Collegetowns come alive at night and the Ithaca area has plenty of ways to have fun after dark.
A day exploring Finger Lakes wineries and breathtaking waterfalls isn’t complete without a night reveling in Ithaca and Tompkins County’s diverse nightlife scene. In addition to our thriving art and theatre scene, check out these noteworthy bars, clubs, and restaurants in Ithaca and Trumansburg – with each taking your night in a different direction. Here are some curated suggestions, with full listings below:
Ithaca
After (or Pre-) Dinner Cocktail:The Watershed and The Downstairs
Conversational atmosphere for people of all ages and tastes, a bookish social space where delicious beverages and comfort foods set an understated baseline for Ithaca’s varied nightlife. In additional to cocktails & wine, they also take their tea seriously. Head to The Downstairs, located right below The Watershed, for great local drinks and live music.
Where you can enjoy a rotating selection of 20 craft beers from across the country and a delicious menu of signature dishes, burgers, sandwiches, and more. With its cozy atmosphere and modern industrial décor, it’s the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or casual drinks with friends.
Located on Restaurant Row (Aurora Street, just off the Ithaca Commons), Luna Inspired Street Food offers a creative menu and is open Sunday through Wednesday until 11:00 PM, and after midnight Thursday through Saturday.
College Crowd: Lot 10
Located right off The Commons, Lot 10 is a popular bar and nightclub known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse entertainment. Spanning two floors, it offers a cozy lounge on the first level with craft cocktails and a more energetic upstairs space featuring live music, DJ sets, and dance parties.
Trumansburg
Atlas Bowl
Eat. Drink. Bowl. With a completely unexpected locally-sourced menu, a fabulous bar serving Finger Lakes wines and an extensive craft beer tap selection from all over the northeast, and bowling to boot, their slogan sums up this fantastic gem in Trumansburg.
In addition to the popular State Theatre of Ithaca, the area is home to many talented musicians and favorite small city for bands to plan while on tour. See the live music section of our events calendar for full list of performances happening during the day and at night. There are a few venues with regular live evening entertainment.
Deep Dive
Located on the inlet in the west end neighborhood of downtown Ithaca, this unassuming venue from the outside has hosted many memorable live performance of the decades. You'll find a mix of local talent and touring bands in range of music genres.
K-House
Karaoke Lounge & Suites with a themed nights and inclusive atmosphere. It's off Catherwood Drive outside of downtown, with plenty of parking, open Wednesday - Saturday.
