Best Places to Visit Near Chautauqua Lake
From Niagara Falls to the National Comedy Center, all of the thrills are just a short drive away.

13.1 Miles - Lake Erie Grape Discovery Center
Visit the Lake Erie Grape Discovery Center to learn about 150 years of concord grape history. Shop for local wines, grape-themed gifts and other goodies. Sip grape juice slushies in summer and savor grape pies in the fall. Truly, a grape escape! grapediscoverycenter.com
15.1 Miles - National Comedy Center
Laugh out loud at the National Comedy Center, which was hailed as one of the “World’s Greatest Places” by Time magazine and covers 37,000 square feet of comedy from vaudeville to viral memes. comedycenter.org
15.9 Miles - Roger Tory Peterson Institute
Be inspired by art and nature at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute, home to the largest collection of work by Peterson — the founder of the modern field guide — as well as contributions by other world-renowned artists and a 27-acre nature preserve with trails. rtpi.org
22.4 Miles - Peek’n Peak Resort
Escape to Peek’n Peak Resort for 27 illuminated ski slopes, as well as all-season adventures, including a championship golf course, spa, indoor and outdoor pools, ziplining, mini golf and an aerial course. pknpk.com/
28.8 - Dunkirk Harbor
Take in scenic views of Dunkirk Harbor from City Pier Park, which offers fishing, boating (there’s an accessible kayak launch), picnicking and birding (more than 200 species have been spotted). In summer, there’s live music — a party on the pier! cityofdunkirk.com
49.2 Miles - Holiday Valley
Head for the hills at Holiday Valley resort in scenic Ellicottville to stay, eat and play in any season. Winter offerings include skiing, snowboarding and a tubing park. Try the thrilling mountain coaster in summer too, along with golf, climbing forest and an adventure park. holidayvalley.com
99 Miles - Niagara Falls
Feel waterfall wonder at Niagara Falls State Park, including summer fireworks and Maid of the Mist boat rides. Before heading home, stop at the Anchor Bar (anchorbar.com), where Buffalo chicken wings are said to have been invented in 1964. niagarafallsusa.com
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Story:
Sarah Miller
2025 Travel Guide