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Looking for a quick getaway? Explore Western Massachusetts!

[mk_page_section padding_top=”128″ padding_bottom=”128″ section_id=”welcome” el_class=”difFullHeight difd_add-triangle-top-left-orange” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”5/6″][vc_custom_heading source=”post_title” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1678392577298{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Looking for a quick getaway that’s not far away? Explore Western Mass! There are no plane rides, costs are manageable and you have the chance to discover previously overlooked experiences.

As a drive-to destination, Western Mass is a quick road trip from Connecticut, Rhode Island and upstate New York. The area offers a multitude of attractions and open space that appeal to families and couples alike, all within a three-hour drive of major metropolitan areas.

If you’re planning your next trip, here are just a few of the don’t-miss destinations to consider.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_padding_divider][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/sem-dusk-hero-1.jpg” image_width=”375″ image_height=”250″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”The Main Attraction”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1678719869387{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]As a world-class casino and resort, MGM Springfield has been drawing visitors to Western Massachusetts since opening its doors in August 2018.  The property, located on Main Street in the heart of downtown Springfield, also houses a Regal movie theater, a bowling alley, an indoor Top Golf location along with a high-end steakhouse, Italian restaurant, sports bar and food hall. The gaming floor also features several cocktail lounges, nightly entertainment and the BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge.  There’s so much to do, you’ll want to stay a few days at the MGM Springfield Hotel – the region’s only AAA four-diamond rated hotel.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_divider margin_top=”40″ margin_bottom=”40″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/15-seuss-5-9-197-mm-1-scaled.jpg” image_width=”375″ image_height=”250″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/kobe_exhibit-1-scaled.jpg” image_width=”375″ image_height=”250″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”One-of–a-kind Experiences”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1695834041024{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Families with kids (of all ages) can get a full dose of fun and nostalgia at The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in Springfield, where Theodor Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, was born. On the first floor, visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits and games like The Giant Marble Maze and the Lorax Recycle. The second floor offers a glimpse into the personal life and work of Dr. Seuss with recreations of his studio and living room, never before publicly displayed artworks, and more.
Not far from the Dr. Seuss Museum, sports fans can head over to “Hoop Hall,” aka the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Interactive exhibits include a the Kobe Bryant Experience, TNT’s Inside the NBA, Players Gallery, Coaches Gallery and much more. In the summer, the Hall of Fame hosts “60 Days of Summer,” a series of daily events that include various appearances, autograph signings, magicians, trick dribblers and jugglers, mascot days and giveaway days. The extra experiences are free with museum admission.
The magic continues at the Yankee Candle Village Store in South Deerfield. This is more than your favorite candle store at the mall; it’s an entire destination in and of itself. Visitors experience Christmas every day at the Bavarian Village, where they can shop for ornaments and festive scents — and it snows indoors. Top off the trip with a sweet treat like homemade fudge or a scoop of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, but don’t leave without visiting the Wax Works, where you can make your very own custom candle as a keepsake.
About half an hour north of Springfield, the magic continues at Yankee Candle® Village in South Deerfield, Massachusetts. Far more than just a candle store, it’s one of New England’s favorite day trip destinations for the entire family. Visitors experience Christmas every day in the Bavarian Village where they can shop for ornaments and festive fragrances — and it even snows indoors! Become a candle maker for a day in our Make Your Own Candle area in Wax Works or create your one-of-a-kind signature fragrance at our NEW Candle-Making Bar – both recently reopened!  Top off the trip with a sweet treat while enjoying our homemade fudge, and don’t leave without visiting Hillside Pizza and Powder Hollow Brewery for the perfect day trip! We are taking special precautions to ensure a safe and worry-free shopping experience (masks required). Visit YankeeCandle.com/Village to learn more. Now exit 35 on Interstate 91.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_divider margin_top=”40″ margin_bottom=”40″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/zip_1959-scaled.jpg” image_width=”375″ image_height=”250″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1678719469416{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Western Mass is home to some of the finest fall foliage, but the natural scenery is also ripe for a windows-down drive, photography adventure or zip-line canopy tour during spring and summer as well. The temperate climate means welcoming weather most of the year for campers, cyclists and hikers alike.

