The entrance to The History Center's exhibit hall
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Tompkins County History Center

4.8
·19 reviews·Ithaca, United States

Discover Tompkins County's past through engaging exhibits and entertaining guided tours, featuring a historic 1918 plane.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal attention

CrowdLow
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The entrance to The History Center's exhibit hall

Tompkins County History Center

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal attention

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Tompkins County's past through engaging exhibits and entertaining guided tours, featuring a historic 1918 plane.

4.8
(19 reviews)

"A free, nice small historic spot with terrific tour guides and great exhibits."

Vertical photo
TIP

📞 Call Ahead for Hours

Confirm operating hours by calling during business hours, avoiding lunch, as some visitors experienced unanswered calls. :telephone_receiver:

✈️ Don't Miss the Plane!

The 1918 plane exhibit is a standout. Check out the info and video of it flying! :airplane:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

1918 Plane Exhibit

1918 Plane Exhibit

See a historic 1918 plane and learn about its journey with accompanying videos. A truly unique piece of aviation history.

Engaging Guided Tours

Engaging Guided Tours

Experience entertaining and informative tours focusing on Ithaca's folklore, blending fun with a touch of the eerie.

Local History Exhibits

Local History Exhibits

Discover fascinating exhibits that showcase the rich history of Tompkins County, with staff passionate about their mission.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the Tompkins County History Center is generally quiet, check their website for specific hours, especially around lunch, as some visitors have reported unanswered calls during those times. Planning your visit during their stated operating hours ensures you won't miss out on exhibits like the 1918 plane.

Parking & Accessibility

Parking information is readily available on the History Center's website, often found at the bottom of pages. Visitors have noted it's a small, historic spot, so confirm parking details to avoid any surprises upon arrival.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon (post-lunch)
Why
Staff more available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

how to make my room cold please its so hot in here AHHHH #fyp #viral #odyssey #ithaca #greekmythology #epicthemusical #epic #athena #odysseus #calypso #circe #summerslqve #blowup #foryou #History #greekmyth #viralvideo #penelope #greece #history @Jorge Rivera-Herrans
@kqtzuki
417.3K likes • 1.7M views

📞 Call Ahead for Hours

Confirm operating hours by calling during business hours, avoiding lunch, as some visitors experienced unanswered calls. :telephone_receiver:

✈️ Don't Miss the Plane!

The 1918 plane exhibit is a standout. Check out the info and video of it flying! :airplane:

This #amazing #Science #exhibit at the #sciencenter in #ithaca NY is easily one of the coolest things I've ever seen 🥰😃 #science #topography #maps #hydrology
@annealexander82
171.3K likes • 4.6M views
Our 50 Hour DJ Anthony promised to shave his head if we raised $2500 for the Tompkins County Workers’ Center. During hour 47, we got to livestream his promise! We still have a few more hours to go to reach our $4000 goal! Tune in now for the 38th 50 Hour Fundraiser streaming on vicradio.org and simulcasting on 92 WICB! Click the link in bio to donate!
vicradio
92 likes • 1.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tour Fun

Highly recommended! Tours are entertaining, informative, and a bit spooky, perfect for learning local folklore. :ghost:

💻 Website Navigation

The website is intuitive for finding hours, location, and parking info. :computer:

📍 Ithaca, New York #ithaca #ithacany #newyork #ny #ithacanewyork
@randomtownz
17.1K likes • 256.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📞 Call Ahead for Hours

Confirm operating hours by calling during business hours, avoiding lunch, as some visitors experienced unanswered calls. :telephone_receiver:

✈️ Don't Miss the Plane!

The 1918 plane exhibit is a standout. Check out the info and video of it flying! :airplane:

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tour Fun

Highly recommended! Tours are entertaining, informative, and a bit spooky, perfect for learning local folklore. :ghost:

💻 Website Navigation

The website is intuitive for finding hours, location, and parking info. :computer:

❤️ Passionate Staff

Staff are dedicated to their mission and make exhibits engaging. :heart:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(19 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Tompkins County History Center to be a free, small, and historic gem with a dedicated staff. Highlights include the 1918 plane exhibit and entertaining guided tours that delve into local folklore. While generally positive, some have noted challenges with phone accessibility during certain hours.

"Free, nice small historic spot. Check out the 1918 plane and accompanying information and video of it flying."

Eric

"The staff was so nice. There is a public restroom. The museum is worth seeing, too. Thanks!"

Jordan Mathews

"Great exhibits, I learned a lot and you can tell the staff really care about their mission.

I found their website to be intuitive and easy to navigate, with hours and location at the bottom of almost every page on the site and right at the top of "plan your visit," above parking and transportation info, where I'd expect it to be."

