Category: USA

15 Best Things to Do in Abington (MA)

This town on the South Shore has extraordinary ties to the Respectful War. For a few 20 long time, Abington was the location of a yearly Abolitionist assembly, held at what is presently Island Woods Stop, a beautiful open space following a lake. Within the 1810s the mass production of press tacks was spearheaded in Abington and laid the basis for a burgeoning shoe and boot industry. Nearly half of all the footwear made for the Union Armed force within the Gracious War came from manufacturing plants here in Abington. This angle of Abington’s legacy can be acknowledged at a Respectful War place to stay at Island Forest Stop amid the town’s Founders’ Day celebration. For half a century from 1941, a gigantic maritime discussion field occupied an enormous piece of Abington, and you’ll get to a parcel of this space on preservation arriving at Thompson’s Lake. 1. Oktoberfest Since the mid-2010s, Abington has put on a family-situated celebration on the moment end of the week in October. Oktoberfest blends German and Halloween-themed occasions and exercises, with light-hearted fun like a canine ensemble challenge, a carved pumpkin challenge, an open house at the Dyer Commemoration Library, and a children’s outfit parade. There’s a commercial center on Saturday, with merchants, crafters, and music, as well as a family celebration on Sunday, with a have of exercises for kids, a larger cultivate for adults, and an execution by the Twofold Hawk Oktoberfest German Band. 2. Barrett’s Haunted Mansion One of the beat alarms within the locale, Abington incorporates a frequented house that’s presently in its fourth decade. Barrett’s Frequented House is two attractions in one, with an unnerving path through the most house, and Condemned (at the time of composing), in which you enter an ancient chemical lab, fixed off and slithering with mutants. There’s a number of uncommon occasions all through the season in September and October, counting lights-on visits on Saturdays, once you can appreciate the make and cherish that goes into the scenarios, props, ensembles, and cosmetics.  3. Abington Summer Concerts Summers in Abington wouldn’t be the same without this yearly arrangement of concerts in July and Admirable. The organize is the Catherine and Joseph Nisby Bandstand another to Abington Town Lobby, with the broad field obliging shockingly huge swarms for these appears. Concerts take put on Sunday nights, highlighting entertainers from a extend of classes, whether you’re within the temperament for the soul, classic shake, nation, doo-wop, jazz, or 80s pop hits. One Night amid the Season is particularly for kids, with swell craftsmanship, instructive intriguing creature showings, and confront portray. 4. High Voltage Paintball Covered up in more than 20 sections of land of woods nearby in Holbrook, Tall Voltage Paintball invites walk-ins on Saturdays and Sundays. There’s an incredible assortment of territories on offer here, from the profound cover of the woodsball areas to the open speedball field. The office is additionally prepared for all sorts of diversion modes, whether you’re attacking/defending a key peak or bunker, playing bomb the base, or capturing the hail. All the gear you wish to induce is accessible here, and the mindful staff makes beyond any doubt the amusement remains secure.  5. Strawberry Valley Golf Course For a no-frills circular golf, Abington has a great metropolitan course in for the most part open parkland on the south side of the town. Strawberry Valley Golf Course may be a 9-hole track that plays generally brief, so is perfect in case you’re fair beginning out, or need to work on your iron play and brief amusement. The course is well kept up, contains a great pace of play, and speaks to astonishing esteem for cash. Within the winter the course’s rolling format gets to be idealized sledding territory for nearby kids. 6. Thompson Pond Trail The previous location of the South Weymouth Maritime Discuss Station is enormous and can be navigated along this path framework. The Thompson Lake Path is overseen by the Wildlands Believe, and gotten to from Spruce St on the Abington-Rockland line. Out and back, the Thompson Lake Path is fair beneath two miles long, crossing the lasting French Stream, and bringing you to the pleasant northern shore of the lake where you’ll discover an area of boardwalk and seats. At the trailhead you’ll be able to head off along the Twin Lakes Path into Rockland, whereas south of Spruce St is the 40+ section of land Rockland Town Woodland, holding up to be found.  7. Naval Air Station Weymouth (Control Tower) From 1941 to 1997 a US Naval Force Runway involved a huge scope of Abington, Weymouth, and Rockland. Maritime Discuss Station Weymouth was a dirigible base amid World War II, and after that, it became a portion of the Maritime Discuss Save Preparing Command. The arrival has steadily been given over to the particular towns since the mid-90s, incompletely for redevelopment ventures like Union Point. Other ranges have been cleared out open, and you’ll visit the Wildlands Believe Protect to gage the astonishing scale of the landing strip, where the runways were once as long as 7,000 feet. We’ll conversation almost Thompson Trail below, but a few ways north of there, off Adams St, you’ll get to the ancient control tower, still intaglio in spite of the fact that presently appearing its age, and went with by a number of rotting shelter narrows. 8. 10th District Brewing Company Established by two childhood companions who developed up here in Abington, the 10th Locale Brewing Company opened in 2014, and is presently accessible at a number of bars and eateries from Body to Holbrook. You’ll go to the source in Abington, where there’s a tavern with plentiful dog-friendly open-air space. Among the brews on tap at the time of composing were a choice of IPAs, a Gose, a Kolsch, a shelled nut Forceful, and a few less customary manifestations like a jalapeño lager and a lime acrid. You’ll buy cans or fill growlers here, whereas flights are accessible

15 Best Things to Do in Webster (MA)

Webster is a town in Central Massachusetts known for its lovely lake, which borders Connecticut and is close to the Rhode Island state boundary. Lake Chaubunagungamaug was part of the Nipmuc people’s traditional home for millennia before European arrival. The modern history of the town began in the early nineteenth century when the important entrepreneur Samuel Slater built textile mills powered by the lake. The new community was named after his buddy, statesman Daniel Webster (1782-1852). Later, the unmistakable beauty of the lake established Webster as a tourist town. Lake Chaubunagungamaug was given the unusual 45-letter name in the early 1920s. , which has the country’s and one of the world’s longest names for any natural feature. 1. Downtown Webster (Main Street Historic District) On Main Street, from the railroad tracks east to Webster’s Town Hall, you’ll enter a well-preserved central commercial district from the end of the 19th century. Up to four stories tall, the impressive brick commercial blocks bear the dates of their construction and the names of the people who built them. Among the most imposing is the Racicot Block (1905), now used by MAPFRE Insurance, which is headquartered in Webster. Here and further along Main Street you’ll find several places to eat, whether you’re in the mood for pizza (Northeast Pizza), pan-Asian (Eastern Pearl), traditional Italian (Monte Bianco), modern American cuisine (Stave & Still), and there’s a handful of bars. On the north side, French River Park is crossed by a section of the French River Greenway, which will eventually run for seven miles through the area. 2. Douglas State Forest Along the entire length of Webster’s eastern slope, nearly 6,000 acres of protected wilderness stretch to the borders with Rhode Island and Connecticut. Whether you want to go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or cross-country skiing in the winter, the Douglas State Forest is a dream. The forest has two traverse trails, the 22-mile Southern New England Trunkline Trail and the 92-mile Midstate Trail, both of which pass near Tri-State Point (see below). Within the park’s boundaries are most of the shores of Lake Wallum, open to activities such as swimming, boating, and picnicking in the summer. A rare patch of white cedar swamp in the Atlantic Ocean is also outstanding, ready for you to experience on a special hike.  3. Tri-State Marker At the exact southwest corner of the Douglas State Forest are the state’s borders with Connecticut and Rhode Island. Although the location is important, the Tri-State Marker is quite remote, buried deep in the hardwood forest, but relatively easy to walk. To get there, you can take the Midstate Trail or the Southern New England Trunkline Trail, both of which pass nearby and have tributaries. On a mountainside, a small granite monument, erected in 1883 indicates the direction of the three states.   4. Pierpont Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary The Massachusetts Audubon Society manages this 211-acre landscape where nature has reclaimed former farmland. Historic stone walls still demarcate the grasslands of the Pierpont Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary and weave through the pine forest that has taken over ever since. The reserve is also known for its ecologically important shrubs, which serve as important nesting habitats for the Eastern Towhee and Brown Thrasher, which are in decline in the area. The best time to visit is during the peak of summer when the meadow is lit up by fireflies, while beavers can be spotted late in the day by a small pond near the entrance.   5. Breezy Picnic Grounds & Waterslides Next to Whitin Reservoir, just east of the Douglas State Forest, is a family-friendly recreational attraction that has been a summer staple since 1953. On the lake, there is a large swimming area with sandy beaches that the children will definitely love. They are backed by a lovely lawn with large picnic tables and plenty of shade under the trees. You also have a snack bar available to serve comfort food and cold treats like soft ice cream. Perhaps best for kids and teens, there are three 300-foot waterslides and a smaller one for younger kids, 42 inches and under.   6. Advanced Action Sports This outdoor airsoft and paintball center is located just off I-395, north of Webster. The playing field of advanced action sports is designed to resemble popular video game franchises, in an urban environment with plenty of melee opportunities. A variety of exciting game modes and mission objectives are provided to mix things up. Sessions are available on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and discounts are available when booking online. There’s also a 5,000-square-foot store on site, stocked with all the equipment and accessories you might need.   7. Quaddick State Park In Webster, you’re spoiled for choice in outdoor recreation, as there’s an adjacent state park and state forest just outside the boundary in Connecticut. They are located on the banks of the 466-acre Quaddick Reservoir, made up of lower, middle, and upper sections, and born of the construction of a dam on the Five Mile River in the 1860s. Long ago, this was a Nipmuck Native American fishing ground, and now it’s a big draw for families in the summer. At Quaddick State Park, you also have another swimming area to choose from, with a wide sandy beach, marina, picnic area, and barbecue area. The water is perfectly clear in some places and you can fish for crappie and pumpkin seeds.  8. Point Breeze This combined restaurant, entertainment venue, and event center, located at the tip of a peninsula on Lake Webster, dates back to 1881 when it was founded as a private men’s rowing club. Point Breeze is Worcester County’s entertainment hotspot and the destination of choice for businesses in the area hosting summer picnics. The current owners took over the torch in the 1980s and were able to develop this historic facility. The live music tradition continues today, and on the culinary side, you’ve got to try New England seafood dishes like lobster rolls, fish

