Freelance writer and strawberry eater. There are two directions to choose to paddle after putting in at the Swift River boat launch located on Cold Springs Road in Belchertown. But be sure to go on a sunny day when the alley takes an even more colorful turn as light shines through the plastic prisms overhead that create a sort of stained glass ceiling. This is a classic activity that hasn't lost any of its charm over the years. Best of all, you get to keep what you find. Purgatory Chasm State Reservation. Whether you want to walk to the Italian district for lunch, the business district for work, or to the waterfront for leisure, Springfield is very easy to navigate on foot. Love Massachusetts? However, I think they most liked having an Instagram post to make their friends jealous of what they did every Friday afternoon. The Omni Mount Washington Resort, one of the last surviving handful of New Hampshire grand hotels, makes for an ideal stay nearby and hosts two golf courses, a huge spa, horseback riding, and more. Block Island is located just 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast, a short drive from many Massachusetts cities. Journey to where America began and get a sandwich at Great Harvest Bread Company. Prices vary for activities -- from free to $20 -- so check out their website for details before planning your trip. Next, head down Hatchery Road for a visit to the Bitzer Hatchery. For those that would rather keep their feet on the forest floor, there are also hiking and snowshoeing trails. I recommend doing this paddling trip in any season (with the proper safety practices, of course). Whether you enjoy the games and concessions or want to ride until your hearts content, they have you covered. It seems like youd never get bored when visiting Massachusetts. Theres nothing like biking for ice cream and hanging out with cows. Get more stories delivered right to your email. She advocates for better education, food allergy awareness, positive self-esteem and ending the mental health stigma.To fill her little piece of spare time, she is a blogger, freelance writer and runs a successful yoga & art therapy business. Follow it until it curves around to become Saxon Bridge Road which takes you back to Wickett Pond for a weedy dip to cool off. After playing on the big rock, the Devils Football trail continues with blue blazes. For another loop from the Bookmill, start north on Greenfield Road, turn left on Meadow Street. Other events may include horse-drawn wagon rides, maple sugaring, an all-you-can-eat chocolate festival, and a screening of a favorite wintertime movie. I may make a small commission from them, at no extra cost to you. If you're looking for a bargain this summer, spend a day or two at one of the Brimfield Antique Flea Markets, open July 10-15 and Sept. 6-9. I love all these cool ideas I can share with her. South Sugarloaf is the head, North Sugarloaf the body, and the Pocumuck ridge is the tail. After your day of exercise, treat yourself to at the Fort Hill Brewery in Easthampton. You can also ride on the countrys oldest carousel, the Flying Horses Carousel, which has been spinning since 1876. This 150-year-old tradition draws thousands of locals and visitors each year, and is truly a sight to be seen. For an extra special visit, go to the church on either of the former president's birthdays -- there is a ceremony each year as a wreath is placed on the tomb. As you paddle around Second Island, you will notice the current will be stronger. Grab your designated driver and hop on the road. Here is where you can really get specific on the personalization of the candle. Barton Cove happens where the Connecticut River meets the Turners Falls dam in Gill. The wide-open fields of Red Fire Farm with squash vines invading the quiet road come first. After walking through the crypts, take a good look at the church itself. It starts at the base of Mt. I use my Celestron Outland 1042 binocs for bird feeder and window birdwatching. Colby Farm's endless field of sunflowers is a photogenic dream. } Editors Note: Before you make plans to head to an event, confirm that its on for the current year. Start your day at the Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens in South Deerfield (open everyday except Christmas and Thanksgiving from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to observe nearly 4,000 native and tropical butterflies year round. I hope you have a chance to get to Western Mass. (The trail does close sometimes if there is too much snow, so check before you go.). I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. Isabella Stewart began collecting rare books and manuscripts in 1878 before becoming interested in art. It opened in August of 2018 and was built on a plot of land that sustained heavy damage when a tornado ripped through the city in 2001. For the more adventurous visitors with money to spare, there is the option to purchase an hour-long photography session for $150, allowing you to get even closer to the animals. Head to Revere Beach from July 20-22 to see the 15th annual International Sand Sculpting Festival. I love the term pocket adventures! These sound like great ideas. Food isn't served but you can bring your own picnic lunch or dinner to eat while you sip, and while you enjoy live music (if you go Thursday-Sunday). Want the thrill of an adventure, but feel as if your skill set is more geared toward sitting in a kayak for a little while? 