A Sweet Statewide Win for the Cortland County Ice Cream Trail

We’ve got a cherry on top of our summer season, and it’s sprinkled with statewide recognition! Experience Cortland is thrilled to share that our beloved Cortland County Ice Cream Trail has been honored with a 2025 New York State Tourism Excellence Award for Excellence in Tourism Marketing Campaigns, Projects & Programs: Trails & Itineraries by the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA).

Each year, NYSTIA’s Tourism Excellence Awards spotlight the very best campaigns, attractions, and people who help make New York State such an unforgettable place to visit. Winners are chosen through a competitive selection process by a panel of industry experts and celebrated at a special ceremony. This year’s event will take place on September 11, 2025, in Lake George.

“We are thrilled to see the Cortland County Ice Cream Trail recognized on a statewide stage,” said Michelle Enright, Executive Director of Experience Cortland. “This sweet little trail was designed to celebrate our local businesses, inspire summer adventures, and remind visitors and residents that exploring Cortland County should be delicious and fun.”

If you haven’t yet hit the trail, here’s the scoop: the Cortland County Ice Cream Trail is a self-guided adventure that spotlights local ice cream stands and sweet shops across the county. Even better? The trail features a charming, illustrated map created in partnership with Molly Reagan of Good Neighbor Art. Her playful, hand-crafted design has helped families and travelers of all ages discover (and devour) the best frozen treats around.

“This award is a testament to the creativity and collaboration that make Cortland County shine,” Enright added. “It wouldn’t have been possible without our amazing local partners, Molly Reagan’s artistry, and the community members who hit the trail and shared their scoops with us all season long.”

Greg LaDuca, NYSTIA Board Chair, summed it up perfectly: “The New York State Tourism Excellence Awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of those who help shape and elevate New York State as a world-class travel destination. These professionals and organizations play a vital role in strengthening our state’s economy and enhancing the visitor experience.”

So, whether you’re a local looking for your next cone or planning your first sweet adventure in Cortland County, there’s never been a better time to grab a map, gather your crew, and taste your way through our award-winning trail.

Ready to plan your delicious road trip? Find all the tasty details here: Explore the Ice Cream Trail.

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