An America’s 250th Journey Through Waterways, Innovation, and Remarkable Lives Tucked along the southwestern edge of New York State, Chautauqua & Lake Erie, NY is more than just a scenic getaway destination—it’s a place where history flows as deeply as the waters that shaped it. From early exploration routes and iconic landmarks to vibrant cultural movements and influential…

Let’s face it. People love to be on or near the water. That is why so many of Chautauqua & Lake Erie NY’s most popular activities involve our lakes. We boast more than 45 miles of eastern Lake Erie shoreline, the largest inland lake in western New York state (Chautauqua Lake), plus Findley Lake, Cassadaga Lakes, and Bear Lake. Each lake offers its own unique style and set of…

Chautauqua & Lake Erie Region NY close to home, but you will feel a world away as you settle in for a relaxing, lakeside vacation. Chautauqua County offers guests both charm and adventure in one gorgeous, easy-to-get-to destination with multiple exits off I-90 and I-86/NY-17. Lake Recreation Chautauqua’s unrivaled natural beauty is highlighted by five lakes including Lake Erie,…

Chautauqua & Lake Erie NY is a destination that attracts travelers who are seeking phenomenal outdoor recreation opportunities and idyllic charm. Local waterways are a huge draw; windswept shores, beaches, and dramatic cliffs define Chautauqua County’s northern Lake Erie border. Lake Erie harbors abundant walleye, bass, and trout fisheries, and is home to popular bird migration flyways.…

There's nothing quite like seeing the beautiful blooms reemerging for spring after a long winter in the Chautauqua & Lake Erie NY. Visiting during late spring is the best time to see gardens throughout Chautauqua County in full bloom. While wildflowers can be found in various parks and trails, there are several local destinations with dedicated gardens that simply add an extra touch of joy to…

Lake Erie Charter Fishing Anglers from all over travel to Chautauqua County for access to Lake Erie charter fishing in the eastern basin, home to some of the best small and largemouth bass, walleye, and trout fishing the country has to offer. Lake Erie's shoreline between Dunkirk and Irving, NY was named one of the Best Bass Lake in the Northeastern U.S, by Bassmaster Magazine. Bass are found…

Grab your phone or camera and get ready to photograph your way through the growing number of murals of Chautauqua County. Discover larger-than-life I Love Lucy murals in Jamestown, the hometown of Lucille Ball. Then enjoy a relaxing country drive to capture shots of unique public art in communities across Chautauqua & Lake Erie NY. Jamestown is Lucy Town: Find 5 Lucille Ball Murals The murals…

After a long winter, spring is a welcome return of warmer weather to Western New York. As the days grow longer and buds begin to blossom, Chautauqua & Lake Erie NY comes alive with a calendar packed full of festive events. From a spring ski party to the sweet tastes of locally made maple syrup and blooming lakeside villages, here are five standout spring events that loved by locals and…

When enjoying the many trails in Chautauqua & Lake Erie in western New York state, be sure to include some time at one of our “trail towns”. These small towns and villages near trailheads or along trail routes are great places to enjoy local eats and drinks, or to pick up some necessary provisions. Mayville Located at the extreme northern point of Chautauqua Lake,…

Maple syrup occupies a sweet spot in our nation's history. It was the Native Americans who showed the colonists the magic spewing from New England maple trees.  The early Americans used the sap to sweeten venison and the colonists took the idea and improved upon the process of collecting it...and well, the rest is history. Learn how sap is made into maple syrup during New York…

Whether you're up for a road trip or planning a "staycation", there's plenty of family fun to be had this spring break in Chautauqua County which is just a short drive away! Four Hours or Less: Columbus, OH; Syracuse, NY Three Hours or Less: Cleveland, OH; Pittsburgh, PA; Toronto, ON, Canada; Rochester, NY About One Hour: Buffalo, NY; Erie, PA National Comedy Center: Take your resident…

The tradition of golf in Chautauqua & Lake Erie in Western New York began over a century ago. It started with the development of the Chautauqua Golf Club at Chautauqua Institution where their first round of golf was played on July 18, 1914. Since then, this top-rated golf club has hosted over 14 World Golf Hall of Famers and is one of only two 36-hole golf courses between Cleveland and…

The craft beverage scene is booming in Chautauqua County, New York, a destination that has been a long time praised for its wine region, Lake Erie Wine Country. Recent developments have led to a robust offering of craft breweries and farm distilleries, which are required to contain at minimum 75% New York State agricultural products such as grains, honey, fruits, maple syrup, etc. Plan a trip…

The grape growing region of eastern Lake Erie in western New York state offers a great blend of tastes, activities, and adventures. Nicknamed “America’s Grape Country,” this 50-mile long and 5 mile wide strip of vineyards, beaches, and quaint villages is a fantastic road trip and vacation getaway destination. Key highlights of the area include 50 miles of beautiful Lake Erie…

While we recommend making your significant other feel special everyday of the year, Valentine's Day is your chance to go all-out and really show your sweetheart how much they mean to you. Whether your partner prefers wine, sweet treats, flowers or a special dinner, there are plenty of great options throughout Chautauqua County that they are sure to fall head over heels for. Sweet Treats If you ask…

Whether you’re looking to taste and tour wineries along the Lake Erie Wine Trail or grab a beer or spirits at local breweries and distilleries throughout the Chautauqua Lake region, here are some tips for getting the most out of your trip. Locations and Drinks The "Chautauqua County Grape & Grain Trail" includes the wineries of Lake Erie Wine Country situated along the shores of Lake…

There's nothing quite like the first sip of fresh coffee in the morning. You know what makes that morning "cup of joe" extra special? Well, if you ask us, when you don't have to make it yourself! Whether its a Monday morning treat to help you prepare for the week ahead, a relaxing Saturday morning coffee run or your first stop before a day of exploring, Chautauqua & Lake Erie NY has plenty of…

Winter fun in Western New York usually involves winter sports and snowmobiling. In addition, there are plenty of wonderful events and festivals in January and February that celebrate the best parts of winter in the Chautauqua Lake Erie Region. Sleigh Rides at Chautauqua Institution - Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Chautauqua Institution grounds during winter while on a…

Looking for a last-minute gift this holiday season? Many Chautauqua County destinations have options for even the hardest recipient on your list. While single admission tickets to a destination in the Chautauqua & Lake Erie NY are always a great gift idea, why not give a gift that keeps on giving? Purchase a membership to a local museum or attraction that lasts all year long! Here are some…

As snow begins to cover the ground in Chautauqua & Lake Erie NY, it’s hard to not get excited about the upcoming holiday season. Throughout December, many events take place to help visitors and locals alike get into the holiday spirit. Learn more about some of the most festive events in the region. Mayville Holiday Market - Support local businesses throughout Mayville at…