City Guide for: Elmira, United States

Elmira, United States Guide

Welcome to Elmira, New York, a city steeped in history and brimming with small-town charm! Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Elmira offers a delightful blend of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and a welcoming atmosphere. From its connection to Mark Twain to its stunning natural landscapes, Elmira provides a unique and enriching travel experience. Explore the legacy of Mark Twain at his final resting place and learn about his time spent here, which heavily influenced his writing. Discover the beauty of the Chemung River and surrounding hills, perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the great outdoors. Elmira is a city where history comes alive and natural beauty abounds, making it an ideal destination for a memorable getaway.

Food & Cuisine

Elmira's culinary scene offers a mix of classic American fare and local specialties. You'll find plenty of diners serving up hearty breakfasts and comfort food. For a taste of local flavor, try some regional specialties like spiedies (marinated meat cubes grilled on a skewer), a Finger Lakes favorite. Check out local restaurants like Pudgie's Pizza for a classic Elmira experience, or explore the downtown area for a variety of dining options. While Elmira doesn't have a large central market, you can find fresh produce and local goods at smaller farm stands and specialty shops throughout the area.

Nightlife

Elmira's nightlife is relatively low-key, offering a selection of bars and pubs for a relaxed evening. The downtown area is where you'll find a concentration of these establishments, offering a variety of atmospheres from casual sports bars to cozy pubs. Check out local listings for live music performances, which are often held at various venues throughout the city. While Elmira may not have a bustling club scene, it provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for enjoying a drink and socializing with locals.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Elmira is during the late spring, summer, or early fall. The weather is pleasant during these months, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the Finger Lakes region. Summer offers warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, while early fall brings stunning foliage colors to the surrounding hills. Spring is also a great time to visit, with blooming flowers and milder temperatures.

Transportation

Elmira offers a few public transportation options, primarily focused on bus services. The Chemung County Transit System (C Tran) provides bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. While Elmira doesn't have a subway or tram system, the bus network can help you navigate key areas. Ride sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For exploring the wider Finger Lakes region, renting a car is highly recommended.

Airport

The Elmira Corning Regional Airport (ELM) is located approximately 7 miles northwest of downtown Elmira. Several airlines offer flights to and from ELM, connecting to major hubs. Transportation from the airport to the city center is available via taxi, ride-sharing services, and rental car.

Attractions

Mark Twain's Study

Mark Twain's Study Step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of Mark Twain at his meticulously preserved study. This octagonal structure, originally located at Quarry Farm, is where Twain penned some of his most celebrated works. Explore the intimate space where literary magic happened and gain insight into the author's creative process. A must-see for any Twain enthusiast!

Arnot Art Museum

Arnot Art Museum Immerse yourself in art at the Arnot Art Museum, housed in a stunning Victorian mansion. Admire a diverse collection of European and American paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Explore the museum's rotating exhibitions and discover new artistic talents. The museum's architecture and gardens add to the overall experience, making it a cultural gem in Elmira.

First Arena

First Arena Catch an exciting hockey game or a live performance at First Arena, Elmira's premier entertainment venue. Cheer on the local hockey team or enjoy a concert by a popular artist. The arena hosts a variety of events throughout the year, providing entertainment for all ages. Check the schedule and plan a fun night out!

National Soaring Museum

National Soaring Museum Discover the history of motorless flight at the National Soaring Museum. Explore a collection of gliders and soaring artifacts, tracing the evolution of this unique aviation discipline. Learn about the pioneers of soaring and the science behind it. Interactive exhibits make it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

Eldridge Park

Eldridge Park Escape the city bustle and unwind at Eldridge Park, a sprawling green space offering a variety of recreational activities. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the walking trails, have a picnic by the pond, or let the kids run wild on the playground. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant community hub.

Chemung Valley History Museum

Chemung Valley History Museum Delve into the rich history of the Chemung Valley at this engaging museum. Explore exhibits showcasing the region's past, from its Native American heritage to its industrial boom. Learn about the people, events, and innovations that shaped the valley's identity. A great place to understand the local context and appreciate the area's unique story.

Woodlawn Cemetery

Woodlawn Cemetery Pay your respects at Woodlawn Cemetery, the final resting place of Mark Twain and his family. Wander through the serene grounds and discover the author's gravesite, marked by a simple yet poignant monument. Reflect on Twain's legacy and the impact he had on American literature. The cemetery itself is a beautiful example of Victorian-era landscaping.

