Tucked into the southwesternmost corner of New York State, Chautauqua County is one of those destinations with a surprising variety of things to see and do.
With two distinctive lakes, unique landscapes ranging from ancient rock formations to gorge trails that feel like local secrets, and world-class attractions like the National Comedy Center and Chautauqua Institution, there’s truly something for everyone in Chautauqua County.
From boating on Chautauqua Lake and sipping local wines along Lake Erie to exploring towering rock formations and slowing down in charming lakeside towns, there are so many incredible things to do in Chautauqua County.
Best Things to Do in Chautauqua County
So, what exactly is there to do in Chautauqua County? While many visitors come here to soak up lake life and enjoy the slower pace of summer, there’s much more to discover.
Spending time on Chautauqua Lake is a must on any Chautauqua County itinerary, but you’ll also find world-class museums, wineries, beaches, charming towns, outdoor adventures, and some truly unique attractions throughout the county.
Explore Panama Rocks Scenic Park
Panama Rocks is one of the most enchanting spots in New York and one of the top things to do in Chautauqua County.
This beautiful moss-covered forest showcases towering rock formations, narrow passageways, and deep crevices to explore. The formations are estimated to be hundreds of millions of years old, and walking among them feels completely different from a typical hike.
Follow the 1-mile loop trail around the formations, stopping at each point of interest along the way. Guests are encouraged to venture off the trail and explore the unique landscape up close, making the experience even more worthwhile!
Spend Time on Chautauqua Lake
Chautauqua Lake is at the heart of the county and one of the biggest reasons this area feels like such a quintessential summer destination.
Boating culture is huge here, and getting out on the water is one of the best ways to experience the lake. Rent a boat, kayak, paddleboard, or simply find a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy the view.
The Chautauqua Harbor Hotel is one of the best places to base yourself along the lake. Here, you can enjoy walks along the lakefront promenade to the Celoron Lighthouse and wake up to beautiful views of Chautauqua Lake.
Take a ride on the Chautauqua Belle, one of the last five remaining steamboats in the United States. This is such a unique and relaxing way to experience the lake.
Explore Bemus Point
For a proper introduction to Chautauqua Lake, head to Bemus Point.
This little lakeside village has everything you want from a summer lake town: waterfront restaurants, shops, boating, and beautiful views across the water.
Spend some time browsing the shops before heading out on the water with Bemus Bay Water Toys, which offers boat rentals and a popular tiki boat tour.
Bemus Point is also a fantastic spot for dinner, with plenty of waterfront options. The Village Casino is a local favorite, while I really enjoy Ellicottville Brewing on Chautauqua for the beautiful lake views and delicious food.
Visit Chautauqua Institution
The Chautauqua Institution is a historic lakeside community that welcomes visitors for a nine-week summer season featuring lectures, performances, classes, and cultural programming.
This is a place for independent thinkers, lifelong learners, and those who appreciate immersing themselves in arts, education, and culture.
Even if you have no interest in attending lectures or programming, visiting Chautauqua Institution should still be on your list of things to do in the county.
The energy here is palpable, and it is truly one of the prettiest communities in New York. With stunning Victorian architecture and relatively car-free streets, it feels like you’ve stepped back into summers of old.
Don’t miss a stop at the beautiful Athenaeum Hotel! Have lunch at the hotel’s Heirloom Restaurant on its sprawling porch overlooking Chautauqua Lake. This was genuinely one of the best meals I’ve had in years.
Visit the National Comedy Center
Chautauqua County has an entire museum dedicated to comedy. The National Comedy Center is located in Jamestown, New York, and is hands-down one of Western New York’s best attractions.
The museum celebrates the history and art of comedy, with exhibits covering everything from stand-up and sitcoms to cartoons and comedic legends. It is so fun and interactive, you will barely notice you’re in a museum.
What makes the experience especially unique is how personalized it is to your comedy preferences. Before entering the museum, you get a wristband and create a comedy profile, which allows you to experience certain exhibits featuring things that you, personally, actually find funny.
Some of my favorite highlights include watching stand-up shows, competing in a laugh battle, and seeing iconic film and television costumes and props.
Discover Lucille Ball’s Jamestown
Jamestown is the hometown of comedy icon Lucille Ball, and her legacy is woven throughout the city.
Visit the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum to learn more about Lucy and Desi’s lives and careers, see costumes and memorabilia, and step onto recreated sets from I Love Lucy. I loved seeing her intricate costumes up close and learning more about what a trailblazer Lucille Ball was in the entertainment industry.
While you’re exploring Jamestown, keep an eye out for the colorful Lucy murals scattered throughout downtown.
Don’t miss Lucille Ball Memorial Park in Celoron, where you’ll find two statues of Lucille Ball: the current statue, which beautifully honors the comedy icon, and the infamous original statue, which locals dubbed “Scary Lucy.”
Explore More of Jamestown
While the National Comedy Center and Lucille Ball attractions are the biggest draws, there is more to discover in Jamestown.
Downtown offers a small yet vibrant food scene with trendy spots like Brazil Craft Beer and Wine Lounge and Labyrinth Press Company. If you’re looking for traditional local cuisine, head to The Pub for a cozy setting and hearty food.
There are also some unique, lesser-known attractions around Jamestown. The Robert H. Jackson Center is housed in a beautifully restored mansion and explores the life and legacy of former Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson. Further afield, the Roger Tory Peterson Institute celebrates the work and legacy of the renowned naturalist, artist, and pioneer of the modern field guide.
