Tour Chautauqua
Photos / Tour CHQ
Experience the best parts of fall in the Chautauqua-Lake Erie region of Western New York. Explore the changing leaves along five miles of trails at the Audubon Community Nature Center. Hike among the colorful trees in an ancient forest and climb gigantic rock formations at Panama Rocks. Stroll through the lakeside grounds of Chautauqua Institution to see expressions of American architecture dating back to the late 1800s highlighted by a picturesque backdrop of fall foliage. Get a spectacular panoramic view at Luensman Overview Park and Erlandson Overview Park where you can also catch a glimpse of Chautauqua Lake. Take in the great view of Lake Erie and the surrounding area atop the tower of the Dunkirk Lighthouse. Cruise around Chautauqua Lake and admire the colorful leaves on one of the last remaining steamships, the Chautauqua Belle.
For adventure seekers, get a closer look of the vibrant fall foliage while climbing among the treetops on Peek’n Peak Resort’s Mountain Adventures. Traverse 8 Aerial Adventure courses of varying levels of difficulty featuring 69 obstacles. Experience majestic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys on their Giant Zipline. Surround yourself with fall foliage on a peaceful horseback ride by Double D.A.B. Riding Stables through miles of trails along the Lake Erie escarpment. Take in colorful landscapes while golfing on over a dozen public golf courses. Enjoy world class fall fishing on our five lakes including Chautauqua Lake and Lake Erie. Fish the tributaries of Lake Erie in fall for your chance to reel in rainbow trout called “steelhead” during their annual migratory run. Relax with a glass or two of local wine from over 20 wineries collectively known as Lake Erie Wine Country while admiring the fall foliage or sip craft beer and hand crafted cocktails at local breweries and distilleries.
Another beloved fall tradition throughout the State of New York is apple and pumpkin picking. Browse Whitter Apple Farm for fresh apples perfect for pie, applesauce, and as a healthy snack. During your visit, don’t miss the chance to try their fresh pressed cider. Pumpkintown is the epitome of fall fun where you and the whole family can partake in traditional fall activities including hayrides, a pumpkin jump pad, corn pit, and apple cannons to name a few. Worked up an appetite after all that fun? Enjoy fall snacks including doughnuts, apple cider slushies, kettle corn and more. Before you head out, pick out some pumpkins grown right on the farm.
Fall and Harvest Festivals are offered in various destinations in the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region throughout October. During the second and third weekends of October, Peek’n Peak Resort hosts their Fall Fest. Both weekends offer free family entertainment, craft vendors, live performances and much more. In addition, scenic chairlift rides, pumpkin cannons, miniature golf, and a kids zone will be available to enjoy. Get into the spirit of Halloween with a number of spooky events including the Harvest Moon Cemetery Tours in Fredonia or Saints and Sinner Cemetery tours hosted by the Fenton History Center in Jamestown. Celebrate the end of fall and the end of grape harvest at Lake Erie Wine Country’s Harvest Weekends in November where locally made wine is paired with seasonal inspired bites both sweet and savory.
When planning your fall getaway to the Chautauqua Lake Erie Region of Western New York, choose from a variety of lodging options. Stay in a lakeside cottage or secluded cabin in the woods. Treat yourself to a luxury hotel or a quaint bed and breakfast. No matter where you are or what you do in the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region, you’re sure to fall in love with autumn in Western New York. Check out the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau’s website, www.tourchautauqua.com, for all your trip planning needs and start planning your fall adventure today!