When most people think about Massachusetts, their minds naturally gravitate towards Boston, the bustling state capital. But away from the big city, approximately two hours to the west lies an overlooked New England gem. Pioneer Valley is a small yet scenic region ranked among the most underrated destinations in the US by CNN Travel. It is a testament to the natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, rich history, and delightful adventures that define it.
A nature lover’s dream come true, the valley straddles three counties, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire, surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and meandering rivers offering unique outdoor excursions. Pioneer Valley hosts a lively student population from a five-college consortium, including the University of Massachusetts Amherst and Smith College. Its eclectic mix of theaters, galleries, and music venues guarantees a bustling arts and culture scene, offering some of the best things to do in Massachusetts.
However, that is only the tip of the iceberg, and first-timers will have a remarkable experience uncovering the diverse attractions in this West Mass destination.
Things To Do In Pioneer Valley
Whether an outdoor enthusiast, cultural connoisseur, history buff, or foodie, Pioneer Valley is the gift that keeps on giving, offering something to excite all types of travelers. Here are the top things to do in these must-visit small Massachusetts towns.
1 Visit The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall Of Fame
SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS, USA: The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
The popular game of basketball was invented in 1891 by James Naismith, a Canadian physical education coach. He wanted to create a fast team sport while working at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield and ended up nailing two wooden baskets on opposite walls; thus, the beautiful game was born.
At the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, fans can learn exciting history about the game and celebrate some big-name players and coaches who have earned it global acclaim.
Visitors also inspect various interactive exhibits, a game gallery, and shoot hoops at the Center Court.
- Admission: Adults $29, Seniors $25, Youth $20, Student $25
- Hours: 10 am – 4 pm, daily
Coin collectors looking to add to their haul can pick up unique e-coins in the lobby.
2 Stop By The Amazing World Of Dr. Seuss Museum
Springfield, MA: Close up on the sculpture of Dr. Seuss at his memorial sculpture garden
Tourists can reminisce about their childhood at the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, Springfield. This remarkable museum pays homage to the life’s work of Theodore Geisel (Dr. Seuss), a Springfield native and renowned children’s book author. It hosts a collection of interactive exhibits that allow guests to learn about some of his iconic characters, including Cat in the Hat, Horton, and Dr. Seuss.
They can also admire the galleries on the upper floors displaying original artworks and several letters Theodor Geisel wrote to his nephew. Kids will love the storytelling and rhyming games staff hold on the first floor.
- Admission: Adults $25, Seniors & College Students $16.50, Youth $13, Children Under 3: Free
- Hours: Tue to Sat (10 am – 5 pm), Sun (11 am – 5 pm)
The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum is part of the Springfield Museums, and the ticket grants visitors access to four other museums in downtown Springfield and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden.
3 Step Back In Time At The Historic Deerfield Village
Deerfield, Massachusetts, United States of America. Historic timber house in Deerfield, MA.
History buffs can travel back to the medieval ages by strolling through the main street of Historic Deerfield Village. Stuck in time, this fossil of a village comprises about a dozen house museums dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, allowing tourists a rare glimpse into hundreds of years of history.
The houses are well-preserved and retain the ancient furniture used by their original inhabitants. Elsewhere, a museum hosting several artifacts and active workshops exposes travelers to old-fashioned woodworking, cooking, and farming techniques.
- Admission: Adults $18, Youth $5
- Hours: Wed to Sun, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Don’t forget to walk along the 330-year-old street at Historic Deerfield Village and visit the Old Burying Ground, the final resting place of some of the original settlers.
4 Read A Book At The Eric Carle Museum Of Picture Book Art
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art celebrates the life and work of Eric Carle, cofounder of the venue and author of the popular picture book The Very Hungry Caterpillar. It hosts three galleries with rotating exhibits dedicated to book illustrations from all over the world and a permanent exhibition that visitors can inspect and admire.
The most extensive gallery celebrates Carle’s prints, whereas the other two showcase works by other famous kids’ books illustrators like Louis Darling, illustrator of several of Beverly Cleary’s early books. There’s also a gift shop at the museum with cute merchandise and children’s books visitors can buy.
