According to howsmb.com, Chautauqua County, New York is located in the southwestern corner of the state, bordering Pennsylvania and Ohio. The county covers an area of 1,358 square miles with a population of 134,905 (as of 2019). Chautauqua County was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Seneca and Iroquois. During the 19th century, the county was developed into a thriving agricultural area. Today, Chautauqua County remains predominantly agricultural with its main crops being grapes for wine production, dairy products, and hay.
The county is home to several attractions such as the Chautauqua Lake and Institution which is a summer retreat located on the shore of Chautauqua Lake in upstate New York. This lake offers numerous recreational activities such as swimming, fishing, boating, and more. Additionally, there are several museums located in the county such as Fenton History Center in Jamestown and Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Museum in Jamestown.
Famous people from Chautauqua County include Lucille Ball who was born in Jamestown and went on to become one of the most beloved stars in television history; Daniel Dobbins who founded Erie PA; William Lathrop who founded Dunkirk NY; John Bordoni who created an Italian opera troupe that toured America; and Charles Duryea who invented one of the first gasoline powered automobiles.
Chautauqua County offers an abundance of attractions for visitors to explore including lake activities, museums, historical sites, wineries and more. With its beautiful surroundings and rich history it’s no wonder so many people choose to call this area their home.
Climate and weather in Chautauqua County, New York
According to iamaccepted.com, Chautauqua County, New York experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters and hot summers. The county has a humid continental climate with long cold winters and warm summers. The average winter temperatures range from 17°F to 33°F while summer temperatures range from 60°F to 85°F.
The county receives an average of 39 inches of precipitation annually, most of which falls during the spring and summer months. Snowfall is also common during the winter months with an annual average of 84 inches.
Severe weather is not uncommon in Chautauqua County as the area experiences several thunderstorms throughout the year. These storms can bring strong winds, hail, and tornadoes. In addition to thunderstorms, lake-effect snow can produce heavy snowfall in nearby areas due to cold air being drawn over Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.
Chautauqua County has a temperate climate with mild winters and hot summers that attract visitors from near and far looking for outdoor recreational activities or simply to take in the stunning scenery.
Transportation in Chautauqua County, New York
Chautauqua County, New York is served by an extensive network of transportation options. The county features a variety of options to get from one place to another, including air, rail, bus, and car.
The county is served by the Chautauqua County Airport located in Jamestown which offers daily flights to and from Buffalo and Cleveland. The airport also serves private planes and helicopters.
The Chautauqua-Lake Erie Railroad provides service from Dunkirk to Buffalo with connections to other railroads throughout the region. The railroad features a variety of passenger services such as freight, commuter trains, and intercity passenger service.
The county is served by several bus lines that offer transportation services throughout the area as well as between cities in the region. These bus lines include Greyhound Lines, Lake Shore Bus Lines, and Trailways of New York.
Driving is also a popular form of transportation in the area with several major highways running through the county including Interstate 86 (I-86), US Route 20 (US 20), US Route 62 (US 62), NYS Route 394 (NY 394) and NYS Route 60 (NY 60). In addition, there are numerous local roads that can be used for travel within the county or for getting to nearby cities such as Buffalo or Erie PA.
Chautauqua County offers a variety of transportation options for visitors and residents alike making it easy to get around the area.
Cities and towns in Chautauqua County, New York
According to Countryaah, Chautauqua County, New York is home to numerous cities and towns that offer a variety of attractions and activities for visitors and residents alike. The county is comprised of the cities of Jamestown, Dunkirk, Fredonia, and Westfield; as well as the towns of Arkwright, Charlotte, Cherry Creek, Chautauqua, Ellery, Ellington, Gerry, Hanover, Harmony, Kiantone, Mina, North Harmony and Sherman.
Jamestown is located in the center of the county and serves as the county seat. It is home to a variety of attractions including Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History which offers exhibits on local flora and fauna; Fenton History Center which features exhibits on local history; Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum which celebrates the life and legacy of Lucille Ball; Audubon Community Nature Center which offers nature trails and programs for all ages; Jamestown Jammers baseball team; Reg Lenna Civic Center which hosts concerts and performances throughout the year; Infinity Visual Arts Center which houses rotating art exhibitions; as well as a variety of restaurants.
Dunkirk is located in western Chautauqua County on Lake Erie. It features several historic sites such as Point Gratiot Lighthouse Park where visitors can take in views of Lake Erie; Dunkirk City Pier which features a boardwalk with restaurants and shops; Dunkirk Historical Museum which showcases artifacts from early settlers to modern day residents; Dunkirk-Fredonia Opera House which hosts various events throughout the year including concerts and plays; as well as several parks with playgrounds for children.
Fredonia is located in southwestern Chautauqua County on Lake Erie. It offers several attractions such as 1891 Fredonia Opera House where visitors can enjoy live music performances; The White Inn where guests can enjoy fine dining experiences with stunning views of Lake Erie; Rockefeller Arts Center at SUNY Fredonia hosting concerts by world-renowned artists throughout the year; Barker Common featuring a playground for kids along with picnic areas; Winifred Crawford Dibert Boys & Girls Club offering recreational activities for kids; as well as several parks such as Pioneer Park offering trails perfect for biking or hiking.
Westfield is located in northwestern Chautauqua County on Lake Erie. Here visitors can find attractions such as Westfield Historical Society Museum showcasing artifacts from early settlers to modern day residents; Peek’n Peak Resort & Spa offering skiing in winter months along with golfing during summer months; Westfield Fish Hatchery providing fishing opportunities for anglers; Westfield Beach State Park featuring picnic areas along with swimming spots during summer months; Westfield Farmers Market offering fresh produce from local farmers; along with numerous restaurants serving delicious local cuisine.