If you really want to get moving, Western Mass is one of the best places in New England for whitewater rafting, kayaking and rock climbing. Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont offers instructional clinics and activities with accommodations for adventurers of all abilities.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_divider margin_top=”40″ margin_bottom=”40″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1678719507850{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Are you ready to start planning your next trip? Visit Explore Western Mass to connect with hotels, dining options, events and even more great attractions.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_image=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/holyoke-overview.jpg” bg_position=”center center” bg_repeat=”no-repeat” bg_stretch=”true” enable_3d=”true” speed_factor=”0.5″ video_color_mask=”#004f6b” video_opacity=”0.8″ js_vertical_centered=”true” padding_top=”96″ padding_bottom=”96″ section_id=”subscribe” el_class=”difFullHeight” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Best of Western Mass” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:center|color:%2300b2ba”][vc_column_text align=”center” css=”.vc_custom_1510243760717{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Exclusive info and promotions sent directly to your inbox monthly.[/vc_column_text]

[vc_text_separator title=”CONNECT WITH US” color=”custom” border_width=”2″ accent_color=”#00b2ba” el_class=”cyanText”][mk_social_networks size=”large” style=”circle” margin=”8″ icon_color=”#ffffff” icon_hover_color=”#f47e46″ align=”center” facebook=”https://www.facebook.com/explorewesternmass/” twitter=”https://twitter.com/XploreWesternMA” instagram=”https://www.instagram.com/explorewesternmass/”][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_image=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/footer-section-bkg.jpg” bg_color=”#ffffff” bg_position=”center bottom” bg_repeat=”no-repeat” bg_stretch=”true” enable_3d=”true” speed_factor=”0.5″ bg_gradient=”vertical” video_color_mask=”#ffffff” gr_end=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” video_opacity=”1″ padding_top=”96″ padding_bottom=”96″ section_id=”footer-section” el_class=”difd_page-footer difd_add-triangle-middle-left-orange difd_add-triangle-invert-bottom-right-cyan-transform-scale_0.33_” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_column_text][vc_vulcanIncludePage page_title=”Featured Page Links”][vc_text_separator title=”Partner Ads” color=”custom” border_width=”2″ el_class=”grayText” accent_color=”#666666″][vc_vulcanIncludePage page_title=”Footer Ads”][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section] READ MORE


We’re All Irish in March

[mk_page_section section_id=”welcome” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Here are our favorite ways to celebrate!”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1678388568082{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Saint Patrick's Day

In Western Mass our Irish heritage runs deep!  Irish immigration to New England reached a peak in the mid-19th century when many families sought new opportunity, left Ireland and landed in ports up and down the American eastern seaboard. Many stayed on the coast, but others pressed westward, looking for work and the chance to build a new life.

Today, Western Mass honors and celebrate all things Irish. So don your finest tartan and join in the fun!  Here are our favorite ways to celebrate:

March 3 | Marshal Mania Fundraiser

March 4 | Dobbin’s Tartan Party: A Fundraiser

March 5 | Annual Colleen Gathering

March 16 | YPS March Third Thursday: Pre-Patty’s Celebration at Slainte

March 16 | Darik and the Funbags at Brennans Place

March 17 | Below the Gaff at Slainte

March 17 | Trailer Trash Live Music at Francies Tavern

March 17 | Green Gold Group Pop-Up at Canna Provisions Holyoke

March 18 | 46th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Road Race

March 18 | BJ Korona at Slainte 

March 18 | Frank Manzi Band at at Francies Tavern

March 18 | JFK Award Reception Honoring Lenny Jacobson

March 19 | 70th Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade

March 19 | The Knot’s & Midlife Crisis at Francies Tavern

March 20 | Incredible Manzi Family Band at Francies Tavern

March 20 | Ally & Kenny at Slainte

March 21 | The Bards at Slainte

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Looking for February Vacation fun?

