18 Things To Do In Jamestown, New York - Updated 2024

things to do in jamestown new york
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Jinky 
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Jamestown is a city in southern Chautauqua County, New York, in the United States, situated between Lake Erie to the northwest and the Allegheny National Forest to the south. It was known before as the “The Pearl City” because of the production of “pearl ash” which is one of the important components of manufacturing glass products. Jamestown was also known as the “Furniture Capital of the World” and people visiting from all over the country to attend furniture expositions at the Furniture Mart.

“What to do in Jamestown?” you ask, well the city supports a broad diversity of industry, modern commercial establishments, and financial institutions, and provides a myriad of cultural and recreational opportunities for its residents and guests. This small city can easily be traversed in less than 15 minutes east to west or north to south. Book one of the best Airbnbs in Jamestown and discover some fun things to do in Jamestown, New York.

1. Chautauqua Art Gallery

If you are looking to spend time admiring works of art in Jamestown, booking tickets for Chautauqua Art Gallery would be extremely fruitful. The gallery boasts original works of various artists, all having different art styles. For tourists, the gallery also features a gift shop featuring books, art prints, sculptures, and more from where they can buy souvenirs to take back home.

Chautauqua Art Gallery also holds events and classes for different tastes. These may include photography classes, jewelry-making, edible art displays, and sketching classes.

Chautauqua Art Gallery

Address: 318 N Main St, Jamestown, NY 14701, United States

Website: Chautauqua Art Gallery

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat - 10am - 2pm

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2. The Spire Theater of Jamestown

Posted by The Spire Theater on Monday, September 25, 2023

As a performing arts theater, The Spire Theater of Jamestown has been entertaining patrons since 1868. The establishment, despite being built so long ago, features modern equipment along with an old-world charm. Being located inside a former church, this property has beautiful vintage interiors, adding a unique charm to your viewing experience.

The theater also hosts parties and competitions for patrons from time to time. You can rent The Spire for church services and movie showings as well. Furthermore, Odyssey Hall can accommodate up to 120 guests, making it ideal for banquets, corporate events, and dinner parties.

The Spire Theater of Jamestown

Address: 317 E 3rd St, Jamestown, NY 14701, United States

Website: The Spire Theater of Jamestown

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3. Jamestown River Walk

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature and take a stroll along Jamestown River Walk, located by the bank of the beautiful Chadakoin River. Lovely and serene, the path is a great place to go for a relaxing walk, jog, or bike ride. You may even spot some wildlife during your stroll.

If you’re wondering what to do in Jamestown, NY, why not go for a walk in this park while you ponder. You may be surprised at what ideas come to mind if you subject yourself to such a serene environment!

Jamestown River Walk

Address: 203 W 2nd St, Jamestown, NY 14701, United State

Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)

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4. Below Haggy's Bar and Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Haggy's 4 Below Mug Club 2021 is here!! $40 per year and 50 members only. Daily drink specials, vip tastings, & much more! Stop on down to claim your mug today.

Posted by 4 Below Haggy's Bar and Grill on Tuesday, February 23, 2021

4 Below Haggy’s Bar and Grill offers an affordable and amazing dining experience through its delicious food and great ambiance. The menu includes soups, side dishes, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, and pasta. The bar, on the other hand, offers a selection of beer, mixed drinks, wine, and bar drafts.

True to its name, 4 Below Haggy’s Bar and Grill doesn’t charge anything above 4 USD, which makes this an affordable Jamestown, NY, attraction. Prices may be cheap but the restaurant spared no expense in making the food and drinks taste wonderful.

4 Below Haggy's Bar and Grill

Address: 104 E 2nd St, Jamestown, NY 14701, United States

Website: 4 Below Haggy’s Bar and Grill

Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 4pm - 11pm; Thu - Sat: 11am - 12am (closed on Sun)

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5. Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz are well known actors who performed comedy for decades. It was 1996 when this museum was established to preserve the legacy of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz with memorabilia on display, like awards they were both given, photographs of both their personal and TV lives, their famous clothing, and much more. Operation hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm.

