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New York: Gourdlandia
🎃 Gourdlandia — Quite Possibly the Best Thing We’d Never Heard Of
Our drive through the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York had already thrown up a fair few surprises, but nothing quite prepared us for what we found just west of Ithaca. While doing my usual pre-trip homework — the kind where you fall down internet rabbit holes at midnight and end up buying things you don’t need — I stumbled across a place called Gourdlandia. It sat about three miles west of Ithaca, which is itself home to the rather prestigious Cornell University, founded back in 1865 and one of those Ivy League institutions that makes you feel slightly inadequate just by existing nearby. Anyway. Gourdlandia. The name alone was enough to pique my curiosity, and the more I read about it, the more I thought: yes, this is exactly our sort of detour.
It wasn’t exactly on our planned route, but it was close enough that we could shoehorn it in without causing a domestic incident. What we hadn’t quite banked on was that even with the GPS doing its confident best, finding the turning for Rachel Carson Way proved a bit of a faff. Rachel Carson, incidentally, was the American marine biologist and conservationist whose landmark 1962 book Silent Spring helped kickstart the modern environmental movement — so at least the road had a good name, even if it was a pig to find. The first stretch was completely unpaved, which had us both convinced we’d taken a wrong turn somewhere. We nearly turned back. We didn’t, and thank goodness for that, because after a couple of hundred yards we pulled up at Gourdlandia.
From the outside it looked like a modest, cabin-style building. Nothing about it screamed “destination worth driving down a dirt track for.” We walked in not entirely sure what to expect. We were, in a word, gobsmacked. The front of the building was set up as a small shop, and every surface was covered in things made from gourds — bowls, lamps, decorative pieces, ornaments, all crafted from what most of us would write off as the awkward-looking vegetables that hang about at the end of a marrow’s family reunion. Some of the carving was genuinely exquisite. Intricate, delicate, beautiful work. It turns out that gourds — members of the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes cucumbers, squash and melons, and which humans have been cultivating for at least 10,000 years — can be turned into quite remarkable things. Who knew.
We wandered through to the workshop at the back, where a couple of families with young children were happily getting stuck in, carving away. And then a lady came over and introduced herself. Her name was Graham Ottoson — yes, Graham, which is absolutely a woman’s name if Graham Ottoson says it is, and frankly she carried it off brilliantly. Graham was the artist and owner of Gourdlandia, which she runs alongside her husband. Before becoming a gourd artist of some considerable skill, she had been a midwife — which, when you think about it, is a perfectly logical stepping stone into working with large, bulbous, organically grown objects. She grows her own gourds in the garden behind the studio, harvests them when ready, then sets them aside to dry for many months before she ever picks up a carving tool. Gourds have been used by human cultures across the globe for thousands of years — as containers, musical instruments, ceremonial objects and water vessels. The ancient Egyptians used them. So did early Peruvians, West Africans and Native American peoples. Graham was quietly carrying on a tradition far older than the modest cabin suggested, and she did it with the warmth and energy of someone who genuinely cannot believe their luck at having found their calling. You occasionally meet people like that, and they’re always a joy.
Before we dragged ourselves away, she took us out into the yard to see the gourds actually growing. Some were impressively large — not necessarily wide, but with tendrils that could stretch up to six feet in length. Her entire garden was given over to gourds of various varieties: bottle gourds, swan gourds, dipper gourds, snake gourds — an entire botanical cast of characters we’d never previously given a moment’s thought to. Once fully grown, they’re harvested and left to dry for months before the real work begins.
We could have spent the whole day there, and part of me still wishes we had. Gourdlandia was one of those rare finds that makes you glad you bothered to do the research, take the detour and trust the unpaved road. If you’re anywhere near Ithaca, do yourself a favour and pay it a visit. It won’t take long, it won’t cost much, and you will almost certainly leave with a newfound respect for gourds and a slightly inexplicable urge to grow some.
Planning your visit to Gourdlandia
🎃 Gourdlandia
| 📍 Location | 77 Rachel Carson Way, Ithaca, NY 14850 | 🕖 Opening Times | Mon 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM; Fri & Sat 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| 🌐 Website | gourdlandia.com | 📞 Phone | (607) 277-0589 |
🎟️ Entry & Activity Fees
| General Entry | Necklace Workshop | Night Light Workshop |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $10 | $40 |
ℹ️ Open year-round except February. Check the online calendar for last-minute schedule changes. Call ahead on weekends as hours can vary.
