An Enlighted Vacation

Where can you listen to industry experts speak during the day and then see amazing concerts at night? The same place where you can take classes, listen to religious leaders, go golfing, see a ballet and a play, view stunning art, and so much more all in one vacation. Stay a week with us this summer and we promise it will be unlike any experience you’ve ever had.

2025 Summer Season Schedule

Week 1: June 21–June 28
Themes of Transformation: Forces Shaping Our Tomorrow
Week 2: June 28–July 5
Comedy Now: A Week Curated With Lewis Black
Week 3: July 5-July 12
Art in Action: Building Community Through the Arts
Week 4: July 12-July 19
The Future of the American Experiment
Week 5: July 19-July 26
Innovation in Capitalism: How to Meet 21st-Century Challenges
Week 6: July 26–August 2
The Global Rise of Authoritarianism
Week 7: August 2-August 9
Kwame Alexander and Friends
Week 8: August 9-August 16
The Middle East: The Gulf States’ Emerging Influence
Week 9: August 16-August 24
Themes of Transformation: Forces Shaping Our Tomorrow

What is the Chautauqua Institution?

Chautauqua Institution is a summer continuous learning community located on Chautauqua Lake in Chautauqua, NY. Whether you are an avid reader, a concert lover, an adventurer, an artist, or an intellectual there is something for you at Chautauqua Institution.
Each week of the 9-week summer schedule has a theme. All of the programming for that week is based on that theme. After a week here you will be an expert on a new and interesting topic.

Why Stay at The Spencer?

The Spencer Hotel is located right in the heart of Chautauqua Institution. We are steps away from The Amphitheater. Don’t feel like going into the Amphitheater but want to listen to the speaker? You can see and hear everything from our porches.
Summers in Chautauqua, NY get warm. The Spencer is the only hotel in Chautauqua Institution with central air and other modern amenities to keep you comfortable.
We’re only a block away from Chautauqua Lake.
A hot daily breakfast is included in your weekly room rate.
The Spencer Hotel offers a cozy, yet elegant bed and breakfast feel to enhance your vacation experience