Specifics about Ithaca???
 

Thanks for the suggestion to spend my week out of NY in Ithaca....lots of friends here also suggested it! <BR> <BR>Now I'm curious to hear if anybody out there has any particulars on good places to stay? <BR> <BR>Obviously, I'm looking for the perfect spot....not too expensive, privacy, maybe a bit of a "spa" environment wouldn't hurt...private, option for pool/jacuzzi/massage if we're feeling decadent? (does this even exist, for any amount?) I really just want the right mix of decadent without it being stuffy....cool, decadent, hidden, relaxing would be a good start. <BR> <BR>Or maybe a good B&B that isn't too "cute"? <BR> <BR>Any suggestions?? <BR> <BR>Also, if anyone answers this that lives in the area...what are the good swimming spots?? I'm so spoiled from California, always avoiding the public and hunting out the private beautiful river and lake spots... <BR> <BR>I really appreciate any help! This is going to be a great break from the craziness here in Manhattan! <BR> <BR>

Occasionally the weather can be spotty but the last few summer have been good even in August. <BR>Motels in that area are generic, so...... <BR>try: <BR>1) Buttermilk Falls B&B <BR>2) The Rose Inn <BR>3) The Greystone <BR> <BR>I'd suggest #1 on basis of the proprietor and location. She's laid back, it's a beautiful old house andfd the swimming hole at B'milk Falls State Park is literally 100 ft from the house. Best swimming is at lower Tremain Park. It's a "supervised" swimming hole with diving board and a falls that you can paddle ove to and sit under. Phenomenal!! Also be sure to walk up the trail to Taughannock Falls (down the lake a few miles), do the walk up Cascadilla Gorge in the city (on Cornell campus) and consider driving over to Watkins Glen to walk the glen (hint: take the shuttle to top and walk down if you're not interested in exercise). <BR> <BR>Cornell University has an excellent art museum, the Johnson and the Cornell Plantation is worth a visit. Several good stores on the Commons , do the Farmer's Market if you're there on a Saturday morning, and check out two other restaurants I forgot to mention in previous reply: <BR>1) Renee's Bistro (upscale - very nice) <BR>2) The Moosewood (nationally famous vegetarian resturant - you may have seen their cookbook) <BR> <BR>Have a great time - you'll like it there! (I lived there for four years and wish I could move back). <BR> <BR>P.S. you have GOT to try out the sticky buns at "Home Dairy" on the Commons - they're the best anywhere. <BR>

Thank you SO much!!!! <BR> <BR>This info will be invaluable in making it a really great break! <BR>

<BR> <BR>As a Cornell alum, I endorse your choice to vacation in Ithaca and envy you staying for a week. I just spent 3 days at my class reunion in June. During college days I didn't have a car -- but the places mentioned above are certainly worthwhile. Do spend some time on the Cornell campus -- buildings, flowers, gorges, views of valley & lake are great. I also suggest a walk in Sapsucker Woods, the bird sanctuary. And try the ice cream at the Dairy Bar. <BR>It will be a good break from NYC! <BR> <BR>

As one who grew up on the shores of Cayuga Lake (and then logged four years at Cornell) I have to agree with the suggestions so far. Just want to add one: make sure to stop by Purity Ice Cream!