Tucked away in upstate New York, Ithaca’s best tours center on wine, craft beverages, and outdoor adventures. The standout Keuka Lake Winery Tour packs serious value with visits to four distinctive wineries in 10.5 hours – perfect for wine enthusiasts who appreciate guided expertise. Downtown’s Craft Beverage Tour is a favorite for sampling local beer, cider, and creative cocktails while exploring the city center on foot.
We especially love the Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings for its well-curated stops and stunning lake views. The Black Walnut Tour offers a refreshing break from wine tasting, leading visitors through some of the area’s most picturesque natural spaces.
Let’s explore these exceptional tours in detail:
Key Points
- The Keuka Lake Winery Tour offers a comprehensive 10.5-hour experience, visiting four wineries with wine tastings and a knowledgeable guide.
- The Ithaca Is Foodies: Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour is a popular 3.5-hour walking tour that samples craft beers, ciders, wines, and cocktails.
- The Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings Tour provides a scenic and educational experience, visiting four selected wineries with an optional lunch upgrade.
- The Finger Lakes Guided Outdoor Black Walnut Tour with Tasting offers a unique 45-minute journey from tree to table, including a tasting of maple-glazed black walnuts.
- The Grape Escapes Wine Full-Day Tour in Ithaca is a comprehensive private tour exploring the Finger Lakes wine region, with professional local guidance.
Keuka Lake Winery Tour
While visiting Ithaca, the Keuka Lake Winery Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the renowned Finger Lakes wine region.
With a 4.9 rating from 50 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour is a must-do for wine enthusiasts. Over the course of 10.5 hours, guests will visit four wineries, enjoy scenic views of Keuka Lake and vineyards, and learn about the region’s winemaking history and varietals.
The tour includes wine tastings, a knowledgeable driver/guide, and the option to add a delicious lunch at Bully Hill. Participants will appreciate the convenience of having a designated driver to transport them between wineries.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. A valid photo ID is required, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With a minimum booking requirement of 2 people, the Keuka Lake Winery Tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an immersive and educational wine-tasting adventure in Ithaca.
Read our full review: Keuka Lake Winery Tour Review
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Ithaca Is Foodies: Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Ithaca’s burgeoning craft beverage scene, the Ithaca is Foodies: Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour offers an exceptional opportunity.
This 3.5-hour walking tour takes participants to various downtown establishments, where they can sample a diverse array of craft beers, artisan ciders, local wines, and creative cocktails. Along the way, guests will also enjoy three light food tastings and receive exclusive coupons from the tasting locations.
The tour departs at 3:30 PM from the iconic hawk mural at Press Bay Court, with a maximum of 10 travelers.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. Guests must be over 21 and present valid identification.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Ithaca’s thriving craft beverage scene.
Read our full review: Ithaca Is Foodies: Downtown Ithaca Craft Beverage Tour Review
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Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings Tour
Situated in the heart of the Finger Lakes wine region, the Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings Tour offers an exceptional opportunity for oenophiles to explore the renowned vineyards of the area.
This guided tour takes visitors to four carefully selected wineries, where they can enjoy scenic views and educational experiences. With a 96% traveler recommendation and an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5, the tour is highly praised for its friendly and knowledgeable drivers, as well as the convenience of transportation.
Travelers can choose to upgrade their experience by including a lunch option. The tour starts at 10:30 am from the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, with a maximum group size of 12 people. Guests must be at least 21 years old with a valid photo ID.
The tour is non-refundable, and specific wineries are subject to change. While service animals are allowed, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings Tour Review
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Finger Lakes Guided Outdoor Black Walnut Tour With Tasting
The Finger Lakes Guided Outdoor Black Walnut Tour With Tasting takes visitors on a 45-minute journey from tree to table, offering an immersive experience in the world of black walnuts.
Guests will explore the grounds of Black Squirrel Farms, where they’ll learn about the history and cultivation of these unique nuts. The tour includes a tasting of maple-glazed black walnuts, though those with nut allergies should avoid this part of the experience.
Located just 45 minutes from Ithaca, the tour meets at the farm’s entrance, marked by a Black Squirrel Farms sign. Visitors can park downhill after entering and check in at the farm stand, where the tour guide will greet them under a walnut tree.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, with a maximum of 10 travelers per group. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is open to most visitors, including infants who can sit on laps.
With positive reviews and a unique opportunity to connect with nature, this tour is a great complement to the region’s renowned wine tastings.
Read our full review: Finger Lakes Guided Outdoor Black Walnut Tour With Tasting Review
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Grape Escapes Wine Full-Day Tour in Ithaca
Grape Escapes Wine Full-Day Tour in Ithaca offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the renowned Finger Lakes wine region.
This private tour, operated by Opatrip.com USA, provides a personalized experience for groups. The tour includes professional local guide services, transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, and the opportunity to sample 3 to 5 wines at each of the 3 to 5 wineries visited, ranging from $10 to $25 per tasting.
The tour runs from 10:00 am, with the exact pickup details arranged in advance. Participants must be 21 years or older to consume alcohol.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. With a total of 2 reviews, the tour boasts an impressive 5-star rating, suggesting a highly satisfactory experience.
Priced at $450.95 per person, the Grape Escapes Wine Full-Day Tour provides an immersive and enjoyable way to discover the Finger Lakes’ renowned winemaking heritage.
Read our full review: Grape Escapes Wine Full-Day Tour in Ithaca Review
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Recap
Ithaca offers a variety of captivating tours that cater to diverse interests. From wine tastings to outdoor adventures, there’s something for all. Whether you’re a foodie, nature enthusiast, or wine connoisseur, these tours provide an immersive experience that showcases the best of what Ithaca has to offer. Visitors can explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, savor local flavors, and enjoy the great outdoors, making for an unforgettable trip.