13 Best Tours & Things To Do In Ithaca (With Reviews & Prices)

Ithaca is a place that offers more than just stunning scenery and a lively college town. Its wine regions, scenic boat rides, and cultural sites make it a fantastic destination for those looking to explore with a purpose. We especially love the Keuka Lake Winery Tour for its breathtaking vineyard views and comprehensive tasting experience.

If you’re into active adventures, the Cycle Boat Tours of Seneca Lake provide a fun, social way to pedal your way across the water.

For those interested in history and local flavor, the Ithaca’s Historic Gems: A Cultural Walkabout offers a relaxed, insightful look at the city. With options for wine lovers, adventure seekers, and culture buffs alike, Ithaca truly has a lot to offer.

Quick Overview

Our list features wine tours like the Keuka Lake Winery Tour and the Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings Tour offering full-day tastings with scenic vineyard visits. For a more active experience, try the Cycle Boat Tours or the 80-minute Cycle Boat.

Cultural explorations include private walking tours like Ithaca’s Historic Gems, and fun, interactive activities such as the Watkins Glen Scavenger Hunt or the Cornell Big Red Scavenger Hunt. Read on to find which experiences suit your style best.

1. Keuka Lake Winery Tour

At number one, the Keuka Lake Winery Tour offers a classic Finger Lakes experience. For around $256, you spend about 5 to 6 hours visiting four wineries, with transportation included so you don’t have to worry about driving. The tour visits three Hunt Country vineyards and offers a premium tasting experience, with an optional lunch at Bully Hill Vineyards.

The highlight is the opportunity to learn about the region’s unique varietals and the local winemaking process while soaking in breathtaking views of Keuka Lake.

It’s perfect for wine lovers who want a relaxed, guided day with friends or family. Reviewers praise the attentive guide, the beautiful scenery, and the convenience of being driven between tastings.

This tour is a smart pick if you want a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience that combines scenic beauty with excellent wine.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic wine tour with great reviews, perfect for those who want a stress-free way to explore Keuka Lake’s renowned vineyards.

2. Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings Tour

Next on our list, the Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings Tour is a 5 to 7-hour guided journey through New York’s famous finger lakes wine region. For $259.24 per person, you visit four different wineries, including Chateau Lafayette Reneau—known for estate-grown vinifera wines—and enjoy educational tours that deepen your appreciation for the local terroir.

Visitors rave about the personalized experience and the chance to relax while someone else handles the driving. The tour includes a scenic drive and stops at notable wineries, with an optional lunch upgrade.

This is ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking a small-group atmosphere and detailed tastings. One reviewer mentioned, “We had an absolute blast,” highlighting the friendly driver and beautiful countryside.

Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a rich, educational tasting day with boutique wineries and a dedicated guide, all in a small-group setting.

3. NEW Cycle Boat Tour of Seneca Lake Embarking from Watkins Glen

For a lively mix of activity and scenery, the Cycle Boat Tour of Seneca Lake combines biking, relaxing, and dancing in one hour and 50 minutes. Priced at $45 per person, the boat features 10 bicycle stations connected to a paddle wheel, with options to pedal or let the onboard motor do the work.

The boat has a dance floor, Bluetooth sound system, and bar with coolers, making it a fun, social outing perfect for bachelorette parties, family reunions, or just a group of friends wanting to enjoy the lake.

The reviews often mention the friendly crew and the relaxing vibe, with one saying, “Great boat experience, highly recommend.” Bring your own food and drinks to enhance the experience.

Bottom Line: A fun, active way to see Seneca Lake, combining pedaling, dancing, and scenic views—ideal for groups wanting a lively experience.

4. All day Guided Winery Transport for Six

If you’re traveling with a small group, the All-day Guided Winery Transport offers personalized, private tastings tailored to your interests. For $420, your driver takes you around the Finger Lakes in an air-conditioned van, visiting three wineries of your choice on the Cayuga, Keuka, or Seneca Lake trails.

The tour includes a full 7-hour itinerary, with opportunities to sample Rieslings and ice wines and learn about each winery’s specialties.

Reviewers emphasize the convenience and flexibility, with one saying, “Our driver Orlando was very pleasant and knowledgeable.” It’s perfect for wine lovers who want a private, customizable experience without the hassle of booking individual tastings.

Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups seeking a flexible, private wine tour with personalized stops and insider knowledge.

5. NEW 80 Minute Cycle Boat Tour of Seneca Lake in Watkins Glen

For those who prefer a shorter but equally engaging experience, the 80-minute Cycle Boat Tour offers a quick but lively ride on Seneca Lake. Priced at $39 per person, it features pedal stations, a dance floor, Bluetooth speakers, and a bar, with options to pedal or relax. The trip is great for celebrating special occasions or just enjoying a lively, scenic cruise.

Reviewers note it’s a “great boat experience,” with friendly crew and beautiful views. It’s a good choice if you’re short on time but want a taste of the lake’s charm.

Bottom Line: A compact, energetic boat ride with options for dancing and socializing, perfect for a quick group outing or celebration.

6. Keuka Lake Wine Tour – Customizable

For those who want full control, the Keuka Lake Wine Tour – Customizable allows up to 4 people to design their perfect day. For $329, you choose four wineries, breweries, or distilleries, or let a local guide craft a personalized route.

The tour includes door-to-door pickup from Hammondsport or Penn Yan and a comfortable, private SUV. Highlights include visits to Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Weis Vineyards, and Keuka Spring Vineyards.

Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and knowledge, with one praising the guide Jeanine. It’s ideal for small groups wanting a tailored experience.

Bottom Line: Excellent for private groups seeking a personalized tasting day with full control over stops and itinerary.

7. Ithaca’s Historic Gems: A Cultural Walkabout

History and architecture come alive with Ithaca’s Historic Gems. This private, 2-hour walking tour explores Downtown Ithaca, Cornell University, and the Cascadilla Gorge Trail. Starting at the Ithaca Commons and visiting landmarks like the William Henry Miller Inn, the tour offers insights into Ithaca’s past and its most notable residents.

It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, educational experience on foot. Reviewers mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the flexibility of the schedule.

This tour is especially suitable for history lovers or visitors who prefer a leisurely pace with personalized attention.

Bottom Line: A well-paced, private cultural walk that showcases Ithaca’s architecture, history, and local stories—great for a relaxed intro to the city.

8. Wonderful Watkins Glen Scavenger Hunt

Add some fun and challenge to your visit with the Watkins Glen Scavenger Hunt. For $27 per person, this interactive activity guides you via smartphone across the town, where you solve puzzles and complete challenges. It’s perfect for groups who want a unique way to explore, mixing sightseeing with a creative game.

Reviewers describe it as “super relaxing” and “highly recommended,” especially because it works well with any schedule and can involve food and drinks along the way. This is a good pick if you prefer a lively, social activity that’s easy to fit into your day.

Bottom Line: A fun, interactive way to discover Watkins Glen’s highlights with a team, ideal for families or groups of friends.

9. Ithaca is Foodies: Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour

For food and drink lovers, the Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour combines local brews, wines, ciders, and cocktails. Over about two hours, you’ll visit four spots and sample a drink at each, paired with local food tastings.

Priced at $58.47 per person, the tour offers a lively way to explore Ithaca’s craft scene but has mixed reviews, with some noting the sampling experience could be more extensive. It’s perfect for those who enjoy tasting a variety of drinks and want a taste of Ithaca’s culinary side.

Bottom Line: A spirited tour for those wanting to try a mix of local beverages paired with tasty bites, suited for casual drinkers.

10. Seneca Lake Wine Tour – Customizable

A private, customizable experience, the Seneca Lake Wine Tour allows up to four people to select any four wineries, breweries, or distilleries. For $329, your driver in a comfortable SUV will take you around, with stops at places like Barnstormer Winery and Fulkerson Winery.

Reviewers value the flexibility and personal attention, making it ideal for small groups who want to craft their perfect tasting day. No fixed itinerary means you can focus on your favorites.

Bottom Line: Best for intimate groups wanting total control over their wine, beer, and spirits tastings, with the comfort of private transportation.

11. Enchanted Yuletide Walking Tour of Ithaca’s Festive Delights

Experience Ithaca’s holiday spirit with the Enchanted Yuletide Walking Tour. Over 2 hours, you stroll through decorated streets, Dewitt Park, and the historic Clinton House, enjoying seasonal lights and stories. This tour is perfect if you want a cozy, festive outing.

While reviews are limited, the warm atmosphere and charming stops make it a delightful winter activity for families and holiday enthusiasts.

Bottom Line: A charming, seasonal walk that showcases Ithaca’s festive decorations and historic sites, perfect for the holiday season.

12. Amazing Scavenger Hunt: Ithaca Big Red Cornell

For a playful exploration, the Ithaca Big Red Cornell Scavenger Hunt costs just $14.99 per person. Led via smartphone, teams solve puzzles and complete challenges around notable spots like Bailey Hall and Triphammer Falls. It’s a social, interactive way to see Ithaca and learn fun facts about Cornell’s campus.

Reviewers mention it as “a fun way to discover,” making it suitable for families and groups who enjoy solving riddles and competing.

Bottom Line: An affordable, fun activity that turns sightseeing into a game, perfect for active groups or families.

13. Ithaca to Wine Country Guided Finger Lakes Tasting Experience

Finally, for a comprehensive private experience, the Ithaca to Wine Country Guided Tasting takes you to three top spots, including a historic vineyard, a lakefront estate winery, and an organic cider farm. The tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours and includes scenic stops at Taughannock Falls. For $570 per group, it’s perfect for those who want an in-depth, relaxed day with expert guidance.

Reviewers appreciate the personalized service and the chance to taste award-winning Rieslings while enjoying stunning views.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for small groups wanting a private, all-encompassing tasting trip with scenic highlights.

How to Choose Your Perfect Ithaca Tour

When deciding, consider your interests—are you after wine tastings, active adventures, or cultural explorations? If you want a straightforward, scenic wine day, the Keuka Lake Winery Tour or the Seneca Lake South Tour offer excellent value.

For a more personalized experience, the private All day Guided Winery Transport or the Keuka Lake Customizable Tour give you control over stops. Active types might enjoy the pedal-powered Cycle Boat Tours.

If cultural insights and historic sights appeal, opt for Ithaca’s Historic Gems. Pickup and timing are also factors—early booking is wise during peak seasons.

In summary, Ithaca offers a diverse selection of tours that suit many interests and budgets. Whether you’re into wine, active fun, or cultural discovery, you’ll find something that makes your visit memorable. For wine lovers, the Keuka Lake Winery Tour and the private wine and cider experience stand out.

For those seeking a lively, social outing, the boat and scavenger hunts are fantastic. No matter your choice, booking early ensures a spot in these popular experiences.