The Best Hotels to Book Near Watkins Glen International, New York

Spend a weekend at Watkins Glen International to watch professional drivers at their finest on a world-renowned racing circuit
Spend a weekend at Watkins Glen International to watch professional drivers at their finest on a world-renowned racing circuit | © Cal Sport Media / Alamy
Gabi Ancarola

Locally known as the Glen, Watkins Glen International is a world-renowned race track in New York. Gearheads visiting this iconic destination will want to stay in one of these great hotels – bookable on Culture Trip.

As a historic home of the Formula One Grand Prix, the site has also hosted the World Sportscar Championship and the Nascar Cup Series – among other competitions. The first permanent circuit was built in 1956 and before that, public roads were used as race tracks for years. Usually described as the Mecca of North American road racing, this circuit has also been used to host music festivals since the 70s.

1. Lodging at the Gaffer Inn

Hotel

Lodging at the Gaffer Inn_63bb2175
Courtesy of Lodging at the Gaffer Inn / Expedia

Lodging at the Gaffer Inn is located on the historical Market Street downtown Corning, home to the Corning Museum of Glass – as well as the Rockwell Museum. This charming boutique venue features rooms with amenities thought to maximize each visitor’s moments of comfort and relaxation, including comfy pillow-top mattresses, a fireplace, desk, a wet bar and a small dining area. The on-site dining space – Burgers & Beers of Corning – serves amazing gourmet burgers and sandwiches, wings, fish fry and a selection of over 30 local craft beers on tap.

2. Nel's Place

Hotel, Bed and Breakfast

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Courtesy of Nel's Place / Expedia

Nel’s Place is a welcoming hotel in Corning featuring well-appointed homes and chalets with a rustic flair and every comfort you could possibly seek for a memorable stay. Surrounded by trees and a quiet environment, this is the ultimate place to stay for a tranquil getaway in the woods. The guesthouse offers accommodation in the area of Corning, just 22mi (36km) from Watkins Glen. Every unit here features a convenient fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and free parking, too. This place is also in a premium area for cycling in nature – or simply play table tennis and take advantage of the modern fitness center.

3. Courtyard by Marriott Elmira Horseheads

Hotel

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Courtesy of Courtyard by Marriott Elmira Horseheads / Expedia

Conveniently close to Corning, New York, Courtyard Elmira Horseheads caters to every detail for an unforgettable trip in the area. Stays here come with complimentary parking and delicious breakfasts, a 24-hour fitness center and an indoor pool – along with inviting lobby spaces boasting free Wi-Fi and state-of-the-art GoBoard technology. Every suite and room features an extra sofa bed and a handy coffee station while business travelers can keep track of their activities sitting at the convenient in-room oversized desks.

4. Enchanted Cottage on Glen

Cottages

The Enchanted Cottage on Glen is a beautiful fully furnished home, tastefully decorated for your utmost comfort and relaxation. It includes a kitchen fully stocked with spices, oil, butter, pots and pans as well as a few groceries. Located in West Elmira – just minutes from the Glen – this guest house features three bedrooms, a library stocked with classics, hi-speed wireless internet, cable TV and an interesting DVD collection that you can enjoy during your stay.

5. La Tourelle Hotel and Spa

Hotel

A simple hotel room with fireplace and private balcony at La Tourelle
Courtesy of La Tourelle / Booking.com

Hotel, bistro and spa, La Tourelle is a warm, cozy home to spend a relaxing holiday near the Glen. In the area, it’s possible to hike to Buttermilk Falls or explore the local wineries, museums and music venues in the Finger Lakes region. Upon stepping into the lobby, you’re welcomed by comfortable seating, a blazing fireplace in the winter and a custom bar featuring local drinks. In each room, complimentary coffee, comfortable beds and inspiring views of the surrounding grounds await you. The venue is praised by the pampering treatments at the August Moon Spa – including massage and skincare treatments with natural products made with ingredients from the garden.

6. The William Henry Miller Inn

Hotel

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Courtesy of William Henry Miller Inn / Expedia

Nestled in the heart of Ithaca, the William Henry Miller Inn is within walking distance from iconic landmarks such as Cornell University and the breathtaking Cascadilla Gorge. If you’ve got time, explore the surrounding area, including the local wineries, parks and inspiring waterfalls. As a perfect choice both for a romantic getaway or a business trip, the inn features a daily full homemade breakfast and evening desserts with locally roasted organic coffee and tea. Some of the rooms here also include a whirlpool tub.

7. The Statler Hotel at Cornell University

Hotel

Hotel room at The Statler Hotel at Cornell University. Smartly-decorated hotel room looks out onto a rural landscape
Courtesy of the Statler Hotel at Cornell University / Expedia

Have you ever considered staying at a US university? Well, this hotel gives you that chance. The Slater is a contemporary hotel tucked into Cornell University’s campus, overlooking the beautiful Cayuga Lake. The venue was established in 1950 as an experiment in hotel education, thus becoming a leader in top hospitality. Unique in services and atmosphere, the students from Cornell’s School of Hotel Administration work and receive a real-life educational experience while delivering exceptional service to guests. While rooms exude upscale comfort and modern design and suites feature ample living spaces and luxury amenities, you’ll appreciate the four different dining venues, home to exceptional food, drink and ambiance.

8. Ithaca Boat House

Guesthouse

Ithaca Boat House_db712021
Courtesy of Ithaca Boat House / Expedia

A former boathouse, the Ithaca Boat House was originally a workshop. Situated directly over the waters on Cayuga Lake, Ithaca features two comfortable units to rent. The accommodation is just minutes from downtown Ithaca and only a short drive from the Glen. While the upper one used to be an artist studio, the ground-level apartment functioned as housing to a boat. The property still preserves its unique original features, including the large boat bench in the yard, as well as the atmospheric built-in bookshelves. Both units feature a full kitchen with utensils and cooking equipment, a Keurig coffee pot, microwave, stove and an oven.

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