Lots to see and learn about glass .... a few neat shops and the museum was nice. Small sandwich and ice cream shop.
We thought this would be something set up on the main street, then saw it's a purpose built center quite off the center of town. It includes several types of shops, a museum, and the studios where you can see glass blowing going on. So much fun! The glass blowing was fascinating. I've seen glassmaking before but it is always amazing to watch, one puff of air and it changes so much. At another oven a group was working on a large bowl or vase, it was about 12 inches in diameter and it was something to see a team of about 6 people working on it. Lots of nice items, smaller size vases and Christmas ornaments, for sale in the studio. Great things for sale in the shops. I got a beautiful iridescent vase for a friend as a retirement gift, at a great price. The museum is also quite interesting. Lots of samples of glass from over the years. We were surprised that this center, which has so much to offer, had so few visitors. We happened to be there on a day when all entrance fees were waived. So glad we visited!
There just isn't anywhere else that i know that you can see glass being made the way it was over 100 years ago. The museum probably isn't too interesting for the children but the colored glass on display is beautiful. Those that can appreciate the quality and craftsmanship that goes into making glass art will enjoy the beautiful displays. The shops are fun and the village is a great way to spend an afternoon.
I have lived in New Jersey most of my life and still enjoy Wheaton Village. It was a cold and windy day and we wanted to get out of the house. We decided to go to Wheaton Village. They have a great glass museum and at various times of the day you can watch the glass makers due their craft. They also have several shops which you can browse through afterwards. They also have special events during the year. It is well worth the trip.
An interesting view into old-time glassblowing and pressing operations. You may also be fortunate enough to be permitted to help one of thede craftsmen in creating a hand-made glass masterpiece! There is a nominal fee for this and many areas to shop in the village. There is food available for purchase. Bathroom facilities available, no need for stair climbing. A visit of 1 to 2 hours would be sufficient. Recommend visiting when it is sunny and comfortable weatherwise.
We recently visited Wheaton Village, which is now officially called Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center. This attraction showcases the glass making industry of New Jersey and other handcrafted arts of the area.The center has a re-created 'main street' with older style buildings amongst a pine forest. The other main attractions are a bit off of the main walking area but are easy to find.The main attraction is the glass museum and the glass making facility. Here you can see glass art pieces being made, such as paperweights, bottles, and decorative pieces.The museum houses both functional glass items, and decorative items. Some are quite rare and probably valuable. Another interesting attraction is the pottery center, where beautiful pieces are hand made in the salt glaze style.There is also a gift shop, art store, and a few small shops. The wood carving center and a small train ride have been shuttered in recent years. The center does not attract large crowds too often anymore, probably because the glass making industry has declined throughout the region.If you are in the South Jersey area, Wheaton Arts is a worth visiting. It's a unique attraction and one of the few in the Millville/Vineland area.
We expected to stay 45 minutes at Wheaton Glass and spent most of the day. The glass-blowing demonstration was very interesting. I've seen glass-blowing before, but this was much more involved. I wanted to make something, they have a make-your-own program, but all the spots were booked. Reservations are recommended. We also saw a pottery demonstration and talked to two potters who explained the glazing and painting processes too.The museum was cool--lots of glass artifacts from the past and some eye-catching glass art of today. Because I am a shopper, I liked the stores best. A varied collection of very unique, high quality glass and pottery items. I got some unusual Christmas tree ornaments too.
What an under-rated and exceptional museum and overall experience. The Glass Museum has a spectacular collection - and if you didn't know that south Jersey was a hot bed of glass making - with no rivals anywhere in the US - you will after you take in this amazing collection... If you have a chance, sign up for the glass blowing class. And even if you don't, just watching craftspeople at work, up close, is an experience unto itself. We were there on a sunny November afternoon and pretty much had the place to ourselves. The ground are a pleasure to stroll, the shops are just delightful and the staff everywhere are genuinely pleasant. We didn't make it into the pottery studio but look forward to taking that in the next time we go.What was very cool to learn was that not until 1739 that the first successful glass factory was established by Casper Wistar in Alloway, New Jersey. Wistar defied English policy forbidding all manufacturing in the Colonies, and glassmaking had its own role in the building of the American nation.
glass blowing and pottery demonstrations were great. the museum was nice. kids might get a bit bored after the demonstrations.
Wheaton Village is a very interesting and scenic play to take a stroll or go to a special event. The village has several building designed to give an old time feeling, a general store with interesting goodies, a glass blowing building, ducks in ponds, pavillions, etc. The grounds host outdoor events such as craft shows and detailed antique exhibits. It is a must if you are in the Millville area.