Corning Museum of Glass

While the Corning Museum of Glass may have grown in scale and scope over the years, its mission has remained largely the same. Corning Glass Works founded the educational institution in 1951 with the goal of raising awareness for the historical and artistic significance behind glassmaking.

Today, the museum houses several exhibits spanning over 35 centuries of glass history, ranging from ancient portraits to contemporary sculptures. The museum is ideal for a weekend visit, as the admission fee extends across two days. Also, ages 17 and under get in free and can learn about the history of glass through storytelling, music and crafts.

A popular exhibit for kids and teens is the “What Is Glass” exhibit, which explores the history of glass creation, including what processes and materials can influence its behavior and appearance. Additionally, families can view the popular “Blown Away: Where Are They Now” exhibit, featuring new works from contestants on the eponymous Netflix series.

Families can also observe daily demonstrations of glassmaking and even participate in specific parts of the glassmaking process, including sandblasting, fusing, flameworking and furnace blowing.

The destination also houses the Rakow Research Library, which contains an impressive collection of literature and other materials documenting the history of glass, as well as a modern Casting Center, which is dedicated to advancing the art of glass cast.

Starting in May, visitors can catch the annual special exhibition, “Tough Stuff: Women in the American Glass Studio,” which serves as the first exhibition of work by female glass artists in the United States, highlighting works from the 1960s and ’70s. 1 Museum Way, Corning, New York 14830, 607/937-5371, cmog.org