Where we are - Mount Vernon, IA
We welcome visitors to campus
Cornell’s main campus is situated along a pedestrian mall that stretches from our state-of-the-art science facilities on the eastern border to a series of residence halls and our campus theatre on the west. While our entire campus is part of the National Register of Historic Places, our renovations and new buildings are tailored to make the most of our block plan calendar. We are located in the urban fringe Iowa town of Mount Vernon, which means there is easy access to both bustling town life and beautiful outdoor recreation areas within a short drive or walk.
Students, families, alumni, and community members are welcomed to campus to enjoy our spaces. The campus is private property, with the exception of Cole Library which is the local public library, so we ask you to observe the following policies while on campus:
- No smoking or vaping in campus buildings or on campus property.
- All pets must be leashed and adhere to our Animals on College-Owned or Controlled Property policy.
- Drones are not allowed on campus properties without FAA registration, proof of insurance, and prior permission from the Office of Marketing and Communications .
Getting to campus - convenient airport options
Getting to Mount Vernon by air
The Eastern Iowa Airport (CID) is about 20 miles from campus. from campus
CID is our closest airport and a quick drive on US-30 E to campus. If you need to arrive via an international airport, Des Moines International Airport (DSM) is just over two hours from campus on I-80E.
Driving to Cornell's campus
Coveniently located between several large midwestern cities
Cornell is conveniently located 2 hours from Des Moines, Iowa; 3½ hours from Chicago, Illinois; 4 hours from Omaha, Nebraska; and 4½ hours from Minneapolis, Minnesota, and St. Louis, Missouri.
Once you arrive, follow the signs to guest parking areas–campus maps are available on signs near the entrances. If you’re visiting for the first time, start your journey at the Welcome Center located in Thomas Commons. Download a campus map
Where to stay while visiting Cornell
Cozy or corporate- we have options
Hotels - AirBnB - Traditional Bed and Breakfast options
If you’d like to stay in a hotel, you may book a room within minutes of campus at the Sleep Inn and Suites by Choice Hotels located at 310 Virgil Avenue, Mount Vernon, IA 52314. Prefer a B&B? Book a room at one of Mount Vernon’s bed-and-breakfast inns. We have B&Bs within walking distance of the campus, including our own historic Brackett House located just across the street from our quad on the east edge of campus. Lodging options
More to explore - Mount Vernon and beyond
Mount Vernon and Lisbon boast a vibrant community life that combines small-town charm and safety with a wide array of support services and local-owned businesses within minutes of campus. A quick walk East on 1st Street leads you to Mount Vernon's main street where you'll find shops and restaurants to explore year-round as Lisbon's main street includes a History Center, shops, and more festival opportunities. Just outside town there are hiking trails and river access at Palisades Kepler State Park.
Lisbon is a short drive away with even more main street activities, a History Center, and festivals. Solon, IA is also a short drive away and adds more to the festival, dining, and lodging options close to campus as well as access to the Lake Macbride State Park.
More about Mount Vernon -Lisbon More about Solon
In less than half an hour you can also reach the larger cities of Cedar Rapids and Iowa City—a Unesco City of Literature for additional cultural opportunties, athletic events, and an array of dining and shopping options.