. Highlights include the Ithaca Festival in early June, the Downtown Ithaca Apple Harvest Festival in fall, and the Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-Off in winter. The Bernie Milton Pavilion, named after a beloved local musician, hosts free concerts and other community performances. The Commons is also the starting point of the Sagan Planet Walk, a ¾-mile scale model of the Solar System honoring Cornell University astronomer Carl Sagan, which stretches to the Sciencenter.

Visitors to the Ithaca Commons can explore an array of unique offerings, from specialty boutiques like Benjamin Peters and Petrune to artisanal shops such as Ithaca Sheepskin and 15 STEPS. Food enthusiasts can enjoy gourmet cuisine, local wines and ciders at Cellar d’Or, and specialty products like Cornell Dairy ice cream. With its close proximity to Cornell University and Ithaca College, the Commons is a popular gathering spot for students, locals, and tourists.