The world-renowned Corning Museum of Glass, located right the heart of the Finger Lakes, prides itself on being home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass, with more than 50,000 pieces spanning 3,500 years of history—all the way back to ancient Egypt. More than 300,000 visitors make the trip to Corning each year to take in the sights and learn about the art, history, culture, technology, science, craft and design of glass, how it’s made, and how it’s used.

The museum is also home to one of the best glassmaking schools in the country; visitors can not only explore the museum’s collections and exhibits, but also watch the masters at work with a glassblowing demonstration and see the items they have created in the past. Those who want an even more hands-on experience can sign up to try it themselves: visitors can book a session with the museum’s glass artists to learn to blow or flamework decorations, pendants and more.

Museum galleries are self-guided and glass mementos and treasures from around the world can be purchased in the Museum Shops, which offers everything from jewelry, holiday ornaments and gifts, handmade glass art, books and videos related to glass.