Ithaca Transit Hacks: Your No-Car Guide to Getting Around 👟
Ithaca's vibrant energy and walkable layout make it a perfect place for students. Most destinations are within easy reach. Don't worry if you're coming car-free – Ithaca boasts a network of convenient car-free options to get you wherever you need to go, saving you money and keeping your carbon footprint light.
Here's the best part: many student rentals in Ithaca, like ours here at Ferris Place Rentals, are located in ultra-walkable areas. Our student rentals are ideally situated – a 10-minute stroll from Cornell University for those early morning classes, a 5-minute walk to the Downtown Commons for a pre-lecture coffee fix, and just 1 minute from the TCAT bus stop for easy access to the rest of the city.
Let's explore the car-free options that await you in Ithaca!
Hit the Pavement
Walk This City: Ithaca is pedestrian friendly. The Ithaca Commons, The Ithaca Farmers Market, and even the scenic Cascadilla Gorge Trail are all easily conquered on foot. Lace up your walking shoes and explore what Ithaca has to offer.
Campus Cruiser: Cornell University's sprawling campus might be hilly (you’ll strengthen those quads!), but is accessible by foot. Explore the beautiful tree lined streets, peek into historic buildings, or grab a coffee at a cozy cafe.
Embrace the Bus
TCAT to the Rescue: The Tompkins County Area Transit (TCAT) bus system is your new best friend. Download the TCAT app for real-time bus arrival updates and plan your journey with ease. The network covers key destinations throughout Ithaca and the surrounding areas, making it a breeze to get around. (There’s a bus stop right around the corner from our rentals on State Street!)
Cornell University Students: Need to get between campuses? The university operates a convenient and affordable campus-to-campus bus service.
Bike There
Feeling adventurous? Embrace the fresh air and exercise with a bike ride. Check out Ithaca’s bike map, making cycling a safe and enjoyable way to navigate the city. There is a bike rental shop located near the waterfront, offering a variety of options to suit your needs.
Ridesharing for the Win
Need a Lift?: Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in Ithaca, providing a convenient option for on-demand transportation. This is perfect for those late-night study sessions.
Exploring Beyond City Limits
Public Transportation Gems: Shortline Bus Service offers connections to various destinations within New York State, while Greyhound provides connections to major cities nationwide.
Living Car-Free: Bonus Tips
Planning is Key: Familiarize yourself with bus routes and schedules, or plan your walking/biking journeys beforehand.
Pack Light: Traveling light is key, especially when using public transportation.
Embrace the Journey: Getting around car-free opens up new ways to experience Ithaca. You might discover hidden gems or charming corners of campus you wouldn't have noticed otherwise.
Ithaca's walkable downtown, scenic escapes, and efficient public transportation network make it a student's dream – explore the city entirely car-free, saving money and ditching the parking hassle!
