Your Chautauqua-Allegheny Region Itinerary at a Glance
Discover the natural beauty, rich history, culture, and artistic spirit of the Chautauqua-Allegheny region in Western New York. From scenic landscapes to cultural landmarks, this three-day, two-night itinerary offers a blend of outdoor exploration and immersive cultural activities for all ages.
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Enjoy These Great Chautauqua-Allegheny Region Attractions and More:
- McClurg Museum
- National Comedy Center
- Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum
- Allegheny State Park
- Dunkirk Lighthouse and Veterans Park
Day-to-Day Chautauqua-Allegheny Region Itinerary
Day 1: History and the Performing Arts
Start your trip to the Chautauqua-Allegheny region with a visit to the McClurg Museum in Westfield. Located inside an impressive 19th-century mansion, the museum is home to the Chautauqua County Historical Society. Tour the exhibits and learn about the region’s unique history, including early settler life, local Native American culture, the Civil War, and how the Chautauqua area developed over time.
Next, head over to Jamestown for some fun and laughs at the National Comedy Center, a museum that honors the art of comedy. Here, your group can have fun with interactive exhibits like the Johnny Carson Immersive Experience or the Carl Reiner Keep Laughing experience. Celebrating different comedians from various eras and genres makes this the perfect stop for visitors of all ages.
Take a short walk down to the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum to keep the laughter going. This museum pays tribute to the life and career of Lucille Ball, a beloved icon of Jamestown, and her husband Desi Arnaz. Have fun exploring the costumes, memorabilia and behind-the-scenes artifacts from the iconic I Love Lucy show. While you’re in Jamestown, stop at one of the many local eateries for lunch before heading to your final stop of the day.
Start winding down your day by grabbing dinner at one of the local restaurants near the institute before turning in at a local bed and breakfast, cozy inn, lakeside cabin, or hotel rental.
Day 2 of Outdoor Adventures and Artistic Inspiration
Start your second day with an outdoor adventure at Allegheny State Park, one of the largest state parks in New York. Stop for breakfast sandwiches at a local deli or diner for a quiet breakfast in the park. The park offers miles of hiking trails with natural caves for exploring, beaches for swimming, quaint picnic areas, spots for fishing and boating, and breathtaking scenic views. The park has playgrounds for kids and sports areas for horseshoes, tennis, volleyball, baseball, basketball and more. The park also features a completely restored Quaker store that now acts as the park’s museum.
After your morning nature adventure, head to Chautauqua Lake in Chautauqua for an afternoon of swimming and lakeside relaxation. Your group can rent kayaks, enjoy a leisurely scenic boat tour, or relax by the water and enjoy the views. It’s a perfect place for the whole family to unwind and connect with nature. Stop at a local eatery on your way out of Chautauqua for a quick lunch before heading to your next stop.
After lunch, head to the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History (RTPI), a museum and nature center dedicated to the legacy of iconic naturalist Roger Tory Peterson. RTPI offers fun and educational exhibits on birding, wildlife and conservation while also celebrating Peterson’s pioneering work in the field of ornithology.
Finish your second day with a stop at the Grape Discovery Center in Westfield to learn about the history of grape growing in the region. Meander through the Star Family Exhibit Room to learn about the intricacies of the winemaking process and the importance of the grape industry for the local economy. Even the Tasting Bar has something for everyone, from locally made wine and grape juice for the kids to cured meats and artisanal cheeses.
Wrap up the evening with a peaceful dinner in Westfield before heading to your accommodation for the night and share stories from the day’s adventures amongst your group.
Day 3 of Art, History and Spiritual Reflection
After grabbing a breakfast at a local diner or bed and breakfast, make your way to East Otto for a visit to Griffis Sculpture Park, one of America’s largest and oldest sculpture parks. This 450-acre park blends art and nature, offering over 250 large-scale sculptures scattered across scenic fields, on hiking trails and throughout wooded areas. The park also offers seasonal Night Light events, summer festivals and more, so be sure to check their website for any events happening during your trip.
Next, head to Dunkirk Lighthouse and Veterans Park for a lesson in maritime history and enchanting lakeside views. Your group can tour the historic lighthouse, learn about its role in guiding ships across Lake Erie, and explore the museum honoring local veterans and its extensive collection of military artifacts. After getting your fill of maritime fun, stop at a local restaurant for a group lunch before heading to your final destination.
Finally, end your trip with a reflective visit to the Lily Dale Assembly, an iconic center for spiritualism, mediumship and meditation. Lily Dale is known for its peaceful surroundings and offers many opportunities for relaxation, self-reflection and exploration of spiritual topics. Whether you’re interested in attending a spiritual workshop, attending an art festival or simply meandering through the tranquil grounds, Lily Dale provides a peaceful conclusion to your trip.
Before departing, enjoy one final meal at a local restaurant or picnic in one of the area’s beautiful parks, cherishing the memories created during your stay in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region.
This three-day, two-night itinerary provides an eclectic mix of culture, history and nature, all within the stunning landscapes of Western New York. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover more, the Chautauqua-Allegheny region offers a wealth of fun and educational experiences for everyone in your group.
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