Our TreeTops treehouse is 6-stories high!
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Cayuga Nature Center Ithaca

4.4
·450 reviews·Ithaca, United States

Explore a unique 6-story treehouse, hike scenic trails, and see Denison Falls at this natural gem near Ithaca.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Our TreeTops treehouse is 6-stories high!

Cayuga Nature Center Ithaca

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a unique 6-story treehouse, hike scenic trails, and see Denison Falls at this natural gem near Ithaca.

4.4
(450 reviews)

"A cool place to check out with a pretty big tree house built by students decades ago."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Treehouse is FREE!

The main attraction, the 6-story treehouse, is free to explore!

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Trails can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 6-Story Treehouse

The 6-Story Treehouse

Main attraction

Climb through multiple levels of this unique structure, built by local students, offering forest canopy views.

TikTokInstagram
Denison Falls

Denison Falls

Adjacent to the treehouse

A beautiful 20-foot cascading waterfall, visible from the treehouse and surrounding trails.

TikTok+1
Nature Trails

Nature Trails

Throughout the grounds

Explore miles of shaded trails through woodlands, offering opportunities for hiking and nature observation.

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Planning Your Visit

Treehouse Access & Hours

The iconic 6-story treehouse is a major draw, often accessible even when the main lodge is closed. Check current hours for the lodge and any specific trail access, as they can vary seasonally. TikTokInstagram

Nature Center Status

While the treehouse and trails are generally accessible, the nature center itself and animal exhibits may have limited hours or be closed seasonally. Confirm operational status before your visit to manage expectations. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Warm for exploring trails
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#rocthecitywithhope #ithaca #ithacany #ithacanewyork #fingerlakes #fingerlakesny #fingerlakesnewyork #fingerlakesregion #cny #centralny #ny #newyork #treehouse #naturecenter #iloveny #ilovenewyork #ithacaisgorges
@rocthecitywithhope
1.6K likes • 26.5K views

🎯 Treehouse is FREE!

The main attraction, the 6-story treehouse, is free to explore! Instagram+1

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Trails can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring. TikTokReddit

Unique Six-Story treehouse to visit in New York. Great for both kids and adults to explore. Located inside the Cayuga Nature Center just outside of downtown Ithaca. On the year of 2000, it was built by students from Ithaca High School. It also has a 20-ft tall waterfall, just next to it. The waterfall is called Denison Falls. 📍Six-Story Treehouse, Ithaca, New York #ithacany #ithaca #escapenyc #u...
@travelwithsudipa
1.3K likes • 53.5K views
A hidden gem in Upstate NY: a 6-story treehouse! 📍Cayuga Nature Center, Ithaca 🏷️ save this post for your future trip to Ithaca! An hour and half away from Rochester, NY makes a great trip on a Saturday afternoon to check out a 6-story treetops treehouse! More Info: 🌲 The trails & TreeTops Treehouse are open daily from 10am- 5pm 💰Pay-what-you-wish, donation- based admission 🐶 No pets allow...
pinesandpeaks_
24.4K likes • 478.3K views

🚫 No pets allowed

Due to live animal exhibits, pets are not permitted on the grounds. Instagram

💧 Check Nature Center hours

The lodge and animal exhibits may be closed seasonally; confirm before visiting. InstagramReddit

A hidden gem in Upstate NY: a 6-story treehouse! 📍 Cayuga Nature Center, Ithaca It was so much fun to visit again in the summer and see the transformation of the landscape. [SAVE this reel for your future trip to Ithaca!] Located an hour and half away from Rochester, NY, it makes a great Saturday afternoon trip to check a 6-story treetop treehouse! More Info: 🌲 The trails and TreeTops Treehou...
pinesandpeaks_
117 likes • 2.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Treehouse is FREE!

The main attraction, the 6-story treehouse, is free to explore! Instagram+1

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

Trails can be uneven; good walking shoes are essential for exploring. TikTokReddit

🚫 No pets allowed

Due to live animal exhibits, pets are not permitted on the grounds. Instagram

💧 Check Nature Center hours

The lodge and animal exhibits may be closed seasonally; confirm before visiting. InstagramReddit

📸 Great photo ops

Capture stunning views from the treehouse and of Denison Falls. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(450 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the unique 6-story treehouse as a fun and free attraction, especially for families. However, some reviews mention that the nature center itself and animal exhibits may have limited hours or be closed, and that the grounds could benefit from more upkeep. The trails are generally good for a walk, but more extensive hiking options exist elsewhere in the region.

