ABOUT US
Corning’s Gaffer District is a federally-recognized Business Improvement District (BID) with numerous placements on the National Register of Historic Places. The district is made up of a primarily-commercial downtown business district. With more than 250 businesses ranging from small boutiques to Fortune 500 companies, the Gaffer District offers a diverse representation of various types of commerce. Named after the industry term for a master glassblower, Corning's Gaffer District is rich in history. The architecture and preservation is a strong representation of the community’s passion for tradition. From the walking bridge across the Chemung river to the buildings on Market Street, attention to detail and history has been carefully considered in every new development. Corning's Gaffer District, from its name to its events, prides itself on honoring the most noteworthy part of Corning, NY – Corning glass.
One of the most prominent features of Corning's Gaffer District is the extensive variety of shopping opportunities across a broad selection of specialty retailers, designers and artists throughout the district. Gift-giving is made easy with our many one-of-a-kind shops featuring one-of-a-kind items. In addition to shopping, the Gaffer District offers a variety of restaurants, from local brewing to first-class fine dining.
Corning's Gaffer District has an extensive events calendar that rivals that of metropolitan areas. With multi-day events themed around everything from shopping and art to harvest and wine tasting, there’s always something for everyone. Our biggest event is Crystal City Christmas, which encompasses several smaller events throughout the holiday season. Dating back to 1975, the annual Sparkle has been a family tradition for decades.
Corning's Gaffer District also offers several different experience trails that allow visitors to focus on specific areas of interest. Our most popular trail is the Chocolate Trail, which leads visitors on an unforgettable visit to our most unique and decadent chocolates in the area. We also have a trail for Antiques & Collectibles, Kids Adventure and the new Edible Excursions trail, which features signature menu items from the unique restaurants in Corning's Gaffer District.
Corning’s Gaffer District’s Walk Score 91 out of 100
What is Walk Score? Walk Score helps people find walkable places to live. Walk Score calculates the walkability of an address by locating nearby stores, restaurants, schools, parks, etc.
What does this score mean? An area’s Walk Score number can be between 0 and 100. The walkability of an address depends on how far you are comfortable walking - after all, everything is within walking distance if you have the time. Here are general guidelines for interpreting your score: 90 - 100 = Walkers' Paradise: Most errands can be accomplished on foot and many people get by without owning a car.
