Jamestown NY, as far west as you can get in New York State, seems an unlikely place for a National Comedy Center. That, and the nearby Chautauqua Institution, are not easy places to get to from the East Coast. But, man, the journey is worth it. Hometown of Lucille Ball, Jamestown, New York has cornered the market on comedy with the opening of the National Comedy Center.
The Chautauqua Institution, a summer study, lecture, and performing arts center, has done the same with intellectual and cultural pursuits. Just a 20-minute drive from each other, you can combine with a trip to Jamestown and Chautauqua Lake for an unforgettable vacation in Upstate New York.
Where Is Jamestown NY?
Jamestown is situated in the southwestern corner of New York State, roughly 70 miles south of Buffalo NY, and nestled between Lake Erie and the Allegheny National Forest. An easy drive from Lake Erie and the Lake Eerie Wine Trail, it’s less than an hour from Erie PA.
Things to Do in Jamestown NY
VISIT: National Comedy Center, Jamestown
This zingy, incredibly interactive 50-exhibit museum is an outgrowth of the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, and the biggest thing to hit this remote area of New York in, well, forever. And we have our beloved Lucy to thank for it.
The daffy but shrewd businesswoman, Ms. Ball, didn’t want a shrine devoted to her alone. She preferred that her hometown be a destination for comedy as a whole. Of course, her fans just had to open a Lucille Ball and Desi Arnez Museum. (Still open. See below). But now the focus of Jamestown NY is on the Titans of Titter, the Champions of Chuckle, the Lions of Laughter.
Personally Program Your Wristband
The museum lobby is a mini Times Square, with videos of stand-up comedians on massive screens. Plunk down your money, and you get a “laugh band” – a computerized wristband that you can program at entry kiosks, with your photo, email address, and comedy preferences.
Do you like witty banter? Irreverence? Sarcasm? Wackadoodle? Wordplay? Do you prefer nuanced to in-your-face? Canadian-nice to American snark? The programable wristband enables you to interact at various stations in the 37,000-square-foot museum.
Comedic artifacts, drizzled among the interactive exhibits, are on display. See Seinfeld’s “Puffy Shirt,” Rodney Dangerfield’s necktie, Lucy’s polka dot dress, Joan River’s well-worn list of “How to Handle Hecklers.”
There is so much to do here, it’s tough to know where to start. Watch a hologram of Jim Gaffigan, explaining how he got his start. Or spend a whole day studying George Carlin’s concert tapes and going through his papers. (His daughter, Kelly, donated her father’s complete archives to the Center).
Interact With Comedians
The Stand Up Lounge projects routines based on the type of comedy that everyone who has “tapped in” has in common. In other exhibits, you can manipulate a “Late Night” camera, find out how your favorite comedians are “related” on the Comedy Continuum, manipulate props used in comedy bits, create cartoons, match sound effects to movie clips, make your own social media meme, practice your acting chops in front of a green screen, and engage in a “Laugh Battle” with friends.
For shock value, head to the basement – the Blue Room – where boundary-pushers abound. A recorded George Carlin greets visitors with “the seven words you can’t say on TV.” Lenny Bruce trench coat is on display, along with a slew of his notes and photos.
Also, discover the bawdy woman before her time, Rusty Warren, who shocked the public in 1960 with her “Knockers Up” album and routine. (Some say Warren was the inspiration for The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel – and her “Tits Up” mantra). Plan to spend at least 4 hours at the Center. For comedy lovers, there’s nothing better.
VISIT: Lucy-Desi Museum and Desilu Studios
Lucille Ball, the groundbreaking Queen of Comedy, was spirited from the get-go. Discover her tragic upbringing and later triumphs in these two museums, located side by side. There are poignant videos of family members, lots of costumes worn by the couple of comedy, and in the Studio portion of the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz museum, there are the Ricardo’s New York and Los Angeles apartment sets.
Lucille Ball’s Childhood
Ball was born in Jamestown in on August 6, 1911. At age 3, after her 27-year-old father died of typhoid, she moved to the nearby town of Celoron NY to live with her grandparents. A handful and a beauty, Ball took off for New York City at age 15 to pursue a modeling and drama career. It did not go well. She returned to upstate NY after three months.
But in 1928, Ball’s grandfather was involved in an accidental shooting death (he allowed a minor to use his gun). Ball returned to Manhattan to make money and “bring the family together.” This time, she succeeded. By the ’30’s Lucy was bound for Hollywood.
