Art & Glassmaking: This Small New York Town is a Perfect Weekend Getaway

Some small towns turn the whole sleepy and quiet thing upside down and use the creative energy that comes from the calmness of the place as an opportunity to innovate. In other words, to shake up the world.

For the small town of Corning, N.Y., it’s all about glass!

And we get it. Glass is everywhere. So what’s the big deal, anyway? Humans have been using it for thousands of years. In so many ways. To do so many things. If it’s doing its job, we usually look right past it if not, literally, right through it. But, see, that’s part of the wonder.

Glass often makes the impossible, possible.

Spend a few minutes at The Corning Museum of Glass or strolling around Corning’s charming historic district, and you start to see glass in a whole new light. You start to realize just how remarkable it truly can be. Take a little time to try your hand at glassblowing and you really start to understand.

And that’s one of the things that makes Corning so special. While you’re here, you can try your hand at playing with something as hot as molten lava (yep, on purpose, and without getting scolded by Mom) to create your very own one-of-a-kind keepsake. Workshops at The Studio range from 30 minutes to three-days to two-week intensive classes depending on how much you want to learn. While nearby Hands-on Glass Studio offers a variety of intimate, one-on-one glassmaking experiences for everyone 2 years old and up. Talk about a great shared experience that’s perfect for the whole family.

Explore mind-boggling art from around the world, learn about the science of glass and how it has transformed our lives again and again throughout history. You can shop for vintage and unusual glass items if that’s your thing, or learn a brand new skill glassblowing if you’re more into trying it for yourself.

Of course, we also love filling our glasses with world-class wines and award-winning craft beverages which means you can savor Steuben’s exceptional culinary scene while also making the most of our proximity to breathtaking waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, remarkable lakes and more.

Learn more about Corning’s role shaping the world through glass and how you can add a little sparkle to your getaway by visiting America’s Crystal City. Visit to learn more. And download the Explore Steuben app to start planning your customized getaway today.

This post was produced and paid for by Explore Steuben