Cortland, a small city in central New York, offers a handful of straightforward, budget-friendly motels that cater to travelers passing through or visiting local institutions like SUNY Cortland. Whether you're here for a campus visit, a road trip stop, or exploring Ithaca and Cornell University (about 36 km away), these accommodations focus on the essentials: clean rooms, free WiFi, and free on-site parking. Expect rates in the economical range, with amenities like microwaves, refrigerators, and tea/coffee makers in each room. Staying near the main thoroughfares keeps you within easy reach of downtown dining and the Cortland Country Club.
Among the top-rated options, Imperial Motel Cortland is less than a 10-minute walk from SUNY Cortland and provides free WiFi, satellite TV, and a 24-hour front desk-ideal for budget-conscious visitors. Meanwhile, Red Roof Inn Cortland, located 1.8 km from the Cortland County Courthouse, offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, hairdryers, and work desks, plus facilities for disabled guests and non-smoking rooms. For families or business travelers, the Cortland Motel earns praise for room cleanliness, value for money, and attentive service, and includes bathrobes and free toiletries. A car is recommended to fully explore the area, though free parking is available at every property.