Best Western University Inn

For those searching on platforms like "Hotels Near Of Me" in the Ithaca, NY area, the Best Western University Inn stands out as a highly recommended and well-regarded option. Located at 1020 Ellis Hollow Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA, this hotel consistently receives praise for its friendly staff, clean and comfortable accommodations, and convenient access to the area's prominent universities and natural attractions.

The Best Western University Inn enjoys a prime location that balances tranquility with accessibility. Situated on Ellis Hollow Road, it offers a peaceful retreat while being just minutes away from the vibrant life of Ithaca. Its proximity to Cornell University is a significant advantage, with the campus being approximately half a mile away, making it an ideal choice for visiting academics, students, and their families. Ithaca College is also within a short drive, further solidifying its appeal to the university community.

Beyond academics, the hotel’s location serves as an excellent gateway to the stunning natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region. Guests can easily access renowned attractions such as Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park, both offering picturesque waterfalls and hiking trails. For those interested in local culture and leisure, the hotel is close to the Cayuga Wine Trail, allowing for convenient exploration of the region's burgeoning wine scene. Other nearby points of interest include the Cornell Botanic Gardens, the Downtown Ithaca Commons, and various golf courses, providing a diverse range of activities for all visitors. While the hotel is not directly in the downtown area, its complimentary shuttle service to Cornell University, Ithaca College, and the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport ensures that guests can navigate the area with ease.

The Best Western University Inn is highly lauded for its exceptional customer service. Reviews consistently highlight the staff, with individuals like "Bonnie at the front desk" receiving special mention for being "amazing," "very kind, professional," and "welcoming and patient." The hotel staff's attentiveness extends to all areas, including the breakfast bar, where employees are noted for continuously ensuring the area is clean and well-stocked. This dedication to service creates a positive and hassle-free experience for guests.

A significant highlight of a stay at this hotel is the complimentary hot breakfast. Available daily, guests can enjoy a variety of hot and cold dishes, often including items like eggs, sausages, and the popular make-your-own Belgian waffles, along with muffins, bread, bagels, yogurt, and fresh fruit. The breakfast area is meticulously maintained, ensuring a pleasant start to the day. For connectivity, the hotel provides free high-speed wireless internet access throughout the property and in all guest rooms. A 24-hour business center is available for professional needs, and a front-desk safe is provided for valuables.

Other convenient services include a 24-hour front desk, express check-in and check-out, and luggage storage. For travelers with electric vehicles, the hotel offers four EV charging stations, accommodating up to eight vehicles at once. The complimentary local shuttle service, operating at scheduled times, further enhances convenience for guests wishing to visit the universities, airport, or bus station without their own transportation. The hotel is also pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their beloved animals for an additional fee.

The Best Western University Inn is a smoke-free property featuring 101 spacious and well-appointed guest rooms across four buildings. Guests frequently describe the rooms as "very clean," "comfortable," and "beautiful," with some noting their pleasant surprise at the quality. In-room amenities are designed for comfort and convenience, including flat-screen TVs with cable and premium channels, microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee/tea makers. Each room also features an iron and ironing board, a desk with a laptop workspace, and blackout drapes/curtains to ensure a restful sleep. Some rooms offer unique features such as fireplaces or whirlpool tubs, providing an extra touch of luxury.

For recreation and relaxation, the hotel boasts a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, perfect for unwinding during warmer months (typically open from late May to early September). A 24-hour fitness center is also available, equipped with various machines to help guests maintain their workout routines. The hotel grounds offer a pleasant environment for a stroll, and there is a television in the common area for guests to relax. For families, the hotel is welcoming, with free cribs/infant beds available upon request and children staying free of charge within certain age limits. While the property is primarily on a single level, some accessible rooms are available with features like roll-in showers, and the hotel provides accessible routes to public spaces and amenities.

As part of the Best Western Hotels & Resorts family, the Best Western University Inn often participates in various promotions and offers. Guests are highly encouraged to enroll in the Best Western Rewards program. This loyalty program allows members to earn points for every stay, which can then be redeemed for free nights, gift cards, and other exclusive benefits. Best Western Rewards members also often receive special member-only rates, offering additional savings.

Travelers should regularly check the Best Western official website or other major online travel agencies for current promotions. These can include seasonal discounts, extended stay offers, or packages tailored to specific traveler types, such as AAA/CAA members, seniors, or government/military personnel. Given its close ties to Cornell University, the hotel may occasionally offer specific deals around university events, such as orientation, parents' weekends, or graduation, though availability and rates can vary significantly during these peak times. Booking directly with the hotel or through the Best Western website can sometimes unlock exclusive deals and greater flexibility with cancellations or modifications.

The Best Western University Inn stands as a testament to solid value, offering a comfortable, clean, and friendly environment for travelers to Ithaca. Its excellent staff, convenient location with shuttle service, and well-appointed amenities, including a highly-rated complimentary breakfast and seasonal outdoor pool, make it a strong recommendation for anyone searching for a hotel near Cornell University or other Ithaca attractions.