15 Best Things to Do in Northbridge (MA)

This charming city is located in the Blackstone Valley, where America’s industrial revolution reached its peak in the early 19th century. Part of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, Northbridge is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the area’s industrial history. Visit factory communities such as Whitesville and Lynnwood, shaped by the textile industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and discover the remains of the Blackstone Canal, built in the 1820s and once a thoroughfare between Worcester and Providence. These include the mysterious Purgatory Rift and the scenic beauty of the Blackstone Valley slopes at Lookout Rock and Goat Hill in Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park.   1. Purgatory Chasm State Reservation Across Highway 146 from West End, Creamery is the rocky site that was once owned by Whitin Machine Works. Designated a state park in 1919, Purgatory Chasm is a dramatic 75-foot-high depression in granite bedrock that is nearly 400 meters long. Chasm trails lead to chasms, caves, and massive formations, making for an unforgettable adventure during the summer months. However, it is closed in winter due to the danger of freezing. Climbing is permitted with permits, and the reserve also has a visitor center, picnic areas, and a playground.   2. Purgatory Beer Co. Housed in a rustic stone outbuilding (Building C) within the Lynnwood Mill complex, the craft brewery was founded in 2017 by two friends. The tasting room at Purgatory Beer Co. is warm, comfortable, cozy, and always full of fun. When it comes to beer, the menu is ever-changing, offering a wide range of styles and flavor profiles, from hoppy IPAs to bold porters. Enduring favorites are the smooth Two-Car Garage (Double IPA) and the lemony What a Fool Believes (IPA). In the summer there is an outdoor area with parasols and you can order freshly baked pretzels to accompany your beer.   3. Pirate’s Cove Lynnwood has seasonal seafood fries and ice cream stands that everyone associates with New England. Pirates Cove is open his March through October and offers seared clams, seared scallops, clam pies, fish and chips, lobster rolls, clam chowder, as well as a wide range of non-fish items such as hot dogs, burgers, wings, and tenders. One of his treats at this spot is the frozen desserts, which are available in over 25 flavors of Soft His Cream His flavors, as well as a variety of flavors from his award-winning Maine-based Gifford’s Ice Cream. The top flavors in the latter are the popular chocolate and black raspberry.   4. Lookout Rock Parking lots along the Blackstone River and Quaker Street in Canal Heritage State Park serve as trailheads to this stunning lookout. The trail winds through rock-studded woodlands on a gentle slope to Lookout Rock, one of the most scenic hens in the Blackstone Valley. From here you can see the roaring Blackstone River, Riverbend Farm, Goat Hills, Rice Ponds, and beautiful sunsets (bug spray is a must in the summer). For longer hikes, you can also park at Rice City Pond in Uxbridge and hike the King He Phillips Lookout Trail, which is about four miles round trip through the woods.  5. Sparetime Recreation Candlepin bowling is available at this bowling alley on Church Street in downtown Whitensville. This tenpin bowling variant originated in Worcester in the 1880s and differs from other bowling in many ways. For one, the pin is taller and narrower, making it much more difficult to throw strikes. In addition, it is a small ball that fits in the palm of your hand without finger holes. Despite all these differences, Spare Time’s recreation has all the hallmarks of a modern bowling alley, including the necessary bumpers if you’re traveling with young children. The place also boasts a busy event calendar, with regular events like comedy, trivia, and even karaoke.   6. Shining Rock Golf Club This 18-hole golf course, open to the public near the center of Northbridge, is easily overlooked as it is surrounded by new residential developments. After years of planning and turmoil in the development phase, the course finally opened in 2010. Shining Rock Golf Club benefits from steep elevations, smoothly sloping greens, and spectacular views of the Blackstone River Valley. You will be playing memorable holes such as a very short but very technical par 4 and a long 200-yard par 3. In recent years, the golf course has added a driving range to its practice facilities.  7. Mendon Twin Drive-In There are only two drive-in theaters left in Massachusetts, one of which is about eight miles east of Northbridge in Mendon. The Mendon Twin Drive-In he opened in 1954 and added his second screen in 1998. Gone are the old-fashioned speakers mounted on metal poles, replaced by FM radio. Both screens are equipped with full digital projection and sound, and the owner recently opened his 5,000-square-foot terrace where you can order beer and wine. The drive-in cinema is open every day during the school summer holidays and on Fridays and Saturdays most other periods, in season from March to November.  8. Southwick’s Zoo Just 10 minutes from Lynnwood, this family-run zoo has been a major area attraction for over 60 years. This attraction is spread over 300 hectares on a former dairy farm. In the early 20th century, bird-loving owner Justin F. Southwick began collecting exotic birds, and the zoo grew from there. Today, the Southwick Zoo is home to over 100 species of his animals, including big cats such as cheetahs, Bengal tigers, and lions, as well as New England’s largest collection of primates. Adding to the zoo’s allure are numerous additional attractions, such as the Woodland Express Train, which runs through North American exhibits and wilderness wetlands, and the Skyfari Sky Ride, which offers a bird’s eye view of several exhibits such as the Deer Forest and the African Plains.   9. Foppema’s Farm Foppema’s Farm, a local seasonal produce center, operates its shops in a rustic post-and-beam building built in

15 Best Things to Do in Seekonk (MA)

Bordering the Ten Mile River to the west, Seekonk is a city on the Massachusetts-Rhode Island border and part of the Providence metropolitan area. Seekonk has an unusual layout on a long and rather narrow piece of land. They range from busy shopping districts between Route 6 and Interstate 195 in the South to wildlife sanctuaries, preserves, and country clubs in the northern squares. A series of ponds along the Ten Mile River separate Seekonk from neighboring Pawtucket and East Providence. On the Rhode Island side, you can visit several beautiful riverside parks, all connected by the Ten Mile River Greenway Trail.  1. Seekonk Grand Prix Among the shops and attractions along Route 6 is the Seekonk Grand Prix, a huge motorsports-themed family entertainment center. Here you will find different kart trucks like family trucks, rookie trucks, kids trucks, and slick trucks for drifting. There’s also an indoor high ropes course, rock climbing wall, virtual reality experience, 18 holes of mini golf, bumper cars, and a new arcade with redemption counters and bumper cars.  2. Old Grist Mill Tavern A slice of classic New England, this cozy tavern looks like a million miles from the Route 6 powerhouse. Old Grist Mill’s history dates back to the early 18th century when the Lanins River was dammed and a hydraulic mill was built on the south bank of the pond. A sawmill was then added on the first floor, and over time the complex became a restaurant. In 2012, a semi-truck overturned and exploded, destroying a building. Old Grist Mill Tavern opened in 2014 after a two-and-a-half-year renovation. There are still clues to the past, especially in the granite millstones that remain at the entrance. Menu highlights include Boston Skrod, mussels sautéed in garlic, onions, and white wine, crab cakes, baked stuffed shrimp, and cooked-to-order lobster.  3. Jacob Hill One of the things to do in Seekonk is explore some of its country’s back roads. A great place to do this is Jacob Hill, where you can tour the largest collection of historic houses in Seekonk. These are located at several points on Jacob Street, Prospect Street, and Ledge Road just off US 44. Many of the fine old homes that line these quiet country lanes have commemorative plaques. Look for the old schoolhouse at 102 Jacob Street, 736 Ledge Road (1785). 120 Jacob Street (1723), 385 Jacob Street (1690), 150 Broad Street (1785), 540 Prospect Street (1800), and the magnificent Aziel Carpenter House at 80 Walnut Street, built in 1720.   4. Slater Memorial Park In Pawtucket, the Ten Mile River Greenway passes through the city’s oldest and largest public park, located on former farmland acquired in 1894. An early remnant is the Daggett House (circa 1685), the oldest surviving house in town. The park is named after Samuel Slater (1768-1835), an English-American businessman who built America’s first water-powered textile mill in Pawtucket in the early 1790s. Slater Memorial Park is a great free attraction, lined with his early 20th-century buildings, including the historic Potter Casino (1917). A family favorite for over a century, the Roof Carousel was built in the 1890s and installed in the park in 1910. In the summer, catch Thursday night concerts by the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra. Mid-September is the Slater Park Falls Festival with numerous craft sales, food, live entertainment, and children’s activities.  5. Fear Town Haunted House When the haunted season begins, Seekonk Speedway will be home to New England’s most popular haunted experience. Feartown is advertised as a “Haunted Event” consisting of three haunted houses offering nearly an hour of terror. Before or after your haunted house challenge, you’ll enjoy a stop-off filled with games, food, and spooky entertainment. What fascinates you most about Fear Town is the creativity and variety that presents scenarios that surprise you in unexpected ways. Diehard haunted house fans may not necessarily be intimidated, but they will be impressed by the production value, backed by a large staff of enthusiastic actors in terms of make-up, costumes, props, and sound design.  6. Celebrate Seekonk Day The Seekonk Public Library and its surrounding park, Library Meadows, host an annual festival that began in recent years. Celebrate Seekonk Day is held on the first Saturday in October and features live entertainment, educational activities, culture, commerce, fine dining, and lots of fun for kids. To give you an idea of ​​what to expect, there will be music by award-winning musicians such as Bill Hurley, comedy, Pokanoket Indian performances, gallery exhibitions by local artists, painting workshops, community blankets, shadow puppets for toddlers, local food trucks, raffles and more.  7. Hunts Mills Picnic and Recreational Area This idyllic spot on the Ten Mile River just across the East Providence border has centuries of history. The first mill on the river was on site. Evidence of this period can be seen at the Hunt House (1750), designated as a museum by the East Providence Historical Society, open every other Sunday. In the early 20th century, the landscape was turned into an amusement park, with the river serving as the town’s main water supply and a pumping station replacing the old gristmill. Today, where the river’s former pump station was, there is a picnic area next to a beautiful waterfall, and a fishway allows the herring to reach upstream spawning grounds.  8. Seekonk Fire Museum Opened in 2016, the museum is located at 211 Newman Avenue in the city’s old fire station, built in the late 1920s and serving as the headquarters of the fire department for decades. Inside, you’ll find a wealth of memorabilia from the local fire department, including equipment, helmets, newspaper clippings, trophies from decades of collecting competitions, and the sirens that used to sound when school was closed on snowy days. There is also a set of four of his fire trucks, including his 1953 Maxim fire truck that was used in the city from the 1950s through the 1980s. At the time we made this list, the Seekonk Fire Museum

