The Corning Museum of Glass is a unique destination for those looking to explore the world of glassmaking. Located in Corning, New York, this world-renowned museum showcases 3,500 years of glass history, blending art, science, and history in one experience.
We’ve visited the museum a few times and are always in awe of the stunning glass sculptures from around the world. While the museum is family-friendly, it may not be ideal for toddlers or very young children, as much of the focus is on history, which they might not fully appreciate. However, exposing them to such beauty and craftsmanship could spark their interest for future learning. Older kids, especially teens, might find it fascinating to connect the exhibits to what they’ve learned in history classes, as my teens did.
Getting There and Parking
The museum offers ample parking with several large lots, making it easy to access and navigate. They have a line painted on the sidewalk that takes you from the parking lot to the front door.
Exhibits and Highlights
Upon entering, the first space you’ll encounter is the Collidoscope exhibit, featuring the work of Einar and Jamex de la Torre. These Mexican-American brothers are celebrated for their intricate glass sculptures and mixed-media installations, which combine traditional glassblowing with digital and multimedia elements. Their kaleidoscopic creations weave together pre-Columbian art, religious iconography, pop culture, and themes of identity and globalization.
Just beyond Collidoscope, the Contemporary Art + Design gallery houses iconic pieces like the Forest Glass exhibit, Raining Knives, and the Glass Lynx.
The Hot Shop is a must-see. Here, glassblowing demonstrations take center stage in an amphitheater setting. Each 20-minute session walks visitors through the process of creating vases, bowls, and sculptures, showcasing the skill and precision involved in every step.
The Innovation Center dives into the science of glass, exploring early glass-making techniques and the role glass plays in modern technologies, from fiberglass to fiber optics.
One of my personal favorites is tucked away in 35 Centuries of Glass. This section features two standout areas:
- Global Glass History: Pieces dating back to 350 CE, categorized by region, showcasing the evolution of glass from its origins in Mesopotamia and Egypt to global artistry.
- Tiffany Studios: A collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany’s stained glass windows, lamps, and mosaics from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, highlighting his innovative designs and the beauty of Favrile glass.
Don’t Miss the Gift Shop
No visit is complete without a stop at the museum’s expansive gift shop—one of the largest I’ve ever seen in a museum. It offers a large selection of glass art, souvenirs, books, and even museum pieces displayed on the second floor. During our fall visit, the shop was filled with gorgeous blown-glass pumpkins, perfect for Halloween.
Tips For Visiting:
- Arrive Early: The museum is expansive, and arriving early allows you to explore at your own pace.
- Set Aside Enough Time: Allocate at least 3-4 hours to see the galleries, participate in workshops, and shop.
- Reserve Ahead: Workshops like Make Your Own Glass (MYOG) fill up quickly. Book your spot online in advance.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: If you’re participating in glassmaking, avoid open-toed shoes and wear comfortable clothes suitable for hands-on activities.
- Schedule Check: Check the daily schedule for live demonstrations. They’re informative and fascinating to watch.
- Potential Savings Through Local Hotels: Many nearby accommodations offer package deals that include discounted admission.
- Enjoy The Museums Cafe: The café has an excellent selection of meals, snacks, and beverages. It’s a great place to refuel before continuing your visit.
- Plan To Visit Nearby Attractions: Corning is part of the Finger Lakes region. Consider exploring nearby wineries, hiking trails, or Watkins Glen State Park.
