Things To Do
Drive up the Connecticut River
This was our first date 🤍 Andrew invited Luisa for drinks at Amherst Coffee. From there, we set off in Sunderland and drove along Route 47, soaking in sweeping views of the Connecticut River and, if you’re lucky, spotting bald eagles along the way. We continued on to Montague, arriving at the Montague Bookmill, where beautiful waterfalls, great drinks, and good food made the perfect ending to a day we’ll never forget.
Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation
One of our favorite overlooks in the Pioneer Valley. Drive or hike to the summit for spectacular views of the entire Connecticut River valley.
Swim in the Connecticut river
This is a little-known (and unlabeled!) river beach at the confluence of the Connecticut River and the Deerfield River. We’ve spent many summer days here enjoying a perfectly refreshing swim, quiet, natural, and special. We hope you get the chance to experience it too 🤍
Hiking in the Holyoke Range
There are lots of trailheads to access this area, but we would recommend starting at the Notch Visitor Center.
Northampton
Explore the eclectic, artsy, fun town of Northampton. From good food and drink, to the Smith College Museum of Art, and lots of shopping, Northampton is a fun destination for everyone.
The New England Peace Pagoda
For a quiet place of reflection visit the Peace Pagoda in Leverett
Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame
Springfield Massachusetts is the home of Basketball and hosts the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Shelburne Falls
About 40 minutes from Amherst is the small and picturesque town of Shelburne Falls. Home to the Bridge of Flowers, some fantastic restaurants (Gypsy Apple, The Blue Rock, Hotfire Bar & Grill), and cute shops.
Beneski Museum of Natural History
Amherst Colleges collection of prehistoric fossils, dinosaur tracks, and minerals is extensive and interesting.
North Village Smokehouse
The BEST BBQ in the area. Highly recomended.
Buffam Falls
A lovely walk in the New England Woods to some pristine and gentle water falls.