New Yorkers, take note: the best town to visit in the U.S. this year isn’t across the country or somewhere sweltering—it’s tucked away just a few hours from NYC in the Finger Lakes, and it’s an absolute summer dream.
CNN Travel just named Ithaca, NY the #1 best town to visit in America for 2025, and once you see it for yourself, you’ll get why.
Set on the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca is packed with more than 150 waterfalls within a 10-mile radius, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
But don’t let the scenery fool you—this upstate gem is more than just pretty views. It’s a vibrant college town (home to Cornell University and Ithaca College) with a thriving arts scene, cozy cider houses, and one of the best summer farmers markets in the state.
So if you’re looking to escape NYC’s July 4th crowds—or just want a weekend trip with lakeside wine tastings, leafy trails, and small-town charm—Ithaca is calling.
Waterfalls, Wine & That Fresh Mountain Air
Start with the waterfalls—Ithaca is famously “gorges,” after all. That iconic town slogan isn’t just a pun, it’s a promise: there are more than 150 waterfalls within a 10-mile radius.
The Cascadilla Gorge Trail cuts right through downtown, guiding you past a dramatic series of falls as you climb toward Cornell’s campus. Just minutes away, Ithaca Falls plunges 150 feet over ancient rock into the heart of the city.
Then there’s the trio of nearby state parks that each bring their own flavor:
- Buttermilk Falls for a refreshing gorge hike and creekside picnic spots
- Treman State Park for dramatic cliffs, swimming holes, and 12 stunning waterfalls including Lucifer Falls
- Taughannock Falls for the tallest free-falling waterfall east of the Mississippi (yes, it’s even taller than Niagara)
With so many scenic trails and cool, misty overlooks, exploring Ithaca’s waterfalls is easily one of the most refreshing ways to beat the NYC heat this summer.
But let’s talk wine. Ithaca sits at the gateway to Finger Lakes Wine Country, home to over 130 wineries and vineyards.
Just up the western shore of Cayuga Lake, you’ll find Buttonwood Grove Winery, known for its crisp whites, panoramic views, and live music on the lawn. A little farther, Hosmer Winery and Sheldrake Point offer scenic tastings and laid-back atmospheres that are perfect for a summer afternoon.
Prefer something with a little more fizz? South Hill Cider, just a few minutes south of downtown, serves up small-batch cider flights with a backdrop of rolling orchards. Their open-air tasting room often features live music and food pop-ups, making it one of the most relaxing summer spots around.
Farmers Markets, Festivals & Small-Town Summer Vibes
Beyond the trails and tastings, what really sets Ithaca apart is its community vibe. You’ll find it at the Ithaca Farmers Market, where locals gather to snack on hand pies and vegan donuts by the water.
You’ll feel it in the bustling Commons downtown—a pedestrian-only zone filled with independent shops, cozy cafes, and frequent pop-up festivals.
And thanks to the universities, there’s no shortage of culture:
- Film buffs can hit up Cinemapolis or Cornell Cinema
- Art lovers can stroll through The Johnson Museum of Art (with rooftop views of the lake)
- Bird nerds (and kids) can explore the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Discovery Center
The 10 best towns to visit in America in 2025, according to CNN Travel
- Ithaca, New York
- Missoula, Montana
- Asheville, North Carolina
- Bend, Oregon
- Annapolis, Maryland
- Petaluma, California
- Las Cruces, New Mexico
- Northampton, Massachusetts
- Clarksdale, Mississippi
- Rapid City, South Dakota
How to get to Ithaca, NY from NYC
Getting to Ithaca is easy—and way less stressful than JFK on a holiday weekend.
- By Car: It’s about a 4.5-hour drive from NYC. Just head north on I-87 to I-81 and enjoy the scenic ride.
- By Bus: Greyhound and OurBus run direct routes from Port Authority.
- By Plane: If you’re short on time or going full vaca-mode, Ithaca Tompkins International Airport has direct flights from JFK and Newark.