Finding the perfect happy hour in a vibrant city like Ithaca can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the bustling downtown scene, we've compiled this comprehensive guide to the top 20 happy hours, offering a diverse range of atmospheres and deals. Whether you're looking for craft cocktails, local brews, or delicious appetizers, this list has something for everyone. We've included details on each location's happy hour specials, ambiance, and what makes them unique. Get ready to explore Ithaca's thriving happy hour scene!
Exploring Ithaca's Downtown Happy Hour Gems
Downtown Ithaca offers a vibrant tapestry of happy hour experiences. From cozy pubs to upscale restaurants, each venue boasts a unique atmosphere and special offers. This guide highlights the best of the best, categorized for your convenience.
Upscale Happy Hours: Elegance and Exceptional Deals
These establishments offer a sophisticated setting with refined happy hour specials.
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The Ithaca Beer Company: Known for its award-winning craft beers, Ithaca Beer Company offers a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. Their happy hour features discounted pints and select appetizers. Expect a lively crowd and a chance to sample some of Ithaca's finest brews. Their happy hour generally runs from 4-6pm weekdays.
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Glenwood Inn: This historic inn boasts an elegant ambiance and a refined happy hour menu. Their selection of wines and cocktails are complemented by exquisite small plates. Think upscale comfort food with a sophisticated twist. Their happy hour typically runs from 5-7pm on weekdays.
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State Street Grill: This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated ambiance and an impressive happy hour menu, featuring discounted cocktails, wines, and carefully crafted appetizers.
Casual Happy Hours: Relaxed Vibes and Great Deals
For a more relaxed setting, these options provide a comfortable ambiance with enticing happy hour offers.
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Coltivare: This farm-to-table restaurant features locally sourced ingredients and a cozy atmosphere. Their happy hour often includes reduced-price appetizers and select drinks.
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Maxie's: A popular spot for both locals and visitors, Maxie's offers a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of beers on tap, with happy hour specials on both drinks and food.
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Hector's: A long-standing Ithaca institution, Hector's is known for its casual atmosphere, delicious bar food, and fantastic happy hour deals. They often have a rotating selection of specials, so it's always worth checking their website or social media.
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The Nines: This lively bar and restaurant offers a diverse menu and an extensive drink selection, with happy hour deals that are sure to please.
Happy Hours with a View: Stunning Scenery and Sips
These locations offer breathtaking views to enhance your happy hour experience.
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Agava Restaurant & Tequila Bar: This lively spot features a extensive tequila selection and delicious Mexican fare. Their happy hour includes discounted margaritas and appetizers.
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The Boatyard Grill: With its waterfront location, The Boatyard Grill provides stunning views of Cayuga Lake. Their happy hour often features discounted drinks and appetizers, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset.
Unique Happy Hour Experiences: Something for Everyone
These venues offer unique atmospheres and happy hour specials that stand out from the crowd.
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Epiphany: Known for its eclectic decor and creative cocktail menu, Epiphany offers a unique and sophisticated happy hour.
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Taste of Thai: This popular Thai restaurant offers a delicious and flavorful happy hour menu with discounted appetizers and drinks.
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Little Venice: Enjoy authentic Italian flavors during happy hour at Little Venice, which often features reduced prices on select appetizers and wines.
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Currents: This newer establishment, known for its modern interior and creative menu, often has a strong happy hour selection.
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Red Star Restaurant: Known for its delicious pub fare and its focus on local ingredients, Red Star’s happy hour is not to be missed.
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Rongovian Embassy: This eccentric and globally-inspired spot offers a uniquely fun atmosphere and regularly changes its happy hour deals.
Hidden Gems: Discover Ithaca's Best-Kept Secrets
These happy hour spots might be less well-known, but they offer exceptional value and a unique experience.
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Just a Taste: This intimate wine bar offers a curated selection of wines and delicious small plates. Their happy hour is a great opportunity to discover some hidden gems.
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Treva's Restaurant: Known for its extensive wine list and delicious pasta dishes, Treva's offers a sophisticated and romantic happy hour.
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Casablanca Moroccan Restaurant: Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Morocco during happy hour at Casablanca. Their specials often feature authentic Moroccan appetizers and drinks.
Happy Hour Beyond the Usual: Expanding Your Options
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Local Breweries: Exploring Ithaca's craft breweries beyond the Ithaca Beer Company is a must. Many offer happy hour deals on pints, flights, and even food pairings.
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Collegetown: While technically not downtown, Collegetown offers various bars and restaurants with happy hour specials, often catering to a younger crowd.
Planning Your Ithaca Happy Hour Adventure
This guide provides a starting point for exploring Ithaca's diverse happy hour scene. Remember to check each venue's website or social media for the most up-to-date information on happy hour times and specials, as these can change seasonally. Consider factors like atmosphere, food preferences, and budget when making your choice. With so many options, you're sure to find the perfect happy hour to suit your taste! Cheers to happy hour in downtown Ithaca!