Planning to visit Cornell University? Whether you’re a prospective student or just curious about the campus, there’s plenty to explore. The Cornell campus tour options are designed to give you a closer look at the university’s history, culture, and everything that makes it special.
From student-led tours to self-guided adventures, Cornell has something for every type of visitor. Let’s get into the different tour options that will help you discover everything Cornell’s campus has to offer.
- Types of Cornell Campus Tours
- Parking and Accessibility for In-Person Cornell Campus Tours
- Why You Should Do a Cornell Campus Tour Before Applying
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
Types of Cornell Campus Tours
No matter what kind of tour you prefer, Cornell has an option that will help you experience the campus in a way that works best for you.
1. Guided student-led tours
One of the best ways to explore Cornell is with a student-led campus tour. You’ll get a unique experience with a current student who will share insider knowledge about the campus, including what life at Cornell is really like.
The tour lasts about 75 minutes and is free of charge. These tours are held rain or shine, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather.
To schedule a tour, make sure to book it through Cornell’s official website.
2. Self-guided campus tour
If you prefer exploring on your own, the Cornell self-guided tour allows you to roam the campus at your own pace. Using the Cornell tour app, you can guide yourself through key spots and enjoy the freedom to take the tour whenever you want.
The tour lasts about 1 hour. The app is available for both iPhone and Android. To get started, text “Cornell” to 58052 or download the app.
3. Virtual Cornell tour
Can’t make it to Ithaca? The Cornell virtual tour lets you experience the beauty and traditions of the campus from anywhere. It’s a great option if you’re not ready to make the trip but still want to explore what Cornell has to offer.
This tour is available on desktop or mobile devices and is ideal for those who can’t visit in person.
Parking and Accessibility for In-Person Cornell Campus Tours
When visiting Cornell, campus parking is available, but it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Here’s everything you need to know about parking options on the Cornell campus:
Weekday parking (Monday–Friday)
If you’re visiting during the week, you’ll need to pay for parking. There are several options close to the Martin Y. Tang Welcome Center, where most tours start. Here are the recommended locations:
- Toboggan Lodge (38 Forest Home Dr, Ithaca, NY)
- Forest Home Drive Parking Garage
Both are within easy walking distance of the campus. For added convenience, you can either pay for parking in advance or upon arrival:
Pay for parking in advance:
After scheduling your visit, you’ll receive a parking access code. This code allows you to display your parking pass on your dashboard when you arrive. If you forget your permit, you can purchase parking once you get to campus.
Pay for parking upon arrival:
Create an account on Parkmobile and pay via the mobile app. Alternatively, you can head to one of the pay-by-plate stations around campus, where you can pay with cash or card.
Weekend parking
If you’re planning to visit on the weekend, you’ll have the added benefit of free parking in some areas. Weekend parking is available at:
- Toboggan Lodge
- Forest Home Drive Parking Garage
- Hoy Road Parking Garage (permits not required on weekends)
Just be sure to check for restricted spaces and follow signage to avoid any issues.
Public transit
If you prefer not to drive, public transit is a great way to get around. TCAT buses run throughout Cornell’s campus and downtown Ithaca. A single ride costs about $1.50, and children 13 and under ride for free.
For more information, you may contact the Office of Visitor Relations at 607-255-4636.
Accessibility
Cornell is committed to making the campus accessible for all visitors:
- Wheelchair accessible. The campus is mostly accessible, but some areas may have limited access.
- Accessible parking. Designated spots are located throughout campus for visitors with mobility challenges.
- Special accommodations. If you need specific accommodations, be sure to request them in advance by contacting the Office of Visitor Relations.
Why You Should Do a Cornell Campus Tour Before Applying
Deciding where to apply for college is a big decision, and visiting the campus can give you a clearer picture of whether it’s the right fit for you. A Cornell campus tour is an essential step to take before submitting your application. Here’s why:
1. Experience the unique campus culture firsthand
Cornell’s culture is something you won’t fully understand until you’ve stepped foot on campus. Each university has its own “vibe”—how students interact with each other, how faculty and staff engage with students, and the general atmosphere on campus. During your Cornell campus tour, you’ll get a feel for the mood and energy of the student body.
Walking through iconic spaces like Ho Plaza, the Arts Quad, and the Libe Slope, you’ll get a chance to observe how students study, socialize, and collaborate. A relaxed walk around the campus gives you the chance to see if the environment feels open, inclusive, and engaging.
You’ll be able to observe if students seem focused or laid-back, if there’s a collaborative feel or more of an independent vibe, and whether you see a community you’d want to be a part of for the next four years.
2. Get a firsthand look at the campus layout
Cornell’s campus layout can be tricky at first. With its multi-level design and vast expanse over several hills, it’s easy to get lost without some guidance. A Cornell campus tour helps you get comfortable with the layout, showing you not just the academic buildings but also how student life is structured around the campus.
During the tour, you’ll pass through different key areas like the Sage Chapel, the A.D. White House, and the Statler Hotel (which is also Cornell’s School of Hotel Administration). You’ll also see student-friendly spaces like the Willard Straight Hall and Big Red Barn.
By the end of the tour, you’ll have a better understanding of how the academic and social spaces are interconnected and how long it would take you to get from class to class. You’ll also learn shortcuts and hidden gems, like the Centrally Located Art Gallery or secluded study spots tucked in corners.
3. Discover campus resources and student support services
Cornell offers a vast array of resources to support your academic, social, and personal needs. A Cornell campus tour is the perfect time to explore these in person.
