Art of glass
The City of Corning is known for its transparent creations, but look through that and you’ll find much more to enjoy.
Right now, if you want to plan a safe getaway your best plan of action would be to stay within New York. Most likely, your plans won’t get canceled and you can still experience the feeling of a little vacation that’s not too far of a drive from the Capital Region. If you’re looking for a charming town that has history, art, shopping, and great food, you’ll want to check out Corning.
Checking in to The Gaffer Inn (60 W. Market St.)
My room at The Gaffer Inn felt more like a trendy city apartment than a hotel. I love the exposed brick and fireplace in the living room area. There was even a little kitchen and a short hallway leading to the bathroom and the bedroom. The twinkling streetlights from the historic Gaffer District filled the living room as I was cozied up on the couch watching a movie at the end of the night. I loved the cozy leather furniture and big comfortable bed. Even with just a small selection of rooms, I would recommend The Gaffer Inn to anybody, not just because of the spacious rooms, but the location.
Activities The Corning Museum of Glass
(1 Museum Way)
The Corning Museum of
Glass is, first and foremost, asking everyone to sign up ahead of time for a time slot of their choosing to make sure they’re staying within guidelines. I came prepared to see art consisting of glass and light installations, but I did not expect the giant gift shop. It was filled with so many items: Glasses, figurines, decorations, ornaments, and more, so come prepared to spend and support them. I went around the holidays, so they had a glass Christmas tree on display in the entrance that was gorgeous. While meandering around, you’ll have an opportunity to not just appreciate
the art, but you can even see the glass being made (if you’re lucky, you get to make glass yourself ).
The Gaffer District
When traveling, I love to support small businesses, especially considering the times we’re in. They need our help more than ever, and in my opinion, it’s a better shopping experience. Pig out on candy at Treats! (13 E. Market St.), search for a new addition to your wardrobe at Threads + Co. (24 E. Market St.), or browse for antiques at Twin Tiers Antiques Plaza (67 W. Market St.). Make a visit to the historic Centerway
Clock Tower, a memorial to Erastus Corning, the businessman and politician who made his fortune in Albany and who the Southern Tier city is named after, in Centerway Square. (Corning was also the greatgrandfather of longtime Albany mayor, Erastus Corning II.) Market Street is full of fun shops and things to see. Also, keep your eyes peeled for some funky street art.
Where to eat Burgers & Beer of Corning
(58 W. Market St.)
With the restaurant right downstairs from my inn, the smell of grilled burgers and fries tempted me. I figured it was best to try Burger and Beer. Sometimes you just need a really good burger. I went with a classic option with a nice fluffy roll, juicy patty, American cheese, crisp pickles, onion, lettuce and tomato with mayo and ketchup, a side of crispy, piping hot mozzarella sticks instead of fries. A sweet strawberry shake to top it all off.
Aniello's Pizzeria (68 E. Market St.)
Aniello’s has been open for more than 45 years slinging out Italian favorites like calzones, loaded subs, and pizzas. Grab a large Aniello’s specialty pie piled high with pepperoni, sausage, peppers, mushrooms, and onions.
Soul Full Cup Coffeehouse
(81 W. Market St. #2526)
I was grabbing a cup of coffee for the road and stopped into Soul Full Cup Coffeehouse. The coffee was high quality, but the thing that's really worth mentioning was how friendly the staff was; They were so pleasant and kind. Grab a latte to go before your drive back to the Capital Region.