"It's a cool place to checkout. It has a pretty big tree house built by students decades ago. There's not much to do here besides hike some trails and see the treehouse. There are way better hikes around there area if that's what you're interested in.

I don't think it's worth going out of your way to come here to see the tree house. The top is covered with hard plastic so there isn't a great view. It's cramped and pretty dirty. I'd say it's worth checking out for like 15 minutes and it's on the way to something else."

Erik Z

"I arrived at 3 pm on a Monday. I was the only visitor in the parking lot. An employee was standing outside of the building. She advise me how to access a couple of the trails and said that the Nature center was closed. 😐 It wasn't supposed to close for two hours. Disappointed in that.

The grounds, especially around the nature center, needs upkeep. What a shame. I don't know anything about this place. Maybe they run on donations and don't have the money/manpower to keep it in top shape? The peeling paint in the rear makes it look derelict.

Taughannock Falls is right down the street and was busy so I was floored that no one else was here for the trail and Nature Center. (She said they are busy in the summer). A couple people showed up as a was leaving.

The adult/kid tree house was pretty neat. Only a short walk from the parking lot.

There seems to be a few trails but I didn't do much hiking on them. Cool gorge and shaded trail.

Nice view from the parking lot."

Karen S

"The treehouse is beautiful, and my child really enjoyed it! However, the nature center was closed, and the animal enclosures were empty. Additionally, there was no access to bathrooms. On a positive note, we did enjoy walking along the trails."

I F

What People Like

Unique 6-story treehouse
Free admission to treehouse
Proximity to Denison Falls

What People Dislike

Nature center closure
Overgrown trails
Graffiti on treehouse

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cayuga Nature Center is located at 1420 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY. It's a short drive from downtown Ithaca and is often visited in conjunction with Taughannock Falls State Park. Parking is available on-site. Instagram+1

While specific public transport routes directly to the center might be limited, Ithaca has a bus system. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Yes, there is a parking lot available for visitors. It's usually convenient for accessing the treehouse and trails. Reddit

Cayuga Nature Center is very close to Taughannock Falls State Park, often described as just down the road or a few minutes away, making it easy to combine visits. InstagramReddit

Many visitors combine a trip to Cayuga Nature Center with nearby attractions like Taughannock Falls or Buttermilk Falls State Park for a full day of exploration. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The main attraction, the 6-story TreeTops Treehouse, is often free to visit. The nature center itself may operate on a pay-what-you-wish donation basis, especially for trail access. Instagram+2

The trails and the treehouse are typically open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. However, the nature center lodge and animal exhibits may have different hours or be closed seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most current information. Instagram+1

Yes, the treehouse and trails are often accessible even when the main nature center building is closed, especially during off-season months. Instagram

For the treehouse and trails, advance booking is generally not required as it's often free or donation-based. However, for any specific programs or events, it's advisable to check their website. Instagram

The treehouse is designed for both kids and adults to explore, with multiple levels and ways to ascend. It's a family-friendly attraction. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main draw is the 6-story treehouse, but you can also hike several miles of trails, see Denison Falls, and historically, there were live animal exhibits. TikTokReddit+1

Built by Ithaca High School students, it's a unique, multi-level structure offering views of the forest canopy and Denison Falls. Some visitors note it can get cramped and has graffiti. TikTokReddit+1

Trail conditions can vary. Some reviews suggest they are good for hiking, while others mention areas appearing overgrown or needing upkeep. Reddit

Historically, the center featured live native animal exhibits. However, some recent reviews indicate these enclosures may be empty or covered up, suggesting a change in operations. TikTokInstagramReddit

Denison Falls is a 20-foot waterfall located near the 6-story treehouse. It's a scenic feature that adds to the natural beauty of the area. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The nature center lodge may offer some amenities seasonally, but it's not primarily a dining destination. Visitors often bring their own snacks or plan meals in nearby Ithaca. Instagram

Yes, Ithaca offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. Many are located a short drive away in the downtown area. TikTok

While not explicitly stated, the grounds are suitable for picnics. It's a good idea to bring your own food and enjoy the natural surroundings. Reddit