[mk_page_section section_id=”welcome” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Western Mass has you covered. Whether you’re looking for cozy indoor activities or trying to enjoy traditional winter activities, there’s something for everyone here.

“][vc_video host=”self_hosted” mp4=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/gscvb-feb-blog-1.mp4″ autoplay=”true” loop=”true”][/vc_column][/mk_page_section] READ MORE


Five world class museums in one place! Springfield Museums! Year-round fun for all ages.

[mk_page_section padding_top=”128″ padding_bottom=”128″ section_id=”welcome” el_class=”difFullHeight difd_add-triangle-top-left-orange” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”5/6″][vc_custom_heading source=”post_title” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left”][vc_video link=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/gscvb-january-blog-update-1.mp4″ custom_thumbnail=”true” thumbnail_image=”93452″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_divider margin_top=”40″ margin_bottom=”40″][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_image=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/footer-section-bkg.jpg” bg_color=”#ffffff” bg_position=”center bottom” bg_repeat=”no-repeat” bg_stretch=”true” enable_3d=”true” speed_factor=”0.5″ bg_gradient=”vertical” video_color_mask=”#ffffff” gr_end=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” video_opacity=”1″ padding_top=”96″ padding_bottom=”96″ section_id=”footer-section” el_class=”difd_page-footer difd_add-triangle-middle-left-orange difd_add-triangle-invert-bottom-right-cyan-transform-scale_0.33_” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_column_text][vc_vulcanIncludePage page_title=”Featured Page Links”][vc_text_separator title=”Partner Ads” color=”custom” border_width=”2″ el_class=”grayText” accent_color=”#666666″][vc_vulcanIncludePage page_title=”Footer Ads”][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section] READ MORE


New Holiday Tradition

[mk_page_section section_id=”welcome” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Start a new holiday tradition or keep your existing traditions alive in Western Mass! There’s so much to do that you’ll want to stay a few days.”][vc_video host=”self_hosted” mp4=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/gscvb-december-1.mp4″ autoplay=”true” loop=”true”][/vc_column][/mk_page_section] READ MORE


Springfield Thunderbird Season is here

[mk_page_section section_id=”welcome” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1669665931121{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]From October to April, we get to watch the Thunderbirds take to the ice at the MassMutual Center. As reigning AHL Eastern Conference Champions, this season is already primed to be a great one! Check out some of the fun from Opening Night and be sure to get your tickets to a game soon.[/vc_column_text][vc_video host=”self_hosted” mp4=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/gscvb-november-blog-1-1.mp4″ autoplay=”true” loop=”true”][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/mk_page_section] READ MORE


