Spotlight

The stress of holiday shopping begins the moment you drop the fork on Thanksgiving, but we're here to remind you can skip all the chaos by shopping at local, small businesses in Cortland County. The area has a variety of small, one-of-a-kind shops that visitors and locals will find deals they can't resist, whether for themselves or loved ones. We promise you'll even have energy left to savor a…

Country Blessings is a quirky and charming space. At first glace, it appears like any other antique shop, but as you begin to wander through the nooks and alcoves, your eyes come to rest upon some unique and unexpected treasures. Long forgotten relics, carefully curated, suddenly seem innately modern and artfully sophisticated. No inch of space is wasted, in this clever little shop and, what began…

This blog is the first in a series, exploring hiking and traveling with your faithful, four-legged, friends in Cortland County. Do you have a favorite trail or place in Cortland County that you love sharing with your dog? Perhaps, you snapped the perfect photo of you and Fido, exploring locally?  I want to know about it! Email me at Candace@experiencecortland.com and just maybe we'll see you in…

As soon as I set foot in the door I feel as though I've been transported back to northern California. Familiar sites and smells overtake me; scented candles and hand blended teas, bright textiles and vibrant paintings. Artisan Elements has truly captured the art collective experience. As I walk the aisles, I marvel at the eclectic selection. The shelves are home to all sorts of lovely trinkets;…

Standing under the only stop light in town, you'll often hear a distant clip clop as an Amish horse and buggy makes it's way down Main Street. Comprised of a patchwork of buildings, both historic and new, hemmed in by the Tioughnioga River, Marathon is radiating quintessential small town charm, perfect for a wandering day trip. FIRST STOP BREAKFAST Reilly's Cafe It's been said that breakfast is…

Marathon New York is beginning what they hope grows to an annual tradition. Sponsored by the CNY Maple Festival, the Marathon Community Fall Fair promises to be a day full of food, shopping and fun.  Keep reading for all the details.  WHEN IS IT HAPPENING? This community wide event will take place November 6th, from 9 a.m.- 4p.m. Parking will be available at the Marathon Civic Center, located at…

It's that time of year, when the weather begins to drive us indoors. Early evenings leave us curled around the fire or stirring soup over the stove, contemplating feathering our nest. Whether you're a budding artist or just appreciate locally crafted goods, Cortland County is full of everything you need to make you feel inspired to create or simply create a more cozy space this fall. POTTERY WORKS…

Navigating your way through a corn maze is an essential fall activity for families, and Trinity Valley Dairy Farm has pulled out all the stops once again to create a fresh, challenging maze for their visitors! Everyone - not just kids - can enjoy a fun-filled, fall trip to Family Fun Days & Corn Maze starting Saturday, September 18.  Enjoy acres of outdoor family activities in the fresh country…

Whether you're looking for heart pumping, adrenaline rushing scares, or kid-friendly fall fun, there are endless ways to celebrate Halloween in Cortland County.  For more details, and plenty more great events, check out the Experience Cortland events calendar. TRINITY VALLEY CORN MAZE Thursday- Saturday Sept. 18- Oct. 31 |10-4p.m.| Trinity Valley Dairy| $7 Thursday & Friday / $9 Saturday & Sunday…

The next time you're planning to get some fresh air, don't leave Fido at home! Dogs make excellent walking companions whether it's your usual stroll around the neighborhood, or an adventure through the woods. Cortland County has a variety of dog-friendly paths available that are for both the experienced hiker or the novice pup who hasn't done much exploring.  Keep reading for a list of…

If you’re a history buff, visiting Cortland County is a no-brainer. Just a few days spent in the county is enough to give you a taste of the area’s very diverse history. We promise adventure, a little beauty, and a whole lot of history in two days in Cortland County. DAY ONE Start your trip with a locally roasted caffeine boost at Coffee Mania; then venture to Cortland County’s…

For those seeking artistic discovery, Experience Cortland’s weekend arts and culture itinerary is here to help you make the most of your time with us! DAY 1 Start your trip with a locally roasted caffeine boost at Coffee Mania; then venture to the Cortland Corset Building for a little retail therapy. Cinch Art Space is packed with the work of over 50 local and regional artisans and craftsmen…

Experience Cortland, the Cortland County Convention & Visitors Bureau, has been honored with a Tourism Excellence Award for the “Spirit of Cortland” video series produced during the COVID pandemic. Destination marketing organizations, museums, attractions, and other tourism related businesses gathered virtually at 11:30 AM on Thursday, May 6 to honor the efforts of their peers. The 2021 New…

Cortland County has an abundance of year-round, all-season, outdoor adventure opportunities so it's hard to narrow it down if you've only got one day. From hiking, zip-lining and paddling, outdoor excitement is around every corner. So dust off your gear. Let us show you how to spend a day in the Cortland County great outdoors! TINKER FALLS Greet the day with gusto at the Tinker Falls Trail, which…

There's nothing wrong with rice and canned beans, but sometimes the only thing that will satisfy a rumbling stomach is a heaping dish of food from your favorite restaurant. Lucky for everyone, Cortland County restaurants have stepped up and are providing comfort (in food) during these uncomfortable times.  For anyone who'd prefer to stay home and practice social distancing, below is a list of…

Experience creativity in Cortland County! Cortland Repertory Theatre's annual Community Arts Exhibition, Creative Cortland, is on full display in the downtown location. The gallery features various painters, digital artists, sculptors, and more form the local area. The exhibition began three years ago, as a way to showcase the talented creatives who live and work in the local area, including SUNY…

Travel Responsibly: In an effort to limit the impact of COVID-19, please wear your mask and practice social distancing in all public spaces per official guidelines. Advance tickets or RSVPs are highly recommended or necessary at many spots. Your best bet: plan ahead. The CNY Living History Center is open with safety protocols put in place, but the fun of exploring and learning is still…

Travel Responsibly: In an effort to limit the impact of COVID-19, please wear your mask and practice social distancing in all public spaces per official guidelines. Advance tickets or RSVPs are highly recommended or necessary at many spots. Your best bet: plan ahead. Love is in the air in Cortland County! Whether you're single or spending the day with your sweetheart, there are a variety…

If you're looking for beautiful places to photograph this winter, you don't need to go far. Cortland County can be a stunning real life snow globe in the colder months and we're hear to give you the scoop on the best places to snap a photo that you'll want to share on Instagram! Bundle up, grab your camera, and check out our 10 most beautiful views in Cortland County in the winter. Don't forget to…

Travel Responsibly: In an effort to limit the impact of COVID-19, mask-wearing and social distancing are required in all public spaces per official guidelines. Advance tickets or reservations are highly recommended or necessary at many spots. Your best bet: Plan ahead. Have you made your Cortland County winter bucket list yet? There are so many safe, family-friendly activities to enjoy in the…