Lucy and Desi
In 1939, Cuban heartthrob, Desi Arnaz (whose wealthy family had fled from Cuba to Miami after the 1933 Revolution) came to L.A. to film Too Many Girls – starring, as it turns out, Lucille Ball. They met cute on an RKO Soundstage, and eloped in 1940.
I Love Lucy
Ball was starring in a radio program for CBS when the network asked her to develop a program for television. She insisted on working and acting with her husband, Desi, but CBS declined, asserting that the public wasn’t ready for an all-American woman married to a Hispanic man on TV.
So Ball and Arnaz established their own studio – Desilu Productions, and had complete control over their work. The girl-clown and the fall-guy husband with the funny accent worked so well, the TV show became an instant hit.
I Love Lucy debuted on Oct. 15, 1951 and ran until 1957. It was replete with “firsts:” The first time a show was shot on film in front of a live audience. The first time a pregnant woman was shown on TV (although the word “pregnant” was off limits, which led to Desi’s famous “ ‘spectin”).
Though they divorced in 1960, Lucy and Desi remained friends until his death in 1986. She passed away in 1989. Open year round Mon-Sat 10-5, Sun 11-5, $16 for both museums – includes audio-tour of Desilu Studios.
GO: Lucille Ball Gravesite, Lakeview Cemetery
Pay respects to Lucille Ball in her family plot. In 2003, her cremated ashes were removed from a Hollywood cemetery and moved here – without Desi. To find her grave, just follow the I Love Lucy hearts on the cemetery road.
PHOTO OPS: Jamestown Lucy Murals
Drive around town and look for the Lucy Murals: renderings of Lucille Ball at various times of her life.
MORE PHOTO OPS: Lucy Statues, Celoron NY
This was Lucille Ball’s “second hometown” – just 3 miles from Jamestown. Her grandfather’s house at 59 Lucy Lane, where she moved to as a toddler, is in private hands and not open to the public, but has become a touchstone for many.
More well-known are the two statues at Lucy Memorial Park. A sickly grinning Scary Lucy, erected in 2009 looked nothing like her and caused such an outcry that in 2016, Lovely Lucy was added in the Park. Both still stand today.
GO: The Northwest Arena
The Northwest Arena is a year-round, multi-purpose venue that goes beyond traditional ice sports like hockey and figure skating. One of its standout features is ice bumper cars, which offer a fun twist on the usual rink activities. Located in the heart of downtown Jamestown, the arena is equipped with two NHL-size ice rinks, a concessions area, and meeting spaces, making it versatile enough to host concerts, trade shows, and other community events in addition to its regular sports programming.
DO: Jamestown Riverwalk
The Jamestown Riverwalk stretches approximately 5 miles and often starts at McCrea Point Park, providing pedestrians and cyclists a scenic route along the Chadakoin River that connects various parts of the city. Alternatively, you can access the riverwalk through a gate behind the National Comedy Center.
The riverwalk connects the Jackson-Taylor (Chadakoin) Park, Comedy Center Park, McCrea Point Park and Boat Launch, and JTNY Power House Skatepark.
VISIT: The Robert H. Jackson Center
The Robert H. Jackson Center is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the late Supreme Court Justice and Nuremberg prosecutor through educational programs, exhibits, and public events that promote the principles of justice and the rule of law.
SEE: The Reg Lenna Center for the Arts
The Reg Lenna Center for the Arts serves as a cornerstone of cultural and artistic expression in in the heart of downtown Jamestown. The center occupies a historic 1923 theater that has been meticulously restored to preserve its architectural grandeur. It now functions as a multi-facility complex comprising a 1,165-seat theater and multi-purpose spaces that host a range of events.
The theater is renowned for its diverse programming, which includes live performances, film screenings, and community events that span multiple genres, from classical music to contemporary dance and independent cinema.
SHOP: Biodome Project
This Etsy-made-manifest has popped up next door to The Sprinkle Cone (see below). Along with crafts made by locals, you’ll also find organic produce.
DO: Chautauqua Institution, Chautauqua (20-minute drive from Jamestown)
This 9-week-long summer learning/recreational village is a multi-faith lakefront resort, with fine and performing arts, classical and rock concerts, lectures by stellar politicians, scientists, academics, religious figures, and visionaries, movies, golf (two 18-hole courses), sailing, tennis, fitness centers, two beaches, and so much more. For that reason, we’ve covered it at length in this post.
