Unlike Terenz, I would personally make it a point go to Ithaca because my years there.

I am a big fan of B&Bs and the Rose Inn is perhaps the best one that I have stayed in. According to it's web site, it is also New York's only 4 star and 4 diamond country inn. http://www.roseinn.com

If you are a fan of Riesling wines, you would enjoy the many wineries in the area.

Lastly, Cornell is a destination in itself - the Quad, clock tower, libraries, ornithology lab, orchards, musuems, etc.

E-mail me if you have any questions re the area, Letiole.