Fall is the perfect time to head north, especially to the Harbor Hotel at Chautauqua Lake, which is exactly what Rhiana and I just did! The drive up from where I am in the Philly burbs is about 6 hours with not much traffic and views of changing leaves on the trees as I drove through the Allegheny Forest. It’s an easy weekend getaway and so relaxing, here’s the lowdown…
Where to stay? The Harbor Hotel at Chautauqua Lake, of course! The hotel was built just 3 years ago so everything is clean, new and in top shape. The rooms are very spacious with large TVs, roomy showers and I even was impressed with the size of the closet! The best part is the views, if you stay on the lakeside you’ll have the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets of Chautauqua Lake from your large balcony. I took advantage of this having morning coffee and doing work out here everyday.
Where to eat? We ate at the hotel’s restaurant, The Lakehouse which has beautiful views of the lake as you dine outside or in front of large windows with views. The breakfast every morning can’t be missed and I as a wine enthusiast I loved how they have various wines on tap.
We also checked out a local favorite literally minutes from our hotel called The Main Landing. The salad (which seems funny for a dockside restaurant) was delicious as were their cocktails and I’m sure their seafood.
What to do? I love a good museum so I was thrilled that we got to checkout The National Comedy Center. I didn’t know a ton about comedy going into it but was so impressed. This museum was built about 3 years ago and was so clean, new but mostly the most interactive museum I’ve been to and was blown away by the technology involved. You see, when you enter the museum you create a profile based on your humor and comedy preferences, this produced a wristband that you scan throughout the museum to customize the experience of what you’re viewing and watching. It’s a true gem and would be great for little kids too!
We also visited the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum. Did you know Lucy was from this area? I didn’t and loved discovering more about this icon. The museum has many recreated sets, her costumes and even home videos and pictures. It was like stepping back in time to the glamorous days of Hollywood and a fashion and old movie fan I loved it!
Both are a must if you’re in the area!
For more on our trip checkout my vlog for some behind the scenes.
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