July 3, Prohibition Walking Tour

Once known by nicknames like “Sin City,” Ithaca, NY had a reputation that made national headlines—and it took on Prohibition long before the rest of the country. Over a year before the 18th Amendment took effect, Ithaca had already banned alcohol, sparking a local culture war that reshaped its neighborhoods, businesses, and social life.

Join us for a 60–70 minute walking tour through downtown Ithaca as we uncover the early 20th-century struggle between temperance advocates and those who pushed back. You'll visit key sites tied to saloons, reformers, hidden resistance, and the shifting identity of a college town at war with itself.

Perfect for adults, students, visitors, and locals alike—this 10-block journey brings history out of the archives and onto the streets.

• What: 75 minute walking tour

• Where: The History Center in Tompkins County, 110 N Tioga St, Ithaca NY 14850

• Who: This tour is designed for ages 16-116

• Wear Comfortable Shoes, Bring an Umbrella, Jacket, and Water Bottle

• Weather - this tour takes place rain or shine! In case of severe weather, we’ll determine cancellations by 10:30 am the morning-of.

Proudly sponsored by the Strand Cafe - where you can now enjoy your spirits without a secret password.

Visit the Strand after your tour to see Carrie Nation Hatchets on display and try out their specialty cocktails.

324 E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850

7 am - 11 pm, Sun-Sat