Corning's Gaffer District

Corning’s Gaffer District has transformed over a century and a half from a hub for the lumber industry to an artistic center offering entertainment, shopping, attractions, and dining for all ages.

Historic Market Street, the vibrant heart of the Gaffer District, is home to world-class museums specializing in unique programming and exhibits. Join an art hunt through the Wild West, make your own exhibition-worthy piece of glass art to take home, or simply stroll down Centerway Square’s famed architecturally stunning street to enjoy shopping, dining, and more!

Corning hosts an incredible array of events and festivals year-round, including the internationally recognized Wineglass Marathon, and the Gaffer District is often the heart of revelry. Whether joining in one of the town’s self-guided walking tours such as the Chocolate Trail, or the Buildings Alive walking tour, or taking a horse and carriage ride down Market Street during the holiday extravaganza known as Crystal City Christmas, Corning’s Gaffer District is yours to explore.

Pop across the Chemung River via the pedestrian bridge to marvel at incredible works of art at the Corning Museum of Glass, and don’t miss May’s annual GlassFest, one of the region’s premier events featuring live glassmaking demonstrations, live music, and more.

After exploring all Centerway Square has to offer, hit up one of the Gaffer District’s 40 restaurants to slake your thirst and satisfy your hunger. Retire for the night at one of the many lodging options located in downtown Corning, and wake to a view of the picturesque town to start a new day of adventuring!

Accolades for Corning’s Gaffer District:

• “Most Fun Small Town in America” Rand McNally’s Best of the Road 2013 & 2014
• Certificate of Excellence, TripAdvisor, 2015, 2015, & 2016
• One of the “Great Places in America” American Planning Association 
• GlassFest, Top 100 Events in North America, American Bus Association, 2014, 2015 & 2016
• One of “America’s Most Beautiful Town Squares” Travel + Leisure 
• American Public Works Association Historic Restoration & Preservation Project of the Year, Historic Centerway Walking Bridge, 2014