Students at SUNY Cortland can take part in a wide choice of fall activities both on and off campus when the leaves change vibrant colors of red, orange, and yellow and the air becomes crisp. The Cortland region offers an abundance of opportunities for outdoor exploration, charming fall customs, and community events. A guide to embracing the season to its fullest is provided here.
Explore the Outdoors
Fall is a great season to explore the area hiking trails due to Cortland’s breathtaking natural beauty. The Lime Hollow Nature Center, located a short distance from campus, has more than 12 miles of hiking and nature walk trails. For students who want to relax in the amazing fall foliage, it’s a peaceful escape. The trails are perfect for any level hiker, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
About 40 minutes from Cortland, Buttermilk Falls State Park near Ithaca is a must-visit for anyone seeking a little extra adventure. The park offers striking waterfalls, challenging paths and stunning vistas, particularly during the fall beauty period.
Apple Picking
There are some excellent orchards in the Cortland area, and fall would not be the same without apple picking. You may harvest your own apples at Littletree Orchards and Indian Creek Farm, two popular spots that are within a short drive from campus. Both provide fall fare like cider and donuts, as well as an assortment of apples. With friends, it’s a great weekend pastime that will leave you with a bag full of fresh apples.
Parents Weekend: Family Fun in the Fall
Fall is the perfect time for hosting Parents Weekend on campus to welcome family members. Students may take advantage of the opportunity to show their families around, participate in activities, and soak in Cortland’s fall beauty. Parents Weekend is a wonderful opportunity to introduce loved ones to college life through events like campus tours and visits to nearby sights. It’s a bonding, memorable weekend whether you’re eating together or watching a sporting event.
Pumpkin Patches, Hayrides, and Cider Tasting
Get an authentic fall experience at Homer’s Finger Lakes Pumpkin Patch. For a taste of fall, you can take a hayride, harvest pumpkins, or explore a corn maze. It’s a traditional way of celebrating Halloween.
If you are older than 21, start the day off with some handmade beer or cider. While 1911 Established at Beak & Skiff Orchards offers seasonal hard ciders such cinnamon and maple. Cortland Beer Company serves fall-inspired brews. After spending a day outside, it’s the ideal way to warm up and why not do it at a nice warm brewery that also has live music.
Fall Festivals
A must-attend event with live music, food, and pumpkins is the Cortland Pumpkinfest, which takes place downtown in mid-October. The Apple Harvest Festival in Ithaca provides crafts, entertainment, and refreshments with an apple theme for those who want to go a step further. A fun fall day makes the journey worthwhile.
In Summary
Cortland is a fall festival hotspot with apple orchards, hiking trails, and Parents Weekend. There is something for everyone whether your style is active outdoor activities or a relaxed weekend at a pumpkin patch or brewery. This fall season, get out and take advantage of everything Cortland has to offer!