Transportation in Ithaca

Ithaca's transport is small-town simple: TCAT buses are the backbone, running frequent loops between Cornell, downtown, and the Commons. A single ride is cheap, a day pass is cheaper than two singles, and the buses are free after 8 p.m. and all weekend, good for students and visitors alike. Uber and Lyft fill the gaps at night, while taxis are a splurge and usually need to be called rather than hailed. First-timers should download the TCAT app for real-time arrivals and buy the day pass on the bus (exact change only). Don't bother with a car for campus or downtown, parking meters are strict and garages cost more than a rideshare. If you're heading to the gorges or wineries, a rental from the airport strip is the practical move; otherwise, the bus + bike combo covers most needs. From Ithaca Tompkins International, the Route 32 TCAT bus meets most flights and drops you on campus or downtown for a fraction of a taxi fare. If you land late, the last bus is gone by 10 p.m.; the taxi queue is then the only game in town, so confirm the meter is running before you load your bags.