15 Best Things to Do in Swansea (MA)

Where the Taunton River meets Mount Hope Bay, Swansea is a coastal city on the Massachusetts-Rhode Island border with thriving inland agriculture. The town’s beach is one of the best in the area, open to the public during the school summer holidays, and slopes gently into Mount Hope Bay so you can walk a few hundred feet offshore at low tide. Swansea has a sweet tooth and three of his favorite ice cream stands are open in the summer. Understanding that these are all small businesses, some even operating on farms that have been around for generations, can justify your generosity.  1. Johnson’s Roadside Farm Market Just off the Rhode Island Line on Market Street, this family-run fresh food stand has been a part of local life for over 40 years. You can stop by to stock up on fresh seasonal local fruits and vegetables grown on the family-run 50-acre farm. Markets are typically open from Easter to Christmas Eve and are always stocked with fresh, farm-grown, and harvested produce throughout the season. The list is huge, but in summary, there are a wide variety of tomatoes, lettuce, pumpkins, berries, and numerous pumpkin varieties. The store also sells local gourmet items such as freshly roasted coffee, fresh pasta, grass-fed beef, ice cream, sodas, seafood, and corn on the cob.  2. Simcock Farm The third ice cream stand on our list is located on a fourth-generation farm set in a rural landscape of fields, woods, stone walls, whitewashed fences, and traditional string roof farms. This classic New England landscape welcomes you to Simcock Farm, serving award-winning Gifford ice cream. A wide variety of hard ice cream flavors are available, including sugar-free scoops, low-fat frozen yogurt, mappies, and s’mores. This farm, with animals such as goats, miniature horses, miniature cows, donkeys, and sheep, but also a sunflower maze in late summer, is an attraction in itself. Beginning in late September, Fun on the Farm in the Fall features hay wagon rides, a corn maze, a pumpkin picking experience, and a Spooky Sunday highlight event.   3. Swansea Village Park If hiking is your thing, Swansea Village will surprise you. Here you’ll find the City Hall and Library complex, a gateway to nearly 200 acres of nature. Swansea Village Park was purchased by the city in the mid-1980s and has miles of boardwalks that lead into the woods. These include elevated boardwalks above marshes and some of the giant conglomerates with names like Abrams Rock and Wildcat Rock. The former is particularly spectacular, rising over 40 feet above the forest and packed with legends dating back to King Philip’s War in the 1670s.   4. Luther Store Museum This well-preserved store was founded in 1813 and remained in operation until 1903. The building is owned by the Swansea Historical Society and has been a museum since it was taken over in 1952. At the time of this writing, the Luther Store was temporarily closed to the public as it was undergoing long-term renovations to keep out termites and scarab beetles. When you step inside the store, you can see that many of the original facilities remain, such as the mahogany counter, owner’s desk, and storage furniture.  5. Almeida’s Vegetable Patch This family farm is another great spot for fresh, seasonal produce. Its history dates back to 1928. Founder John Almeida Melo Sr. came to the United States in 1915 when he was still 16 years old. John Almeida Mello This was a dairy farm for many years until his junior in the 1950s when he rented additional acres and began growing vegetables. The Hofstand was then added in the 1970s and expanded by the 3rd and his 4th. There is an amazing variety of seasonal produce, including the farm’s specialty sweet corn and an abundance of summer fruit. People come here to buy apples, squash, and squash in the fall, and people buy Christmas trees at Christmas time.  6. Wampanoag Golf Course This public golf course is located far west of Swansea on the low banks of the Palmer River. The Wampanoag Golf Course dates back to 1926 and is located in the 19th-century shipbuilding district of Burnieville. The 9-hole course is mostly flat and open-link style with pleasant fairways and small greens. The last two holes are particularly beautiful as the tees are on the banks of the Palmer River. Memorable holes include his long par-4 4th and his riverside 8th hole dotted with water hazards.   7. Fall River Swansea is less than 10 minutes from Fall River, Massachusetts’ 10th largest city. Fall River rapidly developed into a textile and iron manufacturing center in the 19th century. One of the city’s leading businessmen, the Borden family is now famous for Lizzie Borden (1860-1927), who was accused and later acquitted of murdering her father and stepmother in a two-handed axe murder. The crime scene is now open to tour as a B&B. Fall River is also known for Battleship Her Cove, an amazing collection of ships, mostly from the World War II period, led by the magnificent USS Massachusetts, a South Dakota-class fast battleship launched in 1941.   8. Seekonk Speedway A short distance from Swansea on State Highway 6 is the racecourse, owned and operated by Venditti since its opening in 1946. At 72 feet long, it is the widest track in the area. It’s half a sloped, 1/3 mile asphalt oval. The season lasts from May to October. During this time, NASCAR racing will take place Saturday nights as part of the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly series featuring Pros, Sport Trucks, Athletes, and the latest models. An open-wheel race is held on Wednesday, followed by a low-budget race on Friday for riders looking to move up to the big division on Saturday night. Keep an eye out for regular thrill shows like demolition derbies, one-lap drag races, and the occasional monster truck.  9. Seekonk Grand Prix Northwest of Swansea is a fun, family-friendly entertainment hub that packs a

15 Best Things to Do in Hudson (MA)

A former industrial city with Irish and Portuguese roots, Hudson is a resilient place that has bounced back from several setbacks over the years. One of his is the fire that destroyed 40 of his buildings in the city center in 1894. Then, after World War II, the city’s lifelong footwear industry declined, and major employer Intel closed its semiconductor factories in the city during the Great Recession. Still, Hudson is welcoming residents and visitors more than ever. It’s all due to the transformation sweeping Main Street, transforming it into a gourmet destination with innovative shops and live music all year round. Multi-purpose railroads connect downtown Hudson with Marlborough and Maynard, and a top military museum has recently opened east of the city.  1. Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge On the train, enter a US-designated National Wildlife Refuge past the American Heritage Museum. Fish and Wildlife Service, and one of eight reserves that make up the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge. This exclusive getaway is dotted with ponds, springs, and marshes and has a mantle of pine and hardwood forests. It is an important stopping point for migratory birds in spring and autumn. One of the most attractive things about this 2,230-acre site is that it sits on the grounds of Fort Devens Sudbury Training Annex, which was hastily built in 1942 and exposes about 50 original ammunition dumps in the woods. They add mystique to hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing tours, while White Pond Road has boat launches and moorings, and abundant water attracts kayakers.  2. Puzzlescape Located on the Assabet River Rail Trail, this award-winning Escape Room attraction is one of the few companies based in the refurbished Hudson Mills complex. Puzzlescape was founded in 2016 and moved to its current location in 2021. It has a playful and cartoony feel to it. Puzzlescape’s villain is “Pepe La Scuzz”. Main He is an evil mastermind who must be defeated in the “Legend of Pepe” room. For 2 to 6 players with a choice of endings. At the time this list was made, the other rooms available were the horror-themed Something Wicked (2-8 players) and Escape the Cape (2-6 players), an entry room that bypasses the Bourne and Sagamore Bridge traffic jams. This room is open to children ages 12 and up without a parent, making it a good starting point for young puzzle solvers.  3. Danforth Falls (Danforth Conservation Area) North Hudson has 80 acres of city-owned forest managed by the local Conservation Board. The facility is located on the idyllic Danforth Creek that runs along the east side and is a busy fishing spot each spring. From Lincoln Street, you can start a flat trail that follows the creek all the way up to the falls. This is most striking in the spring after a season of heavy rains or after the snow has melted. The surrounding grounds also include the 450-foot summit of Phillips Hill, a slightly more challenging trail of steep, rocky terrain with beautiful views to the west.  4. Rail Trail Flatbread Co. One of Hudson’s long list of beloved local businesses, the Rail Trail Flatbread Company is located across Main Street from the New City Micro Creamery. This community-based, socially conscious flatbread pizza restaurant opened in 2012. The headline here is the wood-fired, hand-twisted sourdough pizza, which comes in a variety of imaginative flavors (gochujang BBQ chicken, spanakopita), including many vegan and gluten-free options. Poutine, tacos, burgers (including the Impossible Burger), mac and cheese, and other comfort foods are also on the menu, along with over 20 draft beers on tap.  5. Medusa Brewing Company Main Street’s reputation for good independent business lives up to this craft brewery with a large, rustic taproom and a beer garden that might surprise you. When it comes to beer, Medusa is known for its hoppy IPAs, with Laser Cat (Imperial IPA), LightRunner (Hazy IPA), Lola (IPA), and Duchovni (Czech Pilsner) as their main beers. These are the stars, but they’re also just a few of the many draft beers on tap, whether your taste is malty, hoppy, or sour. Seeking the perfect accompaniment to live music in the taproom on Friday nights, the brewery partnered with local company Taco Gato, now operating as a permanent in-house taqueria.  6. ArtsFest Hudson Hudson has a vibrant arts scene, and the easiest way to get an overview of it is to attend this festival on the first Saturday in June. Like many events where cities reinvent themselves, this is a new tradition, but one that is really gaining ground. Two stages host live, family-friendly performances from morning to evening by an international program of music artists and dance groups. At the same time, there will be more than 50 craft booths showcasing Hudson’s wide range of creative talents. Young people who attend the festival can participate in activities such as face painting and crafts until he kicks off with a 5km run in the morning.  7. Art in the Hall Hudson’s 19th-century chateaux town hall doubles as a farmer’s market and an art gallery. Since 2004, the River’s Edge Arts Alliance has curated Art in the Hall exhibitions to promote the work of artists in the city. Featuring works by artists from various disciplines, these exhibitions typically last several months and are updated several times a year, so there’s always something new to discover. The gallery is open during normal opening hours and has unlimited access.  8. Hudson Farmers’ Market The Farmer’s Market is held in front of City Hall in the heart of downtown Hudson on Tuesday afternoons from mid-June to September. In addition to this main market, keep an eye out for pop-up markets at the beginning and end of the year, April, May, November, and December. Each week, the Market Facebook page will feature a list of participating vendors and live performers as part of the Market Music Series. During a typical week, you can expect stalls selling fresh seasonal produce, fresh seafood, grass-fed meats,

