De Witt Park Historic District

De Witt Park Historic District is a neighborhood with 45 buildings surrounding a central park, bounded by Buffalo, Court, Cayuga, and Tioga Streets. The buildings span different periods and shape the neighborhood's character with their historic architecture.

The district developed in the early 1800s when Simeon De Witt, one of Ithaca's founders, contributed land for public use. His vision created a space that would shape the city for generations.

The park served as a gathering place for the community when other venues were unavailable, especially for important public speeches and events. This role made it a central meeting point for people who needed to be heard.

The park is freely accessible and can be explored on foot by walking around the surrounding streets. The best time to visit is in good weather, when strolls are pleasant and you can see the architecture details clearly.

Students from the former Ithaca Conservatory, now Ithaca College, regularly gathered in the park before it became a protected site. This use by the academic community adds another layer of significance to the place.