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Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Things To Do In Western Massachusetts

There is always something fun going on in Western Massachusetts! Use the handy index to find a specific activity or just scroll down the page and browse them all! ~ Updated July 10, 2013 ~
Index:
Fairs and Festivals in Western Massachusetts, 2012:
http://explorewmass.blogspot.com/2010/08/fairs-and-festivals-in-western.html

A M U S E M E N T    P A R K S

  • Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort & Adventure Park
    37 Corey Road
    Hancock, Massachusetts
    (413) 738-5500

    "Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort is the largest ski and snowboard resort in southern New England, summer home to Mountain Adventure Park and the only mountain resort in North America to generate its own energy using alternative wind power." ~ From the Jiminy Peak web site.

    http://www.jiminypeak.com/accounts/69/homepage/
  • Six Flags New England
    1623 Main Street
    Agawam, Massachusetts 01001
    (413) 786-9300

    "From thrilling rides to world-class entertainment, Six Flags New England has it all." ~ From the Six Flags web site.

    http://www.sixflags.com/newEngland/index.aspx



A R T S  &  C U L T U R E

  • A R E N A S
    • MassMutual Center: Springfield
      1277 Main Street
      Springfield, Massachusetts 01103
      (413) 787-6610

      "When re-opened under the new name, the MassMutual Center (MMC) represents a major physical expansion and "elevation of services" of the original Springfield Civic Center building (SCC), which opened in 1972." ~ From the MMC web site.

      http://www.massmutualcenter.com
    • Mullins Center at UMass-Amherst
      200 Commonwealth Avenue
      Amherst, Massachusetts 01003
      (413) 545-3001

      "The William D. Mullins Memorial Center sits on Commonwealth Avenue on the western edge of the UMass campus. Overlooking the outdoor playing fields and offering a wide vista of the Hadley Hills and the Holyoke Range..." ~ From the Mullins Center web site.

      http://www.mullinscenter.com
    • Symphony Hall
      34 Court Street
      Springfield, Massachusetts
      (413) 788-7033

      "The 2,611-seat Symphony Hall is home to Broadway-style theatre, top-quality children’s programming, internationally-recognized speakers and numerous concerts and performances." ~ From the Symphony Hall web site.

      http://www.symphonyhall.com


  • C O M E D Y
    • Happier Valley Comedy Show
      Arts Block Cafe
      289 Main Street
      Greenfield, Massachusetts
      (413) 253-1399

      "You need more laughter in your life. Don’t try to deny it. You know you do. So do I. We all do! Which is why the Happier Valley Comedy Show is not to be missed. On the second Saturday of every month at the Arts Block Cafe in Greenfield, we bring together incredible comedy talent to present hilarious, improvised shows in the Pioneer Valley! " ~ From the Ha-Ha Sisterhood web site.

      http://www.thehahasisterhood.com/Site/Happier_Valley_Comedy_Show.html


  • D A N C E
    • Jacob's Pillow
      358 George Carter Road
      Becket, Massachusetts 01223
      (413) 243-9919

      "The Pillow presents dance from all over the world in all forms, styles, and traditions, plus approximately 200 free events each season, including performances, lectures, tours, film showings, exhibits, and talks with artists, which result in around 83,000 visitor experiences each summer." ~ From the Pillow web site.

      http://www.jacobspillow.org


  • G A L L E R I E S
    • Salmon Falls Artisans Showroom
      Box 176 Ashfield Street
      Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts 01370
      (413) 625-9833

      "Our unique setting is a restored post-and-beam grainery building called Salmon Falls Marketplace, set on a knoll overlooking the historic Bridge of Flowers and Glacial Potholes... Experience the museum-quality setting and see for yourself why everyone's excited!" ~ From the Salmon Falls web site.

      http://www.joshsimpson.com/site/salmon-falls-gallery.html
    • The Wit Gallery
      27 Church Street
      Lenox, Massachusetts 01240
      (413) 637-8808

      "Since 1999 The Wit Gallery has been a showcase for joyful, musical, witty and thoughtful art in all media. An acronym for "Wonders In Time” The Wit Gallery focuses on art that brings a feeling of warmth and hospitality which transcends time. The Wit gallery strives to connect each individual collector to the art which will bring him/her pleasure for years to come" ~ From the Wit Gallery web site.

