Parking on campus during the day is expensive (though many lots are free, with or without a parking permit, after 5:00 PM and on weekends). There are buses that run from the more distant lots to central campus, so you may want to consider getting a permit for such a lot and taking the bus to your office (check a map before you buy a parking pass). The various options are available at CLICK HERE. There are also many parking options near campus for those who don't mind parallel parking and/or taking a risk on having to walk. For example, Buffalo St., Stewart Ave., University Ave., and many of the roads in Collegetown offer unmetered on-street parking every day, but you might have difficulty finding a spot if you come in later in the day.
Everyone who intends to park on campus at any time (even if only
``after hours") should register their car with Cornell, even if
they do not intend to buy a parking permit. Note that you can
register your car for free without purchasing a parking permit.
You can download the form at
CLICK HERE
This web page also contains extensive information about
transportation options for graduate students at Cornell,
including information about buses, biking, and parking.
Note that bicycles must also be registered with the
Transportation department at
CLICK HERE.
If you do park on campus, be sure to check the posted parking limitations on the lot you choose. Cornell public safety is notorious for giving parking tickets. Although many lots are free after 5 PM and on weekends, there are several that are restricted to permit holders almost all the time.