15 Best Things to Do in Longmeadow (MA)

Springfield, a wealthy suburb on the east bank of the Connecticut River, was first settled in the mid-17th century. Until 1894, Longmeadow was part of East He was part of Longmeadow, and the town was noted for its sandstone quarries, from which material was extracted for large projects such as the Smithsonian Museum building (1855). Preserved as a US Historic District, Town Green is a quintessential central community district surrounded by impressive old homes and is still the site of public gatherings such as the Long He Meadows Fall Festival. Downtown Springfield is just a stone’s throw from Longmeadow, and the town offers easy access to his two summer farmers’ markets, elegant Forest Park, and Six Flags New England, the region’s largest theme park.  1. The Olde Burying Yarde For those interested in early Longmeadow history, the town’s original cemetery has much to learn. This is part of Longmeadow Cemetery behind the First Church of Christ in Town Green, the oldest sign being his 1682. The Longmeadow Historical Society organizes self-guided walking tours of the Old Burying Ground starting at the western end of Williams Street, which can be accessed on their website. In this guide, interpretations of the inscriptions and symbols inscribed on each stone are detailed to provide a vivid insight into the life and death of Longmeadow from the 17th century to the 18th century.  2. Riverfront Conservation Area Another public location in Longmeadow with access to the banks of the Connecticut River is the city-owned nature reserve off Anthony Road, next to the Pioneer Valley Yacht Club. With 300 feet of tranquil grassy shoreline shaded by mature trees, the Riverfront Preserve is the perfect place to relax late into the day with great views. You can set sail here in a canoe or kayak, or pack a blanket and enjoy a quiet picnic under the trees on a sunny day.   3. Alex’s Bagel Shop A popular long-established bagel store on Route 5 across from Laurel Park moved to this location in 2018. Alex’s bagel shop landed here after her former landlord, the supermarket chain Big Y, asked her to evict the old building. This sparked a surge of love, with more than 1,000 people signing a petition asking the supermarket to keep it open and not force them out of town. Generations have grown up eating Alex’s bagels. Freshly cooked and baked, they come in an assortment of signature flavors such as sesame, poppy, onion, cumin, and raisins. A variety of cream cheese flavors are also available, all in 8 oz containers.   4. Springfield Strolling through Longmeadow’s stately residential streets, it’s easy to forget that the bustling city is just minutes away. Springfield is his third-largest city in Massachusetts, where the United States’ first military arsenal was founded, basketball was invented, and the popular children’s author, Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel) was born in 1904. With more than 30 colleges located along the famous Corridor of Knowledge, it’s no wonder Springfield has some great museums. Many of these are located in The He Quadrangle, where you can ponder the art of the Impressionists, visit the nation’s first planetarium, admire artifacts from around the world, and learn all about Dr. Sousse can be experienced. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is housed in a giant silver sphere on the waterfront, and the Springfield Armory is a National Historic Site with one of the world’s largest collections of firearms.  5. Enfield Regional Farmers’ Market One reason to make the short jump across the state line to Enfield, Connecticut, is to browse this bustling farmer’s market with dozens of stalls each week. The Enfield Regional Farmers Market is a Sunday event held at Town Green from June to October, but in recent years has moved to Enfield Square Mall, where the indoor market continues until the last Sunday before Christmas. The selection changes seasonally and includes fresh produce from local farms, grass-fed meats, eggs, honey, herbs, baked goods, freshly roasted coffee, pet treats, numerous artisan vendors, and more. There is always live music and several food trucks serving wood-fired pizzas and pierogi.  6. Max Burger One of two chains, Max Burger is an acclaimed restaurant far beyond Longmeadow, an upscale burger joint with many gastropub hallmarks. That means a seasonal cocktail menu and a beer menu that includes imported Belgian beers and local craft beers. Max Burger caters to those on a plant-based diet, offering not only veggie patties but also the Impossible Burger. On the same theme, the sweet potato fries are also excellent. For starters, the candied bacon lollipop with cider glaze is exceptional, and a must-try main course for meat eaters is the Lord Rest Truffle with Gruyère and black truffle relish.   7. Six Flags New England New England’s largest theme and water park is just across the Connecticut River from Longmeadow, but you’ll have to drive around Springfield to get there. At 235 acres, Six Flags New England is the chain’s oldest park, attracting fun-seekers in the 1870s with picnic groves along the river. From this lavish beginning, the park has grown into a thrill-seeking Mecca with ground-breaking DC-style rides such as Harley Quinn Spin Sanity, Superman the Ride, and Batman.Dark Knight and Joker 4D Free Fly Coaster. Six Flags New England also has three dedicated kid’s areas and a huge Hurricane Harbor Water park with over 30 slides and his 500,000-gallon wave pool.   8. Long Meddowe Fall Festival This long-running festival, now sponsored and hosted by the city’s American Legion Post 175, was formerly known as Long Meadow Days and has been held for over 40 years. Over a weekend in early October, Town Green is the traditional venue for the festival, with long alleyways lined with stalls selling all manner of crafts, arts, and food. There are a variety of activities on offer that will appeal to young families, but there are also musician appearances, non-profit visits, car shows, and more.  9. The Longmeadow Shops The closest

15 Best Things to Do in Grafton (MA)

Grafton is a loose cluster of historic mill villages southeast of Worcester in the Blackstone Valley. During the Industrial Revolution from the late 18th century, Grafton was known for industries as diverse as shoemaking and furniture making and was the birthplace of watchmaking in America. The site of the first European settlement in the 1720s, Grafton Common has a tranquil atmosphere with towering trees and historic buildings such as the Grafton Inn, which has been open to tourists since 1806. Grafton has many interesting local businesses to explore, from popular lakeside ice cream stands to cheese shops importing all manner of gourmet treats from Europe.   1. Highfields Golf & Country Club Grafton offers a round of golf at one of the area’s best public golf courses. This is the Highfields Golf & Country Club he opened in 2002 on the grounds that were part of the McGill Dairy Farm. Avid golfer, John McGill commissioned Cornish Golf his design Mugeim to design a superior layout for his over 220-acre property on the edge of Blackstone Valley to accommodate golfers of all levels while challenging even the most experienced players. Vast hills and breathtaking scenery characterize this course. The 18 holes take you on a journey through open terrain, wetlands, and lush natural forests. Between rounds, you can socialize at his J&J Tavern, which serves delicious pub food with views of the 18th Green and the practice area.  2. Lake Ripple Dam Drive north from Grafton Common along Worcester Street and in a few minutes you’ll see the lush banks of this 70-acre dam. The Ripple Lake Dam was built on the Quincegamond River in 1982 and has several spots where you can descend to the surface. They are open to the public at the very scenic Ekbrow Landing canoe and kayak launch at 111 Worcester Street to the north. Here, at the northern end of the lake, it tapers to a picnic area and is abundant with birds in the summer. A Grafton-owned gravel road is located on the south side of Brigham Hill Road, near which you can access the Grafton Land Trust trail. More on this later. According to the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, fishing is abundant with chain pickers, largemouth bass, and carp.  3. Pecorino There are plenty of local shops around Grafton that are worth perusing. One of the best of them all is Pecorino, a European-style cheese shop. A foodie’s Aladdin’s Cave, this place offers a delicious selection of local and imported cheeses, from Gouda to Gorgonzola, all cut and packaged to order. An extensive selection of complementary specialties is also available, including charcuterie, fresh bread, crackers, spreads, honey, jams, olive oil, vinegar, nuts, dried fruits, and a selection of handcrafted European treats. For the perfect pairing, head to our wine boutique with bottles from small, sustainable producers and our selection of craft beers.   4. Swirls & Scoops Seasonal ice cream stands along Worcester Street and on the east shore of Ripple Lake make Grafton’s summer a little sweeter. Each year, Swirls & Scoop will be open for six months from April to September, offering about 50 hard serves, as well as flavor burst soft serve ice cream, sundaes, dairy-free Dole whips, frappes, ice cream floats, and frozen lemonades. Everyone has their favorite hard ice cream flavor, but notable ones include maple walnut, s’mores, black raspberry, cake batter, chocolate peanut butter, and pistachio.   5. Hassanamesit Woods A quiet corner of South Grafton is home to over 500 acres of forest managed jointly by the city’s Conservation and History Commissions. With that in mind, the Hassanamesit Woods Main Loop Trail offers a variety of downloadable guides, whether you want to learn more about the natural environment and the forest’s hidden human history, or you’re looking for an educational pastime for your kids. Evidence of human habitation is found in stone walls, granite blocks with pit marks, pits in cellars, tracks of wagons, and multiple felled tree trunks. Naturalist guides lead trails that lead from oak forests to white pine forests to wetlands.   6. Airport Park The city’s public parks with the best facilities are located in North West Grafton. Airport Park’s playground has plenty of equipment for all skill levels, and a separate jungle gym and swings for younger children and those aged 5-12. There is also a soccer field, two spectator baseball fields, and a basketball court, and the entire complex is surrounded by a fully paved outdoor walkway. Another option for parents is Perry Hill Park (3 Perry St), with well-maintained playgrounds and picnic areas just minutes north.  7. Hassanamisco Native American Museum As part of a larger tribe called the Nipmuk Nation, the Hassanamisco Nipmuk Nation owns an 11-acre state-granted reservation in Grafton on the southwest shore of Lake Ripple. Of course, Nipmuk’s history predates written records, but present-day Grafton became a “City of Prayer” when Puritan missionary John Eliot (1604-1690) converted the Hassanamikos family to Christianity in the mid-17th century. Their reserves can be traced back to 1727, when they were first acquired by Sarah Robbins, a Nipmac woman, and have been passed down by generations of women since. The homestead here is the oldest known frame house in the area to continue to be inhabited by Native Americans, and the reservation was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. At the time of this writing, the museum at this key location was temporarily closed for renovations.   8. Off the Common Antiques In a place like Grafton Common where history is on every page, it’s natural to find great antique shops. It’s just a short walk from Green on Worcester Street and has a wonderful home in an old petrol station that’s over 100 years old. Off the Common, Antiques is much larger than it looks from the outside. A dog-friendly, accessible store that sells furniture, decorative arts, vintage clothing, and more. In addition to antique treasures, the store also stocks contemporary

