The Carnarvon Space and Technology Centre celebrates Australia's extraordinary contribution to the Space Age through the iconic OTC Dish and its remarkable role in global satellite communications history.
USA: New York – Wings of Eagles
✈️ Wings of Eagles Discovery Center – Because Even a Nervous Flyer Can Love a Good Warplane
It was, as the Americans would say, a “bummer” of a day. Grey skies, a fine persistent drizzle of the sort that soaks you before you’ve realised it has started, and the particular brand of gloom that makes a wet summer’s day feel like a personal insult. We still had a bit of time to kill before leaving the Finger Lakes region and pressing on with our New England road trip, and staring at the rain through a motel window wasn’t going to cut it.
That’s when I remembered the sign for the Wings of Eagles Discovery Center in Horseheads, New York. I’d spotted it earlier and filed it away under “possibly interesting.” Now, with nothing better on offer, it jumped straight to the top of the list.
🛩️ A Man Who Loves Planes But Is Scared of Flying — Yes, Really
Here’s something that has amused my family for years: I’ve had a genuine passion for aircraft — particularly military aircraft — ever since I was a boy, yet I have a perfectly respectable fear of flying. Not the full white-knuckle, refuse-to-board variety, more a low-grade, irrational dread that sits quietly in my chest from check-in to landing. Completely logical, obviously. I can admire a Spitfire with the reverence of a pilgrim at a shrine, but put me in a 737 and I’m suddenly very interested in the safety card.
Anyway. I’ve made it a personal policy to visit any aerospace museum that crosses my path, and when I’d spotted a short video about things to do in the Finger Lakes at a rest stop earlier in the trip, the Wings of Eagles clip had caught my eye immediately. I knew we were going.
🏗️ Small But Perfectly Formed
The Wings of Eagles Discovery Center sits in Horseheads — a town near Corning in Chemung County, New York — and it’s a compact sort of place. If you’re purely there to tick off aircraft, an hour or so will do you. But there’s more to it than that, which I’ll get to.
We started outside, where a dozen or so aircraft were arranged on the tarmac. The star of the show, for my money, was an F-14 Tomcat — the swing-wing beauty made famous by Top Gun back in 1986, and still one of the most visually dramatic aircraft ever built. It entered service with the US Navy in 1974 and was retired in 2006, and seeing one up close never gets old. There was also an F-15 Eagle, the US Air Force workhorse that has been in service since 1976 and, remarkably, has never been shot down in air-to-air combat. Not bad for something designed during the Cold War. We snapped a few photos in the drizzle — me looking faintly ridiculous in a waterproof that had seen better days — and headed inside.
🚁 Inside: Where the Real Fun Begins
The interior of the discovery centre is split into two main areas: the aerospace exhibits and the Mars Base Eagle. The aerospace section houses a genuinely impressive collection for a museum of this size. The Bell UH-1 Iroquois — universally known as the Huey — sat front and centre, its distinctive two-blade rotor instantly recognisable to anyone who’s ever watched a Vietnam War film. The Huey became the defining aircraft of that conflict, with over 7,000 built and more than 3,000 lost during the war. It’s a sobering thing to stand next to.
Alongside it was an F-4 Phantom II, the heavyweight fighter-bomber that served virtually every branch of the US military from the late 1950s through to the 1990s, and a Vought F4U Corsair, the bent-wing beauty that flew for the US Navy and Marines during the Second World War and became one of the finest carrier-based fighters of the entire conflict. Beyond the aircraft, there were engines, artefacts and static displays — the sort of thing I can happily browse for far longer than anyone I’m travelling with finds reasonable.
And then there are the flight simulators. I had a go. I was, predictably, terrible. But they are genuinely good fun, and a fair bit more exciting than the drizzle outside.
🪐 Mars Base Eagle — NASA Funded, Genuinely Impressive
Taking up roughly a third of the hangar is the Mars Base Eagle, which is considerably more impressive than it sounds. Built with funding from NASA, it’s a full mock-up of a Martian base station, with several distinct rooms: a briefing room, a hydroponic garden where plants are grown without soil — as they would need to be on Mars — and a medical room kitted out as you might imagine a deep-space facility would be. It’s the kind of thing that makes you think someone, somewhere, is actually taking the idea of going to Mars very seriously. Which, of course, they are.
🎓 Not Just for Plane Spotters
The Wings of Eagles Discovery Center isn’t just a museum — it also operates as an education facility, running programmes for children from primary school right through to secondary level. They run summer camps and work with local schools, and the Mars Base Eagle sits at the heart of it all, giving children a genuinely hands-on science and space exploration experience. It’s a smart use of the space, and you can see why it works.
