Corning -- Corning can get pretty crowded, both with business travelers and when big events occur, such the Corning Classic LPGA golf tournament, the NASCAR race, and Finger Lakes Wine Festival in nearby Watkins Glen, even Cornell's graduation. In addition to those below, you might check out one of the chain motels in town: Comfort Inn (66 W. Pulteney St.; tel. 607/962-1515; www.visionhotels.com), Days Inn (23 Riverside Dr.; tel. 607/936-9370; www.corningny.com/daysinn), and Staybridge Suites (201 Townley Ave; tel. 607/936-7800; www.staybridge.com/sbscorningny). For campers, there is the Hickory Hill Family Camping Resort, Route 17/I-86, exit 38; (tel. 800/760-0947; www.hickoryhillcampresort.com).
Elmira -- By far the best place to stay in Elmira is The Painted Lady B&B, 520 W. Water St., Elmira, NY 14905 (tel. 607/732-7515; fax 607/732-7515; www.thepaintedlady.net), a very large and meticulously decorated Victorian mansion in the heart of the historic district. Accommodations are massive and have luxurious bedding and bathrooms for $165 to $195 for a double or $225 for a two-bedroom suite. Breakfasts are home-cooked and delicious, and there's a fantastic billiards room. The inn, with just five units, is operated by a very friendly and informal young couple. If you prefer hotels, try Holiday Inn Riverview, 760 E. Water St., Elmira, NY 14901 (tel. 607/734-4211; 150 units; $79-$119 double); Hilton Garden Inn, 35 Arnot Rd., Horseheads, NY 14845 (tel. 607/795-1111; www.elmiracorning.gardeninn.com; 119 units; $99-$149 double); or Econo Lodge, 871 County Rte. 64/Rte. 17 (exit 51), Elmira, NY 14903 (tel. 607/739-2000; 48 units; $69-$119 double).
