Ithaca, NY: Popular Spots and Local Staples

 by Malika Sharapova '16

Collegetown, and Ithaca as a whole, offer a plethora of wonderful things to do on and off campus. Collegetown alone hosts a vast array of restaurants as well as bars and cafes. From getting bubble tea after class at the Old Teahouse, or the newer Yogurt, Tea, Salad, to satisfying late-night pizza cravings at CTP, and to enjoying Wednesday night fishbowls (for those 21 and older) at the always vibrant and packed Level B, it is difficult to run out of options in Collegetown. However, for those who have tried all there is to sample at Collegetown, Ithaca commons and the surrounding area offer an enticing, off-campus alternative. Ithaca is an incredibly welcoming city, and has many events, activities, and shopping opportunities throughout the semester. From the annual Applefest and Porchfest, to the weekly Ithaca Farmer’s Market, it is always possible to find something fun to do in the commons during your spare time. I can never get enough of the Ithaca Farmer’s Market because of the delicious food and the ever-changing booths, and all that the Farmer’s Market has to offer is simply a fifteen-minute walk from Collegetown. One of my favorite stops when I visit the Farmer’s Market is the booth selling honey and maple syrup. The honey sticks are addictively sweet, and the maple cotton candy is always a unique treat. The various types of international street food offered at the Farmer’s Market are also always a pleasant surprise. Ithaca and Cornell boast some of the best cuisine in the area, and the compliment comes from a girl who lives in New York City, a city known for its amazing food.  Applefest and Porchfest are unique events every student at Cornell should experience at least once during their undergraduate career. Applefest, also known as the Apple Harvest Festival, occurs in October, and as per the city’s description, “is a great introduction to the rich farm and artist community of Ithaca.” The treats at the Festival, like candied apples and cider donuts are great, but the wine and cider sold at every other booth are even better. I have gone to Applefest every year I have been at Cornell, and always look forward to the experience. Porchfest, usually occurs in September, and is a musical festival that features and promotes local bands. The festival has a unique twist: bands play on their own or on a friend’s porch and festival goers can walk around and listen to a variety of great music, for free! For a college student short on funds, Ithaca definitely offers an impressive variety of things to do and see. With how busy Cornell students are, it isn’t necessary to reserve an entire day to experience all that Ithaca has to offer. Besides Porchfest, Applefest, and similar events, Ithaca itself is a nice and quick getaway from campus responsibilities. I love to look around the little boutiques all around the commons, enjoy amazing coffee and pastries at Gimme! Coffee and finish it all off with an Italian soda or float at the Green Street Market. Returning to the library and getting back on track is always made a little easier after a stroll around Ithaca.