Cornell University Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental around Cornell University

Renting a car around Cornell University provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for various traveller types. For outdoor enthusiasts, Buttermilk Falls State Park is only 5 km away, offering stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. Families can enjoy the Cornell Botanic Gardens, located just 1 km from the university, perfect for a leisurely day out. Eco-friendly travellers will appreciate the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, situated 4 km away, where you can engage with nature and learn about local wildlife.

Additionally, having a rental car allows you to venture into nearby destinations with ease. Explore the vibrant city of Ithaca, which features attractions like Robert H. Treman State Park, or visit Downtown Ithaca, located 2 km away, where you can find The History Center and Dewitt Park. Even the charming Cayuga Heights is just 1 km from Cornell University, making it simple to enjoy all that the region has to offer. Overall, renting a car enhances your experience, ensuring you can discover the beauty and attractions surrounding Cornell University comfortably.

Most popular car rentals near Cornell University

• Midsize SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travellers and offering space for 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV is a popular choice for those visiting Cornell University. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who need both comfort and versatility during their travels. With ample room for luggage and passengers, a midsize SUV allows you to explore the area at your own pace while ensuring everyone has a comfortable ride.
• Compact: The compact car option is designed to fit 5 travellers along with up to 3 medium suitcases, making it an ideal choice for solo travellers, couples, or families. Its smaller size provides greater ease of parking and manoeuvrability, particularly in urban settings around Cornell University. This option is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly and efficient vehicle that doesn’t compromise on convenience.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car is spacious enough for 5 travellers and accommodates either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it a versatile choice for families or groups. This option offers a balance between comfort and space, allowing you to travel with ease while carrying all necessary luggage. Fullsize cars are great for those who want to enjoy a roomy ride while exploring the sights around Cornell University.

Top rated car suppliers near Cornell University

• Budget: Budget operates a rental location 5 km away from Cornell University, providing travellers with a convenient option for exploring the area. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget's most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, making it an excellent choice for those needing space for luggage or group travel. Customers appreciate the flexibility of renting from Budget, allowing them to manage their itinerary seamlessly while enjoying the scenic surroundings of Ithaca.
• Enterprise: Located just 3 km from Cornell University, Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers seeking exceptional customer service and a diverse vehicle selection. Their most booked options are Standard and Midsize cars, catering to various travel needs. Customers frequently praise Enterprise for its helpful staff and smooth rental process, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With its proximity to the university, it’s an ideal option for those wanting to explore both campus life and the beautiful Finger Lakes region.
• Avis: Avis has a rental location situated 4 km from Cornell University, making it easily accessible for tourists. Known for its reliable service, Avis offers a range of vehicles with Standard and Midsize SUVs being the top choices among renters. Travellers appreciate the clean and well-maintained cars, which enhance their driving experience while exploring the area. Avis provides the flexibility needed to navigate local attractions at your own pace, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout your visit to Ithaca.

Where to stay near Cornell University

• Ithaca: Staying in Ithaca places you at the heart of a vibrant city known for its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic experiences. You're in close proximity to attractions like Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park, both offering breathtaking views and adventure opportunities. Additionally, the Cornell Botanic Gardens provides a serene environment for family outings. The area is also home to various food and drink options, including local wineries and breweries.
• Brooktondale: Located 10 km from Cornell University, Brooktondale is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature. With its charming outdoor settings and scenic landscapes, it offers easy access to attractions similar to Ithaca, such as Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park. The romantic ambiance makes it an ideal spot for couples. Enjoy the local recreational areas and engage in outdoor activities that highlight the region's natural beauty.
• Newfield: Situated 15 km away from Cornell University, Newfield is a great choice for adventure seekers. This area boasts a mix of outdoor activities and scenic views, along with nearby attractions like Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park. You'll also find the Newfield Public Library for a touch of culture. With its proximity to lakes and natural parks, Newfield is well-suited for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors, especially during the warmer months.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Cornell University

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and specific types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age criteria before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied when picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to eliminate extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car around Cornell University

The best value period to rent a car around Cornell University is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February follows closely, though it sees high demand and slightly low prices. The spring months, March, April, and May, offer average pricing with low demand, making them decent options as well. However, June through August tend to be the most expensive months, with prices rising and demand remaining steady. September and October then show moderate prices and demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	23.2°F (-4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	24.8°F (-4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly Low
March	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
April	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
June	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
December	30.2°F (-1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average