      http://www.thewitgallery.com/

  • M U S E U M S
    • Museums of Western Massachusetts
      A list of nearly fifty local museums, including the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Mass. Museum of Contemporary Art, arranged by town.
      http://explorewmass.blogspot.com/2007/03/museums-of-western-massachusetts.html

  • M U S I C
    • Berkshire Choral Festival
      Berkshire School
      Route 41
      Sheffield, Massachusetts 01257
      (413) 229-1999 (Box Office)

      "The Berkshire Choral Festival is a not-for-profit educational institution dedicated to enhancing the skills of choral singers while extending the knowledge and appreciation of choral singing and its tradition to singers and audiences." ~ From the Festival web site.

      https://www.chorus.org/index.php
    • The Calvin Theatre and Performing Arts Center
      19 King Street
      Northampton, Massachusetts 01060
      (413) 586-8686

      http://www.iheg.com/calvin_theater_main.asp
    • Iron Horse Music Hall
      20 Center Street
      Northampton, Massachusetts 01060
      (413) 584-0610

      http://www.iheg.com/iron_horse_main.asp
    • Mohawk Trail Concerts
      Federated Church
      Route 2
      Charlemont, Massachusetts
      1-888-682-6873

      "Concerts are held in the Federated Church at Charlemont, which has been fully restored and air conditioned. The Church is a warm, intimate setting with superb acoustics, located directly on the Mohawk Trail amidst beautiful countryside and a wealth of other cultural and artistic attractions." ~ From the MTC web site.

      http://www.mohawktrailconcerts.org/
    • The Pines Theatre at Look Park
      300 North Main Street
      Florence, Massachusetts 01062

      http://www.iheg.com/pines_theatre_main.asp
    • Springfield Symphony Orchestra
      1350 Main Street
      Springfield, Massachusetts 01103
      (413) 733-2291

      "The established mission of the SSO is to maintain and develop a professional symphony orchestra that produces musical performances of high artistic quality; to entertain and educate our audiences; to expand and develop our audiences; and to sponsor related programs and concerts that enhance the musical life of the region we serve." ~ From the SSO web site.

      http://www.springfieldsymphony.org
    • Tanglewood
      297 West Street
      Lenox, Massachusetts 01240
      (413) 637-1600

      "The Boston Symphony Orchestra presents its annual Labor Day Weekend Tanglewood Jazz Festival...at the orchestra’s summer home in Lenox, Massachusetts." ~ From the Tanglewood web site.

      http://www.bso.org/Performance/Listing?pageNo=0&perPage=10&brands=1182


  • S U P P O R T E R S
    • Cultural Pittsfield
      City of Pittsfield
      70 Allen Street
      Pittsfield, Massachusetts 01201

      "Visit our Online Events Calendar for upcoming arts and cultural events." ~ From the City of Pittsfield web site.

      http://www.pittsfield-ma.org/departments.asp?ID=239
    • In the Spotlight, Inc.

      "Supporting the Arts in Western New England and Beyond." ~ From the Spotlight web site.

      http://www.inthespotlightinc.org/
    • Northampton Center for the Arts
      17 New South Street
      Northampton, MA 01060
      (413) 584-7327

      "The Northampton Center for the Arts (NCFA) is a private, non-profit arts organization established in 1984 to promote the arts in the greater Northampton area. Located in downtown Northampton adjacent to the Academy of Music, NCFA provides low-cost exhibit and performance space for area artists and arts organizations in an elegant turn-of-the-century performance hall and two adjoining galleries. NCFA is dedicated to programming theater, music, art and dance that is culturally diverse." ~ From the NCFA web site.

      http://www.nohoarts.org


  • T H E A T R E
    • The Chester Theatre Company
      15 Middlefield Road
      Chester Town Hall
      Chester, Massachusetts
      (413) 354-7770

      "The Chester Theatre Company was founded as The Miniature Theatre of Chester in 1990 by Vincent Dowling. In its early years, CTC earned a reputation for language-rich, thought-provoking plays and for new works. This tradition has blossomed under the artistic direction of Byam Stevens, an accomplished actor, director, teacher, and dramaturg. Productions originating at CTC have played Off Broadway, and have toured regionally, nationally, and internationally." ~ From the CTC web site.

      http://www.chestertheatre.org/index.cfm
    • CityStage
      1 Columbus Center
      Springfield, Massachusetts 01103
      (413) 788-7033

      "Off-Broadway comedies, dramas and musicals are presented October through April in the intimate, 487-seat Blake Theatre; the 70-seat Winifred Arms Theatre is host to numerous community events, performances and meetings." ~ From the CityStage web site.