- Admission: Free
- Hours: Wen to Fri (10 am 4 pm), Sat (10 am – 5 pm), Sun (12 – 5 pm)
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is perfect for inspiring older kids and teens who have shown an interest in illustration.
5 Explore The Outdoors At Skinner State Park
Home to multiple hiking trails and incredible vistas of the Connecticut River Valley, the Skinner State Park offers outdoor lovers an excellent opportunity to break a sweat while exploring the lush open spaces in Pioneer Valley.
Its proximity to the Holyoke Range enables explorers to discover Horse Caves and ledges along the New England Scenic Trail, where fighters would hide during the 1897 Shays’ Rebellion.
A hike to the top of Mt. Holyoke, which rises to 942 feet, rewards adventurers with sweeping views of the Connecticut River and its green river valley. Hikers can access the 1.5-mile path to the summit around the year, but vehicles can only drive on it between May and October.
Remember to pop into the Summit House at the mountain's peak, a former 1861 hotel turned visitor center. It has old photos of the venue during its heydays from the early 1900s.
6 Get An Adrenaline Boost At Six Flags New England
Agawam, MA, USA . Thrill rides loom over the entrance to the Six Flags Amusement Park in Agawam, Massachusetts.
Thrill seekers yearning for an adrenaline injection will find the perfect remedy at Six Flags New England, which sits adjacent to the scenic Connecticut River. With a history dating back to the 1800s, it is the oldest theme park in the franchise and the largest amusement park in New England, comprising over 60 fun rides with 13 roller coasters and a water park.
The Skyscreamer was the world’s tallest swing ride when it debuted in 2014 and promises a blood-cuddling experience even for the most hard-core adrenaline junkies. The same is true for Goliath, the venue’s super coaster, which reaches speeds of 65 mph with a 90-degree climb to 200 feet in the air.
- Admission: Start at $42, depending on the package
- Hours: Sat & Su, 11 am – 7 pm
Kids will relish meeting popular cartoon characters at the Looney Tunes Talent Show, where Duffy Duck, Bugs Bunny, and others square off in an American Idol-style competition.
7 Get Cultured At The Smith College Museum Of Art
Culture connoisseurs visiting Pioneer Valley will feel at home scoping out the over-27,000-piece collection at this magnificent facility. The Smith College Museum of Art displays gorgeous paintings, focusing more on 19th and 20th centuries North American and European artists, such as Picasso, Winslow Homer, Degas, and James Abbott McNeill.
Established in the 1870s, this leading academic institution inspires budding creatives with an artistic environment and special programs to instill artistic knowledge.
- Admission: Free
- Hours: Tue to Sun, 11 am – 4 pm
8 Check Out The Springfield Armory National Historic Site
War historians and weaponry enthusiasts can stop at this fascinating National Historic Site in Springfield, which preserves the greatest federal armory in the country. The arsenal was constructed during the American Revolution following an order by George Washington and houses multiple old-day weapons.
Today, visitors can inspect one of the largest firearm collections in the world, featuring Colts, Remingtons, and Lugers. Some of these weapons were made as early as the 15th century, offering a vivid snapshot into the evolution of guns.
- Admission: Free
- Hours: Wed to Sun, 9:30 am – 4 pm
For a deeper dive into the history of the exhibits, book a group tour with a knowledgeable guide tailored to visitor interests.
9 Catch A Live Show At The Academy Of Music Theater
NORTHAMPTON, MA- View of buildings in downtown Northampton, Massachusetts, home to Smith College.
Established in 1891, the Academy of Music Theater is a historic 1000-capacity music venue in Northampton that rose to prominence as a go-to stop for leading performers throughout the 20th century. It has hosted big names like magician Harry Houdini, movie star Mae West, and the iconic French actress Sarah Bernhardt.
The venue continues to entertain locals and visitors by staging exciting live theater productions, dance shows, films, and music performances by local and international artists. It is also home to companies like the Pioneer Valley Symphony Orchestra, Pioneer Valley Ballet, Signature Sounds, and Valley Light Opera.
