Stewart Park

Stewart Park offers a variety of sports facilities for public use. You'll find athletic fields, tennis courts, and basketball courts. Additionally, there's a non-motorized boat launch for paddling on Cayuga Lake, and public fishing spots are available. The park also houses the Cascadilla Boathouse, used by the Cascadilla Boat Club for rowing.

Yes, Stewart Park is open year-round and can be enjoyed in winter. While the carousel and splash pad are seasonal, the wide, flat Cayuga Waterfront Trail remains accessible for walking, jogging, or even cross-country skiing if snow conditions permit. The park's scenic beauty, including views of a frozen or partially frozen Cayuga Lake, can be quite striking. Restrooms are available all season.

Absolutely. Stewart Park provides numerous picnic tables and grills for casual gatherings. For larger events, there are sheltered pavilions available for rental. It's a popular spot for community events and family reunions due to its extensive facilities and scenic lakeside setting.

The primary path through Stewart Park is the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, which is wide, flat, and ADA-compliant. This smooth surface makes it ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, and is easily navigable for those using wheelchairs or mobility aids. The park itself features spacious, level lawns, making most areas easy to traverse.

Stewart Park is generally dog-friendly, making it a great place to walk your canine companion. Dogs are typically welcome on leashes on the trails and in open areas. It's always important to clean up after your pet to ensure the park remains enjoyable for everyone. Specific rules regarding pet access might be posted at park entrances or on the City of Ithaca's website.

Stewart Park has a rich history. The land was originally home to the Gayogo̱hó꞉nǫˀ (Cayuga Nation) village of Neodakheat. In the early 1890s, it transformed into Renwick Park, a trolley amusement park. From 1915-1919, it was home to the Wharton Studio, a silent film production hub. It officially became a municipal park in 1921, renamed in honor of Mayor Edwin C. Stewart, who championed its creation.

Yes, Stewart Park is home to the Fuertes Bird Sanctuary and Renwick Wildwood, which are popular spots for birdwatching. The park also features grand willow trees and an array of other tree species, contributing to its natural beauty. Visitors can often observe various bird species and other local wildlife, especially along the lake shore and within the sanctuary areas.

Stewart Park is highly committed to accessibility. It features an expansive and accessible playground designed to accommodate children with wheelchairs or mobility aids. The Cayuga Waterfront Trail, which runs through the park, is wide, flat, and ADA-compliant, ensuring easy access for walkers, cyclists, and wheelchair users. All-season restrooms are also available.

Stewart Park is a municipal park and is generally free to enter. While there are no entrance fees, certain facilities like sheltered pavilions may be available for rental, and there might be fees associated with specific activities or events hosted within the park. Parking is typically free.

Beyond the popular accessible playground and historic carousel (seasonal), families can enjoy picnicking at the numerous tables, grilling, or splashing in the splash pad fountain during summer. The flat Cayuga Waterfront Trail is perfect for family bike rides or walks, and the non-motorized boat launch allows for family paddling adventures on Cayuga Lake. Birdwatching in the Fuertes Bird Sanctuary is also a great educational activity.

Stewart Park is located at the southern end of Cayuga Lake, close to downtown Ithaca. You can find a wide range of cafes, pubs, restaurants, and accommodation options within a short drive or bike ride from the park. For specific recommendations, you might check local tourism websites like visitithaca.com.