      http://www.symphonyhall.com
    • Shakespeare & Company
      70 Kemble Street
      Lenox, Massachusetts 01240
      (413) 637-3353 - Box Office
      (413) 637-1199 - Main Office

      "...[I]n the culturally-rich Berkshire Hills of western Massachusetts in Lenox, Shakespeare & Company aspires to create a theatre of unprecedented excellence rooted in the classical ideals of inquiry, balance, and harmony; a company that performs as the Elizabethans did — in love with poetry, physical prowess, and the mysteries of the universe.." ~ From the Shakespeare & Company web site.

      http://www.shakespeare.org/
    • Town Players of Pittsfield, Inc.
      P.O. Box 765
      Pittsfield, Massachusetts 01202-0765
      (413) 443-9279

      "Town Players was founded in 1921 and is the 2nd oldest community theater group in the country. We are dedicated to "Bring the Best of Broadway to the Berkshires". Town Players produces three major productions a season ( Fall, Winter, Spring ) and occasional Special TP Workshop Productions." ~ From the Town Players web site.

      http://townplayers.org/



D I S T A N T    D A Y T R I P    D E S T I N A T I O N S

  • C O N N E C T I C U T
    • Foxwoods Resort Casino
      39 Norwich-Westerly Road
      Ledyard, Connecticut 06339

      "Foxwoods is the largest casino in the world, with 340,000 square feet of gaming space in a complex that covers 4.7 million square feet." ~ From the Foxwoods web site.

      http://www.foxwoods.com/
    • Gillette Castle State Park
      67 River Road
      East Haddam, Connecticut 06423
      (860) 526-2336

      "It looks like a medieval fortress, but a step inside the stone castle reveals the built-in couches, table trackway, and woodcarvings that all point to the creative genius that was William Gillette." ~ From the Gillette Castle web site.

      http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?A=2716&Q=325204
    • Lake Compounce
      822 Lake Avenue
      Bristol, Connecticut 06010
      (860)583-3300

      "Welcome to Lake Compounce Family Theme Park, located in the heart of Connecticut, in nearby Bristol/Southington. We are your family's Daycation Destination! ...Check our operating schedule for hours of operation!" ~ From the Lake Compounce web site.

      http://www.lakecompounce.com/
    • Mohegan Sun
      1 Mohegan Sun Blvd
      Uncasville, Connecticut 06382
      (888) 226-7711

      "A world at play and a world to its own, Mohegan Sun, created in 1996 by the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut, is one of the world's most amazing destinations with some of New England's finest dining, hotel accommodations, retail shopping, live entertainment and sporting events. It is also host to the fabulous Kids Quest/Cyber Quest family entertainment facility, a luxurious day spa, convention center and meeting facility, as well as three major entertainment venues with seating from 300 to 10,000." ~ From the Mohegan Sun web site.

      http://www.mohegansun.com
    • Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration
      55 Coogan Boulevard
      Mystic, Connecticut 06355-1997
      (860) 572-5955

      "Mystic Aquarium, one of America’s leading aquariums, showcases the living collections, science and conservation work of Sea Research through exhibits, demonstrations and educational programs, emphasizing hands-on, interactive, live animal contact experiences for all ages. Hosting more than 750,000 visitors annually, the Aquarium is open year-round and is Connecticut’s largest non-casino attraction. Mystic Aquarium is one of the few in North America housing Beluga whales and other rare and remarkable sea creatures." ~ From the Mystic Aquarium web site.

      http://www.mysticaquarium.org/
    • Old Newgate Prison & Coppermine
      115 Newgate Road
      East Granby, Connecticut 06026
      (860) 653-3563
      (Closed for restoration)

      "The tunnels left behind by miners burrowing deep underground in search of copper ore became Connecticut's first prison in 1773." ~ From the New-Gate Prison web site.

      http://www.ct.gov/cct/cwp/view.asp?a=2127&q=302258
  • M A S S A C H U S E T T S
    • Battleship Cove
      Five Water Street
      PO Box 111
      Fall River, Massachusetts 02722-0111
      (800) 533-3194
      (New England only) (508) 678-1100

      "The world's largest collection of historic naval ships" ~ From the Battleship Cove web site.

      http://www.battleshipcove.org
    • Southwick's Zoo
      2 Southwick Street
      Mendon, Massachusetts
      (800) 258-9182