The tour guide will take you past the Olin Library and the Cornell Learning Strategies Center, two key spots for students who need academic assistance. You’ll also get a glimpse of student wellness resources, such as the Gannett Health Services or the Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), which are critical for maintaining a balanced college life.
Additionally, you’ll learn about career services, internship support, and how the Cornell Career Services Center helps students land top-tier internships, particularly in industries like finance, tech, and government. These insights are invaluable as you weigh your options for future opportunities after college.
4. Ask current students your burning questions
One of the best aspects of a student-led campus tour is the opportunity to ask current Cornell students real, unfiltered questions.
This is your chance to hear firsthand about their experiences: what they love about Cornell, the challenges they face, and what they wish they had known before coming. Are classes really as difficult as they say? What’s student life like outside of academics? How accessible are professors?
Your guide will answer questions about what a typical day is like, where students hang out, and where to grab the best coffee on campus (don’t miss Collegetown Bagels). These insights will help you understand what it’s like to be a student at Cornell and whether it aligns with your own expectations and goals.
5. See the architecture and natural beauty of the campus
Cornell’s campus is known for its breathtaking combination of gothic architecture, modern facilities, and natural beauty. As you walk around, you’ll notice the McGraw Tower, which chimes every 15 minutes, and the grandeur of Sage Hall and the Cornell University Law School buildings.
But it’s not just about the buildings. The gorges, waterfalls, and Botanic Gardens create a serene backdrop that adds to the campus’s charm.
The Botanic Gardens, with its beautiful walking paths and greenhouses, are ideal for stress-free strolls. The Ithaca Falls nearby, and the stunning views from Liberty Hill, are just a few examples of the natural beauty that will help you connect with the outdoors while living on campus.
6. Explore the surrounding Ithaca community
A Cornell campus tour is also an excellent opportunity to get to know Ithaca, the small town that surrounds the university. Known for its unique mix of artsy, outdoorsy, and foodie-friendly culture, Ithaca offers much more than just academic opportunities.
After your tour, take a walk through Ithaca Commons, an outdoor shopping district, or check out local favorites like The Ithaca Bakery and The Green Street Café.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding area offers hiking, kayaking, and exploring Buttermilk Falls State Park or Taughannock Falls, both of which are easily accessible from the campus. You’ll get a sense of how the town complements the Cornell experience, offering a balance between the intellectual intensity of the university and the relaxing pace of a small town.
7. Evaluate how you’ll fit into the Cornell community
Ultimately, a Cornell campus tour will help you evaluate whether the university feels like a place you can see yourself thriving.
Every student has their own unique needs when it comes to college. Some prefer big schools with bustling social scenes, others seek quieter, smaller environments. A tour helps you decide if Cornell is the place where you’ll grow academically, socially, and personally.
Are you looking for a school that values diversity and inclusion? You’ll see this on the tour, where students from a variety of backgrounds come together. Do you want a collaborative environment? You’ll hear about Cornell’s team-oriented culture.
By the end of the tour, you’ll have a better sense of whether Cornell’s culture aligns with your own aspirations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What can I expect during a Cornell campus tour?
A Cornell campus tour is your opportunity to explore the campus with a student guide who will show you around key spots like academic buildings, dining areas, and student hangouts. You’ll get to ask questions and hear firsthand about life at Cornell, including what makes the university unique. These tours are typically 75 minutes long.
2. Is the Cornell virtual tour a good option if I can’t visit in person?
Absolutely! If you can’t make it to Ithaca for a campus visit, the Cornell virtual tour is a fantastic alternative. It allows you to explore Cornell’s iconic campus from anywhere, giving you a sense of its beauty, culture, and history. You can enjoy a guided tour of the campus online, offering a detailed experience without the need to travel.
3. How do I get a Cornell campus tour schedule?
To schedule a Cornell campus tour, head to the official Cornell website, where you’ll find the Cornell campus visit schedule. There, you can choose from available dates and times for student-led tours. Be sure to book your tour early, especially during peak seasons, as spots can fill up quickly.
4. Can I explore the campus on my own with a Cornell self-guided tour?
Yes! If you prefer to explore at your own pace, the Cornell self-guided tour is a great option. Using the Cornell tour app, you can navigate the campus and stop at key locations that interest you. The app is easy to download on both iPhone and Android, allowing you to explore the campus at your leisure, without a scheduled group tour.
5. Does Cornell require campus visits for admission?
No, visiting the campus is not required for admission to Cornell. According to their Common Data Set, demonstrated interest (like visiting campus) is not considered in the admissions process. While a Cornell campus tour can give you valuable insights into campus life, it’s entirely optional and doesn’t impact your chances of admission.
Takeaways
Before you set out to explore Cornell, here are a few things to keep in mind that will help make the most of your visit:
- Cornell offers a variety of ways to experience the campus, from student-led tours to self-guided options. If you prefer exploring independently, the self-guided tour is a great choice, but if you want insights from current students, the guided tours are perfect for that.
- If you can’t visit Cornell in person, don’t worry! The Cornell virtual tour lets you explore campus from anywhere, providing a detailed, virtual look at all the important spots around campus.
- Be sure to check Cornell’s campus visit schedule on their website and book your tour in advance, especially during busy times of the year. Early booking guarantees you a spot and helps you plan a smooth visit.
- Although visiting Cornell and taking a tour can enhance your understanding of the university, it’s important to know that a Cornell campus tour is not required for admission. The university does not consider demonstrated interest, including campus visits, in their admissions decisions.
- Not sure if Cornell is the right school for you? Whether you’re still deciding or need help with the admissions process, a college admissions consultant can provide expert and personalized guidance every step of the way.
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