Immerse yourself in the flourishing art and culture scene in Cortland County! This two-day itinerary will have you exploring eclectic art installations and rousing theatre – and you’ll discover tasty eats along the way.
DAY 1
Begin your art adventure with a locally roasted caffeine boost at Coffee Mania; then venture to the Cortland Corset Building for a little retail therapy. The creative and cultural hub for artists features shops like Crown City Curiosities, Heroes & Villains and Area 51, as well as art studios such as Pottery Works Cortland, Forged from Ashe Studios and Magpie Custom Creations. Cinch Art Space is packed with the work of over 50 local and regional artisans and craftsmen representing a wide array of handmade gifts and art. Don’t forget to grab a selfie with the 30-foot mural on the west end of the building designed by local artist Crystal Lyon. The work of art pays homage to the building’s history as the former Cortland Corset Company and the Cortland Wagon Company.
For the perfect break from your art tour, take a culinary trip to flavor town at Yori House. This low-key, Korean-inspired eatery has a menu packed with bold, spicy-sweet-acidic flavors of the Korean food playbook. Try the Bulgogi Fried Rice topped with their homemade Kimchi.
Next on the agenda is a trip to Cortland’s second Corset Building. The Crescent Commons, once a burgeoning center for the production of ladies' undergarments, particularly corsets, now is home to apartments and a variety of tenants, including the one and only, Ake Gallery. Shop Paul Kozlowski’s tremendous collection of original artwork inspired by mischief, a little mayhem, and lots of laughter. Bring a smile to the face of the serious art collector with a unique piece that will always make them think of you with a chuckle.
It’s time to boot, scootin’ boogie your way to Courthouse Park for Main Street Music Series, happening every Friday in July. The event will feature outdoor musical acts from the likes of The Rods, Unknown Jones, Baked Shrimp and Vanessa Collier, as well as libations for those 21 and over.
When you’re ready for dinner, BRIX Pubaria is a local favorite, and for good reason. The kitchen is whipping out creative dishes from Korean BBQ Brussels Sprouts to Caesar Pizza and B.O.B Mac-N-Cheese. The unique flavors don’t stop in the kitchen. Try one of their signature cocktails like The Seven Valley Curse (vodka, fresh lemon and basil leaves and lemonade soda).
DAY 2
Grab a delicious pastry or breakfast bagel at Sinfully Sweet Café, then set off to explore the whimsical Frog Pond Farm Folk Art Gallery. There you will find an eclectic collection of metal animals, insects and vehicles designed by the Ferros. Their work has been represented in art galleries, museums and at shows all over the U.S., as well as parts of Europe. Beware of the giant 10-foot moose!
Next up, take a trip out to Marathon for a taste of whiskey and the whimsical at Dragonfyre Distillery. As you’re sipping on hand-crafted whiskey and moonshine, browse the creations of Fancifuls Inc.; from wearable art to unique sculptures, you’re sure to find an unexpected treasure in the dragon’s lair.
Check out a theatre performance at the Cortland Repertory Theatre to close out your night. This year, audience members will enjoy the theatre’s 51st summer season with performances in the historic Little York Pavilion. As an evening alternative, wind down with live music at the Center for the Arts of Homer. The church-turned-music venue inspires local, regional and national musicians to give their best performances. The altar has been replaced with a small stage that artists like The SteelDrivers, Eilen Jewell and Better Than Ezra will be rocking out on this summer. Come early to enjoy a beverage in the lobby, but not before reserving your seat with a Post-It note.
Can’t decide what you’d like to eat before the evening’s entertainment? Bob’s BBQ offers finger-lickin’ good BBQ, while Dasher’s Corner Pub is your go-to spot for steak and specialty cocktails.
In search of more inspiration for your next Cortland County weekend getaway? Request a FREE Visitors Guide to start planning.
Share your Cortland County adventures with us for a chance to be featured!
Tag @experiencecortland and use hashtag #experiencecortland.