Plan Your Winter Getaway to Chautauqua
Plan a winter getaway to the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region. Proximity to Lake Erie “lake effect” means snow for Chautauqua County, averaging up to 100 inches annually.
Skiing and Snowboarding Adventures
For skiing and snowboarding, head to Peek’n Peak Ski Resort and enjoy 27 slopes and trails, state-of-the-art snowmaking, eight chairlifts, and four progressive terrain parks. Need lessons? Peek’n Peak is home to a renowned ski and snowboard school with lessons available for all ages. There’s even a snowtubing hill with seven lanes that transforms into a nighttime Lunar Lights show. The thrilling and mesmerizing atmosphere features an ever-changing light show produced by thousands of LED lights and projection lights. The lights pulse, fade and change in coordination with an immersive sound system.
Trails and Outdoor Activities
Cross country skiers, snowshoers and fat-tire bikers will also find opportunities on the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region’s multi-use trail systems including Long Point State Park on Chautauqua Lake, Lake Erie State Park, Boutwell Hill State Forest, the Eastside and Westside Overland Trails, Chautauqua Institution and the Jamestown Audubon Community Nature Center. Explore hundreds of miles of groomed trails while snowmobiling. Spend some time on the ice at the Northwest Arena during their weekly public skate or bring a group of friends to rent their ice bumper cars.


Après Ski and Local Flavors
After a day full of winter activities, indulge in après ski fun. Sip local wine from the over 20 wineries collectively known as Lake Erie Wine Country, including ice wine and specialty seasonal dessert wine. Stop by the Grape Discovery Center in Westfield, the hometown of Welch’s, to learn about the 150-year history of grape-growing in the region and sample local wine, grape juice and shop for other grape inspired artisanal products.
Dining and Craft Beverages
Enjoy a craft beverage from one of the breweries and distilleries located throughout the region, including Southern Tier Brewing Company, one of the largest craft brewers in the United States. Try Ellicottville Brewing Company’s signature beers at their Fredonia location, not far from Lake Erie and local wineries. Fuel up for a day of adventures with a coffee and breakfast from a local coffee shop or café. Sit down for a delicious meal at one of the many local restaurants open year-round. Whether you are craving hearty, comfort food, classic bar bites or an upscale dining experience, you will find it all in the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region.
Laughter and Entertainment Add to the Winter Fun in Western New York
Nothing warms the heart like laughter. The intuitive technology powering the National Comedy Center in Lucille Ball’s hometown, Jamestown, NY, takes guests on a journey through comedy’s history. It features over 50 interactive exhibits with tailored content designed to make you laugh, including everything from vaudeville to today’s viral memes, from Chaplin to Chapelle. Laugh at the antics of Lucy, Desi, and the crew at the Lucy-Desi Museum. Decades worth of costumes, screen-used memorabilia, awards and personal treasures are on display. Be sure to ask about dual admission. While in town, don’t miss the chance to experience the Roger Tory Peterson Institute and Robert H. Jackson Center or enjoy some interactive, virtual entertainment at Mulligan’s on Fairmount.
Shopping and Souvenirs
No trip is complete without shopping! Visit an assortment of charming, locally owned shops and boutiques throughout the region for a souvenir to help recall sweet memories from your lakeside retreat. Bring home some of your favorite artisanal food products specific to our region or cherish a handmade, one-of-a-kind piece of art or jewelry.
Western New York offers Cozy Stays amidst a Winter Wonderland
Chautauqua County is a great place for a relaxing weekend getaway. Take a stroll through the snow-covered streets of Chautauqua Institution and admire the expressions of American architecture dating back to the Victorian era. Rent a secluded cabin or cottage, stay in a quaint bed and breakfast, and immerse yourself in a beautiful winter wonderland around a warm fire. With many local accommodations offering special packages, winter is one of the best times of year to visit.
For a full schedule of events and winter attractions, call the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau at 866-908-ILNY (4569) or visit TourChautauqua.com.
Compass Ohio Cuisine is your place for warm and hearty dishes to chase away the winter chill.