CHQ Overview: What You Need to Know When Planning a Visit
There is a place with picturesque gardens, breathtakingly beautiful architecture, thought-provoking lectures, and powerful performances. Where friends and families are invited to live, learn, and laugh on the shores of Chautauqua Lake. So come for the day, or opt. for a summer-long stay; this unforgettable experience can be found in only one place — Chautauqua Institution.
Chautauqua is your one-stop vacation experience destination, and this summer, we’re celebrating our 150th anniversary season! Whether you’re visiting as a solo sightseer, or into group travel, we invite you to join the generations of travelers from around the world that visit our historic grounds. Below is a Q-and-A to help you plan your visit during our milestone year.
Q: What is there to do at CHQ?
A: Though Chautauqua’s grounds are home to breathtaking views and interesting to do’s all year long, the bulk of events take place during our Summer Assembly. From world-class speakers, preachers, and artists to hands-on-activities in the classroom or our athletic facilities, there’s something for everyone at Chautauqua. Each day offers new artistic, educational, interfaith and recreational programming opportunities for all visitors. Each week offers a theme to guide educational discussions and discoveries throughout the season. From examining the Evolution of the Modern Presidency in Week One, to Exploring the Transformative Power of Music with Renée Fleming in Week Six, or focusing on Water: Crisis, Beauty and Necessity with National Geographic in Week Eight, our 2024 themes are sure to enlighten, and inspire all summer long.
Q: How can I view a complete 2024 event calendar?
A: As we begin to announce the events of our 2024 season, it is important to note that a full events calendar can be seen on our website. But, if you’re looking for an easier way to view events occurring during your personal stay, our online experience planner offers a date specific event schedule to create an itinerary that ensures you check off all your to do’s and have time to relax, too.
Traveling with a group? You can send the itinerary you built to your email address, to forward to your group so they know what you’re doing for the day.
Q: Are there on-grounds dining options?
A: Craving a cold drink, a quick bite or a delicious dinner? Our experience planner is also a great way to view excellent eateries located on our grounds. Find your perfect pairing at Afterwords Wine Bar, sip on a craft cocktail at 3 Taps, delight in a tasty bite at the Heirloom Restaurant and Lobby Lounge or explore some of our other delectable dining options at Chautauqua.
Q: Are there accommodations available for an overnight stay?
A: Looking for a CHQ experience that goes beyond a day trip? Our planner tool will also display several options for a weekend, weeklong, or extended getaway. From the historic Athenaeum Hotel, to the relaxing, French-inspired Minerva Bed and Breakfast; or private accommodations, an overnight stay is the perfect way to end the day.
Finding accommodations should be your first priority when planning a visit to Chautauqua. Accommodations can fill up long before gate passes even go on sale.
Q: Do I need a ticket to access the grounds?
A: A Gate Pass or Ticket is required to enter the grounds from June 24 to Aug. 27, and acts as your passport to the Chautauqua Experience. Gate Passes come in two forms, with both available for purchase at 716.357.6250, the Main Gate Welcome Center or tickets.chq.org beginning in January 2024.
The Traditional Gate Pass (TGP) gives the greatest access and flexibility for engagement in Chautauqua’s core programs. It includes general admission seating to all events in the Amphitheater and is perfect for visitors looking to sample all that happens at the Amphitheater, Hall of Philosophy, Lenna Hall, Smith Wilkes Hall, and Music School facilities.
The Grounds Access Pass (GAP) is the “Create your own Chautauqua” pass. The GAP gives holders access to morning worship events at the Amp and all programs in the Hall of Philosophy, Smith Wilkes Hall and Music School facilities. GAP holders may purchase additional tickets to events at the Amphitheater and Lenna Hall while supplies last. Tickets to daytime events and select evening Amphitheater events are discounted 10% for GAP holders. The minimum purchase for a GAP is at least one week (7 days).
Both pass types include access to art galleries, beaches, parks and complimentary transportation services. More information about the TGP, GAP and daily tickets can be found here.
Q: Where can I park?
A: Chautauqua offers parking across from Route 394 from the Main Entrance. A parking pass purchase is required, with parking fees based on the length of stay during our nine-week Summer Assembly. After this time, parking fees are no longer implemented. The majority of our parking is located in the Main Lot, and on-grounds parking is available for some private rentals.
Q: How can I navigate the grounds at Chautauqua?
A: Chautauqua is primarily a pedestrian community, with the use of vehicles being tightly restricted. Bicycles are permitted and are an excellent way to navigate the grounds. Just be sure to register your bicycle with our ticket office at no charge to receive a registration sticker that can be issued by mail. Other modes of transportation include a regularly scheduled complimentary shuttle bus and tram service in the Main Lot and on the grounds during the season, and available scooter rentals. Check our website for additional directions and a complete map of our extensive grounds.
