Weekend Itinerary for Wedding Guests at New Park
- Sara Aber
- Jul 6
- 4 min read
The Best Things to Do in Ithaca and the Finger Lakes While Celebrating Love
Planning a weekend around a wedding at New Park Event Venue in Ithaca? You're in for more than just a ceremony—you're stepping into one of the most scenic, creative, and experience-rich regions in New York State. Whether you're here for the night or making a vacation of it, this curated itinerary will help you get the most out of your trip.
From waterfalls and wineries to art, food, and nature, there’s something here for every type of guest.
Friday: Wine Tasting & Downtown Dining
Settle In & ExploreIf you're staying onsite at New Park, you'll be welcomed by artistic architecture, peaceful walking trails, and forest nooks that feel like they’re out of a fairytale. Unpack, wander the property, and get ready to ease into the weekend.
Afternoon: Wine Tasting on Cayuga LakeNew Park sits just off the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, the oldest wine trail in the country. Spend the afternoon exploring some of our favorite nearby vineyards:
Sheldrake Point Winery – Sip award-winning Rieslings and Pinot Noir with stunning views of the lake
Hosmer Winery – Known for a laid-back vibe and live music on summer Fridays
Buttonwood Grove Winery – A little higher elevation, with great reds, craft snacks, and outdoor seating under the trees
If cider is more your style, Finger Lakes Cider House is just 15 minutes away and offers flights, food, and sweeping views.
Evening: Dinner in Downtown IthacaWrap up your day with a local meal in Ithaca’s downtown district:
Simeon’s American Bistro – Raw bar, steak frites, and top-notch cocktails in a historic corner building
The Rook – Seasonal small plates and comfort food classics in a cozy, vintage-inspired space
Revelry Yards – A modern brewery with elevated pub fare, excellent beer, and a rooftop patio perfect for summer nights
Saturday: Waterfalls, Scenic Lunch & Celebration Time
Morning: Chase Some WaterfallsIthaca’s slogan is “Ithaca is Gorges,” and it lives up to the name. These nearby state parks are unforgettable:
Taughannock Falls State Park – Just 15 minutes from New Park, this flat 0.75-mile trail leads to one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Rockies
Buttermilk Falls – Cascading falls and family-friendly trails make this one of Ithaca’s most popular parks
Robert H. Treman State Park – Stunning stone bridges and deep gorges carved into shale
Pro Tip: Wear shoes with grip—these trails can be slippery, especially in spring and fall.
Midday: Lunch with a View
The Bistro at Thirsty Owl Winery – Elevated lunch options with panoramic lake views
Glenwood Pines – Casual and beloved by locals for their Pinesburger and relaxed lakeside setting
Creekside Café (in Trumansburg) – A hidden gem for brunch or a light bite on the way back to New Park
Afternoon & Evening: The Main EventTime to get dressed up and celebrate! New Park is known for its sculpture-lined paths, peaceful woods, and unforgettable settings for vows, dancing, and connection. Whether you're attending a forest ceremony or dining under the stars, you're in for something special.
Sunday: Market Morning & Farewell
Start with Brunch or the Farmers Market
Ithaca Farmers Market at Steamboat Landing – Consistently ranked among the top farmers markets in the country. Held on the waterfront, it features international cuisine, local produce, artisan crafts, and live music
Coltivare – A modern, farm-to-table restaurant run by culinary students, known for elegant brunches and seasonal cocktails
Northstar Public House – A casual favorite for hearty breakfasts and brunch classics
Take One Last Look AroundIf you’re not in a rush to leave, savor the slower pace with one final local stop:
Cornell Botanic Gardens – A hidden gem of peaceful walking trails, wildflower meadows, and gorge views
Cayuga Lake Creamery – Grab a cone and enjoy the lake breeze on your way out of town
✨ Bonus Days: Early Arrival on Wednesday or Thursday
Wednesday Highlights
Trumansburg Farmers Market (Wednesdays 4–7 PM) – Live music, fresh produce, local wine tastings, and wood-fired pizza under the trees. A local favorite and just minutes from New Park
Fireside Sessions at New Park – On select Wednesdays, cozy up with live acoustic music and a bonfire under the stars. Bring your favorite beverage and settle in
Thursday Ideas
Explore a quiet hiking trail like Cascadilla Gorge or Sapsucker Woods
Book a massage or spa treatment in Ithaca
Visit Liquid State Brewing or South Hill Cider for a casual drink and food truck dinner
👨👩👧👦 Bonus: Kid-Friendly Adventures
Traveling with little ones? Ithaca has fantastic options for families:
Lively Run Dairy – Meet the goats, sample cheese, and relax on the farm
Sciencenter – A hands-on science museum with a child-sized grocery store, a huge outdoor play zone, and interactive exhibits
Museum of the Earth – Fossils, dinosaurs, and the geological story of the Finger Lakes region
Ithaca Children’s Garden – Mud kitchens, natural play areas, and a giant turtle sculpture named Gaia
Final Tips
Transportation: Ubers and Lyfts are limited in rural areas—car rentals are highly recommended
Dress for the Weather: Summer can be warm during the day and cool at night. Fall brings gorgeous foliage and chilly evenings
Extend Your Stay: If you have the time, consider adding a day or two to explore Seneca Lake wineries or hike to Watkins Glen
New Park is more than a venue—it’s an experience.Whether you're dancing under the stars, hiking a gorge, sipping a local vintage, or shopping for handmade pottery at the market, your weekend here will leave you refreshed, connected, and full of stories to tell.
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