Things To Do
in Cortland
Cortland is a charming city located in central New York, known for its picturesque landscapes and historic architecture. The city is home to Cortland State University, a bustling college campus that adds a youthful energy to the area. Visitors can explore outdoor activities such as hiking in nearby state parks or attending local festivals throughout the year.
With a mix of small-town charm and vibrant cultural offerings, Cortland is a welcoming destination for residents and tourists alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at the Virgil Mountain State Forest. Enjoy the scenic trails surrounded by vibrant trees and wildlife.
Visit the Cortland County Historical Society to learn about the area's rich history. Explore the exhibits and take a guided tour of local heritage.
Grab dinner at a local eatery, savoring the flavors of the region. End your day with a stroll along the Cortland Main Street, soaking in the charming nightlife.
Visit the Dowd Gallery at SUNY Cortland to appreciate local art. Engage with thought-provoking pieces and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
Attend a workshop or class at the Cortland Regional Art Council to unleash your creative side. Learn from experienced artists in a friendly environment.
Catch a live performance at the Cortland Repertory Theatre. Enjoy a night filled with entertainment and local talent.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with parks and outdoor recreational opportunities
- A tight-knit community with a friendly atmosphere
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Access to local amenities including shops, restaurants, and schools
- Rich history and cultural events throughout the year
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall
- Potential for a slower pace of life, which may not suit everyone's preferences
- Limited public transportation options
- May lack some of the entertainment and cultural attractions found in bigger cities
Best Activities in Cortland
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails that offer stunning views of the Finger Lakes region, with various routes for all skill levels.
Visit the local farmers market to experience fresh produce, handmade goods, and a vibrant community atmosphere every week.
Enjoy hiking trails and nature exhibits at this beautiful center, which also features treehouses and a nature-themed playground.
Rent a boat or join a sailing tour to enjoy a relaxing day on Cortland Lake, with opportunities for fishing and swimming.
During winter months, engage in skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing at this nearby resort, perfect for a fun-filled outdoor day.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cortland with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cortland
Visit one of these nice places.
Great views of the city and surrounding area
Scenic trails and beautiful natural landscapes for photography
Historic theatre with a picturesque exterior and surrounding area
Stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially from the ski lifts and trails
Food in Cortland
Cortland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic local dish made with the finest local Cortland apples, known for their sweet-tart flavor. Best enjoyed at Cindy's Bakery, famous for their delectable pies.
Must-Try!
A beloved side dish consisting of small, unpeeled potatoes boiled in heavily salted water. Found at local eateries like Doug's Fish Fry, where it perfectly complements their seafood platters.
A regional favorite featuring marinated cubes of meat, typically chicken, pork, or lamb, skewered and grilled to perfection. Head to Gator's Tavern to savor authentic spiedies.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cortland better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and food vendors serving up a variety of delectable street food. Don't miss the food trucks dishing out gourmet tacos and farm-to-table delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Residents of Cortland value politeness and courtesy. It’s common to greet strangers with a smile or a nod and to use 'please' and 'thank you' in conversations.
Participating in local events and supporting community initiatives is highly regarded. Engaging in town meetings or local festivals is a great way to show respect for the community.
Cortland is home to a diverse population, and showing respect for different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints is important. Embracing inclusivity and being open-minded contributes to a positive environment.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cortland with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cortland
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cortland, as in many places in the United States, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. Standard tipping rates are typically around 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service received. Tipping is expected in restaurants, bars, and for services such as haircuts and taxis.
Payment practices in Cortland include the use of cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular. It's common for customers to use their cards for transactions due to convenience and rewards programs.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cortland.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Cortland in spring is from April to June when the weather is mild and the landscape is blooming with flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Summer, from June to August, offers warm and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor adventures and festivals. It's an ideal time for hiking, cycling, and water-based activities in the nearby lakes and rivers.
Cortland is famous for its stunning fall foliage from September to November. The vibrant colors of the surrounding forests make it a popular time for leaf-peeping and scenic drives. The weather is crisp and cool, perfect for outdoor excursions.
Winter, from December to February, brings snow and cold temperatures to Cortland. It's a great time for winter sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. The town also hosts holiday events and cozy indoor activities during this season.
Cortland at Night
Hiking in Cortland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A local park offering various hiking trails with scenic views of the surrounding area. Suitable for all skill levels.
This area features a diverse range of hiking trails through forests and along streams, providing a great experience for nature lovers.
Located a short drive from Cortland, this park offers picturesque hiking trails alongside waterfalls and rugged gorges.
A peaceful hiking spot with trails around Jennings Pond, suitable for families and casual hikers.
Although primarily a botanical garden, it features beautiful walking trails in an array of natural settings, perfect for leisurely hikes.
Aiports
How to reach Cortland by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles northwest of Cortland, SYR is the nearest major international airport offering a variety of domestic and international flights.
Situated about 60 miles west of Cortland, ROC provides services to numerous domestic and some international destinations.
Located approximately 100 miles to the southwest of Cortland, BUF is one of New York's largest airports, handling a range of domestic and international flights.
About 120 miles to the northeast of Cortland, ALB services both domestic and international flights, serving the capital region of New York.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly White population, making up a significant majority of the demographic composition.
A growing demographic, representing a significant number of residents with Hispanic or Latino backgrounds.
A smaller, yet important demographic group within the community.
Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, a minor but notable presence.
Individuals identifying as multiracial, reflecting a diverse mix of backgrounds.
A very small percentage of the population identifies as Native American.
Includes individuals from various other racial backgrounds not specifically categorized.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a popular sport in Cortland, with local high schools and colleges competing in various leagues.
Basketball is widely played at both recreational and competitive levels, with many community programs available.
Youth and adult soccer leagues are active in Cortland, promoting participation at all ages.
Baseball has a strong tradition in the area, with local teams and Little League programs catering to kids.
Cortland schools participate in track and field events, fostering athletic development in students.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cortland.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cortland has a growing number of eateries offering creative and satisfying vegetarian dishes, including options at popular spots like Red Jug Pub and Cortland Beer Company.
While vegan-specific eateries are limited, several restaurants in Cortland provide vegan-friendly choices, such as customizable salads and plant-based entrees.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities will find accommodating options at Central City Bar & Grill, where the menu clearly denotes gluten-free selections for easy ordering.