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Address: 2 West 3rd Street, Jamestown, NY 14701

Website: Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

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6. Fenton History Center

Gov. Reuben Fenton Mansion Nov 10
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Pubdog used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Fenton History Center is a valuable cultural institution in the city of Jamestown, New York. It operates fully as a research center situated adjacent from the Fenton Mansion. They welcome guided tours and bus tours by appointment. Walk-in visitors are invited to take a self guided tour of the museum anytime. They also encourage to visit both the Museum and the Research Center. Operating hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

Fenton History Center

Address: 67 Washington Street, Jamestown, New York

Website: Fenton History Center

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7. Audubon Community Nature Center


The Audubon Community Nature Center is a wetland preserved sanctuary for animals and plants; they also have trails, a native tree arboretum, picnic areas, a natural play space, and educational gardens. They also have a three floored Nature Center that showcases interactive exhibits and live animals for guest to enjoy their visit. There is a schedule so you can check whatever plans or activities you want to join. The center is also open to rent for some fun filled family, friends or even school activities.

Audubon Community Nature Center

Address: 1600 Riverside Road, Jamestown, NY

Website: Audubon Community Nature Center

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8. Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


This institution showcases the nature study of Toger Tory Peterson. His observations recorded and published the incredible beauty and diversity of plants and animals from North America and around the world. The institution offers active projects, current exhibits, RTPI archives (his art, correspondence, film, libraries, study skins, and so much more), tropical research and conservatory and more through publishing books, blogs online and exhibits. They are open from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm to 5 pm. Closed every Monday and Holidays.

Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History

Address: 311 Curtis Street, Jamestown, NY

Website: Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History

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9. Northwest Arena

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Northwest Arena on Monday, October 7, 2019

Norhtwest Arena is a multi-purpose arena in Jamestown, NY which has been the home of two short-lived minor league hockey teams. It is also the home of the junior hockey and occasionally hosts training camp for the Erie Otters. It hosts local sporting events and major concerts including Kenny Rogers Christmas & Hits Tour, Clint Black, and Michael W. Smith to name a few.

Northwest Arena

Address: 319 West Third Street, Jamestown, NY

Website: Northwest Arena

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10. Allen Park

Ellsworth W. Allen Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Tdorante10 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

A fun thing to do in Jamestown is spending the day in Allen Park. Located in the heart of the city, the park and has a picnic pavilion, a kitchen, charcoal grills, playground equipment, soccer fields, youth baseball field, exercise course, sliding hill, a bandshell, basketball court & tennis. You and your family can even enjoy a band performs, normally every weekend. Open all year for the enjoyment of everyone.

Allen Park

Address: 31 Hughes St, Jamestown, NY 14701, USA

Website: Allen Park

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11. Robert H. Jackson Center

RHJC Center with Jackson statue
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user R.H.J.C. Jamestown used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Robert H. Jackson Center is a historical center located in Jamestown, New York. It was built to honor the life and legacy of Robert H. Jackson and aims to “advance public awareness and appreciation of the principles of justice and the rule of law”. The center has many programs with subject matter regarding equality, fairness and justice. The center is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm; Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.

Robert H. Jackson Center

Address: 305 East Fourth Street, Jamestown, NY

Website: Robert H. Jackson Center

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12. Reg Lenna Center for the Arts

RegLennaCFAseating
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Reg Lenna Center ... used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Reg Lenna Center for the Arts is an arts and cultural center that showcases a wide variety of events including live concerts, movies, ballet, orchestras, gallery shows and more. It is a 60 seat studio theater that includes a 1,165 seat historic theater, an Art gallery and an FM low power community radio station.

Reg Lenna Center for the Arts

Address: 116 East Third Street, Jamestown, NY

Website: Reg Lenna Center for the Arts

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13. Lucile M Wright Air Museum

Lucile M Wright Air Museum
Source: Photo by user Bon Echo used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Lucille M Wright Air Museum is registered for non profit corporation. It is a youth-oriented, hands on educational center using aviation to motivate student interest in their studies using mathematics and science to create, discover and explore air and space. There are lots of programs in this museum, like virtual flight in simulators; planetarium and Mars Yard with web-controlled rover; And the online observatory is available for the general public, school groups, and other groups.

They have scholarships for those interested in learning to fly and being a professional pilot. The Lucille M Wright Air Museum opens from Tuesday to Saturday from 11 am to 2 pm. Admission will be free but donations are encouraged. With that, you can add this to the list of free things to do in Jamestown, NY.

Lucile M Wright Air Museum

Address: 300 North Main Street, Jamestown, NY

Website: Lucile M Wright Air Museum

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14. Lucille Ball Little Theater (from USD 23.0)

Lucille Ball Little Theater is a Jamestown attraction and performing arts theater that showcases entertainment, arts, culture, and educates viewers with the way they present their stories. There are always shows being held in this theater and if you are interested to watch, you have to book or purchase tickets as early as possible. Some musical Broadway shows are held here, such as CATS in past years.