- Admission: Depends on the show
- Hours: Mon (9 am – 5 pm), Tue - Fri (3 pm – 6 pm).
Visit the Academy’s official website for scheduled performances, time, and ticket prices.
10 Discover Prehistoric Fossils At Dinosaur Footprints
A long time ago, during the Mesozoic period (about 190 million years), when the Pioneer Valley was still a subtropical swamp, bipedal dinosaurs roamed the area, and the cluster of giant footprints along the west bank of the Connecticut River offer evidence of this bygone era.
Although elements have eroded the sandstone holding the tracks through the years, a keen eye can pick out more than 100 prints representing three distinct dinosaur species. The site is a short walk off Route 5 in Holyoke and is a remarkable sight to explore.
Take extra caution when examining the tracks near the river; the rocks can be very slippery, especially when wet, and the river is pretty swift.
11 Best Time To Visit Pioneer Valley
Massachusetts is among the best New England states to visit in the fall, and the Pioneer Valley region delights tourists with its fantastic flurry of fall colors. Opportunities to step out and explore the town abound, with some kayaking and rafting along the river as others walk or drive along the Mohawk Trail to admire the kaleidoscopic foliage.
Spring is also a great time in Pioneer Valley as the weather shakes off the frigid winter chill. The 50s degrees Fahrenheit temperatures are a welcome reprieve for tourists and present an opportunity to leave their winter cocoons. However, the season is still wet, and the rain tends to interrupt outdoor expeditions.
Summer allows expeditioners to remain outside for all the adventures available in the Pioneer Valley. From touring the different museums and hiking its scenic trails to attending multiple festivals, this busy time in the region guaranteed to impress all types of travelers.
Winter is the worst time for visitors to the Pioneer Valley, as the freezing temperatures will confine them inside most of the time. However, those who can brave the cold can enjoy fun winter activities like cross-country skiing at Mount Holyoke Golf Course and shopping at the Amherst Winter Market.
12 How To Get Around Pioneer Valley
Springfield, MA, USA. An open book and a waiting chair welcome visitors to the Dr Seuss Memorial Garden in Springfield, Massachusetts
Travelers in the Pioneer Valley region have multiple options to get around while exploring its diverse attractions. Depending on their preferences, here are the different modes of transportation to choose from:
Bus
The Pioneer Valley Transit Authority operates a fleet of buses ferrying passengers to various destinations throughout Springfield, Amherst, Northampton, and the surrounding areas. Each route is identifiable by an electronic sign displayed on the front, rear, and side of the bus.
- Fares: $1.50 for adults, $0.75 for seniors, $15 for a 7-day pass
Peter Pan Bus Lines is an alternative public transit system with a broad network of long and short-distance routes from its hub at Springfield Union Station. These have stations in Greenfield, Deerfield, Springfield, Amherst, Northampton, etc.
Train
The Pioneer Valley Region is served by a handful of train services, including Amtrak, which has Springfield, Amherst, and Pittsfield stations, and the Valley Flyer passenger rail service, which connects with Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor service.
Car
Tourists can also access various car rental agencies, including Enterprise and Avis, across the major towns in the region for a customized itinerary when moving around the Pioneer Valley. This will also be useful for explorers looking to embark on a multi-day road trip to explore Massachusetts.
13 Where To Stay In Pioneer Valley
Pioneer Valley covers about half a dozen small towns that are among the best places to visit in New England, each with a unique personality and exciting points of interest to offer visitors a fresh experience wherever they choose to stay. This means there are enough lodging options to cater to different preferences and budget needs.
Here are the best places to stay in the Pioneer Valley.
