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Ithaca, NY

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About Ithaca, NY

The largest of the towns in the Finger Lakes area, Ithaca is a popular Upstate New York escape for couples or families eager to soak up the best of the great outdoors. Set at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, there is a small selection of wonderful hotels options to choose from, including romantic inns and family-friendly cottages set within leafy grounds. Intimate and characterful, the best places to stay in Ithaca promise a superb base from which to discover this gorgeous region.

Home to Ivy League Cornell University, Ithaca has a lively, youthful vibe, and a fun evening scene — including a much-loved arthouse cinema and buzzing, farm-to-table eateries. If you’re in the city during the day, head to the Sciencenter, the Herbert F Johnson Museum of Art or the Cornell Botanic Gardens, before picking a perch in a laid-back café or strolling along the pedestrianised Commons area. There are some excellent galleries and wineries to visit, too. If you’re ambling from downtown Ithaca to the Cornell Campus, take the striking Cascadilla Gorge Trail to see an impressive natural wonder.

Head to Cayuga Lake for sailing, kayaking and fishing, follow the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail — the oldest in the USA — for tours and tastings, or discover the area’s picturesque national parks. Buttermilk Falls State Park, Robert H Treman State Park and Taughannock Falls State Park are criss-crossed with nature trails for hiking, mountain biking and horse riding, and there’s also lots of rock climbing and wildlife-spotting. Nature lovers will adore the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, which features interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.

Whether you're looking for a weekend break from NYC or pausing on a road trip to Niagara Falls, the best places to stay in Ithaca promise a warm welcome and ample opportunities for adventure.

The Best Places to Stay in Ithaca

For Couples

  • Argos Inn is a charming historic inn set within an imposing Victorain mansion in Ithaca. Kick back in one of 13 stylish rooms, stroll around the city and enjoy top-notch craft cocktails at the lively onsite bar. For a grown-up city stay.
  • Inn at Gothic Eves boasts eight elegant suites with sumptuous interiors, perfect for an indulgent couples' escape. Feast on organic breakfasts and unwind with onsite spa treatments after big days of exploring the Finger Lakes area. Very chic.

For Families

  • The Grayhaven Motel is a laid-back collection of 16 historic rooms, suites and cottages. Expect carefully restored interiors featuring mid-century modern pieces and lovely views over the property's 11 acres of leafy grounds. Self-catering options and flexible cottage sizes are ideal for families or groups.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Ithaca Tompkins International Airport, three miles from Ithaca. Travel by bus or taxi to your destination from there.
  • Alternatively, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car. There's so much to see and do in the Finger Lakes region.
  • Time your trip for the summer months (June to September) to enjoy warmer temperatures, ranging from 20 - 25°C. Autumn is slightly cooler, but the blankets of red, orange and yellow leaves are seriously striking. This is a hugely popular time to visit, so book your stay well in advance to avoid missing out!

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Ithaca, NY

  • Argos Inn Ithaca, NY 13 rooms from £128

    Local exploring  -  A spoiling base to explore the state's natural bounties including vineyards, waterfalls and gorges
    Eco break  -  The environmentally-friendly Argos Inn has geothermal heating and is LEED certified
    Great walks  -  The city is surrounded by magnificent waterfalls and famous gorges for stunning days out hiking
    Lakeside  -  Cayuga Lake is approx 3km away
    Air conditioningDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Set in an imposing old colonial mansion, this hotel combines modern style with old-world charm. Chic rooms feature polished wooden floors, warm hues and antiques. A grown up property offering impeccable design and an alluring craft cocktail bar. The perfect base to explore Ithaca from. See More

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  • The Grayhaven Motel Ithaca, NY 16 rooms from £144

    Total relaxation  -  Make the most of the property's acres with walking trails, outdoor firepits, picnic areas, lawn games, hammocks and birdwatching
    Back to Nature  -  Finger Lakes area offers countless state parks, waterfalls, lakes and forests. Enjoy fishing, hunting, skiing and wild swimming
    Artworks  -  There is an artists-in-residency program for writers, illustrators, media artists and calligraphers
    Business meetings  -  Book the property exclusively for a fun laid-back offside retreat for up to 50 guests
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    Charming laid-back motel in rural Finger Lakes. Set on 11 acres of woodland, home to local wildlife, the property is made up of spacious rooms, suites and cottages with airy mid-century design and decor. Some have kitchenettes and dining options are in driving distance. Ideal for families or groups. See More

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  • The Inn at Gothic Eves Ithaca, NY 8 rooms from £226

    Local exploring  -  The Finger Lakes area is well known for its deep lakes, bountiful harvests, wine, ciders, beers, music scene and the arts
    Romantic Break  -  Book a room with a four-poster and indulge in the couples' massage that comes when booking the 'couples package'
    No restaurant  -  Breakfast is provided
    Sights nearby  -  Visit a variety of attractions including Watkins Glen, Cornell University, and Ithaca College
    Air conditioningSpaGardenParkingNo pets

    A charming inn located in the heart of Fingers Lakes. Suites are elegant and spacious with custom tiled bathrooms, heated bathroom floors, fireplaces, jetted tubs and showers with body sprays. Hammocks are strung up in the garden and delicious, organic breakfasts are served. A relaxing stay. See More

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