NY: 13th Annual Ithaca Rotary Road Rally
August 2 @ 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM CDT
If you love scenic drives, friendly competition, and solving clues with family and friends, mark your calendar for Sunday, August 2, 2026! The 13th Annual Ithaca Rotary Road Rallyis back, bringing another afternoon of adventure through the beautiful back roads of Tompkins County while supporting local students. Whether you’re a first-time participant or a Road Rally veteran, this FUNdraising tradition is the perfect way to spend a summer Sunday. Gather your team, hop in the car, and get ready to put your observation skills, teamwork, and sense of adventure to the test. Online registration is open now, so reserve your spot and get ready to hit the road. Check-in is 1:00-2:00 PM (all vehicles must be on the course by 2:00 PM).
Supporting Local Students
Every registration helps make a difference. Proceeds from the Ithaca Rotary Road Rally benefit the James L. Gibbs Ithaca High School Scholarship Fund, helping local students pursue higher education and achieve their goals. When you participate, you’re not only enjoying an afternoon of fun, you’re investing in the future of our community.
How the Road Rally Works
This isn’t a race… it’s a scavenger hunt on wheels! Beginning at The Plantsmen Nursery in Groton, teams will follow a series of clues along approximately 30 miles of scenic country roads, answering questions, collecting scavenger hunt items, and snapping photos along the way.
Your journey will challenge you to:
- Solve clues and riddles
- Answer questions about your surroundings
- Take creative team photos
- Collect scavenger hunt items
The route ends at a mystery finish location, where teams must arrive by 4:30 PM to be eligible for prizes. After turning in your clue sheet, stick around to celebrate with fellow participants. Enjoy beverages or an early dinner (available for purchase), compare stories from the road, and cheer on the winning teams. For even more fun, participants are encouraged to decorate their vehicles or wear costumes to show off their team spirit.
Registration:
- Adults: $25, Youth (12–18): $10 (may be made at check-in), and Children 11 and under are FREE!
Who Can Participate?
Everyone is welcome! Bring your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, or create a team with fellow puzzle lovers. Whether you’re in it to win or simply looking for a unique Sunday adventure, the Road Rally is designed for participants of all ages.
Why You Should Join
Here are just a few reasons participants come back year after year:
- Experience one of Tompkins County’s most unique community events.
- Explore scenic country roads and hidden gems throughout the area.
- Enjoy an afternoon of teamwork, puzzles, and laughter.
- Support scholarships for local students.
- Make lasting memories with family and friends.
What to Bring
To make the most of your Road Rally adventure, be sure to bring:
- A reliable vehicle
- At least one teammate
- A smartphone or camera for photo challenges
- A pen or pencil
- Your sense of adventure
- Costumes or car decorations if you’re feeling extra creative
Join the Adventure
The Ithaca Rotary Road Rally has become a summer tradition that combines community, creativity, and a little friendly competition, all for a great cause. Whether you’re chasing clues, hunting for scavenger hunt items, or simply enjoying a beautiful drive through the countryside, you’ll be making memories while helping local students succeed. Register today and join us on Sunday, August 2 for the 13th Annual Ithaca Rotary Road Rally. We can’t wait to see where the road takes you!1414