🚗 Getting There
Gourdlandia is located just outside Ithaca in the Finger Lakes region and is best reached by car, as there is no direct public transport to the site.
| By Car | Take Route 79 west out of Ithaca for approximately two miles. Rachel Carson Way is the first left after West Haven Road. Gourdlandia is the first building on the left at number 77 — look for the small cupola and large porch. |
| From Ithaca city centre | Approximately 5–10 minutes by car |
| From Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH) | Approximately 15 minutes by car |
| From Syracuse | Approximately 1 hour by car via I-81 S and Route 79 W |
| From New York City | Approximately 4.5 hours by car via I-87 N and Route 79 W |
| Parking | Free on-site parking available |
Hours are subject to change; always check the website calendar or call ahead before visiting.
Best time to visit New York State
New York State is a destination of remarkable diversity — from the glittering streets of Manhattan to the wild peaks of the Adirondacks, from the glacial Finger Lakes to the thundering curtain of Niagara Falls. Knowing when to go, and where, makes all the difference between a memorable trip and a frustrating one. This guide breaks down the best times to visit each major region by season, with advice on what to pack.
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Spring arrives unevenly across the state. New York City sheds its winter grey by April, when cherry blossoms bloom in Central Park and the Botanical Gardens and the streets regain their lively energy. It is one of the finest times to visit the city: hotel rates are lower than summer, queues are manageable, and the mild temperatures make walking a pleasure. The Hudson Valley bursts into colour as orchards blossom and the great estates reopen their gardens. The Catskills are waking up but can still be muddy and cold, with some hiking trails remaining snow-covered into April.
Further north, spring comes late and hesitantly. The Adirondacks remain wintry well into May, with black fly season beginning in earnest from mid-May onward — a real deterrent for hikers. The Finger Lakes are chilly but already pouring, with many wineries open and far fewer tourists than summer. Niagara Falls is spectacular in spring, with snowmelt sending vast volumes of water crashing over the precipice, and crowds are thin. Long Island remains quiet, with the Hamptons firmly in off-season mode until Memorial Day weekend. The Capital Region and Saratoga are pleasant in spring, particularly as the racing season begins to generate anticipation.
What to pack for spring: Layering is essential — mornings and evenings can be cold even when afternoons are warm. Bring a waterproof jacket, a mid-layer fleece or light down jacket, comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots, and an umbrella. Insect repellent is strongly advisable for the Adirondacks and Catskills from May onwards.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Summer is peak season across most of the state, and for good reason. Long Island and the Hamptons come fully alive, with the Atlantic beaches among the finest in the north-east. The Hamptons in July and August are glamorous but expensive and congested; the North Fork is a quieter alternative, combining beaches with outstanding wine country. The Finger Lakes reach their zenith in summer — warm enough to kayak and swim, with vineyard terraces in full production and farmers’ markets overflowing. Watkins Glen State Park is at its most dramatic, and Seneca and Cayuga Lakes are ideal for sailing.
The Adirondacks in July and August offer world-class hiking, paddling, and wild swimming. The High Peaks are accessible to experienced walkers, and smaller summits reward those with less experience. Lake Placid, host to two Winter Olympics, reinvents itself as a hiking and cycling destination in summer. Niagara Falls and western New York are at their most popular, with long queues and high hotel rates — book well in advance. The North Country along the St Lawrence Seaway comes into its own, with the Thousand Islands offering scenic boat trips and peaceful cycling.
New York City in summer can be oppressively humid and hot, particularly in July and August. The city does not shut down — Broadway runs, the museums are superb, and free outdoor events abound — but it is not the most comfortable season for walking all day. Rooftop bars and air-conditioned galleries become essential refuges. The Capital Region and Saratoga are lively with racing at the famous Saratoga Race Course in August, one of the oldest thoroughbred racing venues in America.
What to pack for summer: Lightweight, breathable clothing is the priority. Include a light rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and sunglasses, and a swimsuit. For hiking regions, add moisture-wicking layers, sturdy boots, and plenty of insect repellent. New York City summers require comfortable shoes above all else; smart casual attire is fine for most restaurants and venues.
🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is arguably the finest season in New York State, and it is the best overall time to visit for the majority of travellers. The foliage season is one of the most celebrated natural spectacles in the world. The Adirondacks and Catskills turn from late September, with peak colour typically in the first two weeks of October. The Hudson Valley follows, its river-flanked hills ablaze in red, orange, and gold. Apple-picking and pumpkin farms open throughout the region, and the harvest season brings farmers’ markets to their peak.
New York City in autumn — particularly September and October — is at its most seductive. The heat and humidity have gone, the summer tourists have thinned, and the cultural season begins in earnest. The Metropolitan Opera reopens, Broadway launches its new productions, and the city settles into a purposeful, energetic rhythm. Fares and hotel rates are still competitive in September, rising as October progresses. The Finger Lakes harvest season in September and October draws oenophiles from across the country, with winemaker events and harvest festivals at many estates. Long Island’s North Fork wine country is at its best in autumn, and the beaches are quieter but still pleasant in September.
November is a mixed month: the foliage is largely over, many rural businesses begin to close or reduce hours, and temperatures drop sharply. Thanksgiving week in New York City is a spectacle in itself, with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade drawing vast crowds, though hotel prices spike considerably.
What to pack for autumn: Layers are essential and should be versatile. A medium-weight waterproof jacket, warm jumper or fleece, scarf, and light gloves for November are all recommended. Comfortable walking shoes or ankle boots suit the city well; sturdy hiking boots are needed for trail walks. Bring a camera — the foliage demands it.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Winter divides travellers into two camps: those who love it and those who avoid it. New York City at Christmas is genuinely magical — ice rinks at Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park, the department store window displays, the holiday markets at Bryant Park and Columbus Circle, and the extraordinary energy of New Year’s Eve. January and February are quieter, colder, and far better value, with hotel rates dropping and museums and restaurants less crowded.
The Adirondacks become a winter wonderland beloved by skiers, snowshoers, and ice climbers. Whiteface Mountain near Lake Placid is the premier ski resort in the north-east, with reliable snowfall and long vertical drops. The Catskills offer several ski areas — Windham, Hunter, and Belleayre among them — within easy reach of New York City. The Finger Lakes are cold and largely quiet, though ice wine production and cosy winery visits make for a romantic winter break. Niagara Falls is spectacular but brutally cold; the mist freezes on railings and trees, creating an ice-draped landscape of eerie beauty, and crowds are almost non-existent.
Long Island and the Hamptons are very quiet and many businesses close entirely. The North Country and Capital Region endure heavy snow and are best visited only by those specifically seeking winter sports. Saratoga Springs, however, is a charming small city in winter, with its Victorian architecture and spa tradition making it an appealing year-round destination.
What to pack for winter: Pack warmly and in serious layers. A heavy, windproof and waterproof coat is non-negotiable. Add thermal base layers, a warm hat, gloves or mittens, a scarf, and waterproof boots with good grip for icy pavements. In New York City, smart-looking winter boots work well for both street and restaurant. For ski regions, full ski or snowboard gear is needed; kit can be hired locally if not bringing your own.
🗺️ Regional Summary
New York City is best in September–October and April–May. Avoid July and August if heat bothers you.
Hudson Valley & Catskills peaks in September–October for foliage and in April–May for blossom. Summer is pleasant but busier.
The Adirondacks are best in July–August for hiking and September for foliage, or December–March for skiing. Avoid black fly season in May.
The Finger Lakes shine in summer for swimming and sailing and in September–October for the harvest and wine season.
Niagara Falls & Western New York are most impressive in spring and summer; winter is dramatic but very cold. Book ahead for July and August.
Long Island & The Hamptons are exclusively a late May to September destination, with September being the sweet spot between crowds and warmth.
North Country & St Lawrence is best in July and August for outdoor pursuits, or winter for snowmobiling and skiing.
Capital Region & Saratoga peaks in August with the racing season; autumn and spring are pleasant alternatives.
