New York
Chautauqua in Fall & Spring: An Exclusive Road Scholar Experience
Program No. 1713RJ
Founded in 1874, the Chautauqua Institution is an enduring celebration of art, history and culture. Join us for an enriching adventure of classes, lectures and expert-led excursions.
Participant Reviews
Based on 70 Reviews
SHOWING
Wonderful, I highly recommend it! Location is gorgeous, food good, speakers great!
— Review left January 27, 2026
This was a program I have wanted to experience for years, and it was all I hoped it would be. I was exposed to topics I would not have chosen for myself and was very appreciative of the experts who informed. The meals were exceptional and plentiful with many healthy options. The hotel was rather like a museum being nearly 150 years old. The hotel had a few quirks, but I understand there are extensive renovations planned for the very near future. The staff was very kind and helpful. The grounds are a delight. We loved it.
— Review left November 13, 2025
Loved loved loved this program to the degree I would like to return. Nice combo of high level lectures with the promised variation of literature, psychology, nature, etc. Wonderful selection of musical programs each evening.
— Review left November 11, 2025
Great program. Great venue. Wonderful camaraderie among attendees. Food excellent
— Review left October 20, 2025
We had a wonderful, memorable educational time at Chautauqua! No need to say more..
— Review left October 19, 2025
We always wanted to check out the Chautauqua Institution-- could not arrange a summer visit but went instead during October-- RS kept us busy all day for 5 days-- the lectures and programs were all fascinating-- the grounds and architecture delightful -- the hotel was charming-- just what we needed and wanted
— Review left October 17, 2025
This engaging program has something for everyone, including those who must use a walker.
— Review left September 21, 2025
Absolutely beautiful location; mild weather; better than most buffet meals; unique concerts; interesting topics but not up-to-date lectures. Participants well educated and interesting variety of conversations. I met so many extraordinary people! I’ve already signed up for two weeks this summer, and can’t wait!
— Review left September 21, 2025
Extremely informative program in an idyllic setting.
— Review left September 15, 2025
The fall experience is a time to expand your perspective, listen and learn, hear from others that you might not ordinarily encounter.
— Review left September 15, 2025
"Chautauqua in Spring and Fall" was a very pleasant way to spend a week in the historic Atheneaum Hotel at the actual institute of Chautauqua. We were a group of about 140 people and were divided into 4 groups and we rotated through speakers. The second week of September meant that there were some Autumn colors and the air was crisp and cool. All speakers were very enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Evening music presenters meant that participants had something fun to do at night. Food was plentiful (if not always hot) and there were many choices each meal so that I was able to choose foods that worked for me. The programs went smoothly and everything is a very close walk away--or in the same building. If you want fancy bathrooms, etc., this may not be the place for you. Also, there are no stores nearby so bring whatever you need with you. A car is helpful since the nearest town is 10 miles away. Some of the few local restaurants, etc., close up when the nine-week Summer season ends before Labor Day.
— Review left September 14, 2025
I was excited to be able to do a Road Scholar week and to experience staying in the Chautauqua community at the same time! Now I may come back to Chautauqua for the famous summer Experience!
— Review left September 13, 2025
As a first time, solo traveler I was delighted to find how easy it was to talk with everyone at the Chautauqua week. Tables for 8 at meals made it very easy to sit anywhere and join in the conversation. I was totally comfortable being a solo traveler during the whole week.
— Review left September 12, 2025
The educational level was more than anticipated. Great lectures, beautiful grounds, & so much history. All of Chautauqua's staff went above & beyond to be helpful & accommodating. Truly was easy going activity level & wheelchair accessible. I will be going back on another Chautauqua program in the future. I highly recommend this program and suggest getting the airport transfer with your room accommodation if flying into Buffalo. It's a lot cheaper than getting the transfer on your own.
— Review left June 28, 2025
Chautauqua is an interesting place. I'm glad I got to see it. As usual, Road Scholar did a good job of organizing and managing the trip. I wish I had gone in the fall since the May weather was cold and rainy.
— Review left June 27, 2025
This was an excellent program! It was in a beautiful and interesting location, it almost took you back in time to the first Chautauqua! Speakers and experience was very restful , informative and entertaining.
— Review left June 6, 2025
You will be glad you have joined this program. It is well worth it.
— Review left May 27, 2025
I love coming to the Atheneum Hotel. It is old and quirky but that is part of its charm. One comes for the lectures and they are always excellent. The music each evening is fun. The food is wonderful--their variety of pastries are made right there. The location on the Lake is perfect and the walks around are always enjoyable.