      "The Brewer family and its staff are dedicated to the preservation and conservation of all animals. The Southwick team's mission: to provide an extensive zoological collection and educational facility for our visitors. We strive to promote an exciting environment for a positive family experience." ~ From the Southwick's Zoo web site.

      http://www.southwickszoo.com/
  • N E W  Y O R K
    • Howe Caverns
      255 Discovery Drive
      Howes Cave, New York 12092
      (518) 296-8900

      "Howe Caverns offers guided cavern tours every day of the year except Thanksgiving and Christmas Days. Traditional Tours include a quarter-mile boat ride on the Underground Lake of Venus." ~ From the Howe Caverns web site.

      http://www.howecaverns.com




G U I D E S  &  P L A N N E R S

  • The Berkshire Visitors Bureau
    Discover the Berkshires Visitor Center
    3 Hoosac Street
    Adams, Massachusetts 01220
    (413) 743-4500 or 800-237-5747

    http://www.berkshires.org
  • Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
    1441 Main Street
    Springfield, Massachusetts 01103
    (413) 787-1548 or 800-723-1548

    "With everything from fantastic attractions to fascinating arts and entertainment, outstanding outdoor recreation and great shopping - the Pioneer Valley is the place to be!" ~ From the CVB web site.

    http://www.valleyvisitor.com
  • Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism
    10 Park Plaza Suite 4510
    Boston, Massachusetts 02116
    (617) 973-8500 or 800-227-MASS

    http://massvacation.com
  • The Mohawk Trail Association
    North Adams, Massachusetts 01247
    info@mohawktrail.com

    "Blaze the Highway of History and discover the wonderful world of adventure waiting for you in the four season vacation land along the Mohawk Trail." ~ From the Association web site.

    http://www.mohawktrail.com


H I S T O R I C   V I L L A G E S

  • Hancock Shaker Village
    1843 W. Housatonic St.
    Pittsfield, Massachusetts 01201
    (800) 817-1137

    "This beautifully restored village, set amongst acres of farm, woodland and pasture, is home to the premier collection of Shaker buildings and artifacts. Graceful Shaker furniture, craft and household items are exhibited in 20 historic buildings, each an architectural gem. The Round Stone Barn, most famous of all Shaker buildings, is a testament to Shaker efficiency, innovation and design." ~ From the Hancock Shaker Village web site.

    http://www.hancockshakervillage.org/
  • Historic Deerfield
    80 Old Main Street
    Deerfield, Massachusetts 01342
    (413) 775-7214

    "Historic Deerfield was incorporated in 1952 to sustain the work of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Flynt of Greenwich, Connecticut. In 1936, the Flynts enrolled their son at Deerfield Academy, a nationally-known college preparatory school founded in 1797, located in the center of Deerfield, Massachusetts. With the encouragement of Deerfield Academy’s headmaster, Frank Boyden, they began to purchase and restore the old houses along The Street to carefully restore them. Today, 11 historic houses and the Flynt Center of Early New England Life display collections of more than 25,000 objects made or used in America between 1650 and 1850." ~ From the Historic Deerfield web site.

    http://www.historic-deerfield.org/
  • Old Sturbridge Village
    1 Old Sturbridge Village Road
    Sturbridge, Massachusetts 01566
    (800) 733-1830

    "Old Sturbridge Village is one of the country’s oldest and largest living history museums, depicting early New England life from 1790-1840 with historians in costume, antique buildings, water-powered mills, and a working farm. Visitors can view antiques, meet heritage breed animals, and enjoy hands-on crafts. The Village is open year-round, but hours change seasonally." ~ From the Old Sturbridge Village web site.

    http://www.osv.org/
  • Storrowton Village
    Eastern States Exposition Grounds
    1305 Memorial Avenue
    West Springfield, Massachusetts 01089
    (413) 737-2443

    "Storrowton Village Museum is an authentic, recreated village of nine 18th and 19th century buildings from Massachusetts and New Hampshire, assembled around a traditional town green. We offer living history programs and events to acquaint audiences of all ages to New England life in bygone days" ~ From the Storrowton Village web site.

    http://www.thebige.com/sv/



K I D S '   S T U F F


  • Big Adventures: The Family Fun Center
    The Mill at Crane Pond
    77 Mill Street
    Westfield, Massachusetts 01085
    (413) 562-6146
    "We are a family-owned business providing a fun, safe place for kids and families to come and enjoy themselves." ~ From the Big Adventures web site.

