Ithaca Fall Activities Guide

waterfall with fall foliage

Autumn in Ithaca is more than just a season—it’s a full sensory experience. Fiery leaves, orchard-fresh apples, cozy sweaters, and clear skies all come together to create the perfect backdrop for a fall getaway. Whether you’re here for the hiking trails, the harvest festivals, or the wine tastings, La Tourelle makes the ideal home base for your seasonal escape.

Scenic Fall Foliage Hikes

Fall is prime time to hit the trails, and La Tourelle’s direct access to Buttermilk Falls makes it easy to get started. Wander through golden forests, past waterfalls, and up to stunning overlooks. For even more leaf-peeping, check out:

  • Cornell Botanic Gardens

  • Black Diamond Trail

  • Robert Treman’s Upper Gorge Trail

  • Sapsucker Woods

  • Bear Trail at Buttermilk Falls

  • Cayuga Waterfront Trail

Apple Season is Here

There’s something nostalgic about fall at a Finger Lakes orchard. Pick your own apples at Indian Creek Farm, stock up on cider donuts, or catch the Apple Harvest Festival downtown for three days of live music, handmade crafts, and farm-fresh treats.

And if hard cider’s your thing, stop by local producers like South Hill Cider or Black Diamond to celebrate Cider Week with small-batch pours and panoramic views.

More Autumn Adventures

  • Take a drive down the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway or around Cornell’s campus for some of the best foliage views.

  • Hop on a Cayuga Lake boat cruise and enjoy the changing leaves from the water.

  • Get spooky with a haunted history tour through downtown Ithaca.

  • Stroll through the Ithaca Farmers Market and shop for fresh produce, handmade goods, and local wine.

Plan Your Fall Getaway

Back at La Tourelle, unwind with a seasonal spa treatment, warm up by the fire, or enjoy dinner and drinks at The Lounge. Our 15-acre property is beautiful year-round—but it’s especially magical when the maples turn gold. Explore our rooms and suites and plan your fall escape to the Finger Lakes.