Go Wine Tasting in Lake Erie Wine Country
Lake Erie Wine Country is part of the largest grape-growing region in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains.
While the region is best known for growing Concord grapes used for juice, jelly, and other products, it also has a long winemaking history. You’ll find everything from wines made with the region’s distinctive Concord and Niagara grapes to more traditional varieties along the trail.
Some of the best wineries to check out include 21 Brix Winery, Johnson Estate Winery, and Noble Winery.
On my recent trip, I visited Liberty Vineyards & Winery and sampled several locally produced wines. It’s a great stop for getting a taste of what makes the Lake Erie wine region unique.
Spend the Day at Sunset Bay Beach
Sunset Bay Beach is one of the best beaches along New York’s Lake Erie coast. With soft sand and a laid-back beach community, it’s easy to see why this spot is so popular.
If you’re looking for a beach day in Chautauqua County, this is the place to do it! Even if you don’t plan on swimming, Sunset Bay is well worth a stop on a summer itinerary.
Don’t miss Cabana Sam’s, a beachfront restaurant and bar that is reason enough to visit. With tables overlooking the sand and Lake Erie, the atmosphere truly feels like a vacation spot.
Explore the Dunkirk Waterfront
For more Lake Erie views, spend some time along the Dunkirk waterfront.
Walk along the harbor and stop by the Dunkirk Boardwalk Marketplace, where you’ll find boutiques and eateries. Continue onto Dunkirk Pier, where there are plenty of spots to relax by the water, or grab a drink at 64 on the Pier, a lively bar overlooking the marina.
For a bit of coastal charm, head to the Dunkirk Lighthouse. I recommend walking around the grounds and taking in the beautiful Lake Erie setting. If you’d like to learn more about the lighthouse’s history and climb to the top, guided tours are also available.
Wander Around Fredonia
Fredonia is a quaint town in the summer months, turned bustling college town in the fall. Whether you have the place to yourself or are amongst a myriad of college students, Fredonia is well worth a visit.
The historic downtown is centered around Barker Common and lined with beautiful architecture, restaurants, cafés, and local businesses. Spend some time wandering around the park and surrounding streets to soak up the small-town atmosphere.
The White Inn is a particularly charming spot in town. This historic inn is a great option for lunch or dinner, especially when you can grab a table on the gorgeous porch.
Visit Southern Tier Brewing Company
Southern Tier Brewing Company is such an iconic brewery in Western New York. Renowned for its popular Pumpking Beer, this brewery in Chautauqua County is a must-visit…even when the fall beers aren’t on tap.
Craft beer enthusiasts will love the rotating menu of seasonal brews, but you don’t have to be a huge beer drinker to enjoy the experience. The sprawling outdoor setting makes Southern Tier such a fun gathering spot, especially during the warmer months.
Hike Through Chautauqua County’s Parks and Gorges
Panama Rocks might be one of the county’s most distinctive outdoor attractions, but it’s certainly not your only opportunity to get outside.
Long Point State Park stretches along Chautauqua Lake and is a great option for hiking, picnicking, swimming, fishing, and enjoying the waterfront.
Don’t miss Chautauqua Gorge State Forest, which offers peaceful trails through the gorge and feels like a true hidden gem. This is a great option if you’re looking to get off the beaten path and experience another side of Chautauqua County’s beautiful landscape.
Catch a Chautauqua County Sunset
With two waterfronts, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to catch the sunset in Chautauqua County. Half of what makes Chautauqua so appealing is slowing down and embracing lake life, and watching the sunset is the perfect way to do just that.
On Chautauqua Lake, Bemus Point is perfect for pairing sunset with dinner and drinks, while I loved watching the sun set over the Celoron Lighthouse from the grounds of Chautauqua Harbor Hotel.
Along Lake Erie, Barcelona Harbor Pier, Dunkirk Pier, and Sunset Bay Beach are all fantastic sunset spots.
Spend a Day at Peek’n Peak Resort
For year-round outdoor adventure, head to Peek’n Peak Resort in Clymer. While the resort is best known as one of Western New York’s winter destinations, there’s plenty to do throughout the year.
In winter, spend the day skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing before warming up at the resort. During the warmer months, trade the slopes for the aerial adventure course and zip lines, hit the golf course, or simply enjoy the resort atmosphere.
Peek’n Peak also has a fantastic spa, making it a great option if you’re looking to add a little relaxation and pampering to your Chautauqua County getaway.
Where to Stay in Chautauqua County
Where you stay in Chautauqua County will largely depend on what part of the county you plan to explore. These are two of my top picks:
- Chautauqua Harbor Hotel: My top pick for a lakefront getaway, with beautiful views of Chautauqua Lake, an outdoor pool, and a resort-like atmosphere. Check availability on Booking.com
- DoubleTree by Hilton Jamestown: A comfortable, well-located option for exploring the National Comedy Center, Lucille Ball attractions, and downtown Jamestown. Check availability on Booking.com
For even more options, check out my complete guide to where to stay in Chautauqua County.
Chautauqua County Things to Do: Wrap-up
This wraps up my guide to the best things to do in Chautauqua County, New York. Is this a destination with endless things to do? No, I wouldn’t say so. However, there are some truly worthwhile attractions and charming towns that deserve a spot on any New York State bucket list.
The variety of experiences makes visiting Chautauqua County so worthwhile. From lake days and wine tasting to world-class museums, unique cultural attractions, and beautiful outdoor spaces, there’s a little bit of everything packed into this corner of Western New York.
