The best arts & culture spots in Finger Lakes

“Gourdlandia turns humble gourds into wearable art, glowing nightlights, and sculptural showpieces. Stroll the gourd garden, learn how to grow and dry your own, then jump into a workshop or simply shop and get inspired this week, a quirky creative reset for locals.”

From the Finger Lakes newsletter, August 6, 2026

“Wings of Eagles Discovery Center turns local curiosity into hands-on STEM with real aircraft, planet-sized data on Science On a Sphere, and a Mars Base Eagle experience that feels delightfully real. Grab a friend for the mission-style escape rooms and see who saves the colony first this week.”

“Explore the former home of Underground Railroad station master John W. Jones, where the John W. Jones Museum spotlights how he helped roughly 800 people reach freedom and ensured dignified burials for nearly 3,000 Confederate soldiers.”

From the Chemung County newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Whether your kid loves to leap or your teen needs a healthy outlet, New Heights Dance Theater channels that energy into polished stage time at the Clemens Center, building community productions like The Nutcracker In Motion for the Twin Tiers.”

From the Chemung County newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Vintage military aircraft museum featuring World War I and II planes plus memorabilia, exhibits and a hangar.”

“Aviation museum devoted to motorless aircraft, featuring exhibits, a runway & educational programs.”

“Children's museum exploring science & nature, with interactive exhibits, education programs & camps.”

“Hands-on, kid-friendly exhibits & a vast collection of fossils, including a mastodon skeleton.”

“Local and classic paintings and sculptures are housed in this 3-level space.”

“M. Pei-designed tower.”