html dir="ltr" lang="en-US" prefix="og: https://ogp.me/ns#" > Things to Do in Amherst, MA | Explore Western Mass

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Amherst is the thriving heart of Western Massachusetts and offers visitors access to amazing activities such as:

  • Learning opportunities in the National Yiddish Book Center or The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
  • Opportunities for both fine dining and simple local flavors via Johnny’s Tavern and the Atkins Farms Country Market

Western Massachusetts is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for families across the United States. The combination of lush, beautiful landscapes, wonderful weather, and a huge selection of attractions creates a vacation destination like no other in this corner of the country. While the natural beauty of Western Massachusetts can’t be overlooked, there are a wide number of things to do in Amherst that’ll keep the whole family entertained. 

Top Things to Do in Amherst

While the options for daytime activities and nightlife alike are nearly endless, some of the most popular destinations in the Amherst area include:

Johnny’s Tavern

Nestled into the heart of the Amherst community, Johnny’s Tavern is one of the top restaurants in Amherst. It provides locals and visitors alike a chance to experience delicious cuisine and a comfortable, friendly ambiance. This restaurant’s menu features everything from delicious poke bowls, rich soups, and succulent salads to hearty steaks, duck breast, fresh seafood, and everything between, so you’ll know there’s always a perfect dish for everyone in your group. Johnny’s Tavern uses sustainable, organic produce and seafood and hormone-free meat and poultry to provide a superior dining experience.

National Yiddish Book Center

If you’re interested in embracing the culture and learning more about Jewish cultural heritage, then the National Yiddish Book Center is a perfect stop for your trip to Amherst. This free-to-visit destination is one of the largest Jewish cultural organizations in the country. It is dedicated to rescuing and preserving Yiddish books and investigating and celebrating the culture they have to share. The organization offers access to a wide range of events to make this knowledge accessible and fun for every visitor, including:

  • Tours
  • Sunday films
  • Lectures
  • Performances
  • Exhibits
  • Concerts
  • English language bookstore
  • Summer Arts Festival

Each of these events has something new and exciting to offer regarding cultural understanding, making this one of Amherst’s most remarkable locations.

Atkins Farms Country Market

If you’re looking to sample the natural flavors of Western Massachusetts, then the Atkins Farms Country Market is a must-visit during your stay in the Amherst area. This market is the perfect place to sample homemade ice cream as well as homegrown peaches and apples that western Mass is known for. If you’re looking for something more filling during a long day of exploring the countryside, grab a sandwich at the market deli featuring freshly baked bread, or enjoy one of the market’s signature apple cider donuts. View the panels set up for the farm’s solar project, buy flowers or gift baskets, or simply enjoy classic, friendly customer service. The options are nearly endless, making this market one of the best things to do in Amherst.

The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art

For many, the love of books and reading started with their introduction to picture books as children. The appreciation for picture book art and the long-time love of books they can inspire is the main focus of the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art. From familiar local picture books to more cultural works from around the world, this museum is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and appreciation of picture book art of all varieties. These include The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Brown Bear from Carle. Enjoy author and artist talks, children’s programs, exhibitions, and much, much more when you add this stop to your vacation destination list. Be sure to check out the hands-on Art Space where visitors can create their own works of art. 

Learn More

While these Amherst activities are among the most popular in the area, they are by no means the only options for those looking for places to visit in the area. To learn more about things to do in Amherst or begin planning your trip to Western Massachusetts today, contact the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau today or visit the “Things to Do” section of our website.

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