Thanks, I did have a bit more of a look at Ithaca last night and the hilton garden inn looks quite good, near bars and restaurants and we could drive through Watkins glen etc on the way.

What is general weather like first weekend in oct?

Think I shall go with Ithaca as I can book on line now for special price of £130 inc breakfast and parking, all the Watkins glen places need you to call and I live in uk so would rather have print outs of bookings etc.

Many thanks for help shall now start checking out Ithaca forum!

I love Ithaca and believe you have made a good choice. You should find a lot of suggestions for Ithaca on this forum.

Have fun.

Generally, first weekend in October will be pleasant days (highs mid teens C/60'sF), lows around 10/40's overnight. October is one of the more unpredictable months, but early on is generally fine. We've planned many outdoors events over the years in early October (including my wedding at Taughannock Falls) and have been fortunate every time, never had a weather related issue.

HGI is in a great location, right off the Commons, so you'll be able to walk to a lot of places. Don't forget to check out the Cornell campus, though.

In addition to the gorge at Watkins Glen, make sure to check out the hike at Robert Treman and possibly Buttermilk. I prefer the former to Watkins, mostly due to having fewer people, but still a very impressive gorge in its own right.

Two off the wall food suggestions for a quick bite, neither within easy walking distance of your hotel but on your way to other destinations would be Ithaca Bakery (not really off the wall) and Wegmans Supermarket (which only sounds off the wall into you go there and see).

Have fun.

Thanks all, think a drive through Watkins and a walk and then beers and food in Ithaca!