But the area will also appeal to those who enjoy culture
New York State’s Chautauqua Harbor Hotel says it provides a great retreat for those who don’t need to be constantly dazzled by the bright lights of the big city during their vacations.
Hotel general manager Diandra Morgan says the hotel, found in the community of Celeron, which is near Lake Erie, can easily accommodate those wanting to relax but also is in an area that will appeal to the culturally inclined.
“It’s really both, which is part of what makes the area such an appealing getaway,” Morgan says. “The Chautauqua Institution is a major cultural draw, with a renowned summer season featuring arts, performances, lectures and thought-provoking speakers. It’s an important part of what makes the region culturally distinctive and attracts visitors from well beyond Western New York. At the same time, many of our guests are looking for a chance to slow down and enjoy a more relaxed getaway.”
Morgan notes that the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel’s lakefront setting and resort amenities make it easy to do both.
“Guests can spend the day exploring the area’s cultural offerings and then return to the hotel to unwind,” she says. “The Chautauqua County region offers a completely different side of New York State, combining lakeside relaxation, outdoor recreation, small-town experiences and an impressive range of cultural attractions.”
The property is located in the southwestern corner of the state along Lake Erie and Chautauqua Lake, an area that offers more than 45 miles of Lake Erie shoreline and the 17-mile-long Chautauqua Lake, with opportunities for boating, fishing and enjoying the outdoors.
“Beyond the lakes, visitors can explore the massive rock formations and old-growth forests at Panama Rocks Scenic Park, visit Lily Dale Assembly, explore the Lake Erie Wine Country trail with its 18 wineries, tour Southern Tier Brewing Company, or follow New York’s Amish Trail to farmstands and shops featuring handcrafted furniture, quilts and local specialties,” she says. “There are also farmers markets, seasonal events and plenty of opportunities to experience the region’s food and agriculture,” she says. “It’s a destination with something to offer in every season, and it provides a chance to experience a more relaxed, scenic and culturally rich side of New York State.”
Morgan notes that the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel is just a seven-minute drive from downtown Jamestown, hometown of famed comedian Lucille Ball, and now home to both the National Comedy Center and Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, which are located just three blocks apart. “Both attractions are popular draws for visitors to the region, including hotel guests looking to explore the area’s comedy heritage,” she reports.
Ball became hugely famous, thanks to her I Love Lucy show, and is still well remembered long after her death.
“Lucille Ball’s legacy is deeply woven into the identity of Jamestown and is celebrated throughout the area through dedicated museums, statues, murals and her final resting place,” Morgan reports. “Each year, the community also comes together for the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in celebration of Lucy’s birthday. The festival features more than 50 live events and attracts more than 15,000 attendees annually from nearly every state in the country. Visitors come to share laughter while honoring the art and contributors of comedy at venues throughout Jamestown, including the National Comedy Center and Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum.”
Meanwhile, Morgan says her hotel has a number of attributes which serve it well.
“Chautauqua Harbor Hotel is the only resort on Chautauqua Lake and a AAA Four Diamond property, giving guests a lakefront resort experience in addition to a convenient home base for exploring the region,” she says, “The property offers both indoor and outdoor pools, an outdoor hot tub, fitness center, fire pits, a putting green and the seasonal Carousel Bar. Guests can also enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at the on-site Lakehouse Tap & Grille, along with complimentary Starbucks coffee, tea and hot chocolate in the mornings. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, a business center and concierge service.”
“The combination of the lakefront setting, resort amenities, on-site dining and Four Diamond recognition makes Chautauqua Harbor Hotel a destination in its own right, whether guests are visiting to explore the area or simply looking to relax and enjoy a getaway.”
She also adds that the hotel has built a loyal following.
“We see many repeat guests who return year after year because they love the area and the experience at Chautauqua Harbor Hotel,” Morgan continues. “That repeat visitation is a testament to the appeal of the destination and the resort itself. Whether guests are coming to explore the region’s culture and attractions, spend time on the lake or simply relax and enjoy the resort, there is something that keeps them coming back.”
