Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Ithaca. Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ITH:
First, verify that you can enter United States — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the TCAT Bus takes about 60 minutes into Ithaca, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Spend Your Time in Ithaca
Two recommendations for your time in Ithaca:
Start with Cornell University Campus Exploration. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Ithaca Commons. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ITH, you can spend time at Relax in the Terminal Lounge Area or try Cornell University Airport Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting to Ithaca from the Airport
From ITH, the TCAT Bus gets you to Ithaca in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the TCAT Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Ithaca: Moosewood Restaurant and Collegetown Bagels (CTB). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Wings of Ithaca Cafe or Grab-and-Go Snacks & Drinks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Ithaca, budget roughly $37 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $18 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Ithaca, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ITH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at ITH may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Ithaca’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Need a Nap? Options at ITH
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at ITH.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Ithaca with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Ithaca may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.