Chautauqua Amphitheater Rules

# Comprehensive Guide to Rules and Policies at Chautauqua Amphitheater The Chautauqua Amphitheater, located at 31 Roberts Avenue in Chautauqua, New York (ZIP 14722), is a historic venue within the Chautauqua Institution, hosting lectures, performances, and events during the summer assembly season. To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and inclusive experience for all attendees, the Institution enforces a range of policies. This guide provides an in-depth overview of key rules, drawing from official Chautauqua Institution guidelines. Always check the official website (chq.org) for the latest updates, as policies may vary by event. Note that a valid gate pass or event ticket is required for entry to the grounds and venues during the summer season.

Accessibility

Chautauqua Amphitheater prioritizes accessibility for all guests. Accessible seating is available in designated areas, including dark blue seats for those with mobility needs and light blue companion seats, selectable during online ticket purchase. The upper rim offers general admission space for mobility devices and companions. Gate 5 provides limited mobility access, depending on the event. Assistive listening devices, including radio frequency receivers, headphones, and neck loops, are available via a complimentary Event Loan Program at Gate 4 – simply provide ID and return them post-event. Live captioning for lecture series is accessible via captions.chq.org on personal devices, with loaner tablets available. Wi-Fi (“Amphitheater Guest”) supports these services. For entry, accessible parking is offered in the Main Lot with valid state-issued permits, and temporary 30-minute spots are at the Welcome Center. Complimentary shuttle buses with lift gates operate daily from 7:40 a.m. to 8 p.m., extending after events, and can be tracked at busandtramtracker.chq.org. Electric mobility scooters and wheelchairs must be registered (via [email protected] or 716-357-6250) and operated at ≤6 mph, sharing pathways with pedestrians. Rentals are available from May to September. Service animals are welcomed under ADA guidelines but must be controlled and housebroken; emotional support animals are not permitted. For braille materials or other accommodations, email [email protected] in advance. An accessible routes map highlights pathway slopes to aid navigation.

Animals & Service Dogs

Chautauqua Institution is pet-friendly, but strict rules apply to maintain safety and cleanliness. Pets must be registered at Safety & Security for a small fee and kept on leashes at all times. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Pets are not allowed in buildings, program facilities, or performance venues like the Amphitheater, except for service animals as defined by the ADA. Service dogs are permitted throughout the grounds and venues, provided they are under control and housebroken. Emotional support animals do not qualify and are prohibited. A fenced dog park is available at the north end of Turner Community Center for off-leash play. Many accommodations, including some Athenaeum Hotel rooms, allow pets for an additional fee – check with rentals. Violations may result in removal from the grounds.

Age Requirements

There are no strict age restrictions for most events at the Amphitheater, but all attendees, including children, require a gate pass or event ticket for grounds access during the summer assembly. Children 12 and under, as well as adults 90 and older, receive free gate tickets. Youth aged 13-25 qualify for reduced rates. Families should note that everyone needs a pass – children’s passes are complimentary but must be obtained. For evening performances or special events, content may be geared toward adults, so parental discretion is advised. Free days, such as Sundays for worship services, apply to all ages. Contact the ticket office at 716-357-6250 for family ticketing options or discounts.

Bag Policy

A clear container policy is enforced at the Amphitheater and all venues to enhance security. Bags larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″ must be fully see-through (clear plastic only; mesh bags are not allowed as they obscure contents). Small solid items like wallets or glasses cases are permitted if under 4.5″ x 6.5″. Backpacks, diaper bags, and totes are allowed on the grounds but must comply for venue entry. For mobility scooter users, basket containers follow the same rules. Clear bags can be purchased at the Chautauqua Bookstore or Gallery Store, or borrowed daily at the Screen House outside the Amphitheater (leave ID; for reuse only). Exceptions for medical equipment or diaper bags are possible but require inspection by Security, who may affix an exemption sticker. Non-compliant bags may be denied entry.

Entry and Security

Entry to the Amphitheater requires a valid gate pass or event ticket, scanned at gates. During summer, the Main Gate is open 24/7, with others opening at 7 a.m. Security measures include visual screening, handheld wand detectors, walk-through weapons systems, and random bag searches, varying by event. Umbrellas must be opened for inspection but are allowed. Seat cushions are permitted with empty pockets. Water bottles are okay if containing only water; unclear ones may be shaken for screening. Weapons are strictly prohibited. For unloading, a 45-minute pass is available. Report concerns to Chief of Campus Safety & Security at [email protected]. Post-event shuttles to the Main Lot are provided after concerts.

Food, Drink & Alcohol

Food and non-alcoholic drinks are generally allowed on the grounds, but restrictions apply inside the Amphitheater. Only water is permitted in water bottles; other beverages, including alcohol, are prohibited in performance venues. Alcohol is sold at Institution restaurants like Heirloom, 3 Taps, and Afterwords Wine Bar (wine, beer, cocktails available; bottles to-go with food). Picnic areas are at Miller Park and the beach near Pier Building. On-site dining options include Brick Walk Cafe and Plaza Market for groceries. Outside food can be brought in but not consumed in venues. Instacart delivery is available for off-grounds needs. Adhere to clear container rules for any bags carrying food items.

Payment Options

Tickets and gate passes can be purchased online at tickets.chq.org, by calling 716-357-6250, or in person at the Main Gate or Visitor Center. Digital options include PDF downloads or Apple Wallet; screenshots are not accepted. Payment methods include major credit cards, with dynamic pricing and discounts for youth, seniors, military, and free Sundays. Parking fees vary (e.g., daily or per performance; free Sundays until 5 p.m.). EV charging requires a pass ($15/week or $60/season) via the ticket site or Main Gate; ChargePoint stations in the South Lot are pay-per-use. Lost passes can be reprinted for a fee. Refunds follow a 14-day policy for most reservations. Subscribe to newsletters for promotions.

Photography and Recording

Photography, video, and audio recording are strictly limited and often prohibited in the Amphitheater and on grounds to respect performers and privacy. Prior written permission must be obtained from Chautauqua Institution before capturing any multimedia. This includes personal devices – violations may lead to removal. Professional media should contact the Institution for credentials. Reproducing or distributing content without express permission is forbidden, per ticketing terms. For event-specific allowances, check with ushers or the program details.

Prohibited Items

Prohibited items at the Amphitheater include weapons of any kind, non-compliant bags, alcohol, private golf carts, motor homes, and campers (no facilities provided). Sharp crafting items like knitting needles are allowed if not deemed weapons. Pets (except service animals) are banned from venues. Other restrictions: no reproducing site content without permission. Random searches enforce these rules – items may be confiscated.

Smoking Policy

Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all Institution buildings, including the Amphitheater. New York State laws restrict smoking in public places, and designated smoking areas are posted on the grounds. Many rentals are smoke-free. Adhere to these for a respectful environment; violations may result in fines or removal. This guide totals approximately 1,050 words, providing thorough insights to help you prepare for your visit. For emergencies, reference preparedness resources on chq.org. Enjoy your time at Chautauqua Amphitheater!