Exciting things are happening in Cortland County, from the City of Cortland Revitalization Project to the comeback of county-wide festivals, national acts strumming their guitars in our music venues to colorful murals painted by community artists and store fronts bustling with unique shops and eateries. It is because of YOU, the local community, that Cortland County is an amazing place to live, work and play. So who better to ask "Why should tourists visit Cortland County?" than those who are instrumental in getting things done in this community?
So today, on Tuesday, June 7, we're celebrating 607 Day (607 is of course the area code for most in Cortland County). Stop by the Visitors Center at 42 Main Street in downtown Cortland to see why the residents, business owners, farmers and artists take pride in the county that we love, the place that we call home. #experiencecortland
WHY DO YOU LOVE CORTLAND COUNTY?
The seasons, the summer, the people. Cortland is a tight-knit community where people are welcoming & compassionate. We're small enough to know one another, big enough to have a little bit of everything. On top of that: lakes, recreation, fresh air, clean water, art, music, a lively downtown... we have it all! (Molly)
Beautiful scenery; Friendly helpful neighbors; Lots of ice cream options; Easy commute to work; Great local college. (Beth K.)
The landscape here is incredible. The people are kind and down to earth, and there are hidden gems everywhere-- from ice cream stands, to waterfalls, to farm stores. (Carly D.)
Cortland County has beautiful rolling hills and majestic valleys. The community is rural but is very close knit, neighbors have a genuine concern for each other. The community rallies around its traditions and values its history. Cortland County is centrally located and is an easy drive to major metropolitan areas including Syracuse, Binghamton, Buffalo, and New York City. (Eric M.)
I love it because while Cortland County maybe small, it's number of things to do, places to see, places to eat are much more intriguing than what you might think. And it's that's surprise that ultimately keeps you coming back for more. (Luke B.)
I love the sense of community we have here. I love that I was raised here and I’ve raised my children here. I hope my children choose to do the same. (Alice S.)
Cortland County has a ton to offer and still has that small town feel. (Savannah H.)
I love it’s close proximity to nature as well as city life. It really is the best of both worlds no matter what you’d like to do. (Robby B.)
It’s my hometown, it’s where many of my people still are. It’s comfortable, fun, always growing always changing and trying to be better. (Sharon S.)
I was born and raised here. It is a beautiful area with little threat of natural disaster (like hurricanes!). The hills and valley, the four seasons, and the proximity to everything I could need are key reasons for me to love Cortland County. We have so many wonderful businesses, nonprofits, and places to visit. (Tabitha S.)
WHAT IS CORTLAND COUNTY'S BEST KEPT SECRET?
The ARTS! World-class music is everywhere! And the Melody-Land. (Molly Andrejko)
Delicious locally grown and produced food and our beautiful scenery. (Beth K.)
I don’t know, it's a secret. (Gwen, Age 11)
The beautiful old barns in the countryside, Bob's BBQ on a summer day, and the south end of Skaneateles Lake! (Carly D.)
Honestly, the historical society museum on Homer Ave, I absolutely love history and I used to visit that museum quite often as a child and think more people should know about it and go. (Carol H.)
Cortland is rich with talent. In the 4 years I have lived here, daily I have been amazed by the number of talented people I meet. Also waterfalls. (Ashe M.)
Cortland County has top notch four season recreation opportunities. (Eric M.)
The best kept secret is the amazing number of restaurants in Cortland County with almost every kind of food you could think of from, Thai to Greek to Mexican and many many more. (Luke B.)
Local music. (Alice S.)
Cortland County’s best-kept secret probably has to be the abundance of great garage/estate sales! I’ve found the coolest items at an absolute bargain. (Sam D.)
How good the restaurants are! (Molly, Age 11)
Cortland County in its entirety is an amazing place that not enough people know about in my opinion. From the Center 4 the Arts of Homer, Cortland Repertory Theater, Dwyer Memorial Park, the historic buildings, walking trails, etc. There is so much to see and do here. (Savannah H.)
Labrador Hollow is underrated. Great hiking trails, stunning views, all without the large crowds. (Robby B.)
I think the Center for the Arts in Homer is a real gem. It’s a beautiful, intimate venue and draws some amazing talent from all over, in addition to showcasing so many impressive local artists and performers! (Chelsea H.)
PorchFest on Van Hoesen Street in August. St. Mary’s school and church. (Sharon S.)
We have an amazing restaurant named Hobo's, it has great service and food! (Brooke, Age 12)
Our forests, especially our nature centers, protected areas, etc. (Rose W.)
Cortland County Historical Society! You can find out anything about anything there! (Tabitha S.)
DESCRIBE CORTLAND COUNTY IN THREE WORDS.
Antique, Verdant, Industrious. (Rose W.)
Big. Happy. Thrilling. (Lexi, Age 12)
Comfortable. Friendly. Home. (Sharon S.)
Beautiful. Welcoming. Home. (Molly)
Fun. Exciting. Educational. (Molly, Age 11)
Comfortable. Beautiful. Friendly. (Beth K.)
Historic. Charming. Picturesque. (Robby B.)
Views for days. Hike-worthy. Hill country. (Carly D.)
Homey. Community. Amazing. (Brooke, Age 12)
Developing. Community. Home (Carol H.)
Evolving. Artistic. Supportive (Sam D.)
Friendly. Clean. Safe. (Eric M.)
Amazing. Home. Loving. (Mia, Age 12)
Experiencing endless adventures. (Luke B.)
Fun. Crazy. Weather. (Alex, Age 12)
Rich in tradition. (Alice S.)
Historic. Natural. Growing. (Savannah H.)
Comfortable. Beautiful. Home. (Tabitha S.)
Yummy Food MMMMMM. (Kaili, Age 11)
Evolving. Pastoral. Community. (Chelsea H.)
Share your Cortland County adventures with us for a chance to be featured! Tag @experiencecortland and use hashtag #experiencecortland.