✅ Worth a Stop?
If you find yourself in the Corning or Horseheads area and you have any interest at all in aerospace, military history, or space science, then yes — absolutely worth a visit. Allow at least an hour, possibly more if you’re the sort of person who reads every information panel. Which I am. Much to everyone else’s patience.
Planning your visit to the Wings of Eagles Discovery Center
✈️ Wings of Eagles Discovery Center
| 📍 Location | 339 Daniel Zenker Drive, Horseheads, NY 14845, USA | 🕖 Opening Times | Friday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
| 🌐 Website | wingsofeagles.com | 📞 Phone | 607-358-4247 |
| 🚗 By Road | Take Exit 50 from Interstate-86/Route 17. Turn north on Kahler Road, left at the first traffic light onto Daniel Zenker Drive, then 3rd right into the building’s driveway | 🅿️ Parking | Free on-site parking available |
ℹ️ Closed Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter and New Year’s Day. Group rates available — call ahead to arrange.
🎟️ Entry Fees
| Adults | Seniors (62+) | Children (6–17) | Under 5s | Family (2 adults + 3 children) | Military & First Responders |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9.00 | $8.00 | $5.00 | Free | $25.00 | $6.00 |
ℹ️ Members of Wings of Eagles and ASTC Passport holders enter free. Discounts also available for AAA, EAA, and Women in Aviation members. Pre-arranged group rates available for parties of 10 or more.
Opening times and admission prices may be subject to change; visitors are advised to confirm current details directly with the centre before visiting.
Best time to visit New York State
New York State is a destination of remarkable diversity — from the glittering streets of Manhattan to the wild peaks of the Adirondacks, from the glacial Finger Lakes to the thundering curtain of Niagara Falls. Knowing when to go, and where, makes all the difference between a memorable trip and a frustrating one. This guide breaks down the best times to visit each major region by season, with advice on what to pack.
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Spring arrives unevenly across the state. New York City sheds its winter grey by April, when cherry blossoms bloom in Central Park and the Botanical Gardens and the streets regain their lively energy. It is one of the finest times to visit the city: hotel rates are lower than summer, queues are manageable, and the mild temperatures make walking a pleasure. The Hudson Valley bursts into colour as orchards blossom and the great estates reopen their gardens. The Catskills are waking up but can still be muddy and cold, with some hiking trails remaining snow-covered into April.
Further north, spring comes late and hesitantly. The Adirondacks remain wintry well into May, with black fly season beginning in earnest from mid-May onward — a real deterrent for hikers. The Finger Lakes are chilly but already pouring, with many wineries open and far fewer tourists than summer. Niagara Falls is spectacular in spring, with snowmelt sending vast volumes of water crashing over the precipice, and crowds are thin. Long Island remains quiet, with the Hamptons firmly in off-season mode until Memorial Day weekend. The Capital Region and Saratoga are pleasant in spring, particularly as the racing season begins to generate anticipation.
What to pack for spring: Layering is essential — mornings and evenings can be cold even when afternoons are warm. Bring a waterproof jacket, a mid-layer fleece or light down jacket, comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots, and an umbrella. Insect repellent is strongly advisable for the Adirondacks and Catskills from May onwards.
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Summer is peak season across most of the state, and for good reason. Long Island and the Hamptons come fully alive, with the Atlantic beaches among the finest in the north-east. The Hamptons in July and August are glamorous but expensive and congested; the North Fork is a quieter alternative, combining beaches with outstanding wine country. The Finger Lakes reach their zenith in summer — warm enough to kayak and swim, with vineyard terraces in full production and farmers’ markets overflowing. Watkins Glen State Park is at its most dramatic, and Seneca and Cayuga Lakes are ideal for sailing.
The Adirondacks in July and August offer world-class hiking, paddling, and wild swimming. The High Peaks are accessible to experienced walkers, and smaller summits reward those with less experience. Lake Placid, host to two Winter Olympics, reinvents itself as a hiking and cycling destination in summer. Niagara Falls and western New York are at their most popular, with long queues and high hotel rates — book well in advance. The North Country along the St Lawrence Seaway comes into its own, with the Thousand Islands offering scenic boat trips and peaceful cycling.
