Chautauqua County sits between Lake Erie to the north and the Allegheny Mountains to the south. It marks the beginning of the Alleghenys. Thus the climate is affected by both geographical factors, the summer is cooled by breezes from both Lake Erie and the mountains., making it very moderate. Each season is unique in Chautuaqua County. The fall months are generally mild in climate, and marked by colorful fall foliage to rival anything in New England.
Winter brings a good deal of snow and thus the county becomes a center for skiing and winter sports.
Spring is the least popular of the seasons as the ice on lakes Erie and Chautauqua prevent the warmth from arriving too soon. The region is most noted for its whites. Local wineries are happy to provide tastings year round.