Start at the clock tower that has stood at the center of Corning, New York, since 1883, and tour a charming town in the center of western New York's wine country. Streets here have taught Main Street America a lesson: The restoration of Corning's Market Street became the model for the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Main Street Program.
The Corning Museum of Glass gives the town its artistic heritage. Visitors watch glass-blowing demonstrations and tour a gallery that documents the 3,500-year history of glassmaking with breathtaking examples of the art. The Rockwell Museum impresses with a collection of American western paintings, artifacts and antique toys.
Market Street anchors the beautifully restored Gaffer District, where seven public art displays divert visitors. Browse through glass and jewelry stores. Pause for after-noon tea and homemade desserts at the London Underground Cafe. Save room for dinner at Sorge's, which has been serving hearty Italian meals for more than 50 years.
The guestrooms at Hillcrest Manor bring a day to a comforting close. Built in 1890, the stately mansion was splendidly restored in 2002.
Visitor information: www.corningny.com
Corning Museum of Glass, One Museum Way, 800/732-6845. www.cmog.org. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Jan. 1, Thanksgiving, Dec. 24, 25. Admission $12, seniors $10.80, under 17 free.
Rockwell Museum, 111 Cedar St., 607/937-5386. www.rockwellmuseum.org. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (July-Labor Day till 9 a.m.-8 p.m.). Admission $6.50, students $5.50, under 17 free.
London Underground Cafe, 69 East Market St., 607/962-2345. www.londonundergroundcafe.com. Lunch (daily) 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., $4-$11; dinner (daily) 5 p.m.-9 p.m. (Fri.-Sat. until 9:30), $12-$26.
Sorge's, 66-68 W. Market St., 607/937-5422. www.sorges.com. Daily 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Lunch $3-$7; dinner $10-$20.
Hillcrest Manor, 277 Cedar St., 607/936-4548. www.corninghillcrestmanor.com. Rates $67.50-$165.