Springfield
Springfield is the cultural and economic capital of West Mass and home to a treasure trove of New England historical gems. Highlights include the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame and the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. It also hosts three universities with a vibrant young population and diverse entertainment options. Top hotels here include:
Luxury:
- Address: 2 Boland Way, Springfield, MA 01115
- Rates per night: Start at $213
- Amenities: Indoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV
Mid-range:
- Address: 20 Springfield Street, Springfield, MA 01107
- Rates per night: Start at $141
- Amenities: Pool, Free Wi-Fi, Private bathroom, Complimentary breakfast, Coffee machine, Terrace/Patio, Balcony, Air-conditioned, Flat-screen TV
Amherst
Amherst is a renowned college town housing revered academic institutions like the University of Massachusetts, Hampshire College, and Amherst College. It offers an eclectic mix of educational and cultural opportunities, among its highlights being the Emily Dickinson Museum. Top-rated hotels include:
Luxury:
Courtyard by Marriott Hadley Amherst
- Address: 423 Russell Street, Hadley, MA 01035
- Rates per night: Start at $215
- Amenities: Indoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Coffee machine, Coffee shop, Free parking, Business center, Flat-screen TV
Budget:
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Amherst Hadley
- Address: 401 Russell Street, Amherst, MA 01035
- Rates per night: Start at $127
- Amenities: Fitness center, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Coffee machine, Business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Cable or satellite TV, Free toiletries, Meeting/Banquet facilities
Deerfield
This quaint little town near the Connecticut River, with a rich tourism heritage, is one of the most charming places to live in New England. It is home to the Yankee Candle Company and the Historic Deerfield Village, which harbors interesting historical gems. Lodging options here include:
Mid-range:
Red Roof Inn Plus+ South Deerfield - Amherst
- Address: 9 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield, MA 01373
- Rates per night: Start at $133
- Amenities: Indoor pool, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Free parking, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV, Cable or satellite TV, Free toiletries, Pets allowed on request. Charges may apply, Laundry facilities
Budget:
- Address: 81 Old Main Street, Deerfield, MA 01342
- Rates per night: $
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, Air-conditioned, Laundry facilities, Room service, Babysitting or child care, Gift shop, Bicycle rental, Elevator, Hiking, Storage available
14 Where To Eat In Pioneer Valley
Newcomers in the Pioneer Valley can look forward to a delectable dining experience, with restaurants serving a magical mix of flavors. The fertile river valley ensures a constant supply of fresh farm-to-table ingredients to prepare everything from classic New England dishes to international cuisines.
The region also boasts a lively craft brewery scene and vibrant nightlife, featuring multiple bars and pubs to entertain the youthful student population. Here are the best joints to eat in Pioneer Valley.
Breakfast:
- Address: 282 Main St, Greenfield, MA 01301-3201
- Hours: Tue to Sat, 7 am – 2 pm
Lunch & dinner:
- Address: 150 Main St, Northampton, MA 01060-3598
- Hours: Mon to Sat, 12 – 7 pm
- Address: 351 Northampton Rd, Amherst, MA 01002-2547
- Hours: Sun to Thur (11 am – 10 pm), Fri & Sat (11 am – 11 pm)
Drinks:
- Address: 29 Main St, Northampton, MA 01060-3182
- Hours: Tue (4 pm – 9 pm), Wed to Sat (12 pm – 9 pm)
15 How To Spend The Perfect Day in Pioneer Valley
West Springfield, MA: Attendees of the Big E enjoy carnival games
Start the day by exploring the Springfield Museums downtown for an immersive historical tour. Head to the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum to learn about the iconic children’s book writer, then the Dr. Seuss Memorial Sculpture Garden to examine iconic life-sized characters from his various books.
Later, stop by the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum and admire the gorgeous artwork before exploring the region’s entrepreneurial spirit at the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History. Finally, wrap up the Springfield Museum tour at the Springfield Science Museum.
Grab a quick lunch in one of the cafes in the area and proceed to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame to find out the modest beginnings of the beautiful game or honor its legends.
Take a trip to Northampton to check out the historic downtown of one of the oldest towns in New England. Afterward, hit the hiking trails at Skinner State Park and soak in the scenes atop Mt. Holyoke, then follow this up with a trip to Dinosaur Footprints to hunt for prehistoric fossils.
After the strenuous expedition, relax by watching a delightful live performance at the Academy of Music Theater until darkness sets in, and it’s time for a wholesome dinner at Paul & Elizabeth’s Diner. Lastly, cap off the day with cocktails at The Dirty Truth.