15 Best Things to Do in Somerset (MA)

This south-coast city sits on a narrow strip of land along the Taunton River at the head of Mount Hope Bay. In 2022, Joe Biden traveled to Somerset to deliver a speech on climate change. The location is no coincidence, as the southern tip of Somerset was until recently home to a large coal-fired Brayton Point power station, which closed in 2017. The city of Somerset was incorporated in 1790 and you can get a sense of its early days by going north of the city. Lined with tall mature trees, the Somerset Village Historic District is home to many historic public and residential buildings, including the Somerset Historical Society Museum. Across the river is the town of Fall River, where a luxurious World War II fleet is anchored along the Braga Bridge at Battleship Cove.   1. Battleship Cove No mention of this section of the Taunton River is complete without mentioning the incredible concentration of World War II naval vessels moored across the river. Less than 10 minutes from Somerset, Battleship Cove is home to the world’s largest WWII museum collection of ships. Her eight ships await you here. The largest of these ships is the flagship USS Massachusetts. She was launched in 1941 and served very well throughout the war without any of her crew of US Marines dying. Also ready for boarding are the USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (1945), the submarine USS Lionfish (1943), and the German corvette Hiddensee, which she built in 1984 at the Petrovsky Shipyard in Leningrad (St. Petersburg).  2. Fall River Heritage State Park The city’s waterfront parks surrounding Battleship Cove are bustling with activity, and there are plenty of good reasons to cross in five minutes in the summer. Much of the program focuses on the Hudner Memorial and features everything from art and history rotations in community galleries to hands-on workshops and dance. There are benches along the promenade where you can admire the battleships surrounded by the Braga Bridge in awe. At the southern end is the Fall River Carousel, built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company in 1920, with an ice cream stand nearby.  3. Auclair’s Market Across County Street in Somerset Creamery is a thriving independent grocery store since 1918. Eau Clairs His Market was founded by Canadian immigrants who worked as slaves in a Fall River factory to save money to open their own businesses. Originally located in Fall River, Eau Claire’s Market moved across the Taunton River in the second generation, and the current store was opened in 2000 by the founder’s grandson Dennis and his wife Dorothy Eau Claire. This store has been known for its butcher counter for over a century. Think tenderloin, ribeye, various boneless hams, chicken and the famous gray corned beef. The deli counter is also a big draw, with delicious hams and cheeses, as well as all kinds of prepared meals, from salads to cured dishes like roast chicken, dinner cakes, and pulled pork.   4. Simcock Farm Five minutes from Swansea, this fourth-generation farm has a popular ice cream stand serving award-winning Gifford ice cream. Choose from over 40 delicious hard ice cream flavors, plus frozen yogurt, sherbet, and sugar-free options. There are picnic tables in the back, and watching livestock such as donkeys, goats, sheep, miniature horses, and miniature cows is one of the pleasures of Simcok Farm. The farm also hosts seasonal events, attractions, and activities such as hay wagon rides, corn mazes, sunflower mazes, PYO pumpkins, and summer cruise nights.   5. Factory of Terror This haunted mansion, touted as the best in New England, is another excellent reason to cross the Taunton River during the spooky season. The Factory of Terror, which is appropriately housed in a dismal industrial structure, attracts a devoted following with each new season by adding fresh thrills to its maze-like trail. There were other cleverly crafted encounters the year we authored this piece, including a zombie that materializes from a portal to another dimension. The character performances, make-up, and props all contribute to the immersion, and there is a gift shop for a gloomy souvenir at the conclusion. 6. Taunton River Trail By the time you read this, you may be able to stroll or cycle north along the picturesque Taunton River from Somerset to Taunton on a 22-mile rail path. At the time of publication, a two-mile segment of the intended route was taking shape nearby along the abandoned railroad right-of-way through Sweets Knoll State Park. Until recently, this 56-acre property near Dighton had gotten little attention, but it has a lot to offer. The Taunton River has been designated a National Wild and Scenic River, and it is New England’s only major coastal river that flows freely and without dams. You can trek down to the river and onto the wooded knoll that rises from the banks. As evidenced by the kiosk, this was an important pre-contact Native American site, and the remnants of old stone walls serve as a relic of a bygone maritime business. 7. Swansea Town Beach This public sandy beach in Swansea is less than ten minute drive from the south end of Somerset. Swansea Town Beach faces south and offers a panoramic view of Mount Hope Bay. As with Somerset’s beach, lifeguards are on duty from mid-June to Labor Day, and there is a parking fee ($5 for residents and $8 for non-residents at the time of writing). The beach is a joy, with a large sandy bay accompanied by a grassy picnic area, restrooms, and a playground. Because the beach has a shallow gradient, the water is warm in the summer, and you may walk out for over a mile at low tide. 8. Braga Bridge The I-195 bridge that spans the Taunton River between Somerset and Fall River opened in 1966 and has since become a landmark, towering over the world’s largest naval museum. The massive steel structure is a stunning landmark for those driving to Cape Cod, and

