As well as the academic and cultural aspects of the city, there are areas of outstanding natural beauty just a short drive away from the city centre. If you visit during October or November, you will be greeted by a canopy resplendent in oranges and browns so it is very popular with amateur and serious artists, as well as those who enjoy hiking. Arts and culture are very important to the local identity of Ithaca and visitors should also make a point to visit the acclaimed Sciencenter in town which promises an action packed, hands-on experience for the whole family. When booking your flight to Ithaca, bear in mind that the climate is temperate so, between December and February, it can get very fresh. This is also the ideal time to avail of the outdoor activities in Buttermilk Falls National Park. As well as the main attraction of nine waterfalls, in this reserve there is sublime fishing and hunting excursions as well as entertainment for the children.
From a central location in Ithaca, there is no need to hire a car because all attractions and amenities are close at hand; Ithaca is a smallish city with a population of around 30,000. Local bus services are tolerable but travelling by taxi is affordable and convenient for many visitors. However, if you are not in a hurry, Ithaca can be easily traversed on foot and this way, you won’t miss a thing.
Ithaca is served by Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport (ITH). There are no scheduled long haul flights from here but there are regular flights to Ithaca from Boston, Montreal, Washington DC and Cleveland Ohio, amongst other destinations. If your trip to Ithaca is part of a larger itinerary, transport links are as reliable as one would expect of a world city. From the airport, Ithaca city centre is about three miles (4.8 km) away by taxi or coach.