    http://www.bigfamilyadventure.com
  • Great Falls Discovery Center
    2 Avenue A
    Turners Falls, Massachusetts 01376
    (413) 863-3221

    "Visit the Great Falls Discovery Center and learn about the Connecticut River Watershed's rich natural, cultural and industrial history. The Center is fully accessible and is housed within a complex of old mill buildings and includes open habitat exhibits, fish tanks, and a multipurpose program room. The four-acre park that surrounds The Center has butterfly gardens, native plantings views of the canal and river as well as safe play areas. This park is linked to a railtrail that runs from Turners Falls to Deerfield, a walking tour through downtown Turners Falls, and the watchable wildlife areas of Barton's cove and along the canal." ~ From the Discovery Center's web site.

    http://greatfallsdiscoverycenter.org/
  • The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round
    Heritage State Park
    221 Appleton Street
    Holyoke, Massachusetts 01040
    (413) 538-9838

    "Welcome to the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round, located in historic Holyoke, Massachusetts, alongside the Heritage Park Visitor's Center, Children's Museum and Volleyball Hall of Fame. Our 1929 merry-go-round and pavilion is the perfect place for family fun, whether you're planning a birthday party, a business social or even dreaming of a special place to get married." ~ From the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round web site.

    http://www.holyokemerrygoround.org/
  • Westfield-Southwick Macaroni Kid
    "Macaroni Kid and its family of Publisher Moms are dedicated to delivering the scoop on all the family-friendly events and activities happening in their communities each week." ~ From the Macaroni Kid website.

    http://www.westfieldsouthwick.macaronikid.com/



O U T D O O R S

  • A D V E N T U R E
    • Berkshire East Canopy Tours
      66 Thunder Mountain Road
      Charlemont. Massachusetts 01339
      (413) 339-6617

      "Berkshire East Canopy Tours are Western Massachusetts best new summer activity. Race your friends down the mountain top of Berkshire East Ski Area and prepare yourself to fly down 850 feet of 1/2" cable, 150 feet in the air at speeds up to thirty miles an hour." ~ From the Berkshire East web site.

      http://www.berkshireeast.com/
    • Crabapple Whitewater Rafting
      2056 Mohawk Trail
      Charlemont, Massachusetts 01339
      (800) 553-7238

      "In the northern Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, Crab Apple Whitewater is pleased to bring you five different white water rafting adventures. River rafting trips range from mild to WILD, full or half-day. From beginners to more experienced rafters, our family will enjoy taking your family, group or organization down these beautiful rivers. Come see us this season!" ~ From the Crabapple web site.

      http://www.crabapplewhitewater.com/massachusetts
    • Deerfield Valley Canopy Tours
      7 Main Street (Office)
      Charlemont, Massachusetts 01339
      (800) 532-7483

      "Try Zoar Outdoor’s newest adventure on a Deerfield Valley Canopy Tour in Charlemont Massachusetts. Our 3-hour-long zip line canopy tour leads adventurers on an aerial trek through the woods by means of zip lines and sky bridges suspended in the trees in the northern Berkshires and connected through platforms that sit high above the forest floor." ~ From the Canopy Tours web site.

      http://deerfieldzipline.com
    • Moxie Outdoor Adventures
      1 Thunder Road
      Charlemont, Massachusetts 01339
      (800) 866-6943

      "Enjoy White water rafting in Massachusetts on the Deerfield River as it flows through the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in western Massachusetts." ~ From the Moxie Outdoor Adventures web site.

      http://moxierafting.com
    • Zoar Outdoor River Rafting
      7 Main Street
      Charlemont, Massachusetts 01339
      (800) 532-7483

      "We create experiences that enhance the lives of our guests, our staff and our community through exposing people to the best human-powered outdoor adventures available. We strive to be leaders in the field of outdoor adventure through constantly rethinking and improving our programs." ~ From the Zoar Outdoor web site.

      http://www.zoaroutdoor.com/drguide.htm
  • D I N O S A U R   T R A C K S

    • Dinosaur Footprints - Holyoke
      Route 5
      Holyoke, Massachusetts
      (413) 684-0148

      "Dinosaur footprints, fossilized plants, and delicate ripple marks of a prehistoric pool are preserved in stone at this reservation near the west bank of the Connecticut River." ~ The Trustees of Reservations.

