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As the weather gets warmer and travel restrictions ease, more people are looking for activities that are not only fun and interesting but also safe. The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau helps locals and visitors alike take advantage of the opportunities and adventures in Western Massachusetts. We live and work here, giving us the inside scoop on the best things to do in Northampton and the surrounding area.
Arts, Culture, & Entertainment
Local galleries, gardens, and museums abound throughout the region, offering the chance to step back in time or enjoy contemporary works of art. Intimate area museums allow you to glimpse the lives of some of our country’s most iconic artists. Be the first to see the latest works in art glass, ceramics, decorative fibers, furniture, paintings, woodworking, wearable art from the top artisans in the galleries and arts festivals in the area.
If live music is your passion, Northampton has a plethora of options for theaters and music venues. Calvin Theatre is a great place to attend a show of your favorite artist, and the multitude of different genres make it great no matter what type of music you are into.
Family Fun
Stunning colors and sweeping tree-lined lawns invite you to drift along the footpaths of some of the most outstanding displays of native New England flora and rare blooms. Explore ornamental structures, wildlife gardens, and greenhouses with displays of orchids, camellias, exotic house plants, and herbs.
Shopping & Dining
There’s a bit of everything in the Pioneer Valley, from premium outlets to unique shops. Whether you’re in the market for vintage finds, top brands, or one-of-a-kind gifts, you can find it here. Antique stores and craft boutiques are perfect for an afternoon of exploring. Take a lesson or pick your favorite fibers to create your own unique crafts with knitting, weaving, spinning, and crochet supplies. Also, be sure to stop by Thornes Marketplace which has the feel of a contemporary bazaar. The independent store owners provide unique merchandise while you browse around under its green awning.
Top restaurants in Northampton include a broad range of eateries, from farm-to-table to ethnic and traditional American. Choose sophisticated or casual, drive-up, or eat in for award-winning homemade breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The craft beer scene is booming. Whether you like IPAs, ales, or lagers, the local breweries along the beer trail, taprooms, and beer gardens are a perfect place to relax after a long day.
There’s a wide variety of fun activities in Northampton waiting for you this summer. Contact Explore Western Mass to learn more about the best activities in the Pioneer Valley.
Featured Image: Prostock-studio/Shutterstock
