Tompkins County

Tompkins County is an administrative region in central-western New York that encompasses Ithaca and surrounding communities. The territory features lakes, gorges, and several waterfalls, with two major university campuses forming its core.

The region was established as a separate county in 1817 and named after a sitting Vice President of the United States. It grew from a rural area into an educational hub through the founding and expansion of its universities.

The presence of two major universities shapes how people live and think in this region, drawing residents and visitors from around the world. This creates a community where learning and intellectual exchange are part of everyday life.

The area is best explored by car or bus, with Ithaca serving as the main hub for most services and activities. Winter weather can make roads challenging in hilly terrain, so planning travel with local conditions in mind is helpful.

The region is known for its network of gorges and waterfalls formed by glacial activity and erosion over thousands of years. These natural features draw outdoor enthusiasts and offer distinctive hiking routes found nowhere else nearby.

Location: New York

Inception: 1817

Capital city: Ithaca

Shares border with: Cayuga County, Cortland County, Tioga County, Chemung County, Schuyler County, Seneca County

Website: https://tompkinscountyny.gov

GPS coordinates: 42.45000,-76.47000

Latest update: December 17, 2025 08:04