Sandwich Glass Museum
Discover the artistry and history of American glassmaking at the Sandwich Glass Museum, featuring live demos and rare 19th-century pieces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Sandwich Glass Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the artistry and history of American glassmaking at the Sandwich Glass Museum, featuring live demos and rare 19th-century pieces.
"Absolutely blown away by the live glass-blowing demonstration, the coolest thing I've ever seen!"
🎯 Arrive for Demos Early
Glassblowing demos are hourly. Get there a few minutes early for the best viewing spots!
♿️ Accessible for All
The museum is on one level, perfect for strollers and wheelchairs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Glassblowing Demonstrations
Witness the mesmerizing art of glassblowing firsthand. Skilled artisans create stunning pieces right before your eyes.
19th Century Glass Exhibits
Explore a vast collection of rare and beautiful 19th-century Sandwich glass, showcasing the region's rich history.
Interactive Displays
Engage with history through interactive exhibits that trigger dialogues about the displayed glass pieces.
Gift Shop Treasures
Discover unique glass jewelry, new and antique glass pieces, and beautiful one-of-a-kind items in the museum shop.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Glassblowing Demos
Parking and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive for Demos Early
Glassblowing demos are hourly. Get there a few minutes early for the best viewing spots!
♿️ Accessible for All
The museum is on one level, perfect for strollers and wheelchairs.
💰 Check for Discounts
Military discounts are available. Inquire about other potential savings.
🛍️ Unique Souvenirs
The gift shop has beautiful, one-of-a-kind glass items. Great for gifts!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive for Demos Early
Glassblowing demos are hourly. Get there a few minutes early for the best viewing spots!
♿️ Accessible for All
The museum is on one level, perfect for strollers and wheelchairs.
💰 Check for Discounts
Military discounts are available. Inquire about other potential savings.
🛍️ Unique Souvenirs
The gift shop has beautiful, one-of-a-kind glass items. Great for gifts!
🎥 Informative Films
Don't miss the orientation film detailing Sandwich Glass production history.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Sandwich Glass Museum for its captivating live glassblowing demonstrations and its impressive collection of historical glass. The staff are frequently noted for their kindness and helpfulness, enhancing the overall experience. While some reviews mention a slight discrepancy in ticket pricing, the museum is widely considered a worthwhile and educational visit for all ages.
"Another must-see destination in Cape Cod!
The museum’s historical significance reaches far back in time, showcasing how glass was once an essential part of daily life. I was fascinated to learn how it was molded into candle holders, lamp posts, and countless other practical uses. The glassblower’s live demonstration was outstanding, both educational and inspiring, and even sparked my interest in pursuing glass art as a hobby.
My only suggestion would be for management to consider adding more staff in the gift shop during busy holiday weekends, as checkout was a bit slow.
Overall, it was a wonderful and enlightening experience that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Cape Cod."
Cydonie Brown
"As always, a wonderful visit that continues to educate and inspire collectors and visitors who love glass. Rare and beautiful examples of 19th century glass that can still be found at local antique markets today. Great staff and helpful administrators who seek to ensure you see displays of interests including orientation film that showcases Sandwich Glass production and history. Glassblower demonstrations are fun to watch and reveal the complexities of glass production. Museum gift shop offers new and antique glass for sale. Conveniently located to restaurants, shops and hotels on Cape Cod."
Theresa Clarke
"This glass museum is truly worth a visit! From the outside, it may look small, but the interior is surprisingly spacious and filled with fascinating exhibits. The displays are rich and informative, showcasing both historical and artistic aspects of glassmaking. The staff are incredibly kind and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. One of the highlights is the live glassblowing demonstration held at the top of every hour—an exciting and educational experience, especially for children. Highly recommended for families!"
HC Chen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sandwich Glass Museum is located at 129 Main St, Sandwich, MA. It's easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of onsite parking available.
Yes, there is ample onsite parking available at the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The museum is on one level, making it fully accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Sandwich, MA is on Cape Cod. If driving from Boston, it's about an hour's drive. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, the museum is conveniently located near restaurants, shops, and hotels on Cape Cod, making it easy to plan a full day of exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission costs are $14 for adults, $13 for seniors (65+), and $3 for children aged 6-14. Children 5 and under are free. 
