Corning Museum of Glass

Corning Incorporated founded the museum in 1951 and it holds something over fifty thousand objects covering about three and a half thousand years, from Roman and Islamic glass through Venetian and Bohemian work to contemporary studio pieces - the largest glass collection in the world. The science and technology wing covers optical glass, fibre optics and the 200-inch Palomar telescope blank cast here in 1934, a first attempt of which cracked and is displayed. Hot glass demonstrations run through the day in a purpose-built amphitheatre, and visitors can book a session to make something themselves. A flood in 1972 submerged the museum and much of the collection was conserved afterwards.

What you actually see

• Over fifty thousand objects - the largest glass collection anywhere.
• Roman through contemporary studio glass - about 3,500 years.
• Live hot glass demonstrations - running through the day.
• The Palomar telescope blank - and the cracked first attempt.

When to go

Year round; it is entirely indoors. Half a day.

Honest expectations

Make-your-own sessions book out and cost extra. Summer and school holidays are crowded. Corning is a long drive from any city. The ticket is valid two days because one is not enough.

Nearby

Watkins Glen is north-east; the Finger Lakes wineries are around.