15 US National Parks by Popularity (Updated 2023)

America’s 61 National Parks Ranked By Popularity (Updated 2023)  All through the Joined together States of America there’s an expansive sum of National Parks. These parks are worked by the National Stop Benefit and can as it were be built up by an act of the US Congress. Yellowstone was the primary characteristic zone to be assigned a National stop in 1872 by President Ulysses S. Give; since at that point plenty of other districts have joined the list, and the USA as of now gloats 63 National Parks. To qualify as a National Stop, the characteristic zone must meet certain criteria such as giving an exceptional locale of characteristic excellence, an abnormal environment, or plenty of recreational exercises for illustration. Due to the shifted scenes of the Joined Together States, these parks are colossally differing. Yosemite National Stop for illustration contains clearing timberland secured valleys and shake arrangements such as El Capitan, while Curves National Stop contains over 2000 sandstone curves and a staggering forsake scene. These parks are a gigantically critical angle of American culture and heritage, and the country takes gigantic pride in the assortment and magnificence of its numerous secured locales. I have actually been climbing in 12 of the National Parks and I’ll before long be including more to my list. My favorite one is unquestionably Yosemite since I cherish the sound of waterfalls. I made this list based on freely accessible guest information. Let’s have a see at all US National Parks recorded by the number of guests: 1. Great Smoky Mountains America’s most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains is popular for its beautiful and dramatic scenery and endless hiking opportunities.Located in North Carolina and Tennessee in the southeastern United States. This national park spans the entire Great Smoky Mountains, which are part of the Appalachian Mountains. The landscape of this park includes mountains, deep valleys, and lush forests. There are countless hiking trails within the park boundaries, as well as interesting historical sites such as Cays Cove, Roaring Fork Creek, and Cataloochee Valley. Size: 522,426.88 acres (2,114.2 km2) Visitors: 14,161,548 2. Zion National Park Zion is a very popular national park in Utah, in the southwestern United States. Covering only 147,242 hectares, this relatively small park is one of the most visited parks in the state and has some great attractions and features. One of the park’s main attractions is the impressive Zion Canyon.This natural feature is 24 miles long and is beautifully colored with Navajo sandstone. In addition to the canyons, notable attractions within the park include Kolob Gorge, Three Patriarsi, Horse Ranch Mountain, and Twin Brothers Peak. The park’s infrastructure is excellent, with trams serving it as a means of transportation, as well as various information offices and ranches.  Size: 147,242.66 acres (595.9 km2) Visitors: 5,039,835 3. Yellowstone National Park Most of us have heard of Yellowstone National Park, but it’s a wonder this area of ​​natural beauty isn’t the highest on the visitor rankings. Located in the northwest corner of Wyoming, Yellowstone is famous for its spectacular supervolcanic system and geysers known as Old Faithful. Old Faithful erupts like clockwork every 91 minutes and is the park’s main attraction. Beyond the volcanic landscape, Yellowstone has a diverse ecosystem of vast meadows, pine forests, and mountains. The park is arguably Wyoming’s premier tourist attraction, and the visitor center and facilities are second to none. Don’t miss the spectacular Grand Prismatic Springs and Excelsior Geyser Crater when you visit Yellowstone. Size: 2,219,790.71 acres (8,983.2 km2) Visitors: 4,860,242 4. Grand Canyon National Park The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous and famous natural landmarks in the world. The largest surviving canyon in northern Arizona, he has an area of ​​1.2 million hectares. Formed over millions of years, this spectacular canyon was formed by the Colorado River. In fact, the Colorado River still flows through the canyon today. Millions of tourists visit the Grand Canyon each year, and it’s easy to see why The vastness of the area is breathtaking and the views from the north and south rims are simply stunning. Size: 1,201,647.03 acres (4,862.9 km2) Visitors: 4,532,677 5. Rocky Mountain National Park The Rocky Mountains are one of the most famous mountain ranges in the United States, and the Northern Colorado region above Denver is a sublime national park. This park was founded in 1915 and has since been designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Rocky Mountain Park is made up of a series of massive peaks and deep valleys, as well as several glaciers such as Andrews Glacier. The area is also known for its diverse ecosystems and diverse flora and fauna. Wildlife in the park includes elk, bobcats, bears, bighorn sheep, and coyotes. This is another park that appeals to adventure seekers and nature lovers. Size: 265,807.24 acres (1,075.7 km2) Visitors: 4,434,848 6. Acadia National Park Acadia National Park is one of the few parks located entirely on an island. The park is located on the south coast of Maine on Mount Desert Island and its surrounding archipelago. The area was historically inhabited by the Wabanaki Indians and became a national park in the 1920s. Acadia has a diverse landscape of forests, mountains, and rugged coastlines. Notable attractions within the park include Mount Penobscot, Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, Otter Cove, Echo Lake, Thunder Hole, and the Scuddic Peninsula. Wildlife on the island includes beavers, deer, minks, black bears, coyotes, chipmunks, and gray seals. Acadia is a perfect combination of sea and inland attractions and is one of Maine’s highlights. Size: 49,071.40 acres (198.6 km2) Visitors: 4,069,098 7. Grand Teton National Park The Teton Mountains are a major landmark in northern Wyoming, and the surrounding area is known as Grand Teton National Park. The park covers an area of ​​310,000 hectares and is located south of Yellowstone National Park. The Teton Range is actually part of the Rock Range, which makes up most of the park. Another major feature is the huge canyon known as Jackson Hole The canyon includes Jackson Lake,

15 Best Things to Do in Westwood (MA)

Located on the western slopes of the Blue Hills, Westwood is a leafy suburb that split from neighboring Dedham in the late 1800s. A community of 16,000 people, Westwood covers a large area, with much land set aside for conservation. The large reserve is managed by the private organization Hale, is owned by a non-profit organization, and has its roots as a Boy Scout reserve in the early 20th century. Hale has extensive forest and pond areas for summer camps and programs, but is also open to the public and offers recreational opportunities. The affluent corners of the greater Boston area include the upscale shopping areas of Westwood and Dedham, as well as a number of old mansions and farms that have been turned into sanctuaries with elegant gardens, stable animals, and plenty of songbirds in summer. 1. Colburn School–High Street Historic District From 349 to 390 along High Street, you can learn about Westwood’s history. Most of the city’s public facilities are located on or near this street, as are about 40 historic homes. Most of these were built long before Westwood was incorporated as a town in 1897, but the 19th-century barns are a reminder of the country’s past. The notable building that gives this historic district its name is Colburn School (668 High St), built in 1874 in the Second Empire style. A little further north is the Classic Revival City Hall (580 High St), completed in 1910. This town hall was state of the art for its time with modern plumbing, steam heating, and electric lighting.   2. Legacy Place Located across Interstate 95 in Dedham, Legacy Place is an outdoor urban shopping and dining destination. Tailored to the area, the shops here are geared toward the top end of the market combined with many of the major malls. Overview: Tenants include Apple, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, and L.L. Bean, Gap, Sephora, Whole Foods, J.Crew, Loft, Francesca’s. Entertainment is provided by the premier Showcase Cinema Deluxe with 15 screens, lounge chairs, cinema dining, and Kings Dining & Entertainment, a combination bowling alley, bar, and restaurant. Legacy Place also has chains like Shake Shack, CAVA, Legal C Bar, and Yard House.   3. Lowell Woods North Westwood has a large city-owned nature reserve where you can hike nearly 300 acres of highland forest and wetlands along Purgatory Brook. Lowell Woods is made up of a patchwork of four nature reserves, each intersected by his three signposted trails (blue, red, and white). What’s interesting is that these trails are actually historic roads that were traversed many generations before automobile traffic. Perhaps the most beautiful scene is when the Blue Trail crosses Purgatory Brook over a beautiful footbridge.   4. Powisset Farm The farming history of Powisett Farm, adjacent to the Hale Reservation, dates back to the 17th century. Here, the Reservations Administration runs its CSA program, complete with educational kitchens, farm stands, and farm animals that kids will love. Away from the cultivated fields, trails meander through upland forests, cross streams, past spring-fed ponds, and through wetlands. As you walk, you might spot wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, and bobolinks nesting in the grasslands. One of Powisett Farm’s programs is Summer His Camp, where children can experience the joys of country living, from caring for animals to tending crops to learning to prepare basic meals.  5. Rocky Woods Reservation The Reservation Management Board manages this 500-acre forest west of Westwood. Water is ubiquitous in the Rocky Woods, thanks in part to the reserve’s unique location in the Neponset and Charles River basins. Wetlands dot the landscape and are home to turtles, beavers, and bullfrogs. Five man-made ponds dot the grounds, the largest of which is Chickering Pond, which is surrounded by a 3/4-mile ring. The highest point in the Rocky Woods is the summit of Cedar Hill at the northeast end (435 feet), which offers sweeping views of the reserve to the southwest.   6. Firefighter’s Foam One of Westwood’s most unique annual traditions is held in July by the local fire department. ESPECIALLY FOR KIDS: Fireman’s Foam combines two water cannons and a ton of non-toxic dish soap to transform the Sheehan Elementary School grounds into a foamy wonderland. The bubbles reach several feet in height and children dive head-first into them. The first edition of Firefighter’s Foam took place in the 1980s and the event has become a staple of the summer.  7. Blue Hills Reservation Just east of Westwood rises the Blue Hills, which sits on a 7,000-acre reserve and is the tallest mountain in the Boston metropolitan area. This peak, Great Blue Hill (635 feet), is easily accessible from Westwood and offers views of the entire metropolitan area. In the 1880s, the mountain was chosen as the site of the Blue Hill Weather Station. Weather stations played an important role in early meteorological science and are still active as research sites and tourist attractions. Hike this series of 22 hills, visit the summer beaches of Hortons Pond, ski at the Blue Hills Ski Area, and learn about mountain ecology and history at the Blue Hills Trailside Museum’s kid-friendly terrain.  8. Adams Farm Less than five minutes from Westwood is 700 acres of public land in nearby Walpole. The largest single lot here is the town-owned Adams Farm, with 10 miles of trails through woods and fields, meeting old stone walls and benches and offering expansive views. In spring, birdsong fills the forests and rolling meadows with breeding species such as bobolinks, swallows, and eastern thrushes. Adams Farm is on the flight path of migrating monarch butterflies, and the purpose-built butterfly garden is magical from midsummer onwards.  9. Lambert’s Rainbow Market Founded nearly 70 years ago, Lambert’s is a local market chain with stores in Dorchester and Westwood’s Rainbow Square shopping centers. This has been his family business for three generations and what started as a fruit and vegetable market has grown into something bigger. New York-style deli, salad bar, delicious sub-menu, ready-to-eat meals

