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?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Canandaigua.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in New York State.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.