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.
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We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
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Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
6 days
5 nights
15 meals
5B 5L 5D
1
Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Chautauqua, NY
2
Morning Discourse & Discussion, Electives, Entertainment
Chautauqua, NY
3
Morning Discourse & Discussion, Electives, Entertainment
Chautauqua, NY
4
Morning Discourse & Discussion, Electives, Entertainment
Chautauqua, NY
5
Morning Discourse & Discussion, Electives, Entertainment
Chautauqua, NY
6
Wrap-up Sessions, Program Concludes
Chautauqua, NY
At a Glance
Since it began as an educational experiment in 1874, Chautauqua Institution has grown into a center for lifelong learners. Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Chautauqua in western New York, the Chautauqua Institution is known for its bustling summer season. This unique Chautauqua experience takes place in “off-season” of fall and spring, and it lets you and your fellow Road Scholars get the grounds mostly to yourself. Enjoy exclusive Road Scholar courses while staying on the institution’s peaceful, scenic grounds. During your stay, explore exciting themes such as art, music, literature, science, politics, religion and more. Get ready for the educational opportunity of a lifetime!
Activity Level
Easy Going
Minimal walking through hotel and to meals. Shuttle service to classes and entertainment.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Participate in a variety of stimulating classes and lively lectures with distinguished experts.
- Pick from a range of afternoon activities like nature walks, yoga or a discussion with a political analyst or scientist.
- Relish in evening entertainment such as jazz and classical performances, improv comedy, a cappella choirs and more!
General Notes
Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available. Airport transfer at added cost.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Kaye Lindauer
Kaye has studied and taught psychology, literature and theology over the past 45 years. She focuses on combining these disciplines in order to bring new dimensions of understanding to the world's great stories (mythology, fairy tales, bible stories). For more than 30 years, Kaye Lindauer taught graduate and adult education courses in storytelling and literature at Syracuse University. Kaye continues to conduct weekend retreats for adults in storytelling and personal development, freelance storytelling, conference speaking and instructing for adult education programs.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Kaye Lindauer
View biography
Kaye has studied and taught psychology, literature and theology over the past 45 years. She focuses on combining these disciplines in order to bring new dimensions of understanding to the world's great stories (mythology, fairy tales, bible stories). For more than 30 years, Kaye Lindauer taught graduate and adult education courses in storytelling and literature at Syracuse University. Kaye continues to conduct weekend retreats for adults in storytelling and personal development, freelance storytelling, conference speaking and instructing for adult education programs.
Molly Williamson
View biography
Molly Williamson, a retired Foreign Service officer who served six U.S. presidents, was the Senior Foreign Policy Advisor to the Secretary of Energy and interim ambassador to Bahrain. She was also Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce responsible for the Middle East, South Asia, Oceania, and Africa, and served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense responsible for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Molly is a board member of the American Foreign Service Association and American Academy of Diplomacy.
Greg Ferro
View biography
Greg earned his doctorate at Pennsylvania State University. He was a nominee for best teacher in America by the Disney Corporation in 2002 and, in July 2009, he presented four lectures at Penn State on U.S. foreign policy. Greg has been interviewed numerous times on local radio and television, and authored an article published in Education Magazine. He has been teaching with Road Scholar at Chautauqua for many years, and remains one of our most popular lecturers.
Andrew Roth
View biography
As a scholar-in-residence at the Jefferson Educational Society (JES), Andrew Roth works with his colleagues to enhance the Jefferson Civic Leadership Academy by including an academically oriented research component to the program. He also works with independent colleges on strategic visioning, strategic planning and enrollment management. Previously he served as president of Notre Dame College, from 2003 until his retirement in June 2014, upon which he was awarded an honorary doctorate for his leadership and was named President-Emeritus.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Chautauqua, NY
Program Concludes
Chautauqua, NY
Meals
15
| 5B |
5L |
5D |
Activity Level
Since it began as an educational experiment in 1874, Chautauqua Institution has grown into a center for lifelong learners. Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Chautauqua in western New York, the Chautauqua Institution is known for its bustling summer season. This unique Chautauqua experience takes place in “off-season” of fall and spring, and it lets you and your fellow Road Scholars get the grounds mostly to yourself. Enjoy exclusive Road Scholar courses while staying on the institution’s peaceful, scenic grounds. During your stay, explore exciting themes such as art, music, literature, science, politics, religion and more. Get ready for the educational opportunity of a lifetime!)
Best of all, you'll...
- Participate in a variety of stimulating classes and lively lectures with distinguished experts.
- Pick from a range of afternoon activities like nature walks, yoga or a discussion with a political analyst or scientist.
- Relish in evening entertainment such as jazz and classical performances, improv comedy, a cappella choirs and more!
General Notes
Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available. Airport transfer at added cost.
Featured Expert
Kaye Lindauer
Kaye has studied and taught psychology, literature and theology over the past 45 years. She focuses on combining these disciplines in order to bring new dimensions of understanding to the world's great stories (mythology, fairy tales, bible stories). For more than 30 years, Kaye Lindauer taught graduate and adult education courses in storytelling and literature at Syracuse University. Kaye continues to conduct weekend retreats for adults in storytelling and personal development, freelance storytelling, conference speaking and instructing for adult education programs.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Molly Williamson
Molly Williamson, a retired Foreign Service officer who served six U.S. presidents, was the Senior Foreign Policy Advisor to the Secretary of Energy and interim ambassador to Bahrain. She was also Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce responsible for the Middle East, South Asia, Oceania, and Africa, and served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense responsible for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Molly is a board member of the American Foreign Service Association and American Academy of Diplomacy.