14 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Massachusetts | PlanetWare The winter adaptive outdoor adventure program there is amazing. Massachusetts Fall Foliage Scenic Drives, Sightseeing Tours They loved getting off campus to see the wild outdoor world around them. Best road trips in Massachusetts - Lonely Planet "You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. Fresh Paint Springfield aims to make art more accessible to the public by managing and creating murals and public art festivals. In the summer, Hurricane Harbor keeps guests cool with over 15 water rides. Trek along the 4.4-mile Ponkapoag Pond Trail at Blue Hills Reservation. There is so much to Mass than just Boston so I am glad you did a post like this! (I'm not sure if I've ever seen one in real life..), Your photos are gorgeous, but I especially love the one for the Quabbin Reservoir HikeI'm sold! "datePublished": "2017-12-12", I was able to see first hand how the city has expanded on a sponsored tour of the city put on by the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau. For non-stop thrills, try a day of snow tubing in Massachusetts. Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort. People not wishing to hike the mountain can drive up for a $5 state resident or $20 non-resident parking fee. "image": { Holyoke students I had in my Outdoor Adventure Sampler class. I want to do them all! From here, passengers enjoy vistas that span the valleys and mountains of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Canada, and the Atlantic. Take this weekend to the next level by planning it for July 14 to experience the annual Eagle Street Beach Party. I live in California and really havent explored Massachusetts much. A great place to bring your animal-lover, Wolf Hollow in Ipswich is a non-profit wolf sanctuary and educational facility focused on the North American grey wolf. There are indications the Kremlin might be trying to take it over, according to a think tank. Many of these trails are available to cross country skiers during the winter, so this summer day trip spot is easily accessible all year round. I love the term pocket adventure! Centuries-old neighborhoods, a rich history, and modern skyline make this one of the best cities to visit in the US. You can find collections such as "Poor Traits," "In The Nood" and "Oozing My Religion" on their website or in one of their locations -- the basement of the Somerville Theater in Somerville, MA or the New England Wildlife Center in South Weymouth, MA. It prides itself on being one-of-a-kind, and is home to an outstanding local theater, great local bands, a museum, and an art center its visual arts scene is the oldest and most deeply entrenched in the region as well as hosting a number of unique shops, fabulous eateries, and inns. Just past this entrance is a sand beach on the left. Its a good point because of the seriousness of spreading White Nose Syndrome. You can cruise around on the dirt roads to enjoy the sights. Outdoor Pro Tip: To really enjoy the beauty of birds, get yourself a good pair of binoculars and a trusty bird book. This looks fun. All rights reserved (About Us). A road loop with lots of scenery stops starts at the Wickett Pond boat ramp parking area. For the field, I take along my Celestron Nature binoculars. A post shared by Alison with 1 L (@avacovec) on May 25, 2018 at 5:22pm PDT, Swim, fish and test your articulation skills at Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg. We use Petzl headlamps in the cave. Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau. "dateModified": "2023-04-27", Once you have your fill of trout, head back up the hill and turn right on Turners Falls Road to get back to the Bookmill. The baby ones are so cute. Rare books, used books, out-of-print books, new books and even scrapbooks line the shelves from floor to ceiling with something for anyone with a love, or even just an appreciation, for the written word. An observation tower built with Frank Lloyd Wrights Fallingwater influence has seasonally open restrooms and water. The winter carnival often boasts such fun attractions as a giant inflatable Snowzilla slide, rides, food trucks, and marshmallow roasting. The course was called Outdoor Adventure Sampler. If a romantic weekend is what you have in mind, it also boasts countless romantic B&Bs and inns. Be careful of hanging trees and snags in the river. Join the two loops for a scenic 13-mile figure-eight ride. Although sea glass can't be taken from the island, every walk along a Spectacle Island beach is a treasure hunt. In between fabulous eats, step back in time at the Strawberry Banke Museum, an indoor/outdoor living history museum that traces Portsmouths earliest history, all the way back to 1623. Glad you are doing them too. The hike continues down the 2 track until you see the water through the trees. The area is surrounded by exceptional natural beauty as well, with hundreds of miles of hiking and water trails for exploring. I love how there is such a wide range of outdoor activities to do! Wendell is a wonderful place as well for winter recreation. The magical Winterfest typically features a full menu of fun, wintry activities, including ice skating and a winter carnival. Check out the days and hours and browse the online catalog on the official website of, Brattle Book Shop, 9 West St, Boston, MA 02111, USA. Head to the resort-inspired hotel, "TOURISTS," to relax and take in the beauty of the Berkshires. Spacious guest rooms, a casino, dining of all calibers, a movie theater, bowling alley, outdoor pool and a spa and fitness center make this the perfect homebase for out of town visitors. While the international students in the group googled porcupine, we have watched them waddle to a hiding place in the cave. The large sanctuary is a maze of stained glass, sculptures, rocks and green space and is perfect for a picnic or a peaceful walk. John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library. These recommended hikes include easy strolls to strenuous climbs. One of the most popular things to do is to ride The Cog, the Mount Washington Cog Railway which runs both steam and biodiesel-powered locomotives that climb the 3,500 feet or so up to the highest summit in New England at 6,288 feet. There is something magical