Escape to Chautauqua Lake
From swimming and boating to kayaking and fishing, vacations in Chautauqua Lake are all about sun-drenched days on the water. If you want to stretch your legs Chautauqua Lake vacation rentals offer easy access to some of New York’s best hikes. From the Chautauqua “Rails-to-Trails” network to the Audubon Community Nature Center, waterfront rentals give you the freedom to hit the trails then cool off with a dip in the lake. Feel like a change of scene? Chautauqua County is home to 5 lakes, which means that beach hopping is always on the cards.
History and culture abounds in Chautauqua Lake
Beyond the lake itself, Chautauqua County is brimming with history, culture, and small-town charm. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Dunkirk Lighthouse overlooks sparkling Lake Erie. If you’re a comedy buff a trip to nearby Jamestown is well worth the drive. Sitting at the southern tip of the lake, the lively town is home to the beautifully curated Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Museum, celebrating the “first couple of comedy.” It also serves up the region’s best street scene, so why not stay local with Chautauqua Lake vacation rentals in the heart of Jamestown?
Sip your way through Lake Erie Wine Country
From art and education to lectures and entertainment, the Chautauqua Institution is the beating heart of the lakeside community. If you want to venture beyond the shoreline, the iconic Bemus Point Stow Ferry has been cruising the lake for over 200 years. Love to unwind with a glass of wine? Chautauqua Lake offers easy access to New York’s famous Lake Erie Wine Country. With 23 wineries to choose from plus a handful of boutique breweries and small batch distilleries, you’ll never go thirsty. And with Chautauqua Lake vacation rentals you can stock up on all your favorite picks, then enjoy a private toast on your waterfront deck.
Summer celebrations in Chautauqua Lake
Summer brings high season in Chautauqua Lake, when flocks of vacationers descend on the county. The long days and warm weather make cooling off in the lake more than enticing. The summer atmosphere peaks on July 4, when fireworks are launched from the communities that dot the lake. If you want to beat the crowds, fall sees the lake explode in a sea of reds, yellows, and golds. Winter is quiet and serene, with plenty of opportunities to cozy up by the fire or try your hand at ice fishing.
Exploring the natural landscape of Town of Ellery
Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to take in the scenery, Town of Ellery is a great place to spend some time outside. These are some of the area's most enchanting natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Chautauqua Lake (2.9 mi / 4.7 km)
- Midway State Park (3.5 mi / 5.6 km)
- Lake Erie State Park (16.4 mi / 26.3 km)
- Long Point on Lake Chatauqua State Park (3 mi / 4.8 km)