Spencer Hotel Spa Chautauqua

Lillian was the warmest, kindest, and most helpful staff member, always there and somehow knowing everyone's name. The location was also a big part of our rating: after the wonderful evening performances at the Amphatheater, we could be back in our room within minutes. The bedroom photos made the room look bigger than it was, and the thin walls let us hear conversations and snoring. The furniture was very old fashioned and small, not suitable for tall people. We spent little time there and got up early to get the best shower pressure. It was good exercise to climb four flights of stairs, though there's a very old elevator if you wait. The dinners promised for ninth week couldn't be served because of staff shortages.

The rooms were lovely and book-inspired, in a very old original building within the beautiful chautauqua institution. Getting in was difficult, and there were only two parking spots, so no parking was available. It doesn't seem accessible for people with disabilities.

Room sizes vary drastically. You might get a sardine-sized box or a decent but overpriced room of normal hotel size. They cut corners on staffing and basic hotel etiquette. Staff entered rooms without permission and didn't knock first. I wouldn't be surprised if someone staged something to make you pay more or even stole from you. They also don't have staff dedicated to particular jobs, so everything is only half decent. It's a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none kind of situation. Something also seems to be going on in the background with the staff, and I recommend they review their state's employment and hotel laws. With so little privacy, I'd bring a small safe for valuables. The hotel should invest in the usual door hangers so staff can tell when a room is vacant and ready to be managed. They also need to make sure a room is in good condition before assigning it to a guest. Since this is a hotel in NY, they are breaking the laws in the Safe Hotel Act, estimated May 3, 2025. Review those laws and improve the services you offer to the people keeping your hotel open. You're nothing without the people.

The family running the Spencer Hotel are extremely welcoming and friendly, and the homemade breakfast each morning was delicious, a perfect way to start the day. We had a wonderful stay over valentines day weekend. I love the idea of uniquely decorated rooms, each with its own charm. I highly recommend staying here.