Holiday Traditions in Western Mass

[mk_page_section padding_top=”128″ padding_bottom=”128″ section_id=”welcome” el_class=”difFullHeight difd_add-triangle-top-left-orange” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”5/6″][vc_custom_heading source=”post_title” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left”][vc_custom_heading text=”Relaxed, sophisticated, ethnic, traditional American, drive-up, or sit-down.” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1668700336824{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]What better time to start a new tradition than the holiday season?  And what better place to do it than Western Mass ?  You’ll find one-of-a-kind holiday attractions , great shopping and delicious dining![/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_padding_divider][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/bright-nights.jpg” image_size=”medium”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Bright Nights at Forest Park”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1668700360735{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]New England’s single most popular holiday destination and largest holiday lighting display, featuring Toy Land, Seuss Land and miles of themed holiday scenes.  Click here for dates and times.  (www.brightnights.org)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/osv.png” image_size=”medium”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Old Sturbridge Village”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1668700417619{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Celebrate the season during Christmas by Candlelight at Old Sturbridge Village! Explore the beautifully decorated Village, watch a nightly lighting ceremony, stroll through the Christmas Tree Trail and so much more.  Tickets sell fast so click here for more info.  (www.osv.org)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/yankee-candle-village.jpg” image_size=”medium”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Yankee Candle Village”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1668700464800{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]You won’t find a more festive way to do your holiday shopping than this 90,000 sq.ft. candle and gift shop!  It also snows inside!  Stroll through the Bavarian Village to shop ornaments, festive scents, décor and even meet Santa!  There’s more to explore here. (www.yankeecandle.com/south-deerfield-village.html)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/storrowton.jpg” image_size=”medium”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Yuletide at Storrowton Village”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1668700507375{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Eastern States Exposition presents Yuletide at Storrowton Village Museum events each year during the first weekend in December with free activities and through the following week with paid tours, workshops and lantern light experiences.  Get all of the details here.  (www.storrowtonvillage.com)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/grinchmas.jpg” image_size=”medium”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Grinchmas at The Springfield Museums”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1668700551792{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Grinchmas is celebrated at the Springfield Museums, where Springfield native Theodore Seuss Geisel, is celebrated at the Amazing World Of Dr. Seuss Museum and Sculpture Garden. This year, during our Seuss-iversary, they’ve added The Grinch’s Grotto as a must-see, must-experience attraction.  Get more info here. (www.springfieldmuseums.org)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/the-fort.jpg” image_size=”medium”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”The Student Prince”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1670431198929{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Celebrate the holidays in the traditional German way with Carolers, great food and their special holiday eggnog.  Make a reservation because they fill up fast!  (www.thestudentprince.com)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1668700642047{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Visit our regional calendar of events (https://difhosting1.com/events/) for even more ideas for holiday fun, shopping and dining in Western Mass (https://difhosting1.com/). Then visit our recommended hotels page (https://difhosting1.com/lodging/) because you’re going to want to stay a few days.

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/explorewesternmass/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/xplorewesternma
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/explorewesternmass[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_divider margin_top=”40″ margin_bottom=”40″][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_image=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/footer-section-bkg.jpg” bg_color=”#ffffff” bg_position=”center bottom” bg_repeat=”no-repeat” bg_stretch=”true” enable_3d=”true” speed_factor=”0.5″ bg_gradient=”vertical” video_color_mask=”#ffffff” gr_end=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” video_opacity=”1″ padding_top=”96″ padding_bottom=”96″ section_id=”footer-section” el_class=”difd_page-footer difd_add-triangle-middle-left-orange difd_add-triangle-invert-bottom-right-cyan-transform-scale_0.33_” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_column_text][vc_vulcanIncludePage page_title=”Featured Page Links”][vc_text_separator title=”Partner Ads” color=”custom” border_width=”2″ el_class=”grayText” accent_color=”#666666″][vc_vulcanIncludePage page_title=”Footer Ads”][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section] READ MORE


Best Restaurants & Lunch in Western Mass

[mk_page_section padding_top=”128″ padding_bottom=”128″ section_id=”welcome” el_class=”difFullHeight difd_add-triangle-top-left-orange” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”5/6″][vc_custom_heading source=”post_title” font_container=”tag:h1|text_align:left”][vc_custom_heading text=”Relaxed, sophisticated, ethnic, traditional American, drive-up, or sit-down.” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1695836029279{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]The options are endless. From the most casual to the most formal restaurant, there’s something in Western Mass for every palate. This region is filled with creative chefs who serve tasty dishes and enhance every dining experience with their culinary brilliance and farm-to-table ingredients. At Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau, we want to help you find the top restaurants in Western Mass for your next outing. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there’s something for everyone.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_padding_divider][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/beer-trail-scaled.jpg” image_size=”medium”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Breweries”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1665152488562{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Beer lovers have it made in Western Mass, as many breweries are scattered around the area. Along with these craft breweries are pubs, tasting rooms, and scores of beer-related events.

