Top 29 Things To Do In Cortland, New York

1. Come face-to-face with unique history at the 1890 House Museum

This fascinating living museum gives visitors the opportunity to take a step back in time and truly experience life in 19th-century Cortland. The property depicts the lives of the Wickwire family and their household. The best way to enjoy the experience is to take a tour which can be either private or public. You’ll listen to stories firsthand about the family and what their lives were like. It is not just a great day out for all of the family–it is educational at the same time!

1890 House Museum

Address: 37 Tompkins St. Cortland, NY 13045

Website: 1890 House Museum

Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 11am - 5pm (closed from Sun - Wed and in January)

Price: 8 USD

2. Say a prayer at the Unitarian Universalist Church

This pretty church has beautiful stained glass windows and a welcoming environment. Known locally as “the cobblestone church”, we think that you’ll really enjoy witnessing one of the many regular services. There are also special events throughout the year so be sure to check the website to see what is happening during your stay in Cortland.

Unitarian Universalist Church

Address: 3 Church Street, Cortland, NY 13045

Website: Unitarian Universalist Church

3. Enjoy a tee-off and fantastic views at Cortland Country Golf Club

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Nestled in the picturesque hills, this club offers a great round of golf. This popular spot has been in use for the last 100 years and it does not disappoint. Even if golf is not your hobby, you can still sit back and enjoy a fantastic meal or a drink at the Clubhouse as you take in the views. There are also regular events and tournaments so be sure to check online to see what is happening during your stay in Cortland.

Cortland Country Golf Club

Address: Cortland Country Club, 4514 State Route 281, Cortland, New York 13045

Website: Cortland Country Golf Club

Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)

4. Stand in awe of a real tank at the military Homeville Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Located in part of the Living History Center this museum is the best place to visit if you are interested in the history of war. Just one of three museums located in the Center, the museum is home to three main exhibitions. You can explore warfare through the Eaton Collection which includes a wide range of military items from rifles to paraphernalia. Next stop should be the real tank which is just outside the collection. Don’t worry it’s not operational but instead is a great opportunity to understand the grand size of the machinery used. You’ll also be fascinated by the train collection at the museum.

Homeville Museum

Address: 4386 US-11, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Homeville Museum

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm [closed on Mon]

Price: Free

5. Let your kids play around in Suggett Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

With a recent addition of a new playground area launched in 2018, Suggett Park has become one of our favorite places to suggest to families. Come rain, sun, or shine Suggett Park is the perfect place to enjoy nature. The park is very safe for families with children of all ages, and includes swings, slides, and many other fun activities.

Suggett Park

Address: 108 Homer Ave, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Opening hours: 6am - 10:30pm (daily)

6. Get wet and wild at Cascades Indoor Waterpark

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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You can have lots of fun indoors at the Cascades Indoor Waterpark. There are lots of attractions from the wave pool such as speed rapid slides and so much more in the Big Bear Falls area. If you have small children then they will be sure to enjoy the smaller slides and safe children areas. For the teenagers let them loose in the Cove, which features basketball hoops, and finally, adults can relax in the hot springs. It’s fun for all in the family.

Cascades Indoor Waterpark

Address: 2177 Clute Road, Cortland, NY 13045

Website: Cascades Indoor Waterpark

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 8pm; Fri: 4pm - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 10pm

Price: 28.08 USD

7. See the unique artifacts at CNY Living History Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Alongside the Homeville Museum, there are plenty of other things to see at the CNY Living History Center. This includes the Brockway Museum and the Tractors of Yesteryear. At the Brockway Museum, you’ll discover super-size trucks and then get to stroll into Tractors of Yesteryear to see a wide range of farming machinery from 50 to 150 years ago!

CNY Living History Center

Address: 4386 US-11, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: CNY Living History Center

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: 10 USD

8. Discover peace and quiet with a camping trip at Yellow Lantern Kamp Grounds

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

This family owned and operated campsite is the ideal place to pitch up your tent or RV for a few days. They have been open for 30 years so you know that you will be receiving great service throughout your stay. The campsite sits on the banks of the Tioghnioga River on 40 acres (16 hectares) of green land. That’s plenty of space for the children to explore their surroundings.

Yellow Lantern Kamp Grounds

Address: 1770 NY-13, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Yellow Lantern Kamp Grounds

Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)

9. Discover the unique collections at Cortland County Historical Society

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Originally founded in 1925 the Historical Society aims to inspire and educate people through their unique collections depicting local life through the ages. There is a particularly large number of photographs and manuscripts in the collection which we think is a great insight into how people in the past lived their everyday lives. There are two main exhibits, firstly ‘At Home’, which depicts interior design and 'Hometown Heroes’ which shows the lives of people in wartime.

Cortland County Historical Society

Address: 25 Homer Ave, Cortland, NY, 13045, USA

Website: Cortland County Historical Society

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: 8 USD

10. Have fun in the water jet spray at Wickwire Pool

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

After renovations, the popular Wickwire Pool has been reopened since 2016. Not only will the children love playing in the pool but they can enjoy the jet stream play zone. This area allows you to play with structures of various sizes and shapes that burst out a stream of water. It’s great fun for children and adults alike.

