The National Soaring Museum is located in Harris Hill Park near Elmira NY (100 miles south of Rochester). Located on a hill 'overlooking' the Corning-Elmira Regional Airport, it has a soaring museum and an active air field. There are also several other 'soaring' launches in the area, and at least 3 Hang-Glider launches can be seen from the air above the field. If you want to go hang gliding, or soaring, that is the place to go.
If you show up on a Saturday morning in spring or fall, there is often (almost always) someone willing to take you for a glider ride if you can afford it. Eileen Collins (female shuttle pilot) got her start at the soaring museum, along with many other New York born pilots. High-school students in the area can swap work hours for lessons at the airfield. Harris Hill also has some vintage 60's rides and games, batting cages, a pool, and some other attractions.
The Wings Of Eagles Discovery Center (AKA National Warplane Museum) is on the north side of I-86 next to the airport. Admission Rates: Adult: $6.50 Senior (60+): $5.50 Youth (5-17): $4.00 4 and under: Free Family (2 adults, 2 youth): $18.00 Members: Free (must present card) AAA discount available. See also: Flying Aviation on MarkTwainCountry.com Sailplane Aerial Photography - Harris Hill 1website verified