ExploreHiking/Biking
Explore the hills and plains of Chautauqua County on foot or bike. Plan your own route or enjoy the scenery along the Chautauqua Rails to Trails, Jamestown Riverwalk, or Bentley Nature Preserve, just to name a few.
A popular attraction in the Chautauqua region, Panama Rocks offers its own distinctive adventure. Since 1885, guests have hiked the trails through towering rocks, deep crevices, passageways, and small caves. The beautiful scenery offers a photo op at every turn!
Wine TastingLake Erie Wine Country
From Chautauqua County to neighboring northern Pennsylvania, Lake Erie Wine Country features 20 wineries nestled along the eastern shoreline of Lake Erie. This is not only the largest grape-growing region east of the Rockies but, Chautauqua County also happens to be the largest grape-cultivating county outside of California! In fact, about 65% of New York State’s annual grape harvest comes from Chautauqua County and is used in products sold in more than 35 countries worldwide.
Each of the 20 member wineries has it's own unique tastes, character and atmosphere, welcoming wine lovers all year round. There are a wide variety of wines to experience making a visit to Lake Erie Wine Country a must for wine connoisseurs or travelers interested in great tasting experiences, lasting memories, and gorgeous vineyard vistas.
RelaxFishing
Popular fishing waters in Chautauqua County include
- Chautauqua Lake (Bassmaster Top 100, 2021)
- Bear Lake
- Findley Lake
- Cassadaga Lake
AdventureBoating
Visitors flock to the area to enjoy outdoor recreation and watersports on its five lakes including the Lake Erie shoreline.
CompeteGolfing
Golfers can enjoy great golfing experiences in the Chautauqua Lake - Lake Erie area from April through October and even longer, weather permitting.
Known for its arts and cultural programs, the Chautauqua Institute also boasts two 4-star rated public golf courses at their Chautauqua Golf Club. The Lake Course and the Hill Course both offer challenging yet scenic golfing and are maintained with environmental stewardship.
There are many more excellent public courses in the region, including the oldest golf course in the area at Bemus Point Golf Club & Tap House, Peek ’n Peak Resort which offers the longest course, and South Hills Country Club in Jamestown, NY.
PlayWinter Sports
Snow fall for Chautauqua County can total 200-plus inches annually! That makes great conditions for Western New York downhill skiing, snowboarding and even snow tubing at nearby ski resorts.
Cross country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts can explore our region's vast multi-use trail systems.
For biking enthusiasts, Chautauqua County leads the state with more miles of groomed fat bike trails than any other county.
Nearby Jamestown, NY also offers opportunities for public ice skating, skate and shoot hockey, backyard curling and even ice bumper cars.
