Planning a scenic trip to Ithaca, New York from New York City? Whether you’re heading to visit Cornell University, explore Ithaca Falls, or enjoy the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region, this up-to-date 2025 travel guide will show you the best ways to get from NYC to Ithaca. Featuring “how to get to Ithaca from NYC,” “NYC to Ithaca bus,” and “best way to reach Ithaca from Manhattan.”
🚍 By Bus – Best Budget-Friendly Option in 2025
The easiest and most affordable way to get from New York City to Ithaca is by bus. Several bus operators run direct routes daily from Manhattan to downtown Ithaca.
Popular Bus Providers (2025):
- OurBus
- FlixBus
- Greyhound
- Megabus (limited service)
Departure: Midtown Manhattan (varies by provider)
Arrival: Green Street or Cornell Campus (depending on stop)
🕒 Travel Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours
💰 Ticket Cost: $25–$45 one way
📱 Booking Tip: Reserve in advance via mobile apps or official sites
🧳 Buses offer free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and luggage allowance, making this a convenient and eco-friendly option.
🚆 By Train + Bus – Scenic But Indirect
There is no direct Amtrak train to Ithaca, but you can combine train and bus travel for a more scenic journey.
Route (2025):
- Take Amtrak Empire Service or Maple Leaf from Penn Station NYC to Syracuse
- Transfer to Trailways or TCAT Bus from Syracuse to Ithaca
🕒 Total Travel Time: 6.5 to 7.5 hours
💰 Approximate Cost: $70–$100 total
🚉 Ideal if you want a scenic Hudson Valley route by train before heading to the Finger Lakes
🚗 By Car – Flexible & Ideal for Explorers
Driving from NYC to Ithaca gives you the freedom to stop at small towns, wineries, and state parks along the way.
Best Route (2025):
- I-87 North to I-287 West, then I-80 W → I-380 N → I-81 N → NY-79 W to Ithaca
- Alternate scenic route: Route 17 West through the Catskills
🕒 Drive Time: 4.5 to 5 hours
💰 Tolls + Gas: ~$40–$60 one way
🅿️ Parking: Free or metered in Ithaca; Cornell has visitor lots
🚘 Tip: Rent a car for weekend getaways to nearby Cayuga Lake, Buttermilk Falls, or Taughannock Falls
✈️ By Plane – Quickest, But Least Economical
You can fly from NYC area airports to Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH), but flights are limited.
Airlines (2025):
- Delta and United operate daily flights from JFK or EWR with a layover
- Direct flights are rare and expensive
- Airport is 10 minutes from downtown Ithaca
🕒 Flight + Transfer Time: 3.5 to 5 hours (including transit to/from airports)
💰 Cost: $180–$350 roundtrip
✈️ Best for those connecting from longer international flights or business trips
🧳 Travel Tips for 2025
- Winter travel to Ithaca may be delayed due to snow—check weather updates
- Buses may sell out during Cornell move-in, graduation, and festival weekends
- For ultimate comfort, consider booking luxury bus services with fewer stops and more legroom
🎄 Holiday Travel Note – Christmas & New Year’s Eve in Ithaca
Visiting Ithaca during Christmas or New Year’s Eve in 2025?
- Most transport options run limited schedules—check holiday timetables in advance
- Downtown Ithaca’s holiday markets and nearby gala dinners make winter travel worth it
- Book hotels and transport early, especially around Cornell winter break
🧠 FAQs
How far is Ithaca from New York City?
Ithaca is approximately 225 miles northwest of NYC. It takes around 4.5 to 5.5 hours to reach by car or bus.
What’s the fastest way to get from NYC to Ithaca in 2025?
The fastest way is a connecting flight from JFK or EWR to Ithaca Airport, but the best mix of speed and cost is typically by direct bus.
Is there a direct train from NYC to Ithaca?
No, there is no direct train. You can take Amtrak to Syracuse, then transfer to a bus.
Are there buses from NYC to Cornell University?
Yes, providers like OurBus and FlixBus stop directly at or near the Cornell campus.
Is driving to Ithaca from NYC safe in winter?
Yes, but roads through the Catskills and Finger Lakes may be icy—drive cautiously and check NYS DOT road conditions.
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