The United Nations declared 2022 the International Year of Glass, and New York State showcases some of the most striking and inventive uses of glass anywhere in the world. From museums and immersive attractions to observation decks and public art, visitors across the state can enjoy memorable glass experiences suitable for all ages.
© Darren McGee-NYSDED
Corning Museum of Glass
Founded in 1951 in the Finger Lakes region, the Corning Museum of Glass is one of the premier glass museums in the world. Its Studio program draws visitors of all ages with hands-on “Make Your Own Glass” sessions and live demonstrations that reveal traditional and contemporary glassmaking techniques. The museum’s expansive collection spans centuries and cultures, and it hosts around half a million visitors annually, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in glass art and history.
Kaleidoshow: World’s Largest Kaleidoscope
In the Catskills, a repurposed 60-foot-tall grain silo has been transformed into the world’s largest kaleidoscope, officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. Visitors step inside to experience constantly shifting patterns created by tapered mirrors and colorful elements, accompanied by an atmospheric soundscape. Guests of Emerson Resort and Spa enjoy complimentary access, while non-guests can attend for a modest admission fee.
SeaGlass Carousel
Located at The Battery at Manhattan’s southern tip, the SeaGlass Carousel is a whimsical, glass-themed ride featuring fish-shaped seats that evoke bioluminescent sea life. Unlike traditional carousels, it operates without a central pole; four turntables beneath the floor drive the motion while color-changing LED lighting enhances the immersive experience. The design blends art, lighting, and engineering to create a memorable attraction for families and visitors to lower Manhattan.
The Edge
The Edge observation deck provides one of New York City’s most dramatic vantage points, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls offering sweeping views from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty. For the bold, a triangular glass floor extends over the city near the eastern edge of the platform, allowing visitors to stand more than 1,000 feet above the streets and enjoy a unique, vertigo-inducing perspective. The combination of engineering and glass makes The Edge a standout modern landmark.
Whether you’re interested in hands-on creation, record-breaking installations, artful public attractions, or breathtaking city views, New York State offers a wide range of glass experiences that highlight the material’s beauty and versatility.