![Clinton House, Ithaca](/img/gd_attr/63857.jpg)
Clinton House, Ithaca
The Clinton House stands as an enduring example of Greek Revival architecture. Built between 1828 and 1829, the building was originally conceived as an upscale hotel and Ithaca's first professional office space, reflecting the city's early prosperity. With 150 rooms, it was a grand undertaking for a town with a population of just 4,000. Named after former New York Governor DeWitt Clinton, the Clinton House was renowned as "the most imposing hotel" between New York City and Buffalo upon its opening. Over its history, it has hosted notable guests, including four U.S. presidents, prominent actors from Ithaca's early film industry, and political figures like William Seward and Horace Greeley.
The Clinton House's evolution mirrors the region's historical changes. Designed by Ira Tillotson, its Greek Revival style is characterized by large columns and expansive windows, embodying the architectural trends of the early 19th century. It underwent two major remodels: architect William Henry Miller added a fourth floor and mansard roof in the Second Empire style, later restored closer to the original design by Clinton L. Vivian after a fire in 1901. The building's preservation became a turning point in Ithaca's preservation movement when, in 1973, plans for its demolition were met with opposition. Historic Ithaca spearheaded a massive effort to save the Clinton House, securing its future through extensive restoration projects led by figures like Carol U. Sisler and Victoria Romanoff.
Today, the Clinton House serves as a vibrant community hub, housing offices and the New Roots Charter School. Adjacent to the Ithaca Commons, it remains a prominent feature of the city's historic landscape.
The Clinton House's evolution mirrors the region's historical changes. Designed by Ira Tillotson, its Greek Revival style is characterized by large columns and expansive windows, embodying the architectural trends of the early 19th century. It underwent two major remodels: architect William Henry Miller added a fourth floor and mansard roof in the Second Empire style, later restored closer to the original design by Clinton L. Vivian after a fire in 1901. The building's preservation became a turning point in Ithaca's preservation movement when, in 1973, plans for its demolition were met with opposition. Historic Ithaca spearheaded a massive effort to save the Clinton House, securing its future through extensive restoration projects led by figures like Carol U. Sisler and Victoria Romanoff.
Today, the Clinton House serves as a vibrant community hub, housing offices and the New Roots Charter School. Adjacent to the Ithaca Commons, it remains a prominent feature of the city's historic landscape.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Ithaca. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Clinton House on Map
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Sight Name: Clinton House
Sight Location: Ithaca, USA (See walking tours in Ithaca)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Ithaca, USA (See walking tours in Ithaca)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Ithaca, New York
Create Your Own Walk in Ithaca
Creating your own self-guided walk in Ithaca is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Ithaca Introduction Walking Tour
Ithaca, New York, blends history, academia, and natural beauty into a lively yet laid-back setting. Located in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is known for its waterfalls, liberal spirit, and deep ties to higher education—Cornell University and Ithaca College anchor the town's intellectual atmosphere.
The name "Ithaca" comes from the Greek island glorified by Homer in his epic... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
The name "Ithaca" comes from the Greek island glorified by Homer in his epic... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.5 Km or 0.9 Miles
Cornell University Walking Tour
Cornell University, a prestigious Ivy League institution in Ithaca, New York, was founded in 1865 by Ezra Cornell and Andrew Dickson White. The university's blend of tradition and innovation is reflected in its academic offerings and ever-evolving campus design. Indeed, the main campus of Cornell, sprawling 745 acres on East Hill overlooking Ithaca and Cayuga Lake, is recognized as one of the... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.1 Km or 2.5 Miles