      http://www.thetrustees.org/places-to-visit/pioneer-valley/dinosaur-footprints.html
    • Nash Dinosaur Track Quarry and Rock Shop
      Route 116 - Amherst Road
      South Hadley, Massachusetts 01075
      (413) 467-9566

      "Located just one mile from where the very first dinosaur track was found, Nash Dinosaur Track Quarry and Rock Shop has been welcoming visitors since 1939." ~ From the Nash Dinosaur Track Quarry web site.

      http://nashdinosaurtracks.com/index.html
  • F A R M S
    • Agri-Tourism Farms
      Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
      251 Causeway Street, Suite 500
      Boston, Massachusetts 02114
      (617) 626-1700

      "Whether you are driving past beautiful vistas throughout Massachusetts or enjoying day at our majestic seacoast, be sure your itinerary includes a stop at one of the many agri-tourism destinations along the way. We are very proud of the over 250 farm attractions open to the public offering interesting and educational activities that will create memorable experiences." ~ From the MDAR web site.

      http://www.mass.gov/agr/massgrown/agritourism_farms.htm
    • Ioka Valley Farm
      Route 43
      P. O. Box 1045
      Hancock, Massachusetts 01237
      (413) 738-5915

      "Welcome to Ioka Valley Farm home to natural, hormone free beef, outstanding sweet strawberries, perfect pumpkins & squash, fragrant, real Christmas trees, contented farm animals, pure maple syrup, and specialty maple products. Ioka Valley Farm is a diversified, family owned and operated working farm dedicated to providing high quality locally grown products as well as enjoyment for all ages." ~ From the Ioka Valley Farm web site.

      http://iokavalleyfarm.com/
    • Massachusetts Maple Producers Association
      (413) 628-3912

      "...visit...members' sugar houses. All welcome visitors when they are boiling and offer pure maple syrup for sale." ~ From the MMPA web site.

      http://www.massmaple.org
    • Mike's Maze at Warner Farm

      http://www.mikesmaze.com/index.html
  • G A R D E N S
    • The Botanic Garden of Smith College
      15 College Lane

      Northampton, MA 01063
      (413) 585-2740

      "Today, the Botanic Garden includes thousands of plants, of course, and not just those grown under glass in the Lyman Conservatory or outdoors in various not-so-secret gardens. After all, Smith's 150-acre campus--our landscape for learning--is an arboretum, in other words, a living museum of plants. There is also a collection of dried plants. There are 60,000 pressed specimens available for research in the Herbarium." ~ From the Smith Botanic Garden web site.

      http://www.smith.edu/garden/home.html
    • The Bridge of Flowers
      Village Information Center
      75 Bridge Street
      Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts
      "Every year visitors from around the world stroll across the Bridge of Flowers and enjoy the beauty of this unusual garden - the only one of its kind in the world." ~ From the Shelburne Falls web site.

      http://www.shelburnefalls.com/
    • Grandmothers' Garden
      Smith Avenue
      The Friends of Grandmothers’ Garden
      PO Box 1432
      Westfield, Massachusetts 01086

      "A beautiful experience" ~ From the Grandmothers' Garden web site.

      http://www.grandmothersgarden.org/
  • L O C A L   P A R K S
    • Forest Park
      Sumner Avenue
      Springfield, Massachusetts

      Forest Park Zoo

      http://www.forestparkzoo.com

      Bright Nights at Forest Park
      http://www.brightnights.org

      Other Springfield Parks...

      http://www.springfieldcityhall.com/Park
    • Housatonic River Walk
      Great Barrington Land Conservancy
      P. O. Box 1018
      Great Barrington, Massachusetts 01230
      Contact Rachel Fletcher (413) 528-3391

      "River Walk is a greenway trail along the Housatonic River in the downtown center of Great Barrington, Massachusetts, where 2200 citizen volunteers are working to reclaim the beauty of a 'working river' abused by years of industrial waste and neglect." ~ From the River Walk web site.

      http://www.gbriverwalk.org/
    • Look Memorial Park
      300 North Main Street
      Florence, Massachusetts 01062
      (413) 584-5457

      "Look Park is located on the Berkshire Trail (Route 9) in the Florence section of Northampton, Massachusetts, in the heart of the Pioneer Valley." ~ From the park web site.

      http://www.lookpark.org
    • Stanley Park
      400 Western Avenue
      Westfield, Massachusetts 01085
      (413) 568-9312

