Summer travelers from afar have appreciated the lush green hillsides, waterfalls, lakes and gorges of this unforgetable land of the Finger Lakes Region. But scenic beauty is not all that Ithaca has to offer in the warmth of summer. Country throughfares offer magnificent vista's beyond each bend of the road. Small villages and hamlets encircle the city each with a unique flavor of its own. Travelers enjoy seeing "small town America", flag lined main streets, fireman's parades, concerts in the park, and friendly folks who are quick to wave or say "Hello" Many visitor's seek out the numerous wineries that surround beautiful Cayuga Lake. Or, often day trips are planned, that visit other cities located within a short drive from Ithaca. Festivals, antique shops, farmer's markets, and museums, art galleries, gardens, and much more, are here for the enjoyment of those who venture to Ithaca, a unique treasure of the Finger Lakes Region. Places to stay abound with Hotels and Bed and Breakfasts, of every shape and description, welcoming guests to relax and stay awhile. Restaurants from the down home to the upscale and elegant provide a delightful opportunity to enjoy delectable dining experiences. With the coming of Fall, our land announces that summer is at an end, and the once green hillsides take on the blaze of color that will bring travelers from afar. Pumpkin and Apple Fests are attended by locals and visitor's alike and college football and marching bands delight the fans. Soon the leaves begin to fall and rustle beneath the feet, and the smell of burning leaves is in the air. Although, winter's snows will soon arrive to cover the once green hills and valleys, Ithaca continues to draw travelers to it's changing landscape. One eventful day, temperatures begin to drop and the land becomes covered with a blanket of white. But tourism in Ithaca, NY does not end with the falling of the snow. Winter events are planned that offer fun filled experiences, and many will choose Ithaca for that special romantic weekend away. Restaurants are less crowded, Hotels and Bed and Breakfast often offer special packages for those looking for a special getaway. Homes and shops are decorated for the season and colored lights are draped about the rooftops and windows. Mulled cider, doughnuts, warm fires, and good eats delight Ithacans, as they "hunker" down for a long winter's night. Vistas now offer stately pines draped in winter white, people dress for warmth and life becomes cozy. One day there will be a warmth in the air, and those of us who live here, will sense, that the earth will soon renew itself with spring. Graduation parties will be planned, baseball and golf leagues will begin to form. Folks will be about their outdoor chores, cleaning up from the aftermath of winter. Lawns will be cut, and hedges trimmed, flowers planted, and houses painted. Summer is once again to arrive in central New York and Ithaca is the perfect place to use as your "hub" when exploring the glorious Finger Lakes Region. Please consider this an invitation to visit ithaca, the city they say is an experience, not to be missed. Terry Donlick, Innkeeper Bountiful Blessings B&B "An Ithaca Area B&B"