Cortland Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Cortland, located in the beautiful region of Central New York, is a city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions. Nestled amidst rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, Cortland is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the stunning scenery surrounding Cortland. The city is surrounded by numerous state parks and forests, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping. Cascading waterfalls, such as the enchanting Tinker Falls, provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy fishing and boating in the nearby Finger Lakes, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views.

For those interested in history and culture, Cortland has much to offer. The city is home to the Cortland County Historical Society, where visitors can explore exhibits that delve into the region's rich past. Step back in time as you wander through the beautifully preserved Victorian homes that line the streets of the historic downtown area. Take a guided tour of the 1890 House Museum, a grand mansion that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Victorian era.

Cortland is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The city is home to numerous galleries and theaters, showcasing the work of local artists and performers. The Cortland Repertory Theatre, located in a charming converted barn, offers a diverse lineup of plays and musicals throughout the year. Art enthusiasts can explore the Dowd Gallery, housed within the SUNY Cortland campus, which hosts rotating exhibitions featuring works by both established and emerging artists.

After a day of exploring, visitors can indulge in the city's culinary delights. Cortland is known for its farm-to-table dining scene, with restaurants offering fresh and locally sourced ingredients. From cozy cafes to trendy bistros, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Alternative names: Population: 18.9 thous.Area: 3.91 mi²Elevation: 1125 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 42°35'58"N, 76°10'48"W

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New YorkUnited States

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Cortland Top Attractions

Cortland Attractions - What to See and Explore

Cortland offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Cortland Rural Cemetery, Unitarian Universalist Church, Cortland County Courthouse, Cortland Free Library. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Cemetery
Cortland Rural Cemetery
The Cortland Rural Cemetery is located in Cortland, New York, USA. A non-profit, non-denominational cemetery established in 1853, the still operational cemetery has a physical footprint of approximately 44 acres and features the attributes typical of the mid-19th century garden...
Church
Unitarian Universalist Church
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Cortland, New York, also known as "The Old Cobblestone Church," is an historic cobblestone church building located at 3 Church Street in Cortland, New York, United States. Built in 1837, the building was established as a Universalist church.
Park
Cortland County Courthouse
Cortland County Courthouse is a historic courthouse located at Cortland in Cortland County, New York. It was built in 1924 and is a three-story building in the shape of a Latin cross built of Indiana limestone. It is located within a three-acre park.

Library • Georgian architecture
Cortland Free Library
Cortland Free Library is a historic library building located at Cortland in Cortland County, New York. It consists of one colossal story, seven bays wide, that stands on a high basement.
Church
First Presbyterian Church Complex
First Presbyterian Church Complex, also known as United Presbyterian Church, is a historic Presbyterian church located at Cortland in Cortland County, New York.
Nature and wildlife • Park • Trail
Lime Hollow
The Lime Hollow Center for Environment and Culture is a nature preserve project in Cortland County, New York.
42°35'54"N • 76°10'51"W
United States Post Office
US Post Office-Cortland is a historic post office building located at Cortland in Cortland County, New York. It was built in 1913-1915 and enlarged in 1940–1941. It is one of a number of post offices in New York State designed by the Office of the Supervising Architect of the Treasury Department, Oscar Wenderoth.
Universities and schools
State University of New York at Cortland
The State University of New York College at Cortland is a public college in Cortland, New York, United States. It is part of the State University of New York system.
42°36'15"N • 76°10'40"W
William J. Greenman House
William J. Greenman House is a historic home located at Cortland in Cortland County, New York. It was built in 1896, and based on a pattern book plan by architect George Franklin Barber. It is a 2½-story, Queen Anne-style frame dwelling. It is sheathed in clapboard and sits on a stone foundation.

Day trips

Cortland – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Cortland, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Sciencenter (Ithaca), Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art (Ithaca), Museum of the Earth (Ithaca).

19 milesSW
Carl Sagan, Museum, Science museum
Sciencenter, Ithaca
Sciencenter is a hands-on science museum in Ithaca, New York. It was founded on February 28, 1983 as a 501 not-for-profit educational organization. The Sciencenter grew out of the volunteer-run hands-on science program run for 15 years at several elementary schools in the Ithaca City School District.
19 milesSW
Museum, Art museum, Art gallery
Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, Ithaca
Perched atop the slope of Libe Slope on the Cornell University campus, the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art is a cultural gem in the heart of Ithaca, New York. This striking museum, designed by the renowned architect I.M.
20 milesSW
Museum, Science museum, Natural history museum
Museum of the Earth, Ithaca
Nestled in the scenic northwest region of Ithaca, New York, the Museum of the Earth offers a unique window into the natural history of our planet. This museum, dedicated to fostering an understanding of the Earth and its life past and present, is an educational gem for...
39 milesS
Amusement, Amusement ride, Amusement park
Ross Park Zoo, Binghamton
Nestled in the scenic Southern Tier of New York, Ross Park Zoo stands as a delightful destination for animal lovers and families visiting Binghamton. Established in 1875, it holds the distinction of being the fifth-oldest zoo in the United States, inviting guests...
35 milesS
Amusement ride, Amusement park, Theme park
West Endicott Park Carousel, Binghamton
Nestled in the charming town of Endicott, within the broader Binghamton area in Broome County, New York, the West Endicott Park Carousel emerges as a delightful slice of Americana. This enchanting amusement park ride, a hidden gem in the region, offers visitors a...