Ithaca, New York, is a charming city nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes, known for its dramatic gorges, Ivy League flair, and artistic spirit. Visitors can explore local farmers’ markets, hike scenic trails, or take in the eclectic culture of this vibrant college town. Accommodations range from lakeside cottages and boutique apartments to cozy historic homes close to downtown. Whether you're here for nature, education, or culture, Ithaca offers a refreshing escape year-round.
Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Ithaca
Ithaca is a unique destination where outdoor adventure meets intellectual curiosity and creative expression. Guests can visit Cornell University’s expansive campus, attend performances at the State Theatre, or discover locally made art and cuisine. The city also boasts more than 150 waterfalls within a 10-mile radius, offering stunning views and serene hiking experiences. With its warm community and wealth of attractions, Ithaca captures the essence of upstate New York.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Ithaca
Downtown Ithaca
Downtown Ithaca is the city’s energetic core, with easy access to restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Vacation rentals here include modern lofts, historic row houses, and contemporary apartments within walking distance of The Commons. Guests can enjoy vibrant nightlife, live music, and access to public transportation.
Collegetown
Collegetown is located adjacent to Cornell University and offers a lively, student-friendly atmosphere with numerous cafes and takeout options. Visitors can stay in stylish apartments, compact studios, or university-adjacent homes perfect for short stays. The neighborhood buzzes with energy during the school year and quiets down during academic breaks.
Fall Creek
Fall Creek is a peaceful, tree-lined neighborhood just north of downtown, known for its historic homes and walkable streets. Airbnb options here include charming century-old houses, garden-level apartments, and artist retreats. Visitors can walk to Ithaca Falls, enjoy the community vibe, and relax in tranquil settings close to urban amenities.
East Hill
East Hill provides a mix of residential quiet and easy access to Cornell University and nearby natural attractions. Accommodations in this area include hillside homes with scenic views, cozy apartments, and larger rentals for families or groups. Guests can enjoy walking paths, local markets, and short drives to hiking trails and nature preserves.
South Hill
South Hill, home to Ithaca College, offers hillside views and easy access to both campus life and nature trails. Vacation rentals here include spacious homes, secluded cabins, and family-friendly apartments. Guests can hike the South Hill Recreation Way, enjoy performances at the college, and take in panoramic views of Cayuga Lake.
Must-visit places and attractions in Ithaca
Ithaca Falls
Ithaca Falls is a stunning 150-foot waterfall located just minutes from downtown and easily accessible year-round. Visitors can walk to the base of the falls, enjoy fly-fishing in the creek, or take in the view from the nearby pedestrian bridge. The falls are part of Fall Creek, one of many gorges that define the city’s landscape.
Cornell Botanic Gardens
The Cornell Botanic Gardens are a must-visit for anyone interested in horticulture, native plants, or peaceful landscapes. Spanning hundreds of acres, the gardens include arboretums, wildflower preserves, and cultivated areas near campus. Visitors can enjoy seasonal blooms, scenic walking trails, and educational exhibits.
The Commons
The Ithaca Commons is a vibrant pedestrian mall in the heart of downtown featuring eclectic shops, local restaurants, and regular street performances. Visitors can grab a bite from a local food truck, explore bookstores and boutiques, or attend public events and festivals.
Buttermilk Falls State Park
Buttermilk Falls State Park offers a series of cascading waterfalls, forested hiking trails, and picnic areas just minutes from downtown Ithaca. Guests can swim at the base of the main falls during summer, hike gorge and rim trails, and explore scenic woodland.
Cayuga Lake
As the longest of the Finger Lakes, Cayuga Lake offers ample opportunities for boating, kayaking, and lakeside relaxation. Visitors can tour nearby wineries, fish off public docks, or watch the sunset from Stewart Park. The lake also hosts events and festivals that celebrate the local culture and natural environment.
Sciencenter
The Sciencenter is a hands-on science museum perfect for families and curious minds of all ages. Exhibits cover topics from astronomy to sustainability, with indoor and outdoor spaces designed to engage and inspire. Visitors can walk through the outdoor playground, launch a rocket, or explore the human body exhibit.
Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls, located a short drive from Ithaca, features one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies at 215 feet. Guests can hike an easy trail to the base, take in panoramic views from the overlook, or enjoy a picnic near the lake.
Hangar Theatre
The Hangar Theatre offers professional live theater in a converted airplane hangar near the waterfront. Its summer season features a mix of drama, musicals, and children's shows, while off-season performances include local collaborations and guest artists.
Where to find a vacation rental near Ithaca
Watkins Glen, New York
Just 40 minutes northwest of Ithaca, Watkins Glen is a scenic village known for its spectacular state park and racing heritage. Visitors can hike through Watkins Glen State Park’s dramatic gorge trails and waterfalls, or attend events at Watkins Glen International racetrack. Staying in a cottage in Watkins Glen places travelers near the waterfalls and walking distance to Seneca Lake’s edge.
Corning, New York
Roughly an hour southwest, Corning is home to the world-famous Corning Museum of Glass and a vibrant downtown Gaffer District. Guests can explore hands-on exhibits, art galleries, and enjoy a variety of local dining options. Booking a vacation rental in Corning gives art lovers a cozy base near galleries and glass studios.
Skaneateles, New York
Around 90 minutes north, Skaneateles is a picturesque town on the edge of a crystal-clear Finger Lake. Visitors can stroll through boutique shops, take a boat cruise on Skaneateles Lake, or dine at lakeside bistros. Renting a house in Skaneateles offers serene mornings with lake views and easy access to town charm.
Syracuse, New York
About an hour and fifteen minutes north, Syracuse is a historic city offering museums, sports, and a dynamic urban culture. Guests can explore the Erie Canal Museum, catch a basketball game at the Carrier Dome, or visit Destiny USA, one of the largest malls in the country. Staying in an apartment in Syracuse allows travelers to explore arts venues and downtown dining with ease.
Geneva, New York
Roughly an hour northeast, Geneva sits at the northern tip of Seneca Lake and is a hub for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can tour local wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, kayak on the lake, or explore historic sites like Rose Hill Mansion. Choosing a vacation rental in Geneva gives guests scenic lake access and proximity to some of the Finger Lakes’ best vineyards. Airbnbs in Geneva range from lakefront cottages to chic vineyard stays. Geneva’s blend of natural splendor and refined experiences make it a great pairing with Ithaca’s earthy, intellectual charm.
Uncover a world of cultural histories and nature's allure in the United States
Nestled within a region rich in cultural heritage, Ithaca provides an ideal starting point for exploring captivating stories of the American past. Dive into the unique character of the cowboy town with rentals in Laramie, known for its Old West roots and the Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site. Enjoy the quaint charm of America's bourbon capital and stay in Bardstown, where the My Old Kentucky Home State Park tells tales of Kentucky's storied past. Encounter the mystical allure of witch trials with an airbnb in Salem, Massachusetts, whose Salem Witch Museum offers a chilling glimpse into 17th-century history. Don’t miss the vibrant tapestry of accommodations in New Jersey, where you can explore the iconic Liberty State Park and the historic Ellis Island.
The natural splendor of the surrounding area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to further adventures. Discover the idyllic coastal beauty with holiday accommodations in Tybee Island, home to the picturesque Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. Experience the vast, open plains and unique dunes with vacation rentals in Nebraska, where the Sandhills region boasts truly mesmerizing landscapes. For a dramatic encounter with waterfalls and lush expanses, airbnb Twin Falls in Idaho promises breathtaking views at Shoshone Falls, known as the Niagara of the West.