New York City in summer can be oppressively humid and hot, particularly in July and August. The city does not shut down — Broadway runs, the museums are superb, and free outdoor events abound — but it is not the most comfortable season for walking all day. Rooftop bars and air-conditioned galleries become essential refuges. The Capital Region and Saratoga are lively with racing at the famous Saratoga Race Course in August, one of the oldest thoroughbred racing venues in America.
What to pack for summer: Lightweight, breathable clothing is the priority. Include a light rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and sunglasses, and a swimsuit. For hiking regions, add moisture-wicking layers, sturdy boots, and plenty of insect repellent. New York City summers require comfortable shoes above all else; smart casual attire is fine for most restaurants and venues.
🍂 Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is arguably the finest season in New York State, and it is the best overall time to visit for the majority of travellers. The foliage season is one of the most celebrated natural spectacles in the world. The Adirondacks and Catskills turn from late September, with peak colour typically in the first two weeks of October. The Hudson Valley follows, its river-flanked hills ablaze in red, orange, and gold. Apple-picking and pumpkin farms open throughout the region, and the harvest season brings farmers’ markets to their peak.
New York City in autumn — particularly September and October — is at its most seductive. The heat and humidity have gone, the summer tourists have thinned, and the cultural season begins in earnest. The Metropolitan Opera reopens, Broadway launches its new productions, and the city settles into a purposeful, energetic rhythm. Fares and hotel rates are still competitive in September, rising as October progresses. The Finger Lakes harvest season in September and October draws oenophiles from across the country, with winemaker events and harvest festivals at many estates. Long Island’s North Fork wine country is at its best in autumn, and the beaches are quieter but still pleasant in September.
November is a mixed month: the foliage is largely over, many rural businesses begin to close or reduce hours, and temperatures drop sharply. Thanksgiving week in New York City is a spectacle in itself, with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade drawing vast crowds, though hotel prices spike considerably.
What to pack for autumn: Layers are essential and should be versatile. A medium-weight waterproof jacket, warm jumper or fleece, scarf, and light gloves for November are all recommended. Comfortable walking shoes or ankle boots suit the city well; sturdy hiking boots are needed for trail walks. Bring a camera — the foliage demands it.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Winter divides travellers into two camps: those who love it and those who avoid it. New York City at Christmas is genuinely magical — ice rinks at Rockefeller Center and Bryant Park, the department store window displays, the holiday markets at Bryant Park and Columbus Circle, and the extraordinary energy of New Year’s Eve. January and February are quieter, colder, and far better value, with hotel rates dropping and museums and restaurants less crowded.
The Adirondacks become a winter wonderland beloved by skiers, snowshoers, and ice climbers. Whiteface Mountain near Lake Placid is the premier ski resort in the north-east, with reliable snowfall and long vertical drops. The Catskills offer several ski areas — Windham, Hunter, and Belleayre among them — within easy reach of New York City. The Finger Lakes are cold and largely quiet, though ice wine production and cosy winery visits make for a romantic winter break. Niagara Falls is spectacular but brutally cold; the mist freezes on railings and trees, creating an ice-draped landscape of eerie beauty, and crowds are almost non-existent.
Long Island and the Hamptons are very quiet and many businesses close entirely. The North Country and Capital Region endure heavy snow and are best visited only by those specifically seeking winter sports. Saratoga Springs, however, is a charming small city in winter, with its Victorian architecture and spa tradition making it an appealing year-round destination.
What to pack for winter: Pack warmly and in serious layers. A heavy, windproof and waterproof coat is non-negotiable. Add thermal base layers, a warm hat, gloves or mittens, a scarf, and waterproof boots with good grip for icy pavements. In New York City, smart-looking winter boots work well for both street and restaurant. For ski regions, full ski or snowboard gear is needed; kit can be hired locally if not bringing your own.
🗺️ Regional Summary
New York City is best in September–October and April–May. Avoid July and August if heat bothers you.
Hudson Valley & Catskills peaks in September–October for foliage and in April–May for blossom. Summer is pleasant but busier.
The Adirondacks are best in July–August for hiking and September for foliage, or December–March for skiing. Avoid black fly season in May.
The Finger Lakes shine in summer for swimming and sailing and in September–October for the harvest and wine season.
Niagara Falls & Western New York are most impressive in spring and summer; winter is dramatic but very cold. Book ahead for July and August.
Long Island & The Hamptons are exclusively a late May to September destination, with September being the sweet spot between crowds and warmth.
North Country & St Lawrence is best in July and August for outdoor pursuits, or winter for snowmobiling and skiing.
Capital Region & Saratoga peaks in August with the racing season; autumn and spring are pleasant alternatives.