Jo Klein

What People Like

Free admission
Engaging exhibits
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Phone unanswered

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Parking information is typically found at the bottom of most pages on the Tompkins County History Center's official website, often under a 'Plan Your Visit' section. It's advisable to check this before you go to ensure a smooth arrival. Reddit

As a historic building, accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the center. Their website usually provides information on facilities and access. Reddit

Ithaca is known for its natural beauty and waterfalls,TikTok but for the History Center itself, driving and parking is a common method. Public transport options in Ithaca might be limited, so checking local transit schedules is recommended if you're not driving. TikTok

The Tompkins County History Center is located in Ithaca, NY, a city celebrated for its waterfalls like Taughannock Falls and Robert H. Treman State Park.TikTok+1 You can also find exhibits at the Science Center.TikTok

It's crucial to check the Tompkins County History Center's official website for the most up-to-date operating hours, as they can vary. Some visitors have noted difficulty reaching them by phone during lunch hours. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Tompkins County History Center is described as a 'free, nice small historic spot' by visitors, suggesting admission is complimentary. However, it's always best to verify this on their official website. Reddit

Given it's a smaller, free historic spot, advance booking is likely not required. However, for special events or guided tours, checking their website or calling ahead is recommended. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended by visitors for their entertainment and informative content, especially those focusing on Ithaca's folklore. Reddit

Weekday mornings are generally less crowded. Visiting after lunch might also be a good option as staff are typically more available. Reddit

Yes, visitors have confirmed that a public restroom is available at the Tompkins County History Center. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

A highlight is the 1918 plane exhibit, complete with information and a video of it flying. The center also features engaging exhibits on Tompkins County's history and folklore. Reddit

Visitors consistently praise the staff for being nice, caring about their mission, and providing terrific, informative experiences, especially during guided tours. Reddit

You can expect to learn about Tompkins County's history, including local folklore, with some tours delving into the 'grisly aspects' of Ithaca's past. Reddit

While specific children's programming isn't detailed, the engaging exhibits and entertaining tours could be interesting for older children and families interested in history and local stories. Reddit

A visit can vary depending on your interest. A quick look at exhibits might take an hour, while a guided tour could add another hour or more. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary in museums. It's best to check for any signage or ask staff upon arrival. Generally, personal photos for non-commercial use are often permitted, but flash photography might be restricted. TikTok

The 1918 plane exhibit is a unique visual subject. The historical displays and any interactive elements might also offer interesting photo opportunities. Reddit

Lighting conditions can vary. Historic buildings may have dimmer lighting in certain areas. Consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance or using your phone's night mode if allowed. TikTok

While not explicitly mentioned, the 1918 plane and any particularly striking historical artifacts or displays would likely be good subjects for photos. Reddit

Similar to photography, filming for social media should be done respectfully. Check with staff about any restrictions, especially if using tripods or extensive equipment. Some TikTok creators have shared general Ithaca content.TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Tompkins County History Center offers a unique opportunity for families to explore local history in an engaging way. The 1918 plane exhibit is a definite highlight that can capture a child's imagination, especially with the accompanying video of it flying. Reddit While the center is a historic spot, the staff are known for being friendly and dedicated, which can make the experience more welcoming for younger visitors. Reddit

Consider booking a guided tour if your children are old enough to appreciate historical narratives. These tours are described as entertaining and informative, with a touch of spooky folklore that might add an exciting element for older kids. Reddit It's always a good idea to check the website for any specific family-friendly programming or to call ahead to ensure the exhibits and tours align with your children's interests and attention spans. Confirming operating hours is also key to avoid any disappointment. Reddit

📚 History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about local history, the Tompkins County History Center is a must-visit. The engaging exhibits delve into the rich past of Tompkins County, offering a deeper understanding of the region's development and cultural heritage. Reddit The 1918 plane exhibit is a particularly noteworthy artifact for aviation history buffs. Reddit

The guided tours are highly recommended, as they provide in-depth narratives and context, often exploring unique aspects of local folklore and history that might not be immediately apparent in static displays. Reddit The knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff further enhance the experience, readily sharing their passion and insights. Make sure to check the website for specific tour schedules and any special exhibitions that might be running during your visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Ithaca's Rich History

The Tompkins County History Center serves as a gateway to understanding the region's past. Beyond the well-known natural attractions like the stunning waterfalls of Robert H. Treman State Park TikTok and Taughannock Falls,TikTok Ithaca boasts a deep historical narrative. The center focuses on local history, offering insights into the lives and events that shaped Tompkins County. This includes a fascinating look at early aviation with their 1918 plane exhibit, complete with informative details and a video showcasing its flight. Reddit

Visitors can delve into various aspects of local heritage, from everyday life in past centuries to more unique narratives. The guided tours are particularly lauded for their ability to bring history to life, blending education with entertainment. These tours often touch upon local folklore, providing a glimpse into the more 'grisly aspects' of Ithaca's past, making for a memorable and engaging experience. Reddit The staff's passion for their mission is evident, ensuring that each exhibit and tour is both informative and captivating. Reddit

The Value of Community-Driven Insights

The Tompkins County History Center benefits greatly from the shared experiences of its visitors, as seen on platforms like Reddit. These user-generated insights offer practical advice that complements official information. For instance, the tip about calling ahead to confirm hours, especially avoiding lunch, stems directly from visitor experiences, highlighting potential communication gaps. Reddit Similarly, the confirmation of a public restroom and the positive remarks about the staff's niceness and dedication add a personal touch that official descriptions might miss. Reddit

Social media, while often focusing on broader Ithaca attractions like its natural beauty TikTok+1 or the Science Center,TikTok also indirectly highlights the appeal of the region's cultural offerings. The Tompkins County Workers' Center fundraiser mentioned on Instagram Instagram showcases the community's engagement, a spirit that likely extends to local historical institutions. By synthesizing these diverse sources, potential visitors gain a more holistic understanding of what to expect, from practicalities like parking Reddit to the overall enriching experience of exploring local history. Reddit

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