The best things to do in Ithaca

“Helen Newman Bowling Center has new machines, disco-light sessions on request, and that just-right mix of leagues, open play, claw games and a jukebox vibe that feels wonderfully unpretentious. Bring your own snacks, rally a team for Wednesday leagues, or let the kids bumper-bowl while you chase a personal best.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, October 15, 2026

“When the weather refuses to cooperate, Eastlake Recreation Center keeps the fun rolling with a multi-level playground and huge ball pit, new pickleball courts, a state-of-the-art golf simulator, a game simulator with pirate-zombie dodgeball, and The Knight’s Den for axe throwing. Parties welcome.”

From the Cortland newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing a crisp skate-n-shoot, sharpening your edges for figure sessions, or curious about curling, The Rink keeps the ice busy with camps, clinics, and hockey programs. Bonus points for birthday parties and Sparx skate sharpening so you roll in and glide out.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, October 2, 2026

“When you want quality golf without fuss, Robert Trent Jones Golf Course at Cornell offers tee-time booking, a practice range, and memberships or student passes to keep you playing. Finish with a post-round bite at McCormick's at Moakley House and call it a day.”

From the Cortland newsletter, October 3, 2026

“From black and white classics to modern gems, Cornell Cinema keeps your watchlist lively, plus they roll out an outdoor summer series when the weather behaves. Repertoire deep cuts, festival shorts, and the occasional big-crowd favorite mean there’s always something better than scrolling at home.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 29, 2026

“Hillendale Golf Course is the local, public 18-hole track in the Finger Lakes with a proper driving range to get loose and a pavilion for post-round hangs. Online tee times, leagues, lessons, a pro shop and an on-site restaurant make it easy to play, practice, then linger like you meant to.”

From the Ithaca newsletter, September 22, 2026

“Squeeze in a satisfying loop at Newman Municipal Golf Course, a classic 9-hole par 36 built in 1935 right along Cayuga Lake. Flat, walkable fairways, four sets of tees, smooth greens, and sailboat-and-hill panoramas... it’s the kind of after-work golf that keeps your swing happy.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Craving smart indies, festival finds, and the occasional local filmmaker premiere your friends keep whispering about? Cinemapolis reliably programs the good stuff, the weird stuff, and the conversation-starters, making it an easy yes when you're dodging franchises and want something that actually sticks with you.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, September 17, 2026