— Review left May 24, 2025
What a warm and wonderful retreat! I was cocooned in Chautauquan ambiance. There were interesting/interested individuals with whom I attended world-class lectures and engaged in profoundly thoughtful conversations. For me, Chautauqua’s warm embrace is a gift that lasts a lifetime.
— Review left November 8, 2024
Great speakers, great location, great food, great people!
— Review left October 28, 2024
This is an excellent program and I highly recommend it. RoadScholar did a wonderful job in picking the speakers who were uniformly excellent. Even the musical events were very entertaining. The hotel was old but comfortable and the food was good. Those with mobility issues were easily accommodated.
— Review left October 22, 2024
I enjoyed this program very much -- the lectures, the other participants, the afternoon activities, and the beauty of Chautauqua. What a wonderful week with some time to think and read and spend time with interesting fellow participants.
— Review left October 22, 2024
Loved the program and the beauty of the area but would have loved to have a reading list before the program which has been missing in the last few trips I have taken.
— Review left October 21, 2024
Sedentary people get up and go.For a physically inactive person, this program was splendid. I was a little worried about meeting new people but was soon comfortable since everyone was extremely friendly and gracious.
— Review left October 20, 2024
Attending Chautauqua had been on my “bucket list” for a good while. I had been on other programs withRoad Scholar.
The Fall Week was perfect…..everything I had hoped for. Loved the Hotel, the participants, our information
table Road Scholar volunteers. The best were the lectures each day given by knowledgeable speakers!
It will be a life long memory.
— Review left October 20, 2024
Excellent program! If you're looking for an educational experience that takes place in a beautiful place, offers thought-provoking and inspirational classes, challenges to one's opinions and attitudes related to significant historical events, and an escape from the sometimes overwhelming chatter of the media, this program is for you. The Chautauqua Institution is an almost overwhelmingly peaceful place. I think it would be difficult not to find spending time there allowing oneself to be exposed to a variety of topics and active conversations with fellow students to be other than a truly cathartic experience. I thought the mix of classroom, afternoon presentations and evening performances was about as good as it gets. Despite the large number of Road Scholar students (143), the program was well-organized; do not let the large number of participants discourage you from choosing the program. If anything, having a large group is this type of setting worked to make it all the more enjoyable and, for some, inspirational.
The Chautauqua Institution is an American gem that would be difficult to replicate elsewhere. So, for those regarding themselves as serious life-long learners, I would heartily recommend this program.
— Review left October 19, 2024
This program was fantastic!
— Review left October 7, 2024
Road Scholar helped me achieve a longstanding dream to visit Chautauqua Institution and to do it in the easiest, most affordable and pleasant way. Thank you!
— Review left September 23, 2024
A beautiful setting, diverse programs and entertainment, and opportunities to gather or read. We chose the fall for our engaging yet relaxing week at Chautauqua and I would definitely recommend the program.
— Review left September 22, 2024
great program for those of us elders who desire to continue to learn more about the world.
— Review left September 14, 2024
I had a great time in Chautauqua. I learned so much and the trip was filled with many pleasant surprises. I highly recommend this program.
— Review left September 14, 2024
A wonderful assortment of speakers, topics, in a stunningly beautiful setting by Lake Chautauqua. Excellent speakers, very helpful leaders. Great experience
— Review left July 6, 2024
One of the most thought provoking and cerebral weeks of my life. Lecturers delivered what sometimes can be controversial subjects without bias. The Road Scholars staff were highly capable, upbeat and were a huge factor in the success of this particular experience.
— Review left June 9, 2024
This program was awesome. The lecturers were terrific!!!!! I certainly learned a lot.
The hotel accommodations and meals were excellent. Hope to attend another Chautauqua in the fall.
— Review left May 26, 2024
With the overload of information available these days, spending 5 days listening and learning to well informed presentations on “hot button” topics was stimulating and fun. The inspiring tradition of the Chautauqua Institution and the beautiful setting were a perfect balance to the intensity of program content. Highly recommend this program!
— Review left May 25, 2024
Very poor use of sound by Kaye Lindauer. I left at intermission.
— Review left May 25, 2024
An excellent opportunity to hear relevant and engaging lectures, meet interesting, new people in a beautiful environment!
— Review left May 25, 2024
I am a woman in my 70's and this is the first trip I have made alone in a "group" setting. I was accommodated in in all of my needs, never felt intimidated or afraid and learned a TON of new stuff. This will not be my last adventure with Road Scholar.
