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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention

Tompkins County History Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Tompkins County's past through engaging exhibits and entertaining guided tours, featuring a historic 1918 plane.
"A free, nice small historic spot with terrific tour guides and great exhibits."

📞 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Local History Exhibits
Discover fascinating exhibits that showcase the rich history of Tompkins County, with staff passionate about their mission.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Parking & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
As a historic building, accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the center. Their website usually provides information on facilities and access.
Ithaca is known for its natural beauty and waterfalls,
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.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.
You can also find exhibits at the Science Center.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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended by visitors for their entertainment and informative content, especially those focusing on Ithaca's folklore.
Weekday mornings are generally less crowded. Visiting after lunch might also be a good option as staff are typically more available.
Yes, visitors have confirmed that a public restroom is available at the Tompkins County History Center.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
Visitors consistently praise the staff for being nice, caring about their mission, and providing terrific, informative experiences, especially during guided tours.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
The 1918 plane exhibit is a unique visual subject. The historical displays and any interactive elements might also offer interesting photo opportunities.
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.
While not explicitly mentioned, the 1918 plane and any particularly striking historical artifacts or displays would likely be good subjects for photos.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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. 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.
📚 History Enthusiasts
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. 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
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. The staff's passion for their mission is evident, ensuring that each exhibit and tour is both informative and captivating.
The Value of Community-Driven Insights
Social media, while often focusing on broader Ithaca attractions like its natural beauty or the Science Center, also indirectly highlights the appeal of the region's cultural offerings. The Tompkins County Workers' Center fundraiser mentioned on 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 to the overall enriching experience of exploring local history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit