Aviation, Art & Other Cultural Attractions
Aviation, Art and Cultural Attractions
Arts and culture run deep in the Finger Lakes region. From the world-renowned Corning Museum of Glass to the quaint town where Mark Twain wrote many of his famous novels, there is living history around every corner. This winter, keep warm indoors and experience a small-town getaway fit for any art, culture, or history lover.
DAY ONE
Welcome to Corning! Start your day at the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, dedicated to the pioneer aviator and inventor. Immerse yourself in early aviation and regional history through a priceless collection of historic aircrafts.
After spending some time soaring through history, drive down to the Corning Museum of Glass (CMOG). Discover the stories that can be told through a single material as you explore the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass. See the ever-changing exhibits, attend live glassblowing demonstrations by master glassmakers, and work on your own project at the Hands-on Glass Studio. When you’re feeling hungry, relax and enjoy lunch right in the CMOG Café.
A short drive down the street will lead you to the Rockwell Museum, the only Smithsonian Affiliate in Upstate New York. You’ll find that the Rockwell is more than just a museum; it is a destination where visitors can connect and reflect upon the essence of the American spirit through the eyes of various American artists.
There are plenty of local restaurants in Corning where you can grab some dinner after a busy day of exploration. Prepare for a cozy night as you settle in for some sleep at a nearby accommodation.
DAY TWO
Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation or enjoy some comfort food at a local establishment, such as Donna’s Restaurant in downtown Corning.
Say hello to Elmira as you drive towards the National Soaring Museum, the birthplace of American soaring! This aviation museum works to preserve the history of motorless flight with a large collection of vintage gliders and information on individuals who have made the highest achievements in the sport of soaring.
Spend time in downtown Elmira where Mark Twain once called home. Stop by the Mark Twain’s Study and Exhibit to see the small hut where the author composed many of his famous works. Be sure to fill up on some lunch at a nearby restaurant on the way to your next stop!
You don’t want to miss the Arnot Art Museum which displays a permanent collection of seventeenth to nineteenth century European paintings and nineteenth and twentieth century American art. Housed in an 1833 Greek Revival, the architecture of the building itself is a sight to be seen.
Plan ahead and check out the schedule of the 2022-2023 Broadway series at the Clemens Center for a night at the theater. Enjoy a delicious dinner at 1157 North before or after the show. After a rejuvenating show and a delicious meal, head to your accommodation for a good night’s rest.
DAY THREE
Enjoy the morning in Elmira and have breakfast & coffee at Downtown Grind before heading to Tioga County.
Drive to Waverly and visit the Susquehanna River Archaeological Center, which houses thousands of local Native American artifacts that date as far back as the Ice Age. If you’re exploring Tioga on a Saturday or Sunday, you might want to then take a drive up to Newark Valley to see the Bement-Billings Farmstead, a living history museum that interprets domestic life, agricultural practices, and the natural environment of the early 1800’s.
Head to the biggest town in the County, Owego, where you’ll find plenty of options for lunch. Check out what Cloud Croft Studios has on the event calendar. This art studio, only 5 miles outside of Owego, allows local artists to give classes and host their own exhibits. You never know what you might come across!
There are a few different ways you may want to spend the afternoon here. Discover an exhibit from local artists at the Tioga Arts Council, or check out a local production by the Ti-Ahwaga Community Players. The Ti-Ahwaga Performing Arts Center is a 156 seat cabaret-style theater which boasts wonderful acoustics and a state-of-the-art sound system, creating a top-of-the-notch viewing experience for those who love live theater.
Another unique way to have a hands-on art experience is through a cooking or cake-decorating class at Confection Connection. This Artisan Dessert shop not only sells delicious and beautiful desserts, but also gives you a chance to create your own work of art!
Finish your trip with a relaxing dinner at The Cellar on the River, a warm and cozy restaurant with a great view of the water. Check out a variety of accommodations to end the day; you’ll find that the B&Bs in this area are pieces of artwork themselves!