The museum is typically open from April 1st to December 30th, 7 days a week, from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the museum. Booking in advance is generally not required, but it's recommended during peak season or for special events.
Yes, military discounts are offered with a valid ID.
Yes, toddlers are welcome! The glassblowing demonstrations are particularly engaging for young children.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
You can see rare 19th-century glass pieces, learn about Sandwich Glass production history through exhibits and films, and watch live glassblowing demonstrations.
Live glassblowing demonstrations are held on the hour, every hour, throughout the day.
Yes, some exhibits are interactive, with sensors that trigger dialogues to provide information about the displayed pieces.
Yes, it's highly recommended for families! The glassblowing demos are captivating for children, and interactive exhibits make it fun for all ages.
Uranium glass, also known as Vaseline glass, is a type of glass that contains uranium, giving it a distinctive green glow under UV light. The museum has exhibits on this unique type of glass.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The gift shop offers a variety of items, including new and antique glass pieces, beautiful glass jewelry, and other unique trinkets.
Yes, the museum is conveniently located near various restaurants and dining options in Sandwich and the surrounding Cape Cod area.
Some experiences may offer the opportunity to make your own glass keepsake, though this might be a special workshop or event. Inquire at the museum for details.
The museum shop sells replicas and new glass items inspired by historical designs, alongside antique pieces.
You can find beautiful glass necklaces and other unique glass jewelry pieces in the museum's gift shop.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the delicate glass exhibits. It's best to check signage or ask staff.
The live glassblowing demonstrations offer dynamic photo opportunities. The intricate details of the historical glass pieces and the colorful displays in the gift shop are also great subjects.
The vibrant colors and delicate forms of the historical glass pieces, especially those from the 19th century, are very photogenic. The 'Innovations In Glass' exhibit also features unique artistic creations.
Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, allowing for more relaxed photography. The lighting inside the museum is generally good, but natural light near windows can be appealing.
Yes, the glassblowing demonstrations are a highlight and a popular subject for photos and videos. Just be mindful of others trying to watch and avoid using flash.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The museum's interactive exhibits also make learning fun and engaging for younger visitors. With its accessible, single-level layout, navigating the museum with strollers is easy. The gift shop offers unique glass jewelry and trinkets that make for memorable souvenirs.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
Collectors will appreciate the opportunity to view and potentially purchase unique items from the museum's gift shop, which features both new and antique glass. The museum's commitment to showcasing the evolution of glass art, from its industrial roots to modern interpretations, makes it a must-visit for anyone passionate about glass.
🏛️ History Buffs
Through its exhibits, films, and artifacts, visitors can learn about the company's innovations, its impact on the local economy, and the lives of the people who worked there. The displays of historical glass pieces offer a tangible connection to the past, showcasing the styles and craftsmanship of the 19th century. Understanding the context of glass production in Sandwich provides a unique perspective on American manufacturing and decorative arts history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and History of Sandwich Glass
Beyond the historical exhibits, the museum also highlights contemporary glass art. Special exhibitions, like 'Innovations In Glass,' feature modern artists pushing the boundaries of the medium. This blend of historical context and current artistic expression provides a comprehensive view of glassmaking. The museum's commitment to education is evident in its orientation film, which details the production processes and historical significance of Sandwich Glass.
Many visitors are particularly fascinated by the uranium glass (also known as Vaseline glass) that was produced in Sandwich. This unique type of glass, containing a small amount of uranium, exhibits a distinctive green hue and glows under UV light. The museum often features displays that educate visitors about this intriguing material and its place in glassmaking history.
Experiencing Live Glassblowing
Watching the glassblowers work is a mesmerizing process. Visitors can observe the techniques used to shape, stretch, and cool the glass, often resulting in stunning creations like mermaid tails or delicate sculptures. The demonstrations are not just visually impressive but also informative, with artisans often explaining the steps and challenges of their work. This hands-on insight into the creation process makes the art form more accessible and appreciated.
+1These demonstrations are a major draw for all ages, especially children, who are often mesmerized by the vibrant colors and the transformation of the material. It's recommended to arrive a few minutes before the hour to secure a good viewing spot, as these sessions can become quite popular. The energy and skill displayed are truly a highlight of any visit.
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