EcoVillage at Ithaca
A pioneering intentional community showcasing sustainable living through organic farming, green building, and strong social connections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Community events and tours often occur.
EcoVillage at Ithaca
Best Time
Community events and tours often occur.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pioneering intentional community showcasing sustainable living through organic farming, green building, and strong social connections.
"Inspired by the vision of this charming and healing community, a celestial abode."
Book Tours in Advance
Check for scheduled tours or Q&A sessions, especially for National Cohousing Open House events.
Watch the Intro Video
Get detailed answers to common questions about EcoVillage living from their YouTube video.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
SONG Neighborhood Homes
SONG Neighborhood
Explore quirky, innovative homes showcasing sustainable architecture and design ideas.
Organic CSA Farm
Community Farm
Witness a thriving organic farm providing fresh produce, a core element of EcoVillage's sustainable lifestyle.
Thrive Sustainability Education
Thrive EcoVillage Ithaca
Learn about sustainability education programs offered both on-site and online.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understanding EcoVillage Living
Visitor Etiquette & Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Check for scheduled tours or Q&A sessions, especially for National Cohousing Open House events.
Watch the Intro Video
Get detailed answers to common questions about EcoVillage living from their YouTube video.
Respect Resident Privacy
Remember this is a living community; be mindful of residents' personal space and daily lives.
Inquire About Fees
Some visitors have noted fees for tours; clarify costs when booking to avoid surprises.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Check for scheduled tours or Q&A sessions, especially for National Cohousing Open House events.
Watch the Intro Video
Get detailed answers to common questions about EcoVillage living from their YouTube video.
Respect Resident Privacy
Remember this is a living community; be mindful of residents' personal space and daily lives.
Inquire About Fees
Some visitors have noted fees for tours; clarify costs when booking to avoid surprises.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
EcoVillage at Ithaca is lauded for its inspiring vision of sustainable community living, featuring organic farms and innovative green architecture. Visitors are often impressed by the harmonious atmosphere and the tangible examples of eco-friendly practices. However, some guests have reported issues with hospitality and unexpected costs for tours and accommodations, suggesting a need for clear communication and managed expectations.
"Inspired by the vision of this charming and healing community. Feel like many of life’s societal challenges would be solved with urban and rural planning that incorporated the ecovillage components. Clean, natural, with organic gardens everywhere and picturesque views. Children playing in the community sandbox while elders have conflict resolution circles and people take their turn mowing or gardening in the common areas. It’s like a celestial abode."
Ashley Eddington
"I’ve stayed at hundreds of Airbnb’s. Cris crossing this amazing country. Literally never had a bad review. I paid an exorbitant amount to stay in 2 room Airbnb at the Eco Village.
I did so because I was excited about good vibes and maybe seeing the property. This was at a particularly rough time in my life. Mother diagnosed with cancer, dog died a week earlier. Some good vibes felt worth the price tag
I arrived after a very long drive in the dark, finding the unit was impossible yet they acted like it was just easy and I should have known where it was with very vague directions. Strange.
The owners of the unit were super rude.
They actually required to enter my unit while I was staying there for reno estimates
I could hear them
I could smell everything they cooked
There is almost no privacy or hospitality offered and the property was nearly $200 a night for what is basically a bedroom
Later
they gave me a bad review claiming I left dirty dishes (I didn’t…I washed them…in the BATHROOM SINK…cause that’s all this unit has… and also…I’m sorry… why are you not washing a couple dishes yourself between guests? Properly. Gross.
Also…What exactly do you think is included in cleaning fees?
Back to the fact that it’s sold as “a communal eco-village”
I asked if I could have a little tour. They literally wanted $100 to walk the property which could’ve taken 10 minutes.
I honestly ended up leaving early because there was no reason to be there.
Simply put, this couple is using the guise of “friendly communal Eco Village “ to upsell their room to an exorbitant amount, so they don’t have to pay their mortgage. There is zero hospitality extended to guests.
Unit was on the left as you drive in… behind a little garden. Townhome style. Entrances faces the patio.
I will never return."
P H
"I haven't been to Ecovillage but I saw a video interviewing one of the founders and I enjoyed learning about the origins of the community and would love to visit it one day. Great idea!"
Robert Stone
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
EcoVillage at Ithaca is located in Ithaca, New York. While specific public transport details can vary, many visitors arrive by car. If driving, use GPS coordinates or the provided map information.
Parking availability can depend on the specific area you are visiting within the EcoVillage. It's advisable to inquire about parking when booking any tours or accommodations.
While EcoVillage is a residential community, they do host events and offer tours. It's best to check their schedule or contact them directly to understand visiting policies outside of organized events.
The village is spread out, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Some areas might be accessible by car, but walking allows for a better appreciation of the community's layout and green spaces.
