A Road Trip to RememberThe Road Trip That Ends in Gold
Playlist, coffee, open morning. With just three hours of drive time between the Pittsburgh region and Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, we’ve mapped out a road trip that turns the journey into part of the getaway - ending with a Chautauqua Lake sunset that turns the water and sky to gold.
This itinerary is designed as a 2-night escape, with an optional third night for more relaxed fun. Perfect for travelers from the Pittsburgh area.
Suggested Itinerary
Day One:The Road Trip That Ends in Gold
Depart the Pittsburgh Area
Grab a coffee, cue up the playlist, and head north. From Pittsburgh and nearby suburbs, you’re just about three scenic hours from Chautauqua Lake.
Presque Isle State Park (Erie, PA)
Take a break at Presque Isle State Park — walk the beach, explore the paved lakeside trails, or simply enjoy the views over Lake Erie.
Suggested time: 60–90 minutes
Lake Erie Wine & Cider Country
Continue through North East, Pennsylvania into Westfield & Ripley, New York, home to family-run wineries, cideries, and farm stands.
Suggested stops include:
- Johnson Estate Winery
- 21 Brix Winery
- Quincy Cellars
- Noble Winery
- The Grange (cider & café)
Suggested time: 60–90 minutes
Westfield & Barcelona
Pause at the Barcelona Lighthouse for photos, lake views, and one last look at Lake Erie before turning inland toward Chautauqua.
Suggested time: 20–30 minutes
Final Stretch to Chautauqua
Follow the scenic backroads to Celoron, New York, along the southern shore of Chautauqua Lake.
Drive time: ~30 minutes
Check-In at Chautauqua Harbor Hotel
Arrive at Chautauqua Harbor Hotel and check into your lakeside room. Take a moment to unwind: stroll the waterfront path, enjoy the outdoor spaces, or relax by the fire pits.
Sunset & Dinner at Lakehouse Tap & Grille
This is the moment the road trip earns its name. Watch the sunset turn Chautauqua Lake to gold, then linger over dinner and cocktails at Lakehouse Tap & Grille, featuring lake-to-table dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Day Two:Comedy, Culture & the Lake
After a restful night by the water, spend the day exploring Jamestown and the surrounding Chautauqua region.
Recommended highlights:
- National Comedy Center — an award-winning, interactive museum celebrating the art and history of comedy
- Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum — honoring Jamestown’s most famous star and television pioneer
- Chautauqua Institution — stroll the historic grounds, browse shops, attend a lecture or performance (seasonal)
- Chautauqua Belle — step aboard a classic paddlewheel boat for a scenic cruise on Chautauqua Lake (seasonal)
End the day back at Chautauqua Harbor Hotel with another lakeside sunset and a nightcap by the fire pits.
Day Three (Optional):Slow Mornings & Wineries
Add a third night to fully sink into lake life.
Sleep in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, revisit a favorite winery, or simply spend a slow morning by the water before heading home.
Ready to Take the Road Trip That Ends in Gold?
From your first stop on Lake Erie to your last light over Chautauqua Lake, this is a road trip that feels close to home but far from routine. Make it your new favorite tradition.