Lucille Ball Little Theater

Address: 18 E. Second Street, Jamestown, NY

Website: Lucille Ball Little Theater

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Jamestown Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum Admission in New York

Duration: 1 to 2 hours

109 reviews

15. National Comedy Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Here at National Comedy Center, you will witness exhibits that show the captivating history of comedy. The museum will tell you how the form of entertainment essentially became an art. See the iconic people who have helped shape the world of comedy and how they influenced the past generations. You can watch different humorous videos and performances that will surely pique your interest. Learn all about the art of comedy and have a laugh.

National Comedy Center

Address: 203 W 2nd St, Jamestown, NY 14701, United States

Website: National Comedy Center

Opening hours: Sun - Mon, Thu - Sat: 10am - 5pm (Closed on Tue & Wed)

Price: 25.50 USD

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16. Enchanted Mountain Spirits

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Enchanted Mountain Spirits is a distillery that crafts its own delicious spirits for customers to enjoy. They offer different unique blends such as Knockboy Poteen, Knockboy Vodka, and O'Connor’s Mamma Juana. With only 90 to 100 bottles produced per batch, there is no doubt that all of their spirits are indeed handmade. Their beverages are delicious on their own but they also go well with other ingredients, so grab your shaker at home and create your own refreshing cocktails. If you are not sure what to add, you can always ask their knowledgeable staff when you do visit.

Enchanted Mountain Spirits

Address: Jamestown, New York 14701, United States

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17. Shawbucks

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Whether you’re looking for a great dinner place or some late night fun, Shawbucks is definitely worth checking out. Enjoy a delicious steak and pair it with a glass of wine for a real luxurious experience. Craving for a bit of entertainment? This establishment also has live performers to make your dining moments more memorable. After dinner, you can even go for a craft beer. Head over to Shawbucks after a long day and just unwind, and if you need anything else, just let the friendly and knowledgeable staff know.

Shawbucks

Address: 212 W 2nd St, Jamestown, NY 14701, United States

Website: Shawbucks

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 4pm - 12am; Fri: 9pm - 2am; Sat: 4pm - 2am (closed on Sun & Mon)

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18. Jamestown Public Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Apples, and pears, and plums, OH MY! We are feeling fruity today! Stop down to @jamestownpublicmarket from 10am-2pm for some local fruit. @ Jamestown Public Market

Posted by Jamestown Public Market on Saturday, August 15, 2020

Jamestown Public Market is a place to go if you want to experience a one-of-a-kind market day. It’s been operating for over 100 years in the Jamestown area, and you can purchase local products as well as fresh goods of premium quality. Do note that the farmer’s market is only open on Saturdays between June-October.

Apart from the farmer’s market, Jamestown Public Market also holds activities and events to help the local community. You can check out their website for the latest updates on those events!

Jamestown Public Market

Address: 17 W 3rd St, Jamestown, NY 14701, United States

Website: Jamestown Public Market

Opening hours: June-October Sat: 10am - 2pm (closed on Sun - Fri)

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Balancing community living

Downtown Jamestown
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Vasiliymeshko used under CC BY-SA 4.0

What is there to do in Jamestown, New York? The answer is plenty since Jamestown offers all the advantages of city living combined with the beauty and recreational opportunities. There are plenty of Jamestown activities for visitors to enjoy. The water sports on Chautauqua Lake, shops, dining, along with a variety of theaters, bars, and other attractions bring vibrancy to the city’s architecturally rich urban core. Visit and discover what this impressive town has to offer.

Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Jamestown, New York


  • What are the top attractions to visit in Jamestown?

    Make sure to drop by Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, Fenton History Center, Jamestown Audubon Center & Sanctuary, and Lucille Ball Little Theater while on vacation in Jamestown, as they are some of the top attractions to visit there.

  • What is the best outdoor activity in Jamestown?

    If you enjoy outdoor activities, then you should definitely visit Jamestown Audubon Center & Sanctuary. This preserved wetland sanctuary has a lot to offer from trails to educational gardens, and you’ll surely appreciate their picnic areas and natural play space too.

  • What are the most popular things to do with kids and family in Jamestown?

    Enjoy a family day with your kids and have a whale of a time visiting Jamestown Audubon Center & Sanctuary or Reg Lenna Center for the Arts where children can watch fun shows. Lucile M Wright Air Museum also offers cool hands-on activities that your little ones will definitely enjoy.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Mabuhay! Welcome to my page. My name is Jinky, from a country of 7,107 Islands, The Philippines! I started writing when I started exploring places and countries. I've traveled to the Philippines...Read more

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