about being on the water. The Delectable Winter Trend, Hot Cocoa Bombs, Can Be Found At Sweet Mazies, A Massachusetts Bakery, The Charming Small Town In Massachusetts Where You Can Still Experience An Old-Fashioned Christmas, Great Barrington Is Massachusetts Winter Playground, Where You Can Go Snow Tubing, Skiing, Hiking, And More, Here Are The 14 Best Places To Go Sledding In Massachusetts This Winter, Delight In A 20-Foot Christmas Tree During This Epic Holiday Festival At A Beloved Massachusetts Christmas Stroll, Ride A Christmas Train, Then Stay In A Christmas-Themed Hotel For A Holly Jolly Massachusetts Adventure, This Massachusetts Christmas Town Is Straight Out Of A Norman Rockwell Painting, 7 Cool And Calming Hikes To Take In Massachusetts To Help You Reflect On The Year Ahead, places to visit in winter in Massachusetts. Battleship Cove is now open from 9am-5pm daily! No dogs, no swimming, no camping, no alcohol, no fires. The Old Mountain trail is longer and less steep as it winds around the mountain for a more gradual ascent. However, it was the site of a tragic massacre that changed the Native American culture in the region forever. The Bad Art Museum is exactly as advertised: a place with the self-declared mission to bring the worst of art to the widest of audiences. Even if you dont see them, you will encounter porcupine poop everywhere in the cave. Stop by the official website of, Cambridge Antique Market, 201 Monsignor O'Brien Highway, Cambridge, MA 02141, USA. A network of bikeable trails spread out here too. A post shared by John Rapson (@jrrapson) on Oct 18, 2016 at 1:29pm PDT, See the crypt where two historic Americans are buried. Dress up and put on your fanciest hat for traditional Afternoon Tea at "Fancy That" in Walpole. Bretton Woods, located in the White Mountains, is known as the home of New Hampshires largest ski area, but it also has plenty of activities during the warmer months of the year. The students loved trying a different outdoor activity in a new beautiful area each week. Find serenity in this whimsical garden of mosaics and stained glass, The picturesque gardens at Three Sisters Sanctuary are constantly evolving as the seasons change and art comes and goes. There are plenty of fun winter activities here in New England. The caving would be more my daughters speed. Be extra careful around the art at the New Bedford Museum of Glass, Have you ever seen a throne made of glass? Go to the basement of the United First Parish Church in Quincy, known as the Church of the Presidents, and find the tombs of John Adams and John Quincy Adams and their wives. } At the first switchback, look for tiny crystals in the banks beside the trail. There is an accessible picnic pavilion on top. The road turns appropriately into Falls Road. The McLaughlin Fish Hatchery just up the road on East Street is the nursery for the trout that end up in the Swift River. These microadventures recharge your life spirit. Since you live so near, maybe youll get a chance to go. True art isn't afraid to scare people #museumofbadart, A post shared by Bobby Duffy (@bobbehduffeh) on Jan 24, 2018 at 6:53am PST, See the art that is too bad to be ignored. The town of Deerfield is gorgeous any time of year but it really sparkles in the snow. Now they are quite common on the local waterways. The trail starts at the Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation parking lot on Sugarloaf Street. David York's unique collection of paintings and sculptures, rare dog collars and other one-of-a-kind dog-related gems is also located in North Adams. Marthas Vineyard is a popular weekend getaway for many east coast residents, home to picturesque lighthouses, sandy beaches, and the chance to enjoy unspoiled nature at spots like the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary. While youd probably think Las Vegas would play host to Americas biggest casino, its actually Foxwoods. With 12 brews to choose from in the form of a sample, pint, growler or can, there is something for everyone. The light is so different over water. North Adams truly has something for everyone. This popular multi-use rail-trail follows the former Boston-Maine Railroad line for 11 miles from Belchertown to Northampton. Return to the exit trail by going back through the cave or climbing around on the top. And there is so much natural beauty in each state. Wax Works is very popular with the younger crowd. The road up the mountain is a fine alternative for those who need more accessible ways to enjoy Skinner State Park. The summit is 3,491 feet and it yields views of the Green Mountains of Vermont and the Taconic Range. I recommend Celestron binoculars. Gently climbing through mixed hardwoods on the yellow-blazed Two Forest trail, the first stop is at the Devils Football. Nantucket is both the name of the small island and town, located 30 miles off the coast from Cape Cod. At least my students think so. Believe it or not, that's not a typo. We have passed the lilac season at this point in the summer, but be sure to take a trip to Pelham in early spring next year to see the flowers in full force. There's nothing better than a Massachusetts vacation. Ive discovered a porcupine a few times in the cave to great surprise. Check out my blog post on Cross Country Skiing in Western Massachusetts for more information. And here's the sweet part: You don't even need a bike. The river was dammed to create one of the largest unfiltered water supplies in the United States. I had no idea there are so many nature options here. Bats are quite fragile so make sure you dont disturb them or shine a light directly on them. Its fun to explore up into this pond off the river. You are making me jealous of your former students. There are definitely plenty of things to do in Massachusetts.

Stewardship And Accountability In The Bible, Union County Tn Jail Mugshots, Articles D