Panama Rocks has been a beloved scenic attraction since 1885 - attracting both locals and guests from all over the world!

Located in the heart of Chautauqua County, Panama Rocks is just minutes away from areas such as Bemus Point, Chautauqua, Lakewood, Mayville, Westfield, and Jamestown. Whether you're visiting locally or from outside the area, you may want to consider adding one or more other local attractions to your itinerary before or after Panama Rocks!

ADD-ONS TO YOUR PANAMA ROCKS VISIT

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS

  • Bemus Point: A lively lakeside village offering restaurants, shops, live music, and easy access to Chautauqua Lake, making it a popular hub for dining, boating, and evening entertainment.
  • Lake Erie Wine Country: Stretching along the Lake Erie shoreline, this scenic wine region features dozens of wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms, especially popular during summer and fall.
  • National Comedy Center: A nationally recognized museum in Jamestown celebrating comedy’s impact on American culture through immersive exhibits, legendary performers, and interactive experiences for all ages.
  • Chautauqua Institution: A historic lakeside community known for its renowned summer programming in arts, education, music, and lectures, blending intellectual engagement with natural beauty.
  • Midway State Park: One of New York State’s oldest amusement parks, featuring classic rides, picnic areas, and lake access—ideal for a relaxed family outing or nostalgic summer fun.
  • Lily Dale Assembly: The world’s largest center for Spiritualism, Lily Dale is a peaceful lakeside community known for its historic grounds, walking paths, and unique cultural atmosphere.

NATURE ATTRACTIONS

  • Audubon Community Nature Center: A year-round nature center offering miles of trails, wildlife exhibits, and hands-on environmental education for visitors of all ages.
  • Chautauqua County Parks & Hiking Trails: There are  250+ miles of recreational trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and other activities in Chautauqua County (and up to 700 miles when all connector paths and authorized user trails are included)!
  • Roger Tory Peterson Institute: A unique blend of art, nature, and conservation inspired by the legacy of Roger Tory Peterson, featuring rotating exhibitions, trails, and educational programming.
  • Martz Observatory: A public astronomical observatory offering stargazing programs, telescope viewings, and educational events that explore the night sky and deepen appreciation for science and space.

CULTURAL & HISTORY ATTRACTIONS

  • Fenton History Center: A museum complex preserving Jamestown’s history through exhibits, historic buildings, and collections spanning industry, culture, and everyday life.
  • Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum: Dedicated to the lives and legacies of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, this museum offers an in-depth look at television history, Hollywood, and one of America’s most beloved entertainers.
  • McClurg Museum: Housed in a former Victorian mansion, the McClurg Museum showcases local history, rotating exhibits, and artifacts from Westfield and the surrounding Lake Erie region.
  • Robert H. Jackson Center: Dedicated to the life and legacy of Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson, this center explores themes of justice, democracy, and the rule of law through exhibits and programs.
  • Harmony Historical Society: A local historical organization dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of the Town of Harmony, supporting community events, educational programs, and local traditions.

BREWERIES & WINERIES

  • Southern Tier Brewing Company: One of the region’s best-known craft breweries, offering a full taproom experience alongside The Empty Pint restaurant and Southern Tier Distilling Company, featuring craft spirits made on site.
  • Big Inlet Brewing Company: A small, locally focused brewery in Mayville serving handcrafted beers just steps from Chautauqua Lake, known for its relaxed atmosphere and rotating tap list.
  • Grape Discovery Center: Celebrating the region’s deep agricultural roots, this center highlights the history of grape growing, juice, and wine production in the Lake Erie region through exhibits and tastings.
  • Lake Erie Wine Trail: A scenic wine trail connecting dozens of wineries along Lake Erie, offering tastings, events, and seasonal experiences without the need to plan individual stops.