Cooperstown is a diverse melting pot of many cultural events, attractions, and historical treasures, making it one of the best places to discover the arts. Whether you’re looking to see a show or a world-class art exhibition, here’s how you can experience the arts in Cooperstown!
Fenimore Art Museum
The Fenimore Art Museum rests on the shores of Otsego Lake in an elegant 1930’s neo-Georgian mansion. It showcases the heritage and history of America through its permanent and rotating art exhibits. The beautiful museum houses some of the most impressive collections of American landscapes, genre paintings, American folk art, photography, and American Indian art. Take in the views of Otsego Lake from their dining outdoor terrace!
The Smithy Gallery
Sitting inside the oldest building in Cooperstown, the Smithy Gallery houses three floors of exhibition space showcasing a variety of works by local and regional artists and craftsmen. The Smithy Clay Studio, located behind the original building, is a year-round workspace where they hold pottery classes and workshops for all skill levels.
Hyde Hall
While not an art museum or gallery, Hyde Hall is one of the most beautiful representations of neoclassic country mansions in America. Step inside the national historic landmark and explore the house with its nearly 50 rooms and stunning architectural details. Bring your picnic lunch to enjoy on the lawn as you take in the unspoiled view of Otsego Lake. The gorgeous scenery inspired George Clarke to choose this site Hyde Hall two hundred years ago! Open mid-May through October.
The Cooperstown Art Association
The Cooperstown Art Association was formed in 1928 by a group of six professional artists to serve and maintain interest in the arts within the community of Cooperstown. In addition to an extensive exhibit schedule, the Cooperstown Art Association offers interactive art classes and workshops along with an ongoing figure drawing class. They also host an array of special events including Spring Cleaning-Art Bazaar, Fine Arts on the Lawn, The Pumpkin Glow, and The Adorn-A-Door Wreath Festival.
Glimmerglass Festival
Representing more of the performing arts, the Glimmerglass Festival is one of the best ways to experience the artistic culture in Cooperstown. Featuring four new fully staged productions, including three operas and one work of American musical theater, all are performed with a full orchestra and a large cast. In addition, other special performances such as concerts, lectures, and symposiums are held throughout the season as well.
The Art Garage
The Art Garage is a pop-up gallery space that offers free art displays to area visitors and residents for the past five years. Located inside a three-bay garage, each gallery is the size of a one-bay stall, filled with rotating shows of contemporary art during the summer months. It’s a great way to discover the latest local artists in Cooperstown!
Stay at Inn at Cooperstown
Cap off your dive into the arts with a stay at The Inn at Cooperstown. Our historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of town, only 1 ½ blocks from the Baseball Hall of Fame and minutes away from downtown, Hyde Hall, Fenimore Art Museum, and Otsego Lake, making it easy to experience the arts in Cooperstown.
Outside, our front porch is the idyllic place to enjoy a glass of wine or beer while you relax on one of our rocking chairs. Inside, retreat to your well-appointed room for the night and enjoy the luxurious amenities and comfortable surroundings that await you.
We look forward to having you here at The Inn at Cooperstown!