Things to do nearHangar Theatre
Hangar Theatre is Ithaca, New York's beloved lakeside performing arts venue, celebrated for bold productions, emerging talent, and a vibrant summer season.
Hangar Theatre has anchored Ithaca's cultural life since 1975, when a group of theater makers saw potential in a decommissioned airport terminal on the western edge of the city. The building's soaring ceilings and open floor plan made it a natural fit for ambitious staging, and the company has grown steadily into one of the region's most respected professional theaters.
The summer season typically runs from late June through August and features three to four Mainstage productions ranging from musicals and Shakespeare to contemporary drama. The KIDDSTUFF series brings original productions for younger audiences, making the theater a genuine destination for families visiting Ithaca during the warmer months. Lab productions offer a more intimate look at works in development.
The theater sits just steps from Stewart Park, so an evening at Hangar Theatre fits naturally into a day spent along the lakeshore. The surrounding neighborhood also connects easily to the Ithaca Children's Garden, making the area a rewarding destination before curtain. For anyone who loves live performance, Hangar Theatre remains one of the most compelling reasons to spend a summer evening in Ithaca.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Hangar Theatre
Arrive early on summer evenings to enjoy the lakeside setting outside the theater before the house opens.
Check the Mainstage and KIDDSTUFF series separately, as family productions often run matinees on different days than evening shows.
Bring a light jacket even in July, as the open architecture of the converted hangar can let in a cool breeze off the lake.
Look for the Lab series, which features shorter, experimental works and is a great way to see emerging playwrights at an affordable price.
Park along Taughannock Boulevard and walk a few minutes north to visit nearby Stewart Park before your performance.
Top tours & experiences near Hangar Theatre
Cayuga Lake Ecology Cruise
Explore Cayuga Lake's ecology with hands-on activities for all ages
1-Hour Cruise From Ithaca Farmers Market
Explore the water from Ithaca Farmers Market