The town.
Northampton is home to over thirty thousand people as well as numerous theatres, museums and entertainment venues.  Author John Villani has named it the number one small town for arts in the country.  And though it is said, that "in flavor and hue there's no twin for you," whether you are interested in the arts, sight seeing, history, education, shopping or dining, this unique town has something to offer everyone. 

The county.
Rural yet sophisticated, Western Mass abounds in cultural and recreational pastimes that will provide you with an endless choice of leisure activities.  Within a convenient traveling distance from Boston and New York, the appeal to metropolitan residents seeking a restful, idyllic getaway is legendary.  You can find many events for families and individuals, including historical sites, exhilarating sports and recreation opportunities, as well as world-class festivals alive with music, theatre and dance.

The region.
Autumn is a celebrated time of year in New England, as the countryside becomes a kaleidoscope of gold, orange, and crimson.  Nowhere is the foliage display more spectacular than on the trails winding through the forested hillsides and quintessential New England villages.  Winter here is a picturesque season as well.  You can hit the slopes or discover countless other outdoor winter activities we offer!  Enjoy one of our many fine restaurants, and when it's time to call it a day, come sit by the crackling fire in one of our bed & breakfasts, and watch the snow falling outside.

The culture.
Classic New England charm, defined.  The cultural attractions here offer many surprising treasures.  A true crossroads of society where the awareness and celebration of our broad racial and ethnic diversity contribute to a unique cultural identity.  Flowing out of our multicultural community is an attraction to chefs and restaurateurs, who are, in no uncertain terms, artists in their own right.  Dining here can be a series of surprises that often surpasses even the highest expectations.  Local restaurants feature a variety of American and international flavors, including Continental, French, Indian, Italian, Japanese, and Mediterranean.  Many of the restaurants are award winning, and all provide a distinct experience.  Make time for shopping and antiquing too!

In addition to the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood, Western Massachusetts is home to the Clark Art Institute, the Norman Rockwell Museum, Yankee Candle Company, the Smith College Museum, Six Flags New England, the Eric Carle Museum, MassMOCA, the Big E, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the Yiddish Book Center, and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden.

The great outdoors.
There is certainly no shortage of recreational activities in which to partake.  Those who love the outdoors have plenty to choose from.  Activities include downhill and cross-country skiing, hiking, whitewater rafting, picnicking, boating, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, kayaking, biking, canoeing and golf.  Or you could simply stroll the celebrated Mohawk Trail and behold its breathtaking views.

The education.
Aptly known as New England's "Knowledge Corridor," the Pioneer Valley is fortunate to be home to many institutions of higher education, from community colleges to prestigious private universities.  The "Five College Consortium" connects over 30,000 students and the vast academic and social resources of not just one but four prominent liberal arts colleges: Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke and Smith Colleges, and the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, a flagship research university.

and finally...
Beyond the natural beauty both physical and of the mind, this area is blessed with warm, friendly people who readily extend their hospitality.  It is a mecca of culture, art, history, education and natural beauty, where life proceeds at a little slower pace.  It's the only place like it in the world ...every season, year round.  See it once... and you just might never want to leave.