GO: Lily Dale Assembly, Lily Dale NY
It’s sort of like Chautauqua Institute, but for Mediums – as the World’s Largest Center for Spiritualism. Lily Dale offers plenty of programs and workshops (one on how to bend spoons). Classes, a “fairy trail,” and the famous “Inspiration Stump” will keep you plenty busy. If you don’t want to stay, and would just like a “reading” – you can sign up for that as well.
GO: Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History
The Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History, located on the outskirts of Jamestown, is a tribute to the life and work of the renowned naturalist and artist Roger Tory Peterson. The institute serves as both a museum and a research facility, focusing on the conservation of natural resources and the promotion of biodiversity.
Visitors are treated to a range of educational exhibits that include Peterson’s original art, photographs, and field guides, as well as displays of regional flora and fauna. The institute also has a robust program of events, workshops, and educational initiatives aimed at fostering a love for the natural world and inspiring active stewardship of the environment. With its lush, surrounding grounds that feature walking trails and native plant educational gardens, the institute offers a holistic experience that combines learning with direct engagement with nature.
GO: Audubon Community Nature Center
Located just outside Jamestown NY, the Audubon Community Nature Center offers a sanctuary of natural beauty and environmental education. Spanning over 600 acres, this expansive nature center features a variety of habitats, from wetlands to forests, that are home to diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore multiple miles of well-maintained trails suitable for hiking, bird-watching, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk. The center also houses an educational facility complete with interactive exhibits, a natural history library, and a variety of live animals.
Restaurants in Jamestown NY
EAT: Labyrinth Press
This sub-street vegetarian eatery is amazingly good. Since its inception, it’s become a full-service restaurant offering a huge outdoor patio/parklet. Plus, Labyrinth has integrated the lounge more fully into the business.
This eatery draws all those who appreciate fresh-brewed ice teas, salads, sandwiches, and Signatures like the Beer and Cheese Soup, made with IPA, a variety of cheeses, potatoes, carrots, onions, Dijon Mustard and Frank’s Hot Sauce.
PUB: Pearl City Hops
Pearl City Hops is a gastro pub located in downtown Jamestown, New York, offering a combination of craft beers and innovative cuisine. Situated within the Doubletree Hotel, the eatery has become a local favorite for its diverse menu that ranges from classic pub fare to more refined culinary creations. With its modern, urban-inspired decor and expansive selection of both local and international brews, Pearl City Hops provides a lively setting where visitors can enjoy a casual meal, watch a game on large-screen TVs, or unwind after a day of exploring the city.
ICE CREAM: The Sprinkle Cone
Owners of the ice-cream establishment, The Sprinkle Cone, have glammed up the plain ole waffle cone by embedding it with rainbow-colored sprinkles. But that’s not where the goodness ends. The locally made Addie’s Ice Cream sold here is the stuff summer memories are made of.
EAT: Locals recommend
Head to Landmark Restaurant for great comfort food or the Chop House on Main for steaks and great service.
Jamestown NY Hotels
STAY IN TOWN: The DoubleTree Hotel
The DoubleTree Hotel offers a blend of modern amenities and warm hospitality, conveniently situated in the city’s downtown area, and just two blocks from the Comedy Center. With its recognizable brand signature of offering a chocolate chip cookie upon check-in, the hotel aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for both leisure and business travelers.
Guests have access to an array of facilities such as a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, the in-house bar/restaurant. The hotel’s well-appointed rooms, free Wi-Fi, and customer-focused services collectively contribute to a comfortable and convenient stay.
STAY NEARBY: The Chautauqua Lake Harbor Hotel
The Chautauqua Lake Harbor Hotel offers an upscale lakeside experience just a 5-minute drive from Jamestown. The hotel boasts both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, allowing guests to take a refreshing dip no matter the season. Adding to its allure is the Carousel Bar & Restaurant, where guests can enjoy local brews and artisanal pizza with sunset views of Chautauqua Lake. And its Lakehouse Tap & Grill is where to go for sophisticated cocktails and fine dining experience.
Conveniently situated next to the Lucille Ball Memorial Park, the hotel offers a prime location for fans of the iconic actress or those simply looking to enjoy the park’s recreational amenities which includes a kayak launch site. With its elegant rooms featuring lake views, an on-site marina, fire pit areas, and a fitness center, the Chautauqua Lake Harbor Hotel presents a blend of luxury and natural beauty, making it a sought-after destination for romantic retreats.
More Romantic Getaways In Upstate New York
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