Abandoned Building Brewery is a traditional microbrewery specializing in hoppy ales and Belgian Abbey ales, while Amherst Brewing has been crafting fine ales and lagers since 1997. Both are great establishments to spend a while drinking with friends and family, and the beers will not disappoint.

White Lion Brewing Company has been brewing handcrafted beers in Western Mass since 2014. Enjoy local favorites like the Winter Fruits Kettle Sour and Purrlicious IPA. They offer retail cans and home delivery so you can enjoy your favorite brew wherever you are.

Artifact Cider Project is an ideal option if you enjoy dining while sipping crisp local ciders. Enjoy a wide variety of locally brewed ciders that pay homage to the heritage of Western Mass. Thanks to their cutting-edge cider-making techniques and local apples, you can rest assured that the Artifact Cider Project has beers that are as genuine, diverse, and forward-thinking as the region they originate from. You can also enjoy pairing your favorite local ciders with some locally sourced ingredients to elevate the dining experience.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/sumo-sushi-bar.jpg” image_size=”medium”][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/max-tavern-scaled.jpg” image_size=”full” align=”center” margin_bottom=”40″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Family Fun”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1665152673661{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Western Mass is alive with family restaurants that cater to every age. When you’re taking the whole crew out for a bite to eat, Johnny’s Roadside Diner is where it’s at. With all your family favorites, from breakfast to dinner and cocktails, everyone will have a good time in the fun atmosphere of this dining establishment.

White Hut is another fun restaurant the whole family will love. With a long list of menu items, you’ll all be full and ready to take on the day after sitting down for a family breakfast. Their lunch and dinner menu items are also delectable, and their treat menu contains both ice cream cones and milkshakes!

If sushi is on your mind, try Sumo Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar. They are open daily for lunch and dinner, and their professional hibachi chefs always combine artistic flair with a cuisine that will undoubtedly have you wanting more.

The Student Prince and The Fort has been a Western Mass landmark since 1935. The German-inspired menu features giant pretzels, popular German entreés such as schnitzel, and an extensive beer list. They’re open for dine-in seating and take-out for you to enjoy a taste of Germany at home!

Head to Max Tavern in Western Mass for modern American cuisine that will delight your taste buds. Book a reservation for lunch or dinner, or enjoy a private dining experience catered by their team of experienced chefs. From oysters on the half shell to tender steaks to flourless chocolate cake, there’s something for everyone.

For a contemporary twist on French and Italian cuisine, The Federal in Western Mass offers fine dining appropriate for any occasion. Unique entrees are paired with handcrafted cocktails in an intimate and relaxed setting. Book your reservation or order online.

If you prefer a place where you can freely meet your friends and family and enjoy a wide variety of local foods, the Village Commons is the perfect location. This neighborhood comprises several intriguing and oddly-shaped buildings scattered within the winding and lushly landscaped courtyards in South Hadley. From popular street foods to farm-to-table favorites to West African recipes, the Village Commons has it all.

Head to Wahlburgers for the perfect burgers in one of the finest dining establishments in Western Mass. Paul Wahlberg, one of the Wahlberg brothers, was passionate about creating family foods. Over the years, he has perfected his culinary skills and now owns one of the best restaurants in western mass.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Banquet Halls & Reception Halls”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1665152859674{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Some of the best restaurants in Western Mass are the meeting venues. Storrowton Tavern & Carriage House is rich with history, providing the perfect backdrop to any special occasion. With over a dozen menus catering to individual occasions, this is an excellent location for anything significant in your life.

30Boltwood is a great gathering place to sip cocktails by the fire and reminisce with old friends and new acquaintances alike. Chef Dino is well versed in celebrating all that is great about food, drink, and camaraderie.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/12″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/4″][mk_image src=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/atkins.jpg” image_size=”medium”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_custom_heading text=”Farm & Markets to Visit”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1665153466468{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]Visit any of the numerous farms and markets in the area to show your support for the local farmers. After all, nothing is better than knowing the origin of your food and eating locally produced foods. Whether you are a local or a visitor, Western Mass’s fantastic farms and markets have something to offer.