Ithaca has many family-friendly restaurants. If you're looking for wood-fired pizza and beer, as one Reddit user inquired, you'll likely find options in or around the city. Reddit

Ithaca is known for its farm-to-table scene and diverse culinary offerings, including many vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The 6-story treehouse offers unique angles, especially from within and looking out. Denison Falls is also a picturesque subject. The surrounding forest trails provide opportunities for nature photography. TikTokInstagram

The fall foliage in Upstate New York is spectacular, and the natural setting of Cayuga Nature Center, with its treehouse and waterfall, would be beautiful during autumn. Instagram+1

Drone usage regulations can vary by park and nature preserve. It's best to check with the center's management or local FAA guidelines before flying a drone. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is good for general shots of the treehouse and falls. A wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the treehouse and surrounding landscape. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming might require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The 6-story TreeTops Treehouse is an absolute must-visit for families with children. TikTok+1 Its unique design and multiple levels provide hours of imaginative play and exploration. Instagram The short walk from the parking lot to the treehouse makes it easily accessible for younger children. Reddit While the nature center's animal exhibits may have limited availability, the trails offer space for kids to run and explore. TikTok Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options on-site are minimal. Reddit

Pairing a visit to the Cayuga Nature Center with nearby attractions like Taughannock Falls or Buttermilk Falls State Park can create a full day of family adventure in the Ithaca area. Instagram+1 The free access to the treehouse makes it a budget-friendly option for family outings. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love to hike, the 5+ miles of trails at Cayuga Nature Center offer a pleasant escape into nature. TikTok While not as dramatic as some of the more famous gorges in the area, the shaded paths provide a tranquil environment for a walk. Reddit Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes woodlands. TikTok

While the treehouse is a unique feature, serious hikers might find more challenging or extensive trail systems in nearby state parks. However, the combination of the treehouse, Denison Falls, and the trails makes for a worthwhile, albeit shorter, nature excursion. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The 6-story treehouse itself presents a unique photographic subject, especially with its intricate structure and integration into the forest. TikTok Capturing shots from various angles, both inside and out, can yield interesting perspectives. Denison Falls offers a classic natural beauty shot, particularly appealing during wetter seasons or with good lighting. TikTok The surrounding woodlands and trails provide opportunities for capturing atmospheric forest scenes and details of nature. TikTok Consider visiting during the fall for vibrant foliage, which can dramatically enhance the visual appeal of the landscape. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Treehouse

The 6-story TreeTops Treehouse is the undisputed star attraction at the Cayuga Nature Center. Built by students from Ithaca High School in the year 2000, this unique structure offers an adventurous climb through multiple levels, providing a bird's-eye view of the surrounding forest canopy. TikTok+1 Visitors can ascend via various paths, making it an engaging experience for both children and adults. TikTok While it's a highlight, some recent visitor feedback notes that the top can be covered with hard plastic, limiting the view, and that the structure sometimes shows signs of graffiti and wear. Reddit

Despite these minor critiques, the treehouse remains a popular spot, especially for families. Its accessibility, often free of charge, makes it a compelling reason to visit. Instagram+1 The proximity to Denison Falls adds to its charm, offering a scenic backdrop to this architectural marvel. TikTok It's a testament to community involvement and a fun, interactive way to experience the natural environment. Instagram

Key Takeaways:
* Built by Ithaca High School students.
* Offers multiple levels and forest canopy views.
* Often free to access.
* Located near Denison Falls.
* Some visitors note graffiti and wear. Reddit

Exploring the Natural Surroundings

Beyond the treehouse, the Cayuga Nature Center boasts over 5 miles of trails winding through protected woodlands. TikTok These trails offer a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region, with shaded paths and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. Reddit While some reviews mention that certain areas might appear overgrown or in need of upkeep, the trails are generally considered good for hiking and exploring the gorge landscape that Ithaca is famous for. Reddit

A significant natural feature adjacent to the treehouse is Denison Falls, a picturesque 20-foot waterfall. TikTok+1 The sound and sight of the cascading water add to the serene atmosphere of the area. Visitors can often catch glimpses of the falls while climbing the treehouse or while walking the nearby trails. TikTok

Historically, the nature center also featured live native animal exhibits. TikTok However, recent visitor feedback suggests that these enclosures may be empty or covered up, indicating potential changes in the center's operational focus. It's advisable to check the current status of these exhibits if they are a primary reason for your visit. InstagramReddit

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