Considering how long the majority of our residents have been living in Buffalo, there’s a good chance that by now you’ve explored most of the small towns that are within Erie County. Don’t worry though, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t still plenty of other amazing destinations that are worth exploring outside of the big city. If you’ve been longing for an out-of-town getaway or someplace new to explore, then take a peek at how this waterfront town near the Queen City is the ultimate place to go.
Roughly an hour and a half south of Buffalo in New York’s westernmost corner, Jamestown is one of our favorite small-town getaways.
Chautauqua Harbor Hotel/Facebook
Out along Chautauqua Lake, the underrated town is most well-known as the hometown of Lucille Ball!
John N/TripAdvisor
Throughout town, you can find homage being paid to the star, with wonderful attractions like the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum on West 3rd Street - and even a statue or two of Lucille in Jamestown.
Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum/Facebook
One of the most important things to figure out when planning a weekend getaway is where you’ll stay. Luckily for us, Jamestown is home to one of only three harbor hotels in all of New York.
Chautauqua Harbor Hotel/Facebook
Situated right on the lakefront, you could spend an entire weekend inside this hotel and never leave. It has everything from waterfront views to fine dining, and so many other charming perks.
Chautauqua Harbor Hotel/TripAdvisor
After you get all settled in, you can visit the town’s newest attraction that has stirred quite the fantastic fuss since opening up in Jamestown.
Dave Nichter/Google
The National Comedy Center has quickly become one of the best museums in the country since opening, drawing in comedians and visitors from all over to learn more about the history of comedy.
Dan Jeffrey/Google
With so much to do in town, you’ll eventually find yourself overcome with hunger and you’ll need to fuel up somewhere. That’s when nostalgic favorites like Johnny’s Lunch comes in handy!
Benjamin Hillman/Google
Right on Fairmount Avenue, Johnny’s Lunch has all your classics like hot dogs, burgers, fries, and milkshakes that have been pleasing the hungry bellies of Western New Yorkers since the 1930s.
hoppeswebe/TripAdvisor
Of course, before you depart back to Buffalo, what would a waterfront weekend getaway be without a boat trip out on the lake?
Patrick Meagher/Google
Consider it one last hoorah to enjoy all that Jamestown has to offer! You can conclude your weekend getaway with Summer Wind Chautauqua Lake Cruises to enjoy all sorts of themed boat tours.
Google To learn more about all that Jamestown has to offer, click here.
Wondering what other waterfront destinations you should check off of your list? Then don’t miss out on These 6 Charming Waterfront Towns Near Buffalo Are Perfect For A Day Trip!
Chautauqua Harbor Hotel/Facebook
John N/TripAdvisor
Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum/Facebook
Chautauqua Harbor Hotel/TripAdvisor
Dave Nichter/Google
Dan Jeffrey/Google
Benjamin Hillman/Google
hoppeswebe/TripAdvisor
Patrick Meagher/Google
To learn more about all that Jamestown has to offer, click here.
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