15 Best Things to Do in Easthampton (MA)

Nestled in the shadow of Mount Tom at 1,202 feet above sea level, Easthampton is a forward-thinking creative community surrounded by renowned university cities such as Northampton, Amherst, and Hadley. From the 19th century until just after World War II, East Hampton was the center of the textile industry, and the town has retained its distinctive cityscape of historic factory complexes. These massive brick buildings now house artist collectives, studios, restaurants, microbreweries, live music venues, indoor parks, and entertainment venues. The ponds that once powered these mills are now the backdrop to a charming city park with walking trails, boat rentals, and space for outdoor summer entertainment.  1. CitySpace (Old Town Hall) Easthampton’s old commercial center runs along several blocks of Main Street, from Northampton Street in the north to Center Street in the south. The borough has been the city’s civic and commercial center since it was incorporated in 1785, and the many buildings testify to Easthampton’s prosperity in the 19th century. The one-of-a-kind Old Town Hall was built in 1869 in theatrical Renaissance style with a 133-foot tall bell tower. Since 2006, the Landmark on the ground floor has been occupied by the non-profit City Spaces, which raises funds for the building’s restoration while also hosting his exciting live performances here at the Blue Room.   2. Nashawannuck Mills Historic District and Cottage Street Cultural District Overlooking the north shore of Nashawanak Pond is a vast complex of interconnected factory buildings built from the mid-1840s to the 1870s. These were manufactured for the Williston Elastic Suspender Company, later renamed the Nashawannuck Manufacturing Company. She made elastic fabrics for suspenders and webbing, and rubber parts for shoes. The stretch fabric business finally went out of business in 1970, but today the complex is home to a wide range of residents, from light industry to martial arts schools to artists’ cooperatives. Heading east brings you to the bustling Cottage Street Cultural District, a long line of independent restaurants, bars, stages, and shops, with Mount Tom on the eastern horizon.   3. Park Hill Orchard Just a few miles from central East Hampton, in the countryside, you’ll find an orchard that doubles as an outdoor art gallery. Park Hill Orchard grows about 100 varieties of fruit, including various types of blueberries, raspberries, plums, plums, blackberries, peaches, cherries, pears, and apples. There are about 48 kinds of apples alone, and you can enjoy apple picking from the end of summer. All of these produce and more are sold at rustic farm stands, which are open during Thanksgiving and are famous for their cider donuts and cider slush. In addition, Park Hill Orchard is an art destination that hosts juried installations every two years, in between annual invited exhibitions that typically feature two artists. The work can be admired along an 800-meter promenade that winds through orchards and orchards.  4. New City Brewery One of the tenants of this turn-of-the-century textile factory on Pleasant Street is New City Brewery, which has been brewing beer and lager since 2013. The brewery he moved to this atmospheric space in 2015 offers 12 beers. What you won’t find anywhere else in the flagship is a hard ginger beer in a pre-Prohibition style. It also tastes great as a mimosa with grapefruit juice or freshly squeezed orange juice. A variety of IPAs, lagers, and maltier also have New City Mules, which pair beautifully with Quiver Hibiscus Tea in a Hibiscus Mule. New City also has a kitchen stocked with extensive bar food, including vegetarian and vegan options.   5. Luthier’s Co-op & Backstage Bar This unique and highly respected local business calls itself “the world’s first full-service guitar bar.” By day, Luthier’s Co-op is a musical instrument store that specializes in stringed instruments, buying, selling, and repairing used and vintage guitars, basses, ukuleles, banjos, mandolins, and amplifiers. At night, the venue transforms into a lively entertainment venue, featuring open mics, spoken word, stand-up comedy, and multiple performances each night. The Backstage Bar serves signature cocktails, freshly ground and brewed coffee, and a variety of craft beers and ciders on tap.   6. Dinosaur Footprints Reservation This corner of Pioneer Valley holds a special place in paleontological history, as it is where the first scientifically described dinosaur footprints were discovered. During the early Jurassic period, about 200 million years ago, what is now the Connecticut River Valley was a subtropical area of ​​lakes and wetlands. Here, two-legged dinosaurs up to 20 feet long left footprints preserved in mudflats that eventually turned into sandstone. Discovered in 1802, these castings were originally made by crows fleeing Noack’s Ark before the scientific community realized their significance in the second half of the century. Nearly 20 tracks left by small herbivores and large carnivores can be studied on eight acres owned by the Reservation Board in adjacent Holyoke.   7. Chicoine Family Farm In the idyllic west corner of East Hampton is the Sicoine family farm since 1933. William Chicoin began raising cattle in the 1970s on what used to be a dairy farm, long before terms like farm-to-table beef and grass-fed beef became fashionable. The herd of approximately 70 cows is exclusively grass-fed and never given steroids, growth hormones, or antibiotics, so the impact on quality is evident. The Chicoin Family Farm shop is open on Sundays and also sells organic chicken and pork raised on-site.  8. Prodigy Minigolf & Gameroom You might be surprised to find an indoor miniature golf course and game room for ages 13 and up on the ground floor of Eastworks Mill. The 18-hole course is video game-inspired and is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding. There are also about 60 different video game consoles from the 1970s to the 90’s, including some new ones. Add table games from billiards to air his hockey and his 200+ board games for a night of intense competition with friends.   9. Fort Hill Brewery Opened in 2014, this craft brewery was founded by alumni of

15 Best Things to Do in Northborough (MA)

First settled by Europeans in the 17th century, the city of Northborough in central Massachusetts is traversed by the former Boston Post Road (US Route 20), which forms its main street. There are some interesting signs along this historic thoroughfare. One refers to the site where a young woman, Mary Goodnow, was murdered by her Native Americans in 1707 during Queen Anne’s War. The headquarters of the Northborough Historical Society, his mid-19th century converted church, is home to an unusually opulent headquarters filled with artifacts highlighting over 350 years of local history. For decades, family farms throughout the city will entice you with homemade cakes and cider donuts, or invite you to pick some fruit.   1. Old Farm Trail Part of a great trail network through Northboro city lands is the Old Farm Trail on the border with Marlborough. The trail is named after Stirrup Brook Farm, an old dairy farm that was sold over 60 years ago. Where once pastures are now densely forested, the Old Farm Trail reveals the strange remnants of life in the past. These are historical vehicles that were abandoned in the fields of the time in his mid-twentieth century and slowly fell into disrepair. The most intact of these is his light blue 1953 Oldsmobile 88 sandwiched between two trees. The Old Farm Trail meanders along the Assabet River and Stirrup Brook, past several picnic spots, and joins the Bird Song Trail southeast near Main Street.  2. Sawyer’s Bowladrome Cozy local bowling alleys, like this one on Main Street, are a feature of many communities in this part of the state. Sawyers Bowldrome dates back to 1953 and was used for candlepin bowling, a regional variant of tenpin bowling that was popular in Worcester around 1880. For beginners in this style, there is a small ball that feels comfortable in the hand, but the pin is tall and narrow, making it much more difficult to knock down. With low ceilings and just six lanes, Sawyers Bowldrome is anything but a modern alley, and even more so for that matter. You have to use pencil and paper to score, but there are also automation features such as ball return and pin clear.  3. Assabet Park Close to public buildings such as City Hall and the Northboro Free Library, this public park has undergone some modernization in recent years. Asahbet Park, which reopens in the summer of 2022, features an all-new playground with ADA-compliant equipment on soft, safe, rubberized surfaces. Another great facility for young families on a hot day is the children’s pool with various atomizers, bubblers, and geysers in a large asphalted area. Parents can pack a picnic and beach chairs to enjoy a few hours of summer fun at an affordable price.  4. Mary Goodnow Grave Along Boston Post Road, find a powerful clue to Northborough’s violent past at the site of the 1707 murder of a person named Mary Goodno. This happened during Queen Anne’s War (1702-1717) when Native Americans allied with France raided the Marlborough area. As Mary was gathering herbs in the meadow, she saw a group of twenty or more warriors approaching. Her bravery reportedly allowed her to surrender to her attackers and allow her two children and a pregnant companion to reach safety in the garrison. The grounds feature her 1899 stone marker and are accessed from the Pheasant Hill parking lot via a trail through the woods.  5. Ski Ward Ski Area Since the late 1930s, generations of budding skiers have learned the basics on this small mountain in the Shrewsbury city limits. Ski wards with 100% snow cover have extended ski and snowboard seasons. There are 9 slopes of equal weight for beginners (3), intermediate (3), and advanced (3), all he is operated by 4 lifts. This is the ideal place for beginners and in winter he has 100 teachers for a wide range of individual and group tuition programs. A big draw for many families is his eight subway rides with two elevators to help keep lines to a minimum. The mountain remains a recreational spot for the rest of the year, thanks to a summer tubing park.   6. Northborough Crossing An outdoor mall located at the intersection of Route 9 and Route 20 in the southern part of the city. Northborough Crossing is a mix of large stores, small shopping centers, chain restaurants, and Wegmans branches. Retailers found here include Kohl’s, Old Navy, Ulta Beauty, Claire’s, The Paper Store and T.J. Maxx, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Michals, Homesense, and PetSmart. For food, there’s QDOBA and IHOP, and Burger King, Starbucks, and Anzio’s Brick Oven Pizza are nearby.  7. Juniper Hill Golf Course Less than a mile southeast of central Northboro is a 36-hole public golf course and a newly modernized clubhouse with barbecue facilities, a pro shop, and a golf instruction center. His first of two 18-hole courses in Juniper Hills is the Riverside Course, which dates back to 1931. The course has been improved over the years and is known for its idyllic scenery along the banks of the Assabet River. Opened in 1991, the Lakeside Course is the more difficult of the two courses. Blending in with the majestic New England landscape, this 18-hole is Carolina-style, with his par-3 8th and his 14th calling for bold tee shots from the water.   8. Ellsworth McAfee Park Widely acclaimed for its excellent maintenance, Northborough Community Park is located south of the city near the border with Westborough and has many active recreational facilities. In a nutshell, there’s a skate park, basketball court, pickleball court, multipurpose arena, and two playgrounds. A long exercise trail winds through the park and leads to a secluded pond at the northern end. There is also a large gazebo available for rent. On Thursday nights from late June through mid-August, Ellsworth McAfee Park will be the stage for Northboro’s annual Summer His concert series.   9. Boundless Adventures Zipline and Aerial Park A zipline and high-rope park

