Jamestown was the birthplace of iconic comedian and TV star Lucille Ball, who grew up in nearby Celoron. After stints as a fashion model, stage actress and star of Hollywood B movies, Ball gained worldwide fame starring with her Cuban bandleader husband Desi Arnaz in the landmark sitcom “I Love Lucy.” The Lucy-Desi Museum and Desilu Studios pay tribute to this gifted redhead. Ball's comedic legacy also is remembered at Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in early August.
Jamestown also is the birthplace of Roger Tory Peterson, an American author, naturalist and creator of the first nature history field guide. More can be learned of Peterson's contributions at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History .
Old-fashioned family fun can be found at Midway State Park, at 4859 SR 430 in nearby Maple Springs. Highlights include picnic areas and several amusement rides, including bumper boats and go-karts; phone (716) 386-3165.
Visitor Centers
Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce 512 Falconer St. Jamestown, NY 14701. Phone:(716)484-1101
Self-guiding Tours
Jamestown is the site of many 19th-century commercial and industrial buildings, churches and private houses. Brochures detailing self-guiding walking tours are available from the Fenton History Center Museum & Research Center.
Shopping
Chautauqua Mall, 3 miles west on SR 394, includes JCPenney among its 60 stores.