— Review left October 15, 2023
This is an excellent program with knowledgeable and interesting speakers and great staff in a beautiful, unique, and historic setting. Excellent food. Physical activity choice at all levels from very limited mobility to walking/running in a beautiful lakeside community.
— Review left October 14, 2023
Chautauqua is an American jewel that has spawned many similar venues.
— Review left October 14, 2023
The quality of not only talking but careful listening is superior to other groups I know. It is possible to grow even by observing. I felt valued as a participant.
— Review left October 14, 2023
Fantastic Week at Lake Chautauqua
— Review left September 20, 2023
Wonderful location and programs. Leaders were on top of everything involved with the programs. Chautauqua has a unique history involving many Historic characters including Thomas Edison and his second wife.
— Review left September 14, 2023
Lovely place to be, great program diversity, very interesting participants, open and caring staff and presenters.
— Review left May 28, 2023
The combination of the arts (nature and museums) in both the lectures and in the excursions was an effective way to organize this Rhode Scholar program.
— Review left October 20, 2022
For a beautiful place to be where you can stay in one place and yet have the chance to be as active or relaxed as you want to be, this is a great opportunity.
— Review left October 17, 2022
I just completed the Fall 2022 Chautauqua Experience - and what a fantastic experience it was! The instructors were outstanding - simply superb! The food was fabulous, the people so warm and friendly, and the 'autumn in new york' setting was spectacular. It was a wonderful week all around - I would recommend it highly - loved every minute!
— Review left October 16, 2022
I had a marvelous experience with this program. The location was the star of the show and the programs or lectures were icing on the cake. The most pleasurable, enriching vacation I have ever taken
— Review left October 15, 2022
If you want to expand your mind there is no better venue than a trip with Road Scholar to Chautauqua Institute.
— Review left September 19, 2022
Easy to use.
— Review left September 19, 2022
I recommend this Chautauqua Roads Scholar for all who are curious and want to be mentally stimulated. The venue is great and all facets of Roads program were outstanding.
— Review left September 17, 2022
The Chautauqua Road Scholar program is especially suited for persons interested in life-long learning on a variety of topics.
— Review left September 17, 2022
The Road Scholar Chautauqua programs are an excellent way to experience Chautauqua with accommodations and meals provided and without the crowds that characterize the regular summer schedule.
— Review left May 31, 2022
This was an outstanding experience!!
— Review left May 25, 2022
My first Road Scholar. From lectures to accommodations to camaraderie—worth every dollar. I will be returning.
— Review left May 21, 2022
We would recommend the program at Chautauqua for the interesting speakers and the first-class accommodations at the Athenaeum Hote.
— Review left May 21, 2022
Nothing like a a substance-filled week in this Utopia of the Humanities with a bevy of smart and curious lifetime learners!
— Review left May 20, 2022
A week of great lectures and field trips, evening entertainment, staying in a Victorian hotel, good food and nice people. What more could you want?
— Review left December 9, 2021
If you have a desire to continue learning Road Scholar is a good place. Some of the presenters are out standing and know their subject well.
— Review left October 18, 2021
Fabulous experience at Chautauqua. The lecture, activities, surroundings and lodging were all superb.
— Review left October 17, 2021
A very enlightening program in a very enchanting venue conducted by some very talented people.
— Review left September 20, 2021
It was wonderful to have a safe menu to get back out into the world again!
— Review left September 20, 2021
The staff bends over backwards to accommodate participants of all physical abilities. This program provides a wonderful learning adventure for all life long learners.
— Review left September 19, 2021
If you love Nature and would like to stay in a lovely historic hotel with delicious food, go to Chautauqua.
— Review left October 24, 2019
It would be great to have bus transportation from the Hudson Valley area to Chautauqua.
— Review left October 21, 2019
I have always wanted to visit Chautauqua, and this program made it possible and affordable. Thank you so much!
— Review left June 12, 2019
An amazing program. I highly recommend it to all participants who want to continue to expand their horizon amongst those with similar desires.
— Review left June 2, 2019
The Spring Chautauqua was an excellent program to share with people who have similar interests and a commitment to lifelong learning. The Chautauqua hotel, instruction, entertainment, restaurant, personnel, and tours were excellent. Road Scholar did not disappoint me and I look forward to the next three trips that I have planned with RS.
— Review left June 2, 2019
The Chautauqua experience was well organized and very educational. The people were all welcoming.
— Review left May 21, 2019
The people and the place combined were enchanting -- I felt a sense of deep and vibrant energy that I carried with me as I left the grounds.
— Review left May 20, 2019