Thurston Avenue Bridge
Iconic bridge offering stunning views of Fall Creek Gorge and the picturesque Cornell University campus.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Thurston Avenue Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic bridge offering stunning views of Fall Creek Gorge and the picturesque Cornell University campus.
"Breathtaking gorge views and a beautiful campus make this a must-visit spot."
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera! The gorge views are breathtaking, especially with fall colors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around campus and the bridge area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gorge Views
Thurston Avenue Bridge
Panoramic views of the Fall Creek Gorge and its cascading waterfalls. A photographer's dream!
Cornell University Campus
Surrounding Cornell University
Explore the beautiful Ivy League campus, a blend of historic architecture and natural beauty.
Fall Foliage Spectacle
Thurston Avenue Bridge
Witness the vibrant colors of autumn painting the gorge and surrounding trees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views, Mind the Crowds
Cornell's Iconic Landmark
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera! The gorge views are breathtaking, especially with fall colors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around campus and the bridge area.
🍂 Fall is Peak Season
Visit in autumn for incredible foliage, but expect more visitors.
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking near Cornell can be challenging and expensive. Plan accordingly.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Scenery
Bring your camera! The gorge views are breathtaking, especially with fall colors.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around campus and the bridge area.
🍂 Fall is Peak Season
Visit in autumn for incredible foliage, but expect more visitors.
🚗 Parking Considerations
Parking near Cornell can be challenging and expensive. Plan accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views of the Fall Creek Gorge from the Thurston Avenue Bridge, especially during the vibrant autumn season. The picturesque Cornell University campus also garners significant admiration. Some find parking and campus access to be inconvenient and costly.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Thurston Avenue Bridge is located on the Cornell University campus in Ithaca, NY. You can reach it by car, though parking can be difficult and costly. Public transportation options are available, and walking from other parts of campus is also feasible.
Parking near the bridge can be challenging and expensive, especially during peak times. It's recommended to check Cornell University's parking regulations and consider using campus parking garages or public transport.
Yes, if you are already on the Cornell University campus, walking to the Thurston Avenue Bridge is a pleasant option and allows you to enjoy the surroundings.
Ithaca offers public bus services, and many areas are walkable. For exploring beyond the immediate campus, consider ride-sharing services or renting a car if you plan extensive travel.
While direct bus routes might vary, you can likely reach the Cornell University campus via public transport and then walk to the bridge. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Thurston Avenue Bridge and the surrounding Cornell University campus are generally accessible to the public without an admission ticket.
As an outdoor landmark on a university campus, the bridge is accessible at all times. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
There are no entry fees for the bridge itself. However, parking fees on the Cornell University campus may apply.
Yes, you can visit during special events, but be aware that campus access and parking might be affected. It's a popular spot during events like graduation or homecoming.
No booking is required. However, planning your visit during off-peak hours or seasons can enhance your experience by avoiding large crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge itself offers fantastic vantage points of the gorge. Look for angles that capture the bridge, the waterfalls, and the surrounding trees.
Yes, photography is generally allowed on the Thurston Avenue Bridge and the Cornell campus. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but the gorge's shade can help. Fall colors are particularly vibrant in the afternoon light.
Drone usage is typically restricted on university campuses. It's best to check Cornell University's specific policies regarding drone operation before flying one.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the entire gorge, close-ups of the waterfalls, and scenic views of the surrounding foliage.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Besides enjoying the views from the bridge, you can explore the beautiful Cornell University campus, walk through the gorges, and visit nearby attractions in Ithaca.
Yes, the campus and gorge trails offer excellent walking opportunities. Be prepared for some inclines and stairs if exploring the gorge paths.
Restroom facilities are available within the Cornell University campus buildings. You may need to walk a short distance from the bridge to find them.
The 'Lost Cat' graffiti is a recurring street art tag by artist John Gavin Mahoney found throughout Ithaca, including on parking meters. It's a local quirk and a piece of the city's urban art scene.
The natural setting of the gorge and campus can attract various bird species. While not a dedicated birdwatching spot, it offers opportunities for casual observation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the bridge itself is safe, always supervise children closely, especially near the gorge edges. Exploring the gorge trails might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, but the main campus paths are generally accessible. Look for campus maps to identify open areas and potential points of interest for younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best shots, experiment with different angles from the bridge and consider exploring accessible paths around the gorge rim. During autumn, the fall foliage transforms the scene into a riot of color, making it a prime destination for landscape photographers. Be prepared for crowds during peak foliage season, and consider visiting on a weekday for a less congested experience.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
This inclusive atmosphere extends to the university campuses as well, making it a comfortable and enjoyable place to visit for LGBTQ+ travelers. The general vibe is described as nice, chill, and super supportive, contributing to a positive travel experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Ithaca and Cornell
Many visitors are drawn to Ithaca by Cornell, an Ivy League institution renowned for its academic excellence and beautiful setting. The campus provides a unique atmosphere, blending academic rigor with natural splendor. The bridge, in particular, offers a prime vantage point to appreciate the dramatic topography that defines this region.
Beyond the university, Ithaca boasts a lively downtown area, a thriving arts scene, and a strong sense of community, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, which is noted as being very welcoming and visible. This blend of academic prestige and small-city charm makes Ithaca a compelling destination for a variety of visitors.
Experiencing the Fall Creek Gorge
Exploring the gorge often involves walking along its rim or, for the more adventurous, descending into it via designated trails. These paths can be steep and uneven, so sturdy footwear is essential. The lush vegetation within the gorge changes dramatically with the seasons, offering a different spectacle in spring, summer, and especially autumn.
While the bridge provides a high-level view, venturing closer to the water offers a more intimate connection with the gorge's power and beauty. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the raw, natural landscape that surrounds Ithaca and Cornell. Remember to stay on marked trails for safety and to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
A Hub for Arts and Culture
Furthermore, the presence of film screenings, such as the documentary "The Janes" at Cornell's Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts, points to a community engaged with thought-provoking content and diverse artistic expressions. The mention of street art, like the 'Lost Cat' graffiti, also adds a unique layer to the city's cultural fabric, showcasing local artists and their contributions to the urban landscape.
For visitors interested in more than just scenic views, Ithaca offers opportunities to engage with local theater, music, and visual arts, making it a well-rounded destination for cultural exploration. The Hammerstone School, a non-profit carpentry school empowering women and gender minorities, further exemplifies the diverse and community-focused initiatives present in Ithaca.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit