Road Trip: Northampton, Massachusetts
Escape from the city hustle and bustle and head to a place where city style meets suburban comforts -- where local charm is only enhanced by the energetic and lively nightlife of a place nicknamed "Paradise City." Head west to Northampton for a trip you will not soon forget.
Located in the foothills of the Berkshires, Northampton has perfectly blended the love of the rural lifestyle with the artistic and cultural flare of a big city; and it is only a few hours away from Boston.
Getting There
Distance (roundtrip From Boston): About 200 miles
Travel Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Shopping
Now what could be better than doing a little shopping on your vacation -- you know... helping the local economy. Northampton is filled with wonderful shops to cater to the shopaholic in all of us. So grab you most comfortable shoes and get spending!
Northampton grants your every shopping wish. Featuring tons of stores filled with local flare and the latest trends, this city west of Boston caters to all of your shopping needs.
You can find a list of stores and what they carry at ExploreNorthampton.com.
Look Park
If you are simply looking to spend a day outdoors, head to Look Park for a picnic and a day in the sun. Here you can spend time with family and friends -- or even have a romantic lunch date for two -- all while enjoying Northampton's natural splendor.
Look Park consists of 150+ acres of land and is located on the Berkshire Trail. The park was a gift to the beautiful city from Fannie Burr Look.
The park is ideal for a picnic, a cookout or and a day of games -- and no need to bring your own grill... Look Park has one ready for you!
But food and frisbees are not the only attractions at the park. There are tons of things to do to keep everyone occupied and happy. Visitors can ride on a steamer railroad, take a spin on Willow Lake in a pedal boat and even play a few rounds of golf at the miniature golf course. There is also a beautiful scenic walk path and a water spray park for the kids to cool off on hot summer days.
If you are planning to spend a day at the park, be sure to reserve a picnic table in advance. Each table costs between $10 and $15 dollars and holds ten people.
Pioneer Valley Balloons
For the adventurous people out there, how about a hot-air balloon ride to cap off your vacation?
Pioneer Valley Balloons, operated out of Northampton Airport, takes visitors on the ride of their lives. During a one-hour trip, ballooners -- who are highly recommended to bring a camera -- float above Northampton and beyond, simply taking in the fantastic scenery around them.
Although these trips are expensive (flights start at $250 per person) you definitely get your money's worth. With a highly trained staff working in one of the most beautiful areas of Massachusetts, you are destined to have an amazing time.
Northampton could be considered a breath of fresh air for people who are itching to get away. The city magically intertwines urban and suburban lifestyles and offers a memorable alternative to traveling gas guzzling distances outside of the beautiful Bay State.
Here are some more adventures you can take while on your tip to Northampton:
-- Northampton Farmers' Market
-- Smith College Museum Of Art
