Thousand Islands,Cornell University 2-Day Tour from NY

Comprehensive 2-Day Tour from NYC to Cornell University and Thousand Islands

This $272.00 per person tour offers a well-organized escape from New York City, combining prestigious education, natural scenery, and scenic cruising. Spanning two days with approximately 12 hours of travel and sightseeing each day, the tour provides hassle-free transportation, accommodations, and guided visits to key attractions. It is ideal for those looking to explore upstate New York without the stress of driving or planning logistics themselves. While the tour includes many highlights, it requires some physical activity, such as walking at Cornell University and Taughannock Falls.

The tour is perfect for group travelers, with the convenience of pickup points across Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and New Jersey. It accommodates up to four guests per hotel room, making it suitable for families or small groups. Notably, admission fees for scenic stops are not included, but the Thousand Islands cruise and winery tasting are optional add-ons, enhancing the experience. The tour has received praise for its organized approach and engaging guides, making it a reliable choice for a memorable New York escape.

Key Points

• Includes transportation, accommodation, and guided visits to Cornell University and Thousand Islands
• Optional scenic cruise of the Thousand Islands and wine tasting at Americana Vineyards Winery
• Pickup available from multiple NYC locations, simplifying planning
• Day 1 features Cornell University and Taughannock Falls State Park
• Day 2 focuses on scenic cruise on the U.S. side of the Thousand Islands archipelago
• Rated 5.0 based on recent feedback highlighting strong organization and attentive guides

Starting Point and Group Transportation

This tour departs early at 7:00 am from a pre-arranged meeting point, with pickups available from Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and New Jersey. The group size is limited to 55 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, guided experience. The transportation is in a professional vehicle, with the exact type depending on the number of guests, providing a smooth ride to each destination.

The roundtrip transportation guarantees a stress-free journey, eliminating the need for rental cars or navigation. The bus is equipped to fit groups of up to four guests per hotel room, with the option for separate bookings if more than four travelers wish to stay together.

First Day: Exploring Cornell University and Taughannock Falls

The tour begins with a morning departure from New York City, heading toward Cornell University in Ithaca. This private Ivy League research university covers 745 acres of lush woodlands, waterfalls, and historic architecture. The guided walk allows visitors to admire the beautiful campus views and learn about Cornell’s mission to educate, engage, and inspire future generations.

Following the campus visit, the tour proceeds to Taughannock Falls State Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking and nature trails with options to view the 215-foot waterfall from various vantage points. The gorge and rim trails provide spectacular scenery, and the falls plunging past rocky cliffs are one of the region’s most notable natural attractions. The park also offers picnic areas, beach swimming, and fishing for those interested in outdoor activities.

Next, the group visits the Americana Vineyards Winery, an 1820s swing barn turned winery. Here, visitors experience a wine tasting in a setting filled with historic charm, complemented by the opportunity to sample delectable wines, meals, and homemade fudge. The winery is LGBTQ-owned, emphasizing a welcoming environment where guests can relax and enjoy community-oriented hospitality.

Second Day: Scenic Cruise of the Thousand Islands U.S. Side

Day two takes travelers northward to the Thousand Islands region, famous for its archipelago of 1,864 islands on the Saint Lawrence River near Lake Ontario. The day kicks off with a scenic cruise, which is optional but highly recommended for its impressive views of the islands and historic sites like Boldt Castle on Heart Island.

The Thousand Islands Cruise showcases some of the most iconic locales, such as Zavikon Island, often called the “Dutchman’s Island,” and Deer Island, known for its mysterious reputation. The cruise offers a close-up view of these islands and the surrounding waters, giving a sense of the region’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

This scenic boat tour lasts approximately one hour and provides a unique perspective of the archipelago’s landscape. Visitors can admire the mansion-like homes, nature preserves, and marinas from the comfort of the boat, making it a highlight of the trip.

Optional Add-Ons: Enhancing the Experience

While the core tour includes transportation and accommodations, several attractions are available as optional extras. The Thousand Islands cruise can be added for an extra fee, providing a 60-minute guided boat tour through the islands. Many travelers appreciate this for the stunning views and photo opportunities.

Similarly, the wine tasting at Americana Vineyards Winery is an optional experience, exclusively for adults, where they can enjoy delectable wines and homemade fudge. The winery prides itself on its community atmosphere and historic charm, making it a memorable stop for those who enjoy wine and local flavors.

Logistics, Pacing, and Accessibility

The tour starts at 7:00 am, ensuring a full day of sightseeing, with driving hours and rest stops built into the schedule. The itinerary is flexible, but the guide may make adjustments due to weather or traffic conditions.

Participants should prepare with comfortable shoes and clothes, along with sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women up to 24 weeks can join if they feel comfortable.

Accommodation is provided for 2-4 guests per room, with varying bed types. Parking at the meeting point is not available, so travelers must arrange their transportation to the pickup location. The tour is designed to be accessible for most, with good weather necessary for optimal enjoyment.

Highlights of the Guided Experience

The professional driver and guide are noted for their attentiveness and knowledge, with reviews praising Peng Peng for his engaging storytelling and organization. The group size ensures a comfortable experience, and the itinerary offers a balance of natural beauty, educational stops, and relaxation.

Visitors can expect well-organized stops, with admission fees for scenic sites generally excluded from the base price. The hotel accommodations are straightforward, offering a comfortable overnight stay to rest before the next day’s adventures.

Limitations and Considerations

While this tour provides a rundown of upstate New York’s highlights, it does not include meal expenses or admission fees for certain attractions unless specified. Travelers should bring cash, drinks, and personal items needed for outdoor activities.

The itinerary may be altered based on weather or operational needs, and parking at the meeting point is not provided, so planning transportation to the pickup location is essential. The tour operates with a minimum number of participants, and full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This two-day package is ideal for families, small groups, and anyone interested in combining education with scenic exploration. It caters to adults and older children who enjoy outdoor activities, wine tasting, and historic sites. The tour offers a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities and guidance from experienced guides.

Final Thoughts on the Thousand Islands and Cornell University Tour

This well-organized tour delivers value through transportation, accommodations, and guided experiences, with optional additions like the Thousand Islands cruise and winery tasting. Its focus on natural beauty and educational stops makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a balanced and scenic escape from NYC.

While it doesn’t include all attraction fees, the convenience of group transportation and expert guidance compensates well. The high review score of 5.0 reflects satisfaction with the overall experience and organization. This tour suits those who want to explore upstate New York comfortably and efficiently, combining nature, history, and local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, professional vehicle transportation is included, along with hotel accommodation and guided visits.

Can I join the tour if I am alone or in a small group?
Absolutely, the tour is designed for group travelers, with pickups from multiple NYC locations and a maximum of 55 travelers.

Are the Thousand Islands cruise and winery tasting included?
They are optional add-ons. The cruise on the U.S. side and wine tasting are available at additional costs.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, sun protection, cash, and drinks for hydration. The tour is suitable for most travelers with basic mobility.

Is the itinerary flexible?
Yes, the tour guide may adjust stops or schedule based on weather, traffic, or operational needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.