Grab a doughnut at Atkins Farms Country Market, where you will explore a wide range of locally produced fresh produce. Found in Amherst, Western MA, It is the perfect combination of a country food market and a New England Apple Orchard set against the famous Pioneer Valley’s Holyoke Mountain Range. This farmer’s market features a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for people to shop. This farmers market has everything from homemade ice cream products to locally sourced Angus beef to the fan-favorite cheesecake stuffed apples to fresh flowers to fresh apples.

Randall’s Farm is owned and operated by the Randall family’s second generation. It has yielded the best and freshest locally sourced vegetables and produce for over fifty years. It has a bakery deli section that offers homemade baked goods, ready-made salads, and meals. You can also find gourmet foods and a wide variety of delicious and locally sourced gluten-free foods.

The Farm also has a Greenhouse where you can find a massive assortment of fresh flowers for any occasion, holiday plants, and Randall’s flowers and plants. You will also love Elsie’s Creamery, which sells small batches of the creamiest and tastiest homemade ice cream. Whether you are looking for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or all three, you can find a wide variety of options at Randall’s Farm. There are also several crafts and customizable goods to take with you as a memoir of this fantastic experience.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”2/3″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1665153553043{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]

At the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau, we have all the resources you need to plan your next outing. See our visitor’s guide to find the top restaurants, adventures, and events in Western Mass.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][mk_divider margin_top=”40″ margin_bottom=”40″][/vc_column][/mk_page_section][mk_page_section bg_image=”https://difhosting1.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/footer-section-bkg.jpg” bg_color=”#ffffff” bg_position=”center bottom” bg_repeat=”no-repeat” bg_stretch=”true” enable_3d=”true” speed_factor=”0.5″ bg_gradient=”vertical” video_color_mask=”#ffffff” gr_end=”rgba(255,255,255,0)” video_opacity=”1″ padding_top=”96″ padding_bottom=”96″ section_id=”footer-section” el_class=”difd_page-footer difd_add-triangle-middle-left-orange difd_add-triangle-invert-bottom-right-cyan-transform-scale_0.33_” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column][vc_column_text][vc_vulcanIncludePage page_title=”Featured Page Links”][vc_text_separator title=”Partner Ads” color=”custom” border_width=”2″ el_class=”grayText” accent_color=”#666666″][vc_vulcanIncludePage page_title=”Footer Ads”][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/mk_page_section] READ MORE


2022 Big E

[mk_page_section section_id=”welcome” el_class=”difd_add-triangle-top-left-orange” sidebar=”sidebar-1″][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_video host=”self_hosted” mp4=”https://difhosting1.com/videos/Gscvb – October-1.mp4″ custom_thumbnail=”true” play_icon_size=”64″ play_icon_animation=”none” play_target=”same” thumbnail_image=”90273″][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1665151805892{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”]The 2022 Big E was another successful year. Featuring major acts like The Dropkick Murphys, Nelly and Sublime, the entertainment schedule was packed, and the food scene did not disappoint (not that it ever does). New vendors included Sassy’s Sweet Potatoes, The Happy Dough Co. and The Place 2 Be, just to name a few.

Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula (West Springfield’s sister city) included the Dingle Distillery, celebrating its 10th anniversary, opening as Ireland’s first independent, family-owned, purpose-built artisan spirits distillery in over 100 years.  In addition to the Distillery, several other artisans from Dingle showed their wares in the Pavilion.

As always, The Big E was filled with endless shopping, agriculture exhibits and the crowd pleasing state buildings. If you didn’t get a chance to visit, save the date for next year: opening night is September 15th, 2023. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/6″][/vc_column][/mk_page_section] READ MORE