Experience America?s Most Fun Small Town when you explore Corning in the southern Finger Lakes region. From glass blowing to hiking to wine tasting, there?s never a shortage of things to do in Corning, NY! But, if you do decide to venture away from this fun-filled town for a little bit (since it?s close to places like Keuka Lake or Watkins Glen), make sure to take a look at our free Vacation Guide to the Finger Lakes. It includes local favorites when it comes to the best restaurants, attractions, outdoor adventures, and wine trails along the lakes.
Things to Do in Corning, NY
History, Art, and Culture in Corning
Corning Museum of Gass
It?s something we use every day, but do you understand what goes into the making of glass? It?s a fascinating process that you have to see for yourself! Corning Museum of Glass offers live glass demos any time or day of the week, or you can explore the art galleries that date back centuries.
Once you?re ready to try your hand at glassworking, you can make your own beautiful glass art. With a hands-on glass blowing lesson, make an intricate ornament, bead, pendant, or tumbler to remember your time in Corning. Or, give someone the perfect glass art gift!
Heritage Village
Step into history and explore the Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes. The historic area all started with the Benjamin Patterson Inn in 1796 and continued to expand as several other buildings joined the village. You can take a one-hour guided tour, and discover the Browntown Schoolhouse, Cooley Blacksmith Shop, garden, general store, and more.
Outdoor Recreation in Corning
Spencer Crest Nature Center
Looking for a little bit of fresh air and sunshine? You can explore 250 acres of natural systems and displays at Spencer Crest Nature Center. Walk the dog on some of their gorgeous hiking trails, visit the museum, or try x-country skiing in the winter months!
Food and Wine in Corning
Gaffer District
Explore downtown Corning, New York, and visit Gaffer District. This delightful area has some of the best small businesses, Instagrammable streetscapes, restaurants, and boutiques.
Chocolate Trail
The first thing you need to do in the Gaffer District for anyone with a sweet tooth is travel the Chocolate Trail. For blocks, you can encounter the most decadent and delectable chocolate in all of Corning. If your mind is limited to believing chocolate is only for eating, think again! On the Chocolate Trail, you?ll also discover chocolate soap, cigars, and mixed drinks!
There may be tons of trails to look out for in the Finger Lakes ? chocolate trails, hiking trails, cheese trails, but one of the most popular Finger Lakes trails are the wine trails! Finger Lakes wine country is a must, so make sure to check out the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and Keuka Lake Wine Trail for the finest wine in New York!
Relax in a Luxury Finger Lakes Vacation Rental
Unwind after a day of exploring the charming town of Corning in a luxury Finger Lakes Vacation Rental. Our vacation homes are the best place to rest your head and recharge before a new day of lake adventures. We offer gorgeous lakefront rentals in New York that allow you to be close to the best outdoor recreation, shopping, and historic sites. So, what are you waiting for? Check our availability and start planning your dream lake-cation today!
