Cortland
· US

Cortland

Cortland, New York, United States

Located in the heart of upstate New York, Cortland is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant community. Situated in Cortland County, this town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences…

#Small town#College town#Historic#Outdoor activities#Scenic views
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Cortland.

Top Hotels in Cortland

Top Flights to Cortland

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Cortland.

Tours

Explore the Historic Downtown

A walking tour around Cortland's historic downtown highlights its charming streets, architecture, and local culture.

Cortland Country Music Park

Enjoy live country music performances at the Cortland Country Music Park.

Shopping

Shopping at Riverside Plaza

Explore a variety of shops and boutiques at Riverside Plaza.

Outdoor

Hike at Lime Hollow Nature Center

An outdoor adventure at the Lime Hollow Nature Center, offering scenic trails and wildlife viewing.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Cortland.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
19,000
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Cortland
Jan
snow
-1°-10°
Feb
snow
0°-9°
Mar
cloud
5°-5°
Apr
rain
13°1°
May
cloud
20°7°
Jun
sun
25°12°
Jul
hot
27°15°
Aug
sun
26°14°
Sep
clear
22°10°
Oct
cloud
15°4°
Nov
rain
8°-1°
Dec
snow
2°-7°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Cortland.

What people love

Cortland, located in New York, United States, offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Some of the pros of traveling to Cortland include:

  1. Outdoor Recreation: Cortland is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including state parks, forests, and lakes, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and boating.

  2. Cultural Attractions: The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and historic sites that showcase the region's history and culture. Visitors can explore the Cortland County Historical Society, the 1890 House Museum, or the Center for the Arts.

  3. Cortland State University: Travelers interested in higher education can visit the campus of SUNY Cortland, which offers various cultural events, sports games, and educational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.

  4. Wineries and Breweries: Cortland is located within driving distance of several wineries and breweries, where visitors can sample local wines, craft beers, and spirits while enjoying scenic views of the Finger Lakes region.

  5. Local Dining: Cortland boasts a diverse culinary scene with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries offering both local and international cuisine. Visitors can taste delicious farm-to-table dishes, fresh seafood, and homemade desserts.

  6. Year-Round Events: Throughout the year, Cortland hosts a range of events and festivals, including music concerts, art shows, food fairs, and seasonal celebrations, providing entertainment options for travelers of all interests.

Overall, traveling to Cortland, New York, offers a blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and culinary delights, making it a great destination for a memorable getaway.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Cortland, New York, could include:

  1. Limited transportation options: Cortland is a relatively small city, so public transportation options may be limited. This could make it more difficult to get around if you don't have a car.

  2. Weather extremes: Cortland experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall, which may not be ideal for travelers looking for a warm climate. Additionally, the region can also have hot and humid summers, which may not be comfortable for everyone.

  3. Limited dining and entertainment options: While Cortland does have some restaurants and shops, it may not offer as diverse a range of dining and entertainment options as larger cities. This could be a drawback for travelers looking for a wide variety of choices.

  4. Limited tourist attractions: Cortland is a smaller city and may not have as many tourist attractions or activities compared to larger cities. Travelers looking for a bustling city with numerous attractions may find Cortland lacking in this aspect.

Please note that these are general considerations and individual experiences may vary. It's always a good idea to research specific aspects of a destination to determine if it aligns with your preferences and travel needs.

Cortland, New York, is a city located in central New York State, and it serves as the county seat of Cortland County. Its history is rich and dates back to its founding in the early 19th century.

Founding and Early History:

  • Established: Cortland County was created from Onondaga County in 1808, and the city of Cortland was incorporated in 1864.
  • Naming: The city and county are named after Pierre Van Cortlandt, the first lieutenant governor of New York.
  • Development: The area was initially settled by European Americans in the late 18th century, around 1791, as settlers moved westward. The economy was initially agricultural.

Significant Events:

  • Industrial Growth: The mid-19th century saw industrial growth with the establishment of factories and mills, leveraging the water power from the Tioughnioga River.
  • Transportation: The arrival of the Erie Canal and later the railroad contributed to Cortland's development as a trade and manufacturing hub.
  • Education: In 1868, the Cortland Normal School was founded, which later became the State University of New York College at Cortland, a significant educational institution in the area.

Historical Figures:

  • Elmer Ambrose Sperry: A notable inventor and entrepreneur born in Cortland in 1860, Sperry is known for developing the gyroscope and other technological advancements.
  • Nathan Lewis Miller: Born in Cortland, he served as the Governor of New York from 1921 to 1922.

Important Landmarks:

  • Cortland County Courthouse: A historic building that reflects the architectural style and history of the region.
  • SUNY Cortland: A prominent educational institution that has played a significant role in the community since its founding as a normal school.
  • Suggett House: Home of the Cortland County Historical Society, it offers exhibits and information about the county's history.
  • 1890 House Museum: A historic house museum that provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the wealthy in the late 19th century.

Cultural and Economic Development:

  • Agriculture: The region remains important for agriculture, particularly dairy farming.
  • Manufacturing: Historically, the city was known for producing items such as typewriters and wire products, although this has declined in recent decades.
  • Tourism and Recreation: The nearby Finger Lakes region and the presence of several state parks provide recreational opportunities.

Cortland remains a vibrant community with a mix of historical charm and modern amenities, contributing to the broader cultural and economic landscape of central New York.