Hampden MassachusettsATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hampden, Massachusetts.
1. Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary
NATURE AND WILDLIFE
Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary offers visitors a peaceful retreat into nature with well-maintained trails through diverse habitats. The sanctuary provides opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural environment while learning about conservation efforts. Visitors can enjoy seasonal programming and educational events suitable for all ages throughout the year.
2. Minnechaug Mountain Conservation Area
HIKING AND VIEWS
Minnechaug Mountain Conservation Area features scenic hiking trails that wind through forests and lead to panoramic viewpoints. The conservation area preserves important natural habitats while providing recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as bird watching, photography, and seasonal hikes guided by local naturalists.
3. Scantic River Artisans
LOCAL ART AND CRAFTS
Scantic River Artisans showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople in a charming gallery setting. The cooperative features a diverse collection of handmade items including pottery, jewelry, textiles, and fine art. Visitors can often meet the artists, learn about their creative processes, and purchase unique pieces that reflect the region's artistic heritage.
4. Hampden Memorial Park
RECREATION AND COMMUNITY
Hampden Memorial Park serves as the community's central gathering space with playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas. The park hosts various community events throughout the year, including summer concerts and holiday celebrations. Families particularly enjoy the well-maintained facilities and open green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
5. Mount Nonotuck
SCENIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Mount Nonotuck stands 827 feet tall as the northernmost peak of the Mount Tom Range, offering spectacular views of the Connecticut River's dramatic Oxbow bend. Hikers can access the summit via well-marked trails that showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is particularly popular during fall foliage season when the panoramic vistas display vibrant autumn colors.
6. Ashley Reservoir
WATERFRONT TRAILS AND WILDLIFE
Ashley Reservoir serves as Holyoke's secondary drinking water supply while offering scenic recreational opportunities around its shoreline. Visitors can enjoy walking or cycling on the trails that traverse woodlands and provide beautiful views across Wright Pond and Ashley Pond. The area is known for its abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for bird watching and nature photography.
7. Columbia Greenway Rail Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
The Columbia Greenway Rail Trail forms part of the 81-mile New Haven & Northampton Canal Greenway, converted from historic railway lines. This elevated trail offers cyclists and pedestrians unique vantage points of the surrounding communities as it passes through urban landscapes. The trail stands out as one of the few elevated rail trails in the United States, providing a distinctive recreational experience.
8. The Eastern States Exposition
REGIONAL FAIR AND EVENTS
The Eastern States Exposition, commonly known as The Big E, is New England's largest agricultural fair drawing over a million visitors annually. The fairgrounds host the famous 17-day September festival featuring agricultural exhibitions, entertainment, and the unique Avenue of States showcasing all six New England states. Throughout the year, the venue hosts numerous other events including horse shows, trade expositions, and concerts.
9. Holyoke Mall at Ingleside
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Holyoke Mall at Ingleside stands as western Massachusetts' largest shopping center with over 150 retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The multi-level mall features a diverse mix of national retailers, specialty shops, and dining establishments to suit various tastes and budgets. Visitors appreciate the climate-controlled environment that makes shopping comfortable year-round regardless of New England's weather conditions.
10. Children's Museum at Holyoke
INTERACTIVE LEARNING FOR KIDS
The Children's Museum at Holyoke provides hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and learning in young visitors. Favorite attractions include the water table, bubble room, and climbing structures that encourage active exploration and play. The museum regularly hosts special programs, workshops, and cultural events that educate children about science, art, and the diverse community around them.
11. Brimfield Antique Show
WORLD-FAMOUS ANTIQUE MARKET
The Brimfield Antique Show attracts thousands of dealers and collectors from around the world to the largest outdoor antique market in the United States. Held three times annually in May, July, and September, the show stretches for a mile along both sides of Route 20 with fields opening on different days and times. Visitors can discover everything from fine antiques and vintage collectibles to repurposed items and folk art across the sprawling market.
12. Bright Nights at Forest Park
HOLIDAY LIGHT SPECTACULAR
Bright Nights at Forest Park transforms Springfield's largest park into a dazzling holiday light display that has become a beloved regional tradition. Visitors drive through three miles of themed lighting displays featuring whimsical scenes, holiday characters, and animated installations. The seasonal attraction, typically running from late November through early January, includes special events like Santa's Magical Forest and opportunities for holiday photos.
13. Amelia Park Children's Museum
CREATIVE PLAY AND LEARNING
Amelia Park Children's Museum provides a stimulating environment where children can learn through interactive play and creative exploration. The museum features themed exhibits that encourage imagination, problem-solving, and discovery in areas ranging from art and science to community roles. Families appreciate the museum's commitment to providing educational experiences that are engaging for various age groups and developmental stages.
14. Berkshire East Mountain Resort
FOUR-SEASON OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
Berkshire East Mountain Resort offers year-round outdoor recreation with skiing and snowboarding in winter and mountain biking, zip lines, and whitewater rafting in warmer months. The resort is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to sustainability as the world's first ski area powered by 100% onsite renewable energy. Visitors appreciate the variety of activities available across all four seasons, making it a destination that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
15. Break Time Springfield
INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Break Time Springfield offers an innovative entertainment experience with interactive escape rooms, axe throwing, and virtual reality gaming. The venue provides a perfect setting for group outings, team building events, and celebrations with various challenge levels to accommodate different ages and skill levels. Visitors can test their problem-solving abilities, coordination, and teamwork while enjoying the social atmosphere and friendly competition.