Greg Ferro
Greg earned his doctorate at Pennsylvania State University. He was a nominee for best teacher in America by the Disney Corporation in 2002 and, in July 2009, he presented four lectures at Penn State on U.S. foreign policy. Greg has been interviewed numerous times on local radio and television, and authored an article published in Education Magazine. He has been teaching with Road Scholar at Chautauqua for many years, and remains one of our most popular lecturers.
Andrew Roth
As a scholar-in-residence at the Jefferson Educational Society (JES), Andrew Roth works with his colleagues to enhance the Jefferson Civic Leadership Academy by including an academically oriented research component to the program. He also works with independent colleges on strategic visioning, strategic planning and enrollment management. Previously he served as president of Notre Dame College, from 2003 until his retirement in June 2014, upon which he was awarded an honorary doctorate for his leadership and was named President-Emeritus.
Activity Level
Easy Going
Minimal walking through hotel and to meals. Shuttle service to classes and entertainment.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Year
- 2025
Date
- May 18 - May 23
- Sep 07 - Sep 12
- Oct 12 - Oct 17
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Oct 12 - Oct 17, 2025 Itinerary Differences: Instructors and specific Topics for this date will not be available until February of 2025.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
- 2025
- May 18 - May 23
- Sep 07 - Sep 12
- Oct 12 - Oct 17
Oct 12 - Oct 17, 2025 Itinerary Differences: Instructors and specific Topics for this date will not be available until February of 2025.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
15 meals | 5B | 5L | 5D |
9 expert-led lectures
4 performances
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation
Location:
Chautauqua, NY
Meals:
D
Stay:
Athenaeum Hotel
Activity Note
Hotel check-in and Program Registration 3:00-5:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 3:00-5:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Welcome Reception: 5:00 p.m. We will gather in the hotel lobby lounge for complimentary soft drinks, canapés, and aperitifs (beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase). This will be an excellent opportunity to meet your fellow participants, and share stories of Road Scholar adventures past.
Dinner:
In the Athenaeum Hotel dining room.
Evening:
Orientation: Following a welcome to the entire group and staff introductions, we will divide into several small groups, when each Group Leader will greet everyone and lead group introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and requirements throughout the program. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Morning Discourse & Discussion, Electives, Entertainment
Location:
Chautauqua, NY
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Athenaeum Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off buses; riding on Chautauqua campus. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Morning class sessions will run from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. with a mid-morning break. We will have one instructor each morning on one of a variety of topics. These stimulating classes with intriguing speakers will be enlivened by post-session Q&A. Each group will rotate through all presentations during the program.
Lunch:
Hotel dining room.
Afternoon:
Electives. There will be several electives to choose from.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
A delightful feature of Chautauqua is entertainment each evening of the program, sometimes in the hotel parlor, sometimes at other venues on campus. Possibilities range from classical to jazz, recitals by young musicians building their careers, even play readings. Our program was planned far in advance when details were not available. When confirmed, the information will be posted on the Road Scholar website under this program number and will also be included in preparatory materials sent following enrollment.
Day
3
Morning Discourse & Discussion, Electives, Entertainment
Location:
Chautauqua, NY
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Athenaeum Hotel
Activity Note
Shuttles are available for those who wish to take them around the grounds. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Morning class sessions will run from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. with a mid-morning break. We will have one instructor each morning on one of a variety of topics. These stimulating classes with intriguing speakers will be enlivened by post-session Q&A. Each group will rotate through all presentations during the program.
Lunch:
In the hotel dining room.
Afternoon:
Electives. There will be several electives to choose from.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
Entertainment. Like the movement for which it is named, Chautauqua has always valued the arts and entertainment. Details will be published when confirmed.
Day
4
Morning Discourse & Discussion, Electives, Entertainment
Location:
Chautauqua, NY
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Athenaeum Hotel
Activity Note
Shuttles are available for those who wish to take them around the grounds. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Classes will continue at 9:00 a.m. as small groups rotate from one topic to another. During the break between morning classes, we will be able to order a box lunch for the end of the program.
Lunch:
In the hotel dining room.
Afternoon:
Electives. There will be several electives to choose from.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room.
Evening:
Entertainment. The amazing range of entertainers and artists who have performed at Chautauqua over the years are in keeping with its founding principles of teaching and elevating the whole person.
Day
5
Morning Discourse & Discussion, Electives, Entertainment
Location:
Chautauqua, NY
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Athenaeum Hotel
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
Classes will continue as small groups rotate from one topic to another. Each lecturer reserves time at the end of her/his presentation for questions and answers with members of the group, making for a lively interchange.
Lunch:
In the hotel dining room.
Afternoon:
Electives. There will be several electives to choose from.
Dinner:
In the hotel dining room. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
Enjoy a final evening of entertainment. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
Wrap-up Sessions, Program Concludes
Location:
Chautauqua, NY
Meals:
B,L
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 10:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
In the hotel dining room.
Morning:
We will complete our rotation of classes and topics, with a mid-morning break between sessions.
Lunch:
You may have your pre-ordered box lunch at the hotel or take away with you. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
15 Meals
5 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
- May 18, 2025 - May 23, 2025
- Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
- Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 51 Reviews
Sort By:
Great speakers, great location, great food, great people!
— Review left October 28, 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
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
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
An excellent opportunity to hear relevant and engaging lectures, meet interesting, new people in a beautiful environment!
— Review left May 25, 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
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
Easy to use.
— Review left September 19, 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
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
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 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
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
My first Road Scholar. From lectures to accommodations to camaraderie—worth every dollar. I will be returning.
— 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
It was wonderful to have a safe menu to get back out into the world again!
— Review left September 20, 2021
A very enlightening program in a very enchanting venue conducted by some very talented people.
— 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