      "Stanley Park is pleased to offer, free to the public, numerous educational, cultural and entertainment venues. Stanley Park also provides boundless access to both passive and active recreational opportunities." ~ From the park web site.

      http://www.stanleypark.org
  • S T A T E     P A R K S
    • Natural Bridge State Park
      McCauley Road, off Rte. 8
      P.O. Box 1757
      North Adams, Massachusetts 01247
      (413) 663-6392 (413)
      663-8469 (off-season)

      "Discover a geologic wonder at this 48 acre park. Examine the only naturally formed white marble arch and man-made white marble dam in North America, and tour an abandoned marble quarry." ~ From the DCR web site.

      http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/western/nbdg.htm
    • State Parks in Western Mass.
      Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)
      251 Causeway Street, Suite 600
      Boston, Massachusetts 02114-2104
      (617) 626-1250

      http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/hiking.htm
    • Trail Maps of State Parks

      "The Department of Conservation and Recreation is steward of one of the largest state parks systems in the country. Its 450,000 acres is made up of forests, parks, greenways, historic sites and landscapes, seashores, lakes, ponds, reservoirs and watersheds." ~ From the DCR web site.

      http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/trails.htm
  • R A I L     T R A I L S
    • Ashuwillticook Rail Trail
      Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)
      Lanesborough, Cheshire, Adams, Massachusetts
      (413) 442-8928 (Western Reg. HQ)

      "The Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is a former railroad corridor converted into a 10-foot wide paved, universally accessible, passive recreation path. The Ashuwillticook runs parallel to Route 8 through the towns of Cheshire, Lanesborough and Adams." ~ From the DCR web site.

      http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/western/asrt.htm
    • Norwottock Rail Trail
      Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)
      Damon Rd., Northampton
      (413) 586-8706 ext. 12

      "The Norwottock Rail Trail is an 8.5 mile path linking Northampton, Hadley, and Amherst along the former Boston & Main Railroad right-of-way. The path's level terrain provides safe passage for pedestrians, wheelchairs, joggers, skaters, bicyclists, and cross-country skier of all ages and abilities." ~ From the DCR web site.

      http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/central/nwrt.htm
  • O T H E R   F U N    T H I N G S
    • Lady Bea River Cruises
      Brunelle's Marina
      1 Alvord Street
      South Hadley, Massachusetts 01075
      (413) 315-6342

      "From Spring through the Fall, the Lady Bea departs daily for 75-minute narrated cruises at 1:00, 4:00 & 7:00 PM. These daily cruises meander up the Connecticut River from Brunelles Marina to Northampton. The pristine waters, unspoiled views, sandy beaches and unmatched history will be a truly enjoyable experience for all." ~ From the Lady Bea web site.

      http://www.brunelles.com/lady-bea-river-cruise-boat/
    • Massachusetts Swimming Holes

      "SwimmingHoles.info focuses on moving, fresh water spots - like creeks, rivers, springs and waterfalls." ~ From the Swimming Holes web site.

      http://www.swimmingholes.org/ma.html
    • Northfield Drive-in Movie Theatre
      981 Northfield Road, Route 63
      Hinsdale, New Hampshire 03451
      (603) 239-4054

      "Join us for some good old-fashioned family fun." ~ From the Northfield Drive-in web site.

      http://www.northfielddrivein.com/



S H O P P I N G

  • M A L L S
    • Berkshire Mall
      Old State Road & Route 8
      Lanesborough Massachusetts 01237
      (413) 445-4400

      "Strategically located between US Route 7 and Route 8 in Lanesborough, Massachusetts, Berkshire Mall is the only enclosed shopping center in the county." ~ From the Mall web site.

      http://www.theberkshiremall.com
    • Eastfield Mall
      1655 Boston Road
      Springfield, Massachusetts 01129
      (413) 543-8000

      "75 retailers...International food court...16-screen cinemas...2 full-service restaurants... Registry of Motor Vehicles...Do it all at Eastfield Mall!" ~ From the Mall web site.

      http://www.eastfieldmall.com
    • Hampshire Mall
      367 Russell Street
      Hadley, Massachusetts 01035
      (413) 586-5700

      "Situated in the heart of one of the highest concentrations of student populations in the Northeast, Hampshire Mall draws visitors from all parts of Western Massachusetts and Western New England, including the "knowledge corridor" of Springfield and Hartford." ~ From the Mall web site.

