Nearly 50 miles of Lake Erie shoreline including windswept shores, beaches and dramatic cliffs make up Chautauqua County’s northwestern border. Among these scenic vistas are more than 30,000 vineyard acres along a 50-mile wine trail and several idyllic towns and villages. Let’s take a tour around these Lake Erie Grape Belt towns and villages and see all they have to offer.
Silver Creek & Irving – Fun in the Sun
The northernmost Lake Erie communities draw visitors in to escape the summer heat at Sunset Bay Beach Club. The combination of sandy shoreline and shallow water make it a ideal spot for a day of summer fun. Enjoy tropical-inspired cocktails and delicious food on the deck of Cabana Sam’s Beach Bar & Grill, located right next to the beach club.
Dunkirk – City on the Lake Shore
Spend time in Dunkirk, Chautauqua County’s only city situated right on the shores of Lake Erie. Explore the unique shops, restaurants, an ice cream shop and visitor information center located along the Boardwalk Market. Visit the beaches of Point Gratiot Park and Wright Park. Walk along the Dunkirk Pier where you will see anglers fishing daily. Visit the Dunkirk Lighthouse and climb to the top of the tower for a sweeping view of Lake Erie.
Westfield – Charming Downtown
Browse the shops of Westfield’s Main Street which are filled with antique dealers, art galleries, bakeries and restaurants. Grab some locally grown and locally made products at the popular Farm and Artisan Market held in the village commons on Saturdays in the spring, summer and fall. Visit the Abraham Lincoln-Grace Bedell Statue Park to uncover its interesting historical significance. Hunt for beach glass and driftwood at the Barcelona Harbor Beach or see the first natural gas lighthouse, the Barcelona Lighthouse. Learn about the more than 150-year history of grape growing in the region at the Grape Discovery Center.
Fredonia – College Community with a Bustling Downtown
Stroll through the college community of Fredonia and enjoy a downtown full of quaint shops, bakeries, restaurants, a brewery and exciting nightlife options. Barker Commons is the heart of downtown and is the primary venue for the town's annual events. Visit the 1891 Fredonia Opera House where you can take a guided tour, and attend numerous theater, dance and music performances throughout the year.
Lake Erie Wine Country – Westfield, Ripley, Brocton, Sheridan, and Forestville
Taste wine from local wineries located along Route 20, collectively known as Lake Erie Wine Country. Ride horseback through miles of trails along the Lake Erie escarpment with Double D.A.B. Riding Stables out of Ripley. Experience breathtaking views of the high bluffs overlooking Lake Erie at Lake Erie State Park in Brocton.
Plan a Craft Beverage Tour of the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region