Amherst MassachusettsATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Amherst, Massachusetts.
1. Emily Dickinson Museum
HISTORIC POET'S HOME
The Emily Dickinson Museum encompasses two historic houses associated with the famed poet Emily Dickinson and her family in central Amherst. Visitors can tour The Homestead, where Dickinson wrote many of her poems, and The Evergreens, her brother's residence. Exhibits and tours explore Dickinson's legacy and the 19th-century Amherst community.
2. Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
CHILDREN'S ART MUSEUM
The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art celebrates the art of children's picture books in a vibrant, family-friendly space. The museum features rotating exhibitions, hands-on art activities, and a theater with short films and story times. It is particularly popular with families and fans of 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar.'
3. Amherst College Museum of Natural History
SCIENCE AND FOSSIL DISPLAYS
Amherst College Museum of Natural History houses an impressive collection of fossils, minerals, and taxidermy specimens. Highlights include skeletons of prehistoric creatures and interactive educational displays. The museum is a favorite destination for science enthusiasts and families alike.
4. Mount Holyoke Range State Park
SCENIC HIKING DESTINATION
Mount Holyoke Range State Park offers miles of hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and sweeping views of the Connecticut River Valley. The park is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking. Photographers and nature lovers especially enjoy the picturesque summit vistas.
5. Amherst College
PRESTIGIOUS LIBERAL ARTS COLLEGE
Amherst College is a nationally recognized liberal arts institution with a picturesque campus. Visitors can explore its historic buildings, scenic walkways, and significant art and natural history museums. The campus frequently hosts lectures, performances, and cultural events open to the public.
6. Puffer's Pond
POPULAR SWIMMING SPOT
Puffer's Pond is a beloved local spot for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and birdwatching. The tranquil pond is surrounded by wooded trails and picnic areas, making it a favorite for relaxing retreats. During summer months, it is one of Amherst's most popular outdoor destinations.
7. Amherst Farmers' Market
SEASONAL LOCAL MARKETPLACE
Amherst Farmers' Market operates on Saturdays from late April to mid-November, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, plants, and more. Held on the Amherst town common, the market is a lively gathering point for the community. Visitors enjoy sampling local foods and browsing handmade crafts.
8. Mead Art Museum
ACADEMIC ART COLLECTION
Mead Art Museum is located on the Amherst College campus and showcases a diverse collection of art from around the world. The museum features rotating exhibitions and interesting permanent installations. Admission is free, making it a welcoming stop for art lovers and students.
9. Amherst Cinema
INDEPENDENT FILM THEATER
Amherst Cinema is a nonprofit movie theater known for its selection of independent, foreign, and family films. Besides regular screenings, the cinema offers educational programs and special events. It provides a vibrant arts experience for film enthusiasts in the community.
10. Ginger Garden
CHINESE AND JAPANESE CUISINE
Ginger Garden is a well-loved restaurant offering a menu of authentic Chinese and Japanese dishes, including sushi. The stylish atmosphere makes it a popular choice for students, families, and visitors seeking quality Asian dining. Signature dishes span across both cuisines, satisfying a wide range of tastes.
11. Oriental Flavor
AFFORDABLE CHINESE EATERY
Oriental Flavor is a casual restaurant known for its extensive, budget-friendly Chinese menu. Favorites include scallion pancakes and homemade tofu dishes, attracting locals and students alike. Its no-frills setting emphasizes flavor and value.
12. Miss Saigon
VIETNAMESE DINING FAVORITE
Miss Saigon is a beloved Vietnamese restaurant offering a variety of authentic and affordable dishes. Patrons enjoy flavorful pho, fresh spring rolls, and house specialties that bring the tastes of Vietnam to Amherst. It is especially popular with students and local residents.
13. Amherst Books
INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
Amherst Books is a locally owned independent bookstore featuring a curated selection of new, used, and scholarly books. The shop is a hub for literary events, author readings, and community gatherings. Its welcoming atmosphere appeals to book lovers of all ages.
14. Tower Theaters
CLASSIC MOVIE HOUSE
Tower Theaters in nearby South Hadley is a retro-style cinema showing a mix of current films and special screenings. Comfortable seating and a nostalgic vibe make this movie theater a favorite with families and college students. The theater frequently hosts local events and themed movie nights.
15. Smith College Museum of Art
RENOWNED ART MUSEUM
Smith College Museum of Art, located in the neighboring town of Northampton, is a nationally recognized academic art museum. The museum features thought-provoking installations, an impressive permanent collection, and a popular gift shop. Its galleries showcase works from various cultures and time periods, attracting art lovers from across the region.