Known as America's Crystal City, Corning has long been at the forefront of all things glass, from innovative technology and science (think light bulbs for Thomas Edison, and modern wonders like fiber optics and Gorilla Glass) to the remarkable creations found at The Corning Museum of Glass, the world's largest museum of glass art and artifacts. But artisan glass is just one of the reasons Corning is so fun.

Spend a little time on Corning’s Historic Market Street and you’ll understand why Travel & Leisure named Centerway Square one of “America’s Most Beautiful Town Squares.”

That beauty is only part of the appeal, though. Corning’s Gaffer District is home to over 100 boutique shops, art galleries, studios, as well as craft beverage producers, restaurants serving fabulous food, and two world-class museums. It's charming small town that’s difficult to match!

There are some experiences so incredible you can't wait to do it again. The Corning Museum of Glass is one of those places, offering a glimpse of more than 3,500 years of historic glass, daily live glassblowing shows, demonstrations by special guest artists from around the world and a chance to make your own glass. We're sure you'll be mesmerized by the largest collection of art glass in the world. Oh, and kids 17 and under get in free!

One of the coolest, or hottest, things you can do while in Corning is make your very own glass masterpiece! With two hot shops offering a variety of hands-on experiences where you can create your own glass art, it's definitely an experience that you won't want to pass up.

Make Your Own Glass

Hands-On Glass Studio

Upstate New York's only Smithsonian Affiliate, The Rockwell Museum boasts a world-class collection of Western and contemporary Native American Art, and other exhibits focusing on "Art About America" as it continues to explore the people, land, and ideas that have shaped our country. And, while kids 17 and under get free admission to the museum every day, don't forget to take them to Kids Rockwell Art Lab.

A collection of historic buildings – including a one-room schoolhouse, a working blacksmith shop, a one-room log cabin, and Corning's oldest building – the Patterson Inn and Tavern, Heritage Village offers more than a look into the past. You'll get the chance to immerse yourself in historic antiquity with workshops and special events throughout the year.

After you've meandered through the amazing museums, don't forget to take a stroll down historic Market Street. There, you'll find a wide array of amazing places to eat, shop and just have fun! From a slice of pizza to fine dining, we're sure you'll find something to please your palate! Maybe a couple scoops of handcrafted ice cream after dinner or some axe throwing. Stop into Finger Lakes Unique for local artisan gifts and then catch a movie at the old-school Palace Theatre.

No kids? Maybe a craft beer is on the menu! Stop by Liquid Shoes Brewing or check out Iron Flamingo's Barrel House located on Market Street. These folks know how to brew a good beer!

Prefer cocktails? Check out The Cellar, Hand + Foot, and Three Birds for great options. Or swing over to Four Fights Distilling for locally-made spirits. All delicious!

Just 10 minutes from downtown, you can escape the hustle and bustle. With miles of great hiking paths, a beautiful pond and the pure serenity of nature, Spencer Crest Nature Center is meant for the outdoor enthusiast!

A great spot for outdoor recreation, you’ll find two state parks and a state forest in the small town of Addison.

At nearly 800 acres, McCarthy Hill State Forest offers rustic experiences ranging from hiking and camping to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing while Pinnacle State Park is great for hiking.

You’ll also find access to the Canisteo River where you can hand launch small boats or kayaks to enjoy a day on the river. Try your hand at fishing or just drift down the current.

Maybe golf is your thing. Indian Hills State Park is a great spot for avid or beginner golfers. Located just outside Corning, Indian Hills runs alongside the Tioga River and has a wonderful mix of holes with regards to length, doglegs, water hazards, sand traps, and other on-course obstacles that make for a fun and scenic round.

Looking for live music? You’ll want to check out the schedule at Moe-Town Music Venue which features local, regional, and national acts in a rustic setting.

Make sure to check out our other communities in Steuben!