chautauqua lake

Lived here growing up! Love the summers. Come back and visit family and hate to leave! Can't wait to get back!

Decided after reading an article in a local magazine, to take a road trip to Lake Chautauqua. It is about a three hour drive from Ohio. I had made tried to make reservations at a hotel in the area but was unsuccessful. The Hotel Lenhart was booked on the first floor and does not have an elevator or air conditioning, the other potential hotel Webb's had over priced rooms available. Although, I made reservations for the Captain's Table, upon arrival at the location, it became pretty clear to me that it too was overpriced, and rather tacky. I did go to Beemus Point, which was having some type of event, however there was absolutely no where to park, and traffic was bad. There were few places to actually get near the water although I must admit that I did not go into the state parks. Overall, I think the area may be past its prime. The lake itself is gorgeous. Best advice I can give is make sure you make plans well in advance. Although the magazine I read made it seem as though it would be a good close road trip, it certainly is not one to make on a whim.

Chautauqua is a beautiful lake in southwestern New York state, east of Erie, PA and south of Lake Erie. Named by the Seneca tribe as "a bag tied in the middle," the upper half is anchored by Mayville and the lower half by Jamestown with a bridge for Interstate 86 dissecting the lake near the middle (note the continuation of the Bemus-Stow ferry even though replaced by this bridge) Boat tours from each of these towns provide the fullest sense of the extent of the lake as well as the small villages that dot its shores. Swimming, boating and fishing are the featured activities throughout the summer. Good restaurants and a variety of lodging options assure visitors of an enjoyable vacation. The Chautauqua Institution offers an array of activities throughout the summer (for a fee) that are both entertaining and interesting.

An excellent way to spend time with family and friends. I spent five days with friends - we ate and shopped and were entertained at the Institute at a night time concert. We strolled along the streets admiring the beautiful flowers and homes. Classes are offered although we didn't plan them in this trip. Hope to return someday.

The people at Chautauqua Marina are outstanding; friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful, truly a community atmosphere, after all, we are in a small town. When caught in a storm and unable to get home in my pontoon boat, Ken and Lou provided a safe harbor for the night at no cost. Their prices are so fair that I would buy from them instead of ordering from the catalogues. When I sold my boat, trailer and lift they brokered a good deal for me and the buyer. Good people serving our community, both local and summer people.

If you want the services of an outstanding guide, Todd is your man. He knows the lake, has the equiptment and is a true professional. On July 3rd, with Todd's expert assistance, my 87 year old father finally caught a Muskie. My dad had been fishing that lake for 75 years, since 1938. I plan to return next year, and will use Todd's expertise again.

A beautiful little gallery in an old lumber mill. Art includes jewelry, fused glass, paintings, and much more. Just north of the main gate to Chautauqua in Mayville. Definitely worth a stop.

Chautauqua Marina is the only full service marina on the upper lake. The service and staff have always been exceptional. There is a full rental fleet of boats in all types and sizes, the chandlery has a surprising amount of hardware for all boats as well as water toys of all kinds. Two restaurants within steps of the marina with plenty of parking for cars and slips for boat parking. A family run business that takes pride in everything they do.

From the fishing frenzy in spring and summer to winter fishing huts on the frozen lake-"Its All Good!" Boating enthusiasts will enjoy not only the waterway but resturants to dock at & enjoy a meal. There are kayaks, boats and sea doos available for rent as well in the area. Bemus Point Lakeside offers Free entertainment on summer weekends. The result is a "Party on the Lake" on your boat or on land @ the Floating Stage. The Summerwind (a large vessel) and the Chautauqua Belle (river boat) offer boat tours,a family favorite. In Fall the fun continues with kayak tours & hiking trails to enhance your pleasure of the Fall Foliage. The area also has craft shows and winery tours to enjoy. Enjoy your winters --The lake becomes a haven full of fun with snowmobiling, cross country sking and snowshoe trails. An Ice Castle (weather permitting) is built during the Presd. Day weekend WINTER FESTIVAL @ Lakeside park in Mayville.We can't wait! The weekend is filled with activities for the young and old & ends with a bonfire and fireworkes. The Insitute has hourse drawn sleigh rides( $4 adults& $2Children) Fun fun fun!An hour ride from Buffalo, Chautauqua Lake will be a treat for your entire family for the day or a reasonable vacation. I have enjoyed it for the past 20 years & I'm sure you will too.(visit their chamber of commerce web site for complete list of area activities and events.)

Musky,walleye,smallmouth,largemouth,black crappie,yellow perch,sunfish and bullhead predominate. Spring brings crappie and bullhead runs. Evenings have prime walleye action.Casting over weedbeds in summer produces muskies.There are surprisingly nice smallmouths here.This lake is crazy with boat traffic on summer weekends. Also there is a bad weed problem. Ice fishing is popular for panfish. The lake is scenic but is surrounded by homes cottages,condos and business. Access is best available at state run launch ramps and Long Point State Park. The Stow ferry is an interesting attraction. There is waterfront dining available at several locations. Three golf courses on or near the lake. Chautauqua Institution is a famous attraction on the lake.Worth a vacation stay.