Wickwire Pool

Address: Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Wickwire Pool

Opening hours: 12pm - 7pm (daily)

11. Relax at beautiful Yaman Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

This park is a perfect place for a picnic during those hot summer months. You can sit by the bandstand, let the children play at the on-site skate park or go swimming in the beach area. There is also a basketball and volleyball area for those of you who want to keep active. The grounds are spacious so you can rest assured that you’ll find the perfect base for a lazy day in the sun.

Yaman Park

Address: Kennedy Pkwy, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Opening hours: 6am - 10:30pm (daily)

12. Watch a movie and unwind in the beautiful Courthouse Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

This popular park is a great place to visit and there are usually events taking place. In the summer evenings be sure to go and watch one of the many big-screen movie showings. The park is excellently designed so that there are many areas that can be enjoyed throughout the day and night.

Courthouse Park

Address: 7232 Courtland Farm Road, Hanover, VA 23069

Opening hours: 6am - 10:30pm (daily)

13. Take on the bowling challenge at Cort-Lanes for unlimited family fun

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Fancy tackling your friends at a game of bowling? Then Cort-Lanes is the place to go. Their multi-lane complex means that there is always plenty of space but we’d recommend phoning in advance to book a lane. There is also a food stall on site so that you can replenish your energy.

Cort-Lanes

Address: 928 NY-13, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 11:30am - 7pm; Fri - Sat: 12am - 11pm (closed on Sun)

14. Learn about the State Granges at the Nys Grange

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The New York State Grange was founded in 1873 and now has a membership of over 4,000. The State Grange meets once a year to set legislation with a focus on soil and water, agriculture, and rural land. This museum hosts many local events throughout the year. They host family events, educational workshops, and even a Junior Grange.

Nys Grange

Address: 122 Clinton Ave, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Nys Grange

15. Watch a movie at Plaza 6 Cinema

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

This local cinema is a great option to catch the latest movies and support a local business. This is an old-fashioned movie theatre and so it may not have the glitz and glam of some top-modern cinemas but we also love the retro feel of it.

Plaza 6 Cinema

Address: 255 Tompkins Street, Cortland NY

Website: Plaza 6 Cinema

Opening hours: 6:50pm (daily showings)

Price: 9.50 USD

16. Enjoy live music at Cortland Country Music Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Welcome to the homes of the New York State Country Music Hall of Fame and many other events, the Cortland Country Music Park is a great event space. There are regular dinner party events, dancing lessons such as weekly line dancing, and of course, plenty of live music. There are a number of regular music events and special guests. We’d recommend checking out their calendar to see what is happening at the Cortland Country Music Park during your visit.

Cortland Country Music Park

Address: Country Music Park, 1824 Rt. 13N, Cortland, N.Y. 13045

Website: Cortland Country Music Park

Opening hours: 7pm - onwards (daily)

17. Become a sport spectator at the 5* Beaudry Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Mostly popular for baseball games, this park also has a new playground since 2018. The new area has two zones; one for children aged two to five and the second zone is for five to twelve-year-olds. Be sure to also check out the softball fields. It’s a great place to be active with your family.

Beaudry Park

Address: Scammell St, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Beaudry Park

Opening hours: 6am - 10:30pm (daily)

18. Discover the unique Cortland County Poor Farm

Also known as County Farm, this site is a historic farming complex which now consists of 13 well-preserved buildings. It was originally listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982 and was also previously home to a mental asylum in which it was claimed that out of 88 paupers, 31 of them were deemed insane. Nowadays, it is a unique site to spend an afternoon looking around.

Cortland County Poor Farm

Website: Cortland County Poor Farm

19. Enjoy a day at Lime Hollow Center for Environment and Culture

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you like nature and exploring the great outdoors then we’re sure that you’ll love exploring the area surrounding the Lime Hollow Center. There are a number of nature trails of various fitness levels and there is even a winter trail so that you can be safe walking even if its cold outside. The center itself focuses on educational and fun events for children which are always worth joining.

Lime Hollow Center for Environment and Culture

Address: 338 McLean Rd, Cortland NY 13045

Website: Lime Hollow Center for Environment and Culture

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Sun)

20. Explore fantastic and unique works of art at the Dowd Fine Arts Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

This center for fine arts is based at the Suny College which has a wide range of popular majors. There are a number of specialist exhibitions being shown at the same time and it is a great way to spend a few hours while in Cortland. Founded in 1867, the Dowd Fine Arts Center aims to display seven exhibitions throughout the year.

Dowd Fine Arts Center

Address: Dowd Fine Arts Center, 106 Graham Avenue and Prospect Terrace Cortland, NY 13045

Website: Dowd Fine Arts Center

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

21. Try the world's longest mini-golf course at Shipwreck Amusements

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

We all love to play a few rounds of crazy golf, right? Well, we know that you’ll have fun at the Shipwreck Amusements which is the longest miniature golf course in the world! There are also plenty of other attractions such as an indoor black light mini golf course, bounce houses, and even an outdoor paintball area.

Shipwreck Amusements

Address: 759 NY-13, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Shipwreck Amusements

Opening hours: Mon: 3pm - 7:30pm; Thu: 3pm - 7:30pm; Fri: 3pm - 10pm; Sat: 12pm - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 7:30pm (closed on Tue & Wed)

Price: 8.50 USD

22. Get up close and personal with your favorite country stars at the New York State Country Music Hall of Fame

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Although you need an appointment to visit the Music Hall of Fame, it is definitely worth the trip. You can see plenty of memorabilia from a number of local and Nashville-based musicians including Jack Greene, Jeannie C. Riley, and Kenny Rogers. You can even see up close the ten-thousand-dollar dress that Tammy Wynette wore. If you are interested in music you won’t want to miss the New York State Country Music Hall of Fame.

New York State Country Music Hall of Fame

Address: SCMA , 1824 Rt. 13N , Cortland, N.Y. 13045

Website: New York State Country Music Hall of Fame

Opening hours: Admission by appointment only

Price: 3 USD

23. Grab a beer at Central City Bar & Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Looking for a place in Cortland where you can enjoy a nice beer on tap? Look no further than the Central City Bar & Grill which has a whopping 30 draft beers for you to try. They also serve up some delicious meals in this friendly, welcoming haunt. Come and enjoy your beverage while you tuck into some burgers, salads, chillis, or soups. It is the perfect place to stop by and fill your stomach.

Central City Bar & Grill

Address: 17 Central Ave Cortland, NY 13045

Website: Central City Bar & Grill

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 11am - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 1am; Sun: 11am - 11pm (closed on Mon)

24. Discover the art of wood-fired pizzas at Brix Pubaria

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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This popular local haunt boasts some of the best wood-fired pizzas in town. The place can get really busy on the weekend, but they do also offer delivery if you feel like relaxing at home and enjoying the delicious cheesy taste of fresh pizza. We love that they also have a fairly expansive vegan menu and are regularly adding new dishes. This means that you’re bound to find a delicious dish that everyone can enjoy.

Brix Pubaria

Address: 60 Main St, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Brix Pubaria

Opening hours: 11am - 2pm (daily)

25. Support local brewers and wineries at The Finger Lakes Tasting & Tap Room

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Often overlooked, this is a secret hidden jewel of Cortland and we’re sure that after you’ve been once, you’ll keep going back. They regularly rotate their beers and so you every time you visit there will be a different one for you to try. You won’t be disappointed if you are a wine drinker either as they have a wide category to choose from. You’ll have great fun and can enjoy the fact that all the beers and wines on offer are provided by local establishments.

The Finger Lakes Tasting & Tap Room

Address: 31 Main St, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: The Finger Lakes Tasting & Tap Room

Opening hours: Tue: 5pm - 9pm; Wed: 4pm - 9pm; Thu: 4pm - 10pm; Fri: 3pm - 10pm; Sat: 12pm - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)

26. Enjoy the seasonal menu and friendly atmosphere at Hairy Tony's

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

It might not sound too appealing by the name but Hairy Tony’s is a great meet-up joint for some good food and drinks. Categorized as a gastro-pub, it has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. With a menu that changes each season and has regular special dishes, this is a popular local joint. This place is even said to be the subject of legend but we’ll let the staff tell you about that.

Hairy Tony's

Address: 102 Main St, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Hairy Tony’s

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 11pm; Sat: 10am - 11pm; Sun: 10am - 9pm

27. Try some hearty Italian cuisine at Hollywood Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

What can you expect from Hollywood? Well, this restaurant has been a family-run joint since its doors first opened in 1984 and they have continued to create fantastic meals for the Cortland area. You can expect hearty meals with great portion sizes, excellent customer service, and a friendly smile from everyone there. We’re sure that you’ll also enjoy the Hollywood and Art Deco themes throughout the restaurant.

Hollywood

Address: 27 Groton Ave, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Website: Hollywood

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm; Sun: 12pm - 9pm.

28. Play a traditional game of mini golf at Cortland Miniature Golf Course

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

This is the venue for a classic game of miniature golf spread over 18 holes. Unlike many other miniature golf courses which have seen better days, the Cortland Miniature Golf Course is always in pristine condition and is used regularly by local families. It’s a great way to spend a few hours of your holiday. Unlike the modern approach that Shipwrecked has taken, this golf course plays homage to its tradition routes. It’s a great game.

Cortland Miniature Golf Course

Address: NY-13, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)

Price: 5.50 USD

29. Get your boogie on during live music nights at The Haunt

Editor’s note: establishment is permanently closed

Known primarily as the ideal venue to watch live music, there is a wide roster of performers passing through its’ doors. The place has great acoustics and there is always room to dance without being either too cramped or too empty. There is also indoor and outdoor seating for guests. We would definitely recommend checking out The Haunt during your stay in Cortland.

The Haunt

Address: 702 Willow Ave, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

Website: The Haunt

Opening hours: Varies depending on shows (door and kitchen open one hour before scheduled start time)

Lots to do but still much more to Cortland

We hope that this list has given you a good starting base for your holiday itinerary. We’ve literally unearthed just the tip of the iceberg of Cortland, and there is plenty more to see an do. So, print this list, grab a map and get exploring.