      http://www.hampshiremall.com
    • Holyoke Mall at Ingleside
      50 Holyoke Street
      Holyoke, Massachusetts 01040
      (413) 536-1440

      "At Holyoke Mall you'll find an impressive selection of retail stores, services and restaurants to make your shopping experience a truly exceptional one!" ~ From the Mall web site.

      http://www.holyokemall.com
  • O U T L E T S
    • Prime Outlets - Lee
      50 Water Street, Route 20
      East Lee , Massachusetts 01238
      (413) 243-8186

      "Prime Outlets - Lee is located in the heart of the Berkshires...Many tourists find that Lee is a perfect place to stop and shop." ~ From the Prime Outlets web site.

      http://www.primeoutlets.com
  • R E T A I L   A T T R A C T I O N S
    • Granville Country Store
      Jct. Routes 57 & 189
      Granville, Massachusetts
      (413) 357 - 8555 (orders)

      "Home of Cellar Aged Cheddar Cheese." ~ From the Country Store web site.

      http://granville.stores.yahoo.net/index.html
    • Williamsburg General Store
      12 Main Street
      Williamsburg, Massachusetts 01096-0757
      (413) 268-3036

      "...an incredible collection of gifts and accessories. We think you'll enjoy the experience and come away with a little piece of olde New England." ~ From the General Store web site.

      http://www.wgstore.com/
    • Yankee Candle Village
      25 Greenfield Road
      South Deerfield, Massachusetts 01373
      (877) 636-7707

      "Discover an unbelievable mix of shopping, entertainment and dining. And every visit is an exciting adventure because there's always something new!" ~ From the Yankee Candle web site.

      http://www.yankeecandle.com



S P O R T S



Z O O S,   E T C.

  • Lupazoo
    545 West Street
    Ludlow, Massachusetts 01056
    (413) 589-9883

    "Lupazoo is a conservation and education institution demonstrating the value, beauty and interdependence of all living things." ~ From the Lupazoo web site.

    http://www.lupazoo.org
  • Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens
    281 Greenfield Road
    South Deerfield, Massachusetts 01373
    (413) 665-2805

    "Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens, opened in October of 2000, consists of an 18,400-square foot facility that includes a 8,000-sq. ft. glass conservatory filled with butterflies, moths and tropical vegetation." ~ From the Magic Wings web site.

    http://www.magicwings.com/index.php
  • The Zoo in Forest Park
    Sumner Avenue
    Springfield, Massachusetts 01138

    "The Zoo in Forest Park is a non-profit organization governed by the Forest Park Zoological Society. Situated in Forest Park, a 735 acre woodland park in Springfield, the Zoo features exotic and indigenous animals representing a large variety of species found throughout the world and in North America." ~ From the Zoo web site.

    http://www.forestparkzoo.org/index.asp





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7 comments:

  1. AnonymousNovember 11, 2009 at 6:02 PM

    Prema Vidya Yoga Center in Westfield is a new and inexpensive way to enjoy your evening in Westfield. Check it out. premavidya.com

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousJuly 1, 2010 at 9:41 AM

    thanks so much for this post! We are driving back to CT from VT, and wanted day trip ideas - and I couldn't have asked for more! Thanks especially for having a section for kids. Though can I suggest adding the Yankee Candle village in South Deerfield? Again, GREAT post!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Tennis lessons(shorts in January)June 4, 2012 at 3:26 PM

    The canopy tours look pretty cool!!!
    Thx!

    ReplyDelete
  4. SteveMarch 10, 2013 at 10:05 AM

    the Peace Pagoda in Leverett is definitely worth including

    http://www.leverettspeedtrap.com/html/peace_pagoda.html

    steve jones

    ReplyDelete
  5. Steve JMarch 10, 2013 at 10:16 AM

    Two more worthy entries

    1) Skinner State ParK with Summit House in Holyoke Mountains

    http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/skinner/

    2) Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation -- beautiful view of the Conn River Valley from near Sunderland & Deerfield

    http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/central/msug.htm

    steve J

    ReplyDelete
  6. UnknownJuly 8, 2013 at 12:16 PM

    I'm curious if you have any info on real estate in Wayland MA. I am looking to move to Massachusetts and be close to my office in Boston while living in the Wayland area. Any good websites of info that would be helpful in my research? Thanks You!

    ReplyDelete
  7. CharlesSeptember 6, 2013 at 6:37 AM

    Great!

    ReplyDelete