Top 10 History Museums in Finger Lakes Wine Country, Finger Lakes

The Glenn H. Curtiss Museum, bearing the name of Hammondsport's favorite son, is located on Route 54, one half mile south of the village of Hammondsport, New York. Dedicated to the memory of pioneer aviator, Glenn Curtiss, the museum contains a priceless collection relating to early aviation and local history. The museum also features a 75-seat theater, large open area for special events and a gift shop. In addition to motorcycles and aircraft, visitors will also see antique tools, toys, boats, home-furnishings, fire equipment and much more. Visitors are also welcome to visit the Museum Restoration Shop, talk with volunteer craftsman and watch them work on historic aircraft.

Step into history at the Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes. Visit the historic Patterson Inn, a 1796 frontier tavern, 1850s log cabin, 1878 one room schoolhouse, 1870s blacksmith shop, and interactive barn exhibit, all furnished to depict their original use. While in season walk through the herb garden and heirloom vegetable garden. See the website for additional exhibits, demonstration dates, and events.

Established in 1863. The History Center is a generation-to-generation education and research center focused on engaging with the public. The Center helps people use the tools of history to understand the past, gain perspective on the present, and play an informed role in shaping the future. In order to accomplish this mission we preserve and encourage access to The History Center's unique collections; seek out the diverse needs and interests of our community; design learning experiences and provide services that respond to those needs; create opportunities for people to learn about themselves and their place in the world; and provide a neutral environment for public discussions that bring historical perspective to current issues. Your Ticket to Discovery. Uncover Your Local History. Connect to the Past.

Finger Lakes Boating Museum is located in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region. The museum is dedicated to preserving the rich history of boating and boat building in the region. Through exhibits and the FLBA(Finger Lakes Boating Academy), FLBM is providing a rich experience for all ages as the small museum grows.

The Geneva History Museum tells the story of the growth and development of this small Finger Lakes city over 300 years. Located in an historic house, the museum has furnished period rooms, a children's discovery space, and exhibits and archives that explore community history from the time of the native Seneca through the tumult of the 20th century to the present. Also available are printed walking guides to historic parts of the city and significant buildings in town.

Built by John and Margaret Johnston in the 1820s, the Johnston House originally sat on an important farm where John Johnston became a well-known advocate of improved farming techniques. Johnston was the first American farmer to use soil drainage tiles to increase productivity on his farm. Visitors are invited to explore the house on the self-guided tour. In addition to period rooms furnished with original and reproduction objects, three rooms in the house contain exhibits focused on the themes of Immigration, Agriculture, and Technology and Innovation, all aspects of the Johnston family’s experience. Incorporating interactive elements, books, and artifacts, the displays also connect the story of the family to contemporary issues and concerns. Visitors to the Johnston House can also see the Mike Weaver Drain Tile Museum on site. Open Saturdays and Sundays, May to October.

The International Motor Racing Research Center at Watkins Glen is an archival and research library focused on preserving and sharing the history of motorsports.