15 Best Things to Do in North Reading (MA)

Established as an independent town in the 1850s, North Reading has a history of European settlement dating back two centuries. The historic 200-year-old historic district meeting house is his third in this location and stands at the highest point in a majestic community of historic buildings. North Reading’s finest parks are also scenic on the shady banks of the tranquil Ipswich River. In the center, you can visit companies that have been in the industry for decades and there are many nearby attractions such as a mini golf course, an indoor playground for children under 10, and a go-kart track.   1. Reverend Daniel Putnam House The headquarters of the North Reading Society of Historical and Antiquities is located in this colonial mansion on the east side of Town Common for over 300 years. The house was built for the purpose of persuading the pastor to settle in the parish. The Reverend Daniel Putnam (1696-1759) ministered here from 1720 until his death, and under his contract, he owned 20 acres of land, two of which are his home to this day. was around Also on the grounds is the West Village Schoolhouse (1845), his one-room schoolhouse that was moved to this location in the 1980s. Reverend Daniel Putnam’s home can be visited during open houses and social events.   2. BFM Driving & Mini Golf If you want to hone your golf skills or are looking for a family-friendly activity, there is a combination driving range and miniature golf course at 327 Main Street in North West Reading. BFM’s 18-hole mini golf course is surrounded by rock gardens with animal models. The holes themselves are fun for kids, but the lack of crazy obstacles allows serious putters to show off their skills. The driving range now features 28 hitting stations, re-laid mats, pinnacle, and top-flight balls, multiple targets to choose from, and lighting for after-dark play.  3. The Big Dipper Ice Cream Stand After playing mini-golf at BFM, families can enjoy a cold treat at the ice cream stand next door. You can walk from the parking lot. There are some picnic tables out front. Big Dipper not only offers high-quality dairy ice cream but also caters to a variety of dietary needs and preferences with delicious vegan, fat-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free options. With about 40 varieties of hard ice cream, from toasted coconut to mint chocolate chips, as well as low-fat frozen yogurt, a variety of sherbets and sherbets, and soft cream, there’s sure to be something that piques your interest. You should find it.  4. Hornet’s Nest Sub Shop Just off Town Common is a sandwich shop with no shortcuts that have been around for over half a century. Hornet’s Nest Sub Shop opened in 1972 and quickly became famous for its cheesesteak sub shop. They continue to be the star of the menu and, like all steak subs sold in the store, are prepared using only the finest beef loin. Our steaks are hand-shavings daily and are never frozen or pre-sliced. The bread is also freshly baked and the turkey sub meat is oven roasted on site. Don’t forget to try the Italian-style thin-crust pizza made with homemade hand-kneaded dough.   5. Ryers Store At the southwest end of Town Green is a traditional country shop dating back to 1912. Lyr’s Store features a deli, hot bar, salad bar, freshly baked bread, hot and cold sandwiches, freshly brewed Pierce Brothers coffee, Richardson ice cream, a wide selection of beers and wines, gourmet specialties Goods and various sweets available. A unique strength here is Lyre’s own selection of house-made marinated meats, and a list of signature sandwiches includes premium Dietz & Watson cold cuts. Daily specials are posted on the store’s website and always offer a variety of fresh hot soups Monday through Friday.   6. Shriners Auditorium Opened in 1977, this spacious venue in the North Reading/Wilmington downtown area was built as a headquarters by Boston-based Aleppo Shriners and is still owned by the Doyukai. The Shriners Auditorium has approximately 40,000 feet of exhibition space within the arena and has hosted a variety of events over the past 45 years, from conventions, antique shows, banquets, and concerts to wrestling, mixed martial arts, and boxing. It’s been done. A milestone on the calendar is the annual Shriners Circus in April. Its history dates back to 1951 and he is known as an aviator, dancer, daredevil stuntman on a motorcycle, and the famous Aleppo clown.  7. Cowabunga’s Inflatable Playground For parents with children under the age of 10, there is an indoor inflatable park at the Atlantic Plaza Shopping Center in North Reading. Safer than a trampoline park, the Cowabunga Inflatable Playground is a small world of inflatable attractions where you can bounce, climb and slide for an exhilarating hour or two. There are open bouncing areas, huge slides, all kinds of inflatable obstacles, and huge climbing structures with foam ball blasters. Whether you want to rent out the entire area for a private celebration or use the public space for yourself, the playground is the centerpiece of your birthday party.  8. K1 Speed The Boston branch of this national chain of indoor kart tracks is just minutes from Wilmington. K1 Speed ​​opened here in 2015 with two challenging tracks and a fleet of powerful electric karts. Unlike petrol-powered carts with lawnmower engines, these eco-friendly machines have zero rpm maximum torque and can rocket out of corners. The easiest way to stay on track is with an arrival and drive package. After each race, you will receive a results sheet detailing the times for that session and the previous week or month for the riders. Perfect for corporate events and group celebrations, K1 Speed ​​has a café serving snacks and drinks, and an arcade with billiards and air hockey tables.   9. Reading Town Forest The southwest corner of the city borders an attractive 290-acre protected area on the Ipswich River. The Readingtown Forest was founded in the

15 Best Things to Do in South Hadley (MA)

Located on the east bank of the Connecticut River, South Hadley is best known for being home to the historic Mount Holyoke College. Founded in 1837, this prestigious women’s liberal arts college has perhaps the finest campus in New England. Magnificent brick architecture, fall foliage, mosaic gardens, and sights like the exceptional Mount Holyoke College Museum of Art and the Skinner Museum, a fascinating curiosity cabinet housed in an ancient church, are worth enjoying. To the north of South Hadley is the Trapprock Ridge of the Holyoke Mountains. Two state parks are easily accessible for hiking and bluff views.  1. Lady Bea Boat Rides From Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day, travel along the mighty Connecticut River aboard this cruise ship docked at Brunel’s Marina in South Hadley. This is a family business and Lady Bea is named after her early 20th century matriarch. In season, cruises depart at 1:00, 4:00, and 6:00 pm Thursday through Sunday, with additional departures at 7:00 pm on sunny days in midsummer. Listen to a fun and engaging narration full of historical tidbits as you travel upstream to Northampton and back, enjoying spectacular scenery along the way. Lady Bea is also available for private charters, parties, and corporate outings and has a fully stocked bar serving drinks and snacks.   2. McCray’s Farm For nearly half a century, this local dairy has welcomed the public to a variety of activities and events. In the fall, the best part is taking a hay wagon ride to the pumpkin fields and star gazing after dark. Since its inception in 1991, this haunted hay wagon with a haunted park has been one of the most popular Halloween attractions in western Massachusetts every weekend in October. McCray’s Farm also has a mini golf course, a children’s playground, and a petting zoo where you can feed sheep, cows, ducks, and goats. As for the food, there are plenty of ice cream flavors and sandwiches ranging from burgers to melts to wraps to hot dogs.   3. Skinner Museum Silk magnate Joseph Allen Skinner (1862-1946) was a principal patron of Mount Holyoke College and bequeathed a very diverse collection after his death. The work is kept at Mount He’s Holyoke University Museum of Art, displayed as a cabinet of traditional curiosities in the memorable setting of the old First Congregational Church (1846) in Prescott, Massachusetts. Every square inch of available space is filled with Native American artifacts, marine-related items, rare books and documents, minerals and fossils, 19th-century memorabilia, fine glassware, pottery, historic lighting, and marine ethnography. It is filled with items such as  4. Tower Theaters A two-screen movie theater, open since 1989, is housed in a pretty gabled building on the Village Commons. Tower Theaters is a boutique hotel, but the auditorium has ample space and large, comfortable seating. Being a small business, service is a big improvement over corporate complexes, with lots of nice touches like freshly baked popcorn and refills on most drinks. You can usually see Hollywood premieres, indie movies, and sometimes cult and classic movies here.  5. Odyssey Bookshop A must-stop at the Village Commons is the independent bookstore, which opened in 1963. The Odyssey Bookshop is the exclusive retailer of Mount Holyoke University textbooks, but there’s also a top-notch children’s section on the ground floor that’s a must-see for parents. If you live in South Hadley, you can take advantage of the Booklover program for frequent shopping and discounts. One of the notable things about this store is that it has a very busy calendar of events. Several authors appear each week in book readings, question-and-answer sessions, and book signings.   6. Mount Holyoke Range State Park If Skinner State Park whets your appetite for cinematic scenery and unique rock formations, explore the eastern half of the range at Mt Holyoke Range State Park. There are more than 3,700 acres of wilderness here, followed by the Metacomet Monadnock Trail, which stretches along the ridge for miles. If you’re hiking east to the highest point in the range, Mount Norwotuck (1,106 feet), the Notch Visitor Center is a great place to pit and get your bearings. Away from the ledges, the park offers miles of hiking trails through forests and wetlands, and some of the best mountain biking in the area along the Serpentine and roller-coaster trails.   7. Ledges Golf Club Located near the eastern bank of the Connecticut River, this 18-hole public course is set in beautiful and varied scenery. Some are open-and-link style holes that incorporate natural wetlands, while others pass through undulating mature forests. The course has a number of elevated tees and greens offering great views of the surrounding hills. He can choose from 4 sets of tees to suit his skill level. Aside from the woods, the main obstacle is his 78 bunkers, which are known to be tough on even the most experienced players. Amenities include a driving range, a short game area, an accessible clubhouse, a golf shop, and a sunset grill to relax after a round.   8. ValleyBike Share Over the past decade, the City of South Hadley has put a lot of effort into improving its infrastructure to make it safer for motorcycle travelers. The city is already characterized by relatively low car traffic. You may have noticed that US 116 and US 202 have designated minor curb bike lanes along Morgan Street and Lyman Street. With this in mind, South Hadley is Pioneer Valley’s first bike-sharing program, with police stations and stations in town. Pay per ride or become a member and enjoy unlimited 45-minute rides daily, monthly, or yearly.   9. Buttery Brook Park South Hadley’s largest public park is located south of the city, about three miles from downtown. Situated along the creek of the same name that meanders through the park’s vast open fields, the property was chartered by the city in the late 1950s and used by the fire department until the 1990s. A great summer attraction for