Harris Hill Soaring Corporation

Harris Hill Soaring Corporation Experience the thrill of soaring at Harris Hill, known as the 'Soaring Capital of America'. Watch gliders take to the skies or even take a ride yourself for an unforgettable aerial adventure. The views from above are breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the Chemung Valley. A must-do for aviation enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

Tanglewood Nature Center & Museum

Tanglewood Nature Center & Museum Connect with nature at Tanglewood Nature Center & Museum, a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore hiking trails through diverse habitats, observe native animals in their natural surroundings, and learn about the region's ecology. The center offers educational programs and events for all ages, making it a great place to learn and appreciate the natural world.

Park Church

Park Church Admire the architectural beauty of Park Church, a historic landmark in downtown Elmira. Marvel at the church's stunning stained-glass windows and intricate details. Attend a service or simply admire the building's grandeur from the outside. A testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

Day Trips

Corning Museum of Glass

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of glass at the Corning Museum of Glass. Witness live glassblowing demonstrations, explore the history of glassmaking through stunning exhibits, and even try your hand at creating your own glass masterpiece. It's a dazzling experience for all ages.

Travel Time

Approximately 30 minutes driving

Activities
  • Explore the contemporary glass art galleries.
  • Watch a live glassblowing demonstration.
  • Take a glassmaking workshop.
  • Visit the Innovation Center to learn about the science and technology of glass.

Finger Lakes Wine Region

Embark on a wine-tasting adventure through the renowned Finger Lakes Wine Region. Explore the Seneca Lake, Cayuga Lake, and Keuka Lake wine trails, sampling award-winning Rieslings, Gewürztraminers, and other varietals. Enjoy the stunning scenery of the vineyards and lakes.

Travel Time

Varies depending on the specific winery, but generally within 1-2 hours driving

Activities
  • Visit multiple wineries and sample their wines.
  • Take a guided wine tour.
  • Enjoy a gourmet lunch at a winery restaurant.
  • Purchase bottles of your favorite wines to take home.

Watkins Glen State Park

Hike through the breathtaking Watkins Glen State Park, a natural wonder carved by Glen Creek. Marvel at the 19 waterfalls cascading down the gorge, walk across stone bridges, and explore the unique rock formations. It's a truly unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Travel Time

Approximately 45 minutes driving

Activities
  • Hike the Gorge Trail, passing by numerous waterfalls.
  • Explore the Indian Trail and South Rim Trail for different perspectives.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park.
  • Take photos of the stunning scenery.

Williamsport

Visit the home of the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Tour the World of Little League Museum, explore the historic downtown area, and enjoy the scenic Susquehanna River.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes driving

Activities
  • Tour the World of Little League Museum.
  • Explore the historic downtown area.
  • Walk or bike along the Susquehanna River Walk.
  • Attend a Little League game (seasonal).

Syracuse

Head north to Syracuse, a city with a rich history and diverse attractions. Explore the historic Armory Square, visit the Everson Museum of Art, and catch a show at the Landmark Theatre. For families, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is a must-see.

Travel Time

Approximately 2 hours driving

Activities
  • Explore Armory Square's shops and restaurants.
  • Visit the Everson Museum of Art.
  • See a performance at the Landmark Theatre.
  • Visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.

Ithaca and Cornell University

Visit the vibrant college town of Ithaca, home to Cornell University and Ithaca College. Explore the beautiful Cornell campus, visit the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, and hike to stunning waterfalls like Ithaca Falls and Buttermilk Falls. Enjoy the eclectic shops and restaurants in downtown Ithaca.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes driving

Activities
  • Tour the Cornell University campus.
  • Visit the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art.
  • Hike to Ithaca Falls and Buttermilk Falls.
  • Explore the shops and restaurants on the Ithaca Commons.

Hammondsport and Keuka Lake

Discover the charming village of Hammondsport, nestled on the shores of Keuka Lake. Visit the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum to learn about the pioneer of aviation, enjoy wine tasting at local wineries, and take a scenic boat tour on the lake.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour driving

Activities
  • Visit the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum.
  • Go wine tasting at wineries along the Keuka Lake Wine Trail.
  • Take a boat tour on Keuka Lake.
  • Explore the shops and restaurants in Hammondsport.