🌟 The Overall Best Time to Visit New York State
If there is one season to choose above all others for a first or broad visit to New York State, it is early autumn — specifically the last week of September and the first two weeks of October. During this window, New York City is at its most liveable, the Hudson Valley and Catskills are ablaze with foliage colour, the Finger Lakes wine harvest is in full swing, and the Adirondacks offer golden trails and cooler, clearer air without the biting cold of November. Temperatures are comfortable across the state, the summer crowds have retreated, and the landscape is simply breathtaking. For those who want to experience the full breadth of what New York State offers — world-class city culture, spectacular natural beauty, outstanding food and wine — there is no finer moment to arrive.
Other places to visit near Gourdlandia
1. Rockwell Museum
The Rockwell Museum is a free-admission Smithsonian Affiliate located in the centre of Corning, New York, in the same neighbourhood as the famous Corning Museum of Glass. It focuses on American art, with a particular emphasis on works from the American West — paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects collected largely by Robert F. Rockwell Jr. during the latter half of the twentieth century. The building itself is a converted 1893 City Hall, which gives it a solid, unpretentious character that suits its contents well. Alongside its permanent galleries, the museum puts on changing exhibitions and runs a range of educational programmes for children and adults alike. It is a manageable size for a half-day visit, and staff are generally considered approachable and knowledgeable. For anyone passing through the Southern Tier of New York State, it offers a straightforward and worthwhile look at a significant slice of American artistic heritage.
2. Corning Museum of Glass
The Corning Museum of Glass is located in Corning, a small city in upstate New York. It opened in 1951 and was set up by Corning Incorporated, the company known for its work in glass technology. The museum holds one of the largest collections of glass objects in the world, with more than 50,000 items spanning around 3,500 years of history — from ancient Egyptian vessels to modern studio art pieces. Visitors can watch glassblowing demonstrations in person, and there are opportunities to have a go at making glass themselves. There is also a large reference library focused on the history and science of glass. The museum attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and is generally regarded as the most comprehensive institution of its kind anywhere in the world..
3. Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls State Park sits in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, along the western shore of Cayuga Lake. Its centrepiece is Taughannock Falls, a single-drop waterfall that plunges around 215 feet into a wide gorge below — taller than Niagara Falls by some distance. The gorge was carved out by glacial meltwater thousands of years ago, and the layered shale and sandstone walls that now surround the falls give a clear picture of just how long this landscape has been forming. The park is open year-round and offers a straightforward rim trail and a gorge trail that leads to a viewing area at the base of the falls. Outside of the waterfall itself, there is a campsite, a boat launch on the lake, and a small beach. It tends to draw a mix of local families, walkers, and visitors making their way around the Finger Lakes. The falls are at their most impressive in spring, when snowmelt pushes the flow up considerably, though they are worth a visit in any season.
Where to stay near Corning
1. The Inn At Taughannock Falls
Tucked into the stunning Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, the Inn at Taughannock Falls is a serene estate surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Taughannock Falls State Park, overlooking the shimmering waters of Cayuga Lake. Originally built in 1873, this luxury boutique property spans 12 acres and blends classic Victorian architecture with modern comforts across four distinct buildings. The park next door is home to the tallest waterfall on the East Coast — a dramatic 215-foot vertical drop — easily accessible directly from the hotel grounds. The on-site restaurant, one of the longest-serving dining establishments in the area, treats guests to panoramic lake views alongside its refined menu. And with over 100 wineries within a half-hour’s drive, sitting at the very start of the Cayuga Wine Trail, it’s the ideal base for exploring one of New York’s most celebrated wine regions
2. William Henry Miller Inn
3. The Inn at Gothic Eves
Tucked into the charming village of Trumansburg in New York’s Finger Lakes region, The Inn at Gothic Eves is widely regarded as one of the best bed and breakfasts in the area, perfectly positioned just minutes from metro Ithaca and within walking distance of downtown Trumansburg. The inn features six guest suites in the Main House and two additional suites in the adjacent Potter House, connected by a lovely patio. Rooms are appointed with heated bathroom floors, fireplaces, jacuzzis, wet bars, and slate terraces, while an organic, locally sourced breakfast is included each morning, featuring homegrown vegetables and regional ingredients. An onsite spa offers massages, body treatments, and a sauna, and the inn’s location between the Seneca and Cayuga Wine Trails makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s celebrated wineries. It’s a genuine Finger Lakes gem
More to Explore
