The Local Hostel

The Local Hostel is a favorite of ours. When I’m in town for business, I sometimes book one of its bunk rooms, and last week we tried a private room, which was great too. There’s free internet, friendly staff who know the area, and even two cute dogs to visit in the kitchen or den if you like. Rooms and bathrooms are tidy, with simple, lovely furnishings. We like recommending this unique place and its very reasonable rates, close to Watkins Glen State Park.

The only drawback was a little traffic noise at night, so bring earplugs. Otherwise, we loved the Cottage, and it’s about a block from the gorge trail entrance, so you don’t have to pay for parking. Emily answered all our questions and suggested a few places to visit. Everyone was so friendly and happy to stop and chat. Everything here is beautiful, and I don’t think I’ve ever smiled so much. I highly recommend The Local and the Cottage. We’ll be back and will send our friends, too. You won’t regret booking it.

For the past six years, I’ve come to Watkins Glen about three times a year and struggled to find a place that was clean, convenient, and affordable. I found The Local a few years ago, and now it’s the only place I stay when I visit. Emily and Ian take real pride in it. They’ve always accommodated our group, even when we needed to check in at odd hours. The beds are comfortable, and everything is very clean, especially the bathrooms.

Ian and Emily are such warm, hospitable people. I stayed at The Local over the weekend and was sad to leave. Coming from the Philadelphia area, I can be pretty picky and bougie about my taste, but this place exceeded every expectation. Everything was so clean, the memory foam mattress was a dream, and the microfiber sheets kept me cozy through the snowy nights. The Local also has two of the sweetest dogs, Emme and Beatrix. They’re very well behaved and full of love. Thanks so much, Ian and Emily. I’m already looking forward to the next trip!