Chautauqua and Jamestown New York
Waving to passengers aboard the Chautauqua Belle paddleboat cruise on Chautauqua Lake
Soaring high in the treetops on a zipline tour at Peek ‘n Peak Resort
A sleigh ride through Lake Erie Wine Country in winter
Hiking the impressive formations in Panama Rocks Scenic Park
An exciting sailboat race on Chautauqua Lake
Exploring Allegany State Park by snowmobile
Hauling in the fresh catch on a Lake Erie fishing charter
Kayaking at sunset on a local waterway
- Major Airports:
- Erie (ERI)
- Buffalo Niagara (BUF)
- States:
- New York
Nature, culture and dining in Western New York
Enjoy the Outdoors
The area’s deliciously fresh, clean air comes courtesy of its plentiful forests and parks. Allegany State Park, the largest in New York’s state park system, offers nature trails, hiking, biking, horseback riding and camping; in winter, park visitors enjoy snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, as well. Birding is another great option for enjoying the area’s natural beauty; head to the Ripley Hawk Watch at the shore of Lake Erie or the Audubon Community Nature Center in Jamestown, where you can stroll on tranquil trails, then see Liberty, the center’s resident bald eagle. Skiers and golfers should check out Peek’n Peak Resort or Holiday Valley.
Celebrate Arts and Culture
Since 1874, the Chautauqua Institution has garnered fame with its lineup of concerts, lectures and educational programs in art, literature, religion and recreation. There are more than 2,000 events held during the institution’s nine-week summer season. About 45 minutes away by car, visitors can see exhibits and artifacts related to the history of the native Seneca Nation of Indians presented at the Seneca-Iroquois National Museum in Salamanca. And don’t miss a visit to the Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Museum & Center for Comedy in Jamestown, full of “I Love Lucy” memorabilia and re-creations of sets from the beloved 1950s TV show.
Taste Regional Flavors
Lake Erie’s Wine Country is home to 23 wineries set along an 80-kilometer stretch of the lake’s southern shore. It's the largest grape-growing region east of the Rocky Mountains and the wineries are open year-round. The most avid grape aficionados can plan a visit to the Grape Discovery Center to learn the history of the region’s grapes and purchase local grape products. Also take time to sample craft beer and liquors at Southern Tier Brewing Co., Ellicottville Brewing Co. and Five & 20 Spirits and Brewing, a combination winery, brewery and distillery. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sprague’s Maple Farms, serving hot pancakes dripping with locally made maple syrup. Visit some of the 100-plus Amish farms selling produce, handmade quilts, furniture and baked goods that are found on New York’s Amish Trail. Once known as the “Cheese Capital of the World,” the hamlet of Cuba is home to the Cuba Cheese Shoppe, a beloved maker of tasty cheeses you can take home in a gourmet gift basket.
Fun Fact
Comedy legend Lucille Ball was born in Jamestown in 1911.