Some residents offer accommodations, often through platforms like Airbnb. However, reviews suggest varying experiences with hospitality and privacy in these rentals.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general grounds may be open, but specific tours, workshops, or events often require booking and may have associated fees. Check the EcoVillage website or contact them for current offerings.
As a residential community, there are no set 'visiting hours' for the entire village. However, scheduled tours and events will have specific times.
Some visitors have reported fees for tours, with one review mentioning a $100 charge for a property walk. It's crucial to confirm pricing directly with EcoVillage when planning your visit.
While you can see parts of the village, a guided tour is often recommended to fully understand the community's vision and sustainable practices. Respecting residents' privacy is paramount.
Yes, EcoVillage participates in events like the National Cohousing Open House, offering Q&A sessions and tours. Keep an eye on their announcements for such opportunities.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can explore innovative homes, learn about organic farming, and understand sustainable living practices. The community emphasizes social connections and environmental stewardship.
The community setting with children playing and shared spaces can be appealing. However, visitor experiences with accommodations have varied, so research carefully if planning a family stay.
Founded in 1991, EcoVillage at Ithaca is a long-standing model for sustainable community living, focusing on ecological, social, and economic sustainability.
Yes, Thrive EcoVillage Ithaca offers sustainability education programs, both on-site and online, making it a great place to learn about eco-friendly living.
Common areas often include organic gardens, shared workspaces, and spaces for community activities, reflecting a collaborative and sustainable lifestyle.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While EcoVillage has an organic farm, dedicated public dining facilities are not widely advertised. Visitors may need to rely on nearby Ithaca restaurants or prepare their own meals if staying on-site.
EcoVillage operates a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, which typically involves membership. Availability for non-members might be limited, but it's worth inquiring.
Ithaca offers a diverse culinary scene with many farm-to-table restaurants and cafes that align with the sustainable ethos of EcoVillage.
If you are staying in an Airbnb or similar rental within EcoVillage, cooking facilities are usually provided. However, this can vary by accommodation.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food, especially if they are staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities. This is a common practice for those exploring the area.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially of the natural beauty and architecture. However, always be respectful of residents' privacy and ask permission before photographing individuals.
The unique homes in neighborhoods like SONG, the organic gardens, and the surrounding natural landscape offer picturesque opportunities. Capture the blend of nature and innovative architecture.
Drone usage regulations can be strict, especially in residential communities. It's essential to check local ordinances and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Commercial photography or videography typically requires explicit permission from EcoVillage management. Contact them directly to discuss any professional shooting plans.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for the natural landscapes and unique architecture. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When considering accommodations, families should carefully research options. While the community itself is family-friendly, private rentals might have varying levels of hospitality and amenities. It's advisable to look for family-focused reviews or inquire directly about suitability for children to ensure a comfortable stay.
🌱 Sustainability Enthusiasts
Attending a National Cohousing Open House or a scheduled tour provides direct insight into how these communities function. Engaging with residents (where appropriate and welcomed) can offer valuable perspectives on the challenges and rewards of sustainable living.
🏡 Aspiring Cohousers
Watching their introductory YouTube video is highly recommended for a comprehensive overview of common questions and answers related to cohousing and EcoVillage living.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of EcoVillage at Ithaca
The core principles include organic farming, green building practices, energy efficiency, and conflict resolution. Residents actively participate in managing the community's resources, from maintaining shared spaces to participating in decision-making processes. This collaborative approach fosters a deep sense of connection and shared responsibility among inhabitants.
Thrive EcoVillage Ithaca, an educational non-profit, plays a crucial role in sharing this vision. They offer workshops, tours, and online programs to educate the public about sustainable community living, making the EcoVillage's innovations accessible to a wider audience.
Sustainable Living in Practice
Green building is another cornerstone, with homes designed for energy efficiency and minimal ecological footprint. The SONG Neighborhood, for instance, showcases innovative and quirky home designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, demonstrating that sustainable living can be creative and comfortable.
Residents also engage in practices like composting, water conservation, and utilizing renewable energy sources where possible, further reducing their environmental impact.Beyond the physical infrastructure, EcoVillage fosters a strong social fabric. This includes shared meals, community events, and a commitment to collaborative decision-making and conflict resolution. This social sustainability is as vital as environmental sustainability, creating a resilient and supportive living environment.
Visitor Experiences and Considerations
However, some visitors have reported less positive experiences, particularly concerning accommodations. Issues raised include vague directions, a perceived lack of hospitality, and unexpected fees for tours or services. One review highlighted a significant cost for a basic room with limited privacy and hospitality, suggesting that the 'communal' aspect might not always translate to visitor experience.
It's important for potential visitors to manage expectations and clarify all details before arrival. This includes confirming tour costs, understanding the nature of any rented accommodations, and respecting the fact that EcoVillage is a private residential community. Watching introductory videos and checking for official event schedules can provide a more realistic preview.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit