Explore the Art & Science Museums in Ithaca

The Finger Lakes region in New York is known for its wide-open spaces and 11 captivating lakes. But, The Finger Lakes offers an abundance of opportunities to explore this region in different ways. There are so many things to do in Ithaca, NY you are guaranteed to find the perfect vacation spot here. Ithaca is home to several museums to explore and learn about art and science. Our hotel of La Tourelle is conveniently located next to museums, restaurants, and hiking trails in Ithaca. Immerse yourself in nature on our 70 acres of private land and join us at your home away from home.

Johnson Museum of Art

Ithaca is home to one of the most prestigious schools in the nation: Cornell University. Cornell hosts its very own art museum on campus, which is free to the public. The Johnson Museum of Art contains over 40,000 works spanning over six millennia. From pre-Columbian sculptures to modern photography, this museum is a must-visit for art lovers. See the finest examples of prints, drawings, paintings, textiles, and ceramics from throughout the millennia. End your visit at the Cosmos exhibition, an homage to the Cornell astronomy professor Carl Sagan. 

Sciencenter

Now that you have science on the mind, we recommend checking out the Sciencenter. Discover our solar system on the Sagan Planet Walk during your visit. This scaled model of our solar system brings visitors to different buildings in towns as reference points. Download the SaganPlanetWalkAR app and watch the planets come alive. You can also see live amphibians, reptiles, and fish at the Saltonstall Animal Room. Get your hands in the touch tank to interact with sea stars and crabs. The Sciencenter has an array of exhibits for everyone to enjoy during your Ithaca vacation. 

Museum of the Earth

Take a journey through the ages at the Museum of the Earth. The exhibits chronicle the 4.5 billion years of Earth’s history. See the almost complete skeleton of an American mastodon that lived over 13,000 years ago! You can also find two different coral reef systems from the Indo-Pacific and the Caribbean here. The Museum of the Earth constantly brings in new exhibits for you to explore every time you visit. 

Your Private Getaway at La Tourelle 

Your getaway in Ithaca starts at La Tourelle. The private acreage provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of life. With proximity to some of the best things to do in Ithaca, NY, La Tourelle is the obvious choice for your vacation. Stay in one of our rooms and indulge in relaxation at our August Moon Spa. Check out all of the exciting activities in Ithaca on our news and updates page. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call us at 607-273-2734.