🌟 The Overall Best Time to Visit New York State
If there is one season to choose above all others for a first or broad visit to New York State, it is early autumn — specifically the last week of September and the first two weeks of October. During this window, New York City is at its most liveable, the Hudson Valley and Catskills are ablaze with foliage colour, the Finger Lakes wine harvest is in full swing, and the Adirondacks offer golden trails and cooler, clearer air without the biting cold of November. Temperatures are comfortable across the state, the summer crowds have retreated, and the landscape is simply breathtaking. For those who want to experience the full breadth of what New York State offers — world-class city culture, spectacular natural beauty, outstanding food and wine — there is no finer moment to arrive.
Other places to visit near Corning
1. Rockwell Museum
The Rockwell Museum is a free-admission Smithsonian Affiliate located in the centre of Corning, New York, in the same neighbourhood as the famous Corning Museum of Glass. It focuses on American art, with a particular emphasis on works from the American West — paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects collected largely by Robert F. Rockwell Jr. during the latter half of the twentieth century. The building itself is a converted 1893 City Hall, which gives it a solid, unpretentious character that suits its contents well. Alongside its permanent galleries, the museum puts on changing exhibitions and runs a range of educational programmes for children and adults alike. It is a manageable size for a half-day visit, and staff are generally considered approachable and knowledgeable. For anyone passing through the Southern Tier of New York State, it offers a straightforward and worthwhile look at a significant slice of American artistic heritage.
2. Corning Museum of Glass
The Corning Museum of Glass is located in Corning, a small city in upstate New York. It opened in 1951 and was set up by Corning Incorporated, the company known for its work in glass technology. The museum holds one of the largest collections of glass objects in the world, with more than 50,000 items spanning around 3,500 years of history — from ancient Egyptian vessels to modern studio art pieces. Visitors can watch glassblowing demonstrations in person, and there are opportunities to have a go at making glass themselves. There is also a large reference library focused on the history and science of glass. The museum attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and is generally regarded as the most comprehensive institution of its kind anywhere in the world..
3. Taughannock Falls State Park
Taughannock Falls State Park sits in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, along the western shore of Cayuga Lake. Its centrepiece is Taughannock Falls, a single-drop waterfall that plunges around 215 feet into a wide gorge below — taller than Niagara Falls by some distance. The gorge was carved out by glacial meltwater thousands of years ago, and the layered shale and sandstone walls that now surround the falls give a clear picture of just how long this landscape has been forming. The park is open year-round and offers a straightforward rim trail and a gorge trail that leads to a viewing area at the base of the falls. Outside of the waterfall itself, there is a campsite, a boat launch on the lake, and a small beach. It tends to draw a mix of local families, walkers, and visitors making their way around the Finger Lakes. The falls are at their most impressive in spring, when snowmelt pushes the flow up considerably, though they are worth a visit in any season.
Where to stay near Corning
1. Black Sheep Inn & Spa
Tucked into the rolling hills of New York’s Finger Lakes region, the Black Sheep Inn & Spa sits at the southern tip of Keuka Lake in the charming village of Hammondsport — and it’s unlike any B&B you’ve likely stayed in before. The inn is housed in a striking 1859 octagon-style building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, giving it an architectural character that’s impossible to forget. Six thoughtfully designed guest rooms each feature their own unique style, with king, queen, or full bed options, en-suite bathrooms, lush robes, and organic toiletries — plus complimentary chocolates and champagne on arrival. Breakfast is entirely plant-based, with homemade granolas, freshly baked breads, and made-to-order hot dishes that even non-vegans rave about. Set within three acres of south-facing gardens, it’s an ideal base for exploring local wineries, breweries, and distilleries. A genuine gem worth every mile of the drive.
2. Taylor Farm B & B
3. Gaffer Inn
If you’re looking for a cozy, characterful place to stay in the Southern Tier of New York, the Gaffer Inn on historic Market Street in downtown Corning is hard to beat. This boutique property, which opened in 2010, weaves Corning’s celebrated glassmaking heritage into its charming décor. The inn’s four individually decorated guestrooms feature fireplaces, Smart TVs, and kitchenettes, giving guests a home-away-from-home feel right in the heart of the Gaffer District. Guests are also within easy walking distance of the Corning Museum of Glass and the Rockwell Museum of Western Art — making it an ideal base for a cultural getaway. Highly rated for its location, comfort, and room size, the Gaffer Inn punches well above its weight for a small-town inn, offering a warm, unhurried retreat that perfectly complements everything Corning has to offer
More to Explore
