Have you ever visited those places that left you feeling alive, and inspired? Welcome to ivy leagues where great minds think alike, and natural beauty abounds. Ithaca is the city with a high GPA named one of the top entrepreneurial cities by Livability.com and ranked one of the best college towns in the country. Home to Cornell University, and Ithaca College, this intellectual, and the business-minded city boasts rich culture and incredible outdoor scenery. Retirees, in particular, find Ithaca’s tax-friendly climate, ample amenities, and highly efficient public transit system to be the icing on this idyllic city.
If you don’t own a pair of hiking boots, it’s time to shop because nothing will prepare you for the utopia that leaves outdoor enthusiasts enamored. Home to four state parks, and iconic breathtaking gorges, Ithaca is the prima donna of upstate New York. More than 150 waterfalls cascade against a backdrop of densely forested preserves for some of the most magical hiking, and biking experiences in the country. From lake cruises, and boating, to picturesque fishing tours, Cayuga Lake provides a 38 mile stretch of peaceful waterfront recreation. The longest of the finger lakes, Cayuga features an 87-mile scenic byway where visitors can sample award-winning wines along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, stop for a lakeside picnic, or paddle their way through its tranquil waters.
Ithaca is noted to have more restaurants per capita than New York City and is said to be the birthplace of the ice cream sundae, so it’s safe to say this is a food-centric destination. With such a variety of palate-pleasing options, from vegetarian, and pub grub to authentic global cuisine, it’s fortunate that walkability is the city’s most notable trademark. Despite the endless array of eateries, Ithaca’s population is reported to have some of the lowest rates of obesity, and chronic disease in the country thanks to plentiful growers markets, and an on-the-go mentality.
Ithaca like most college towns is known for its vibrant energy, and diverse community. The city is ideal for 55+ active adults looking to spark their creativity, and find their spirit of adventure. From the downtown Ithaca Apple Harvest Festival to summer concerts, Ithaca Commons is the heart of the city hosting exciting year-round events, with more than 100 shops, and restaurants, as well as an array of art galleries, and entertainment venues. Whether you’re relocating to pursue an encore career, or just wanting a lifestyle that’s out of the ordinary Ithaca’s youthful energy is irresistible.
