GREATER SPRINFIELD AT A GLANCE

Springfield and the Pioneer Valley feature top-notch family attractions, a thriving community of craftspeople, and great places to hike and bike.

CHECK IT OUT

The Basketball Hall of Fame, the Dr. Seuss National Memorial, and Six Flags New England’s roller coasters are a magnet for family getaways. Also in Springfield: The Quadrangle, a quartet of art, science, and history museums, and the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, the nation’s first armory. The new MassMutual Center hosts concerts and sports events throughout the year. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst celebrates the imaginative art found in children’s books.

CAMPUS CULTURE

A cluster of five private and public colleges adds a distinct cultural flavor to the valley. Three art museums, the Smith College Museum of Art, the Mead Art Museum (at Hampshire College) and the Mt. Holyoke College Art Museum, have impressive collections and exhibition schedules. Northampton is a laidback college town with a vibrant arts community. Browze the crafts galleries, then stop for a cappuccino, a local microbrew, or dinner at one of the many restaurants and cafes.

WHAT'S NEW?

For New England's largest theme park, head to Six Flags New England in Agawam.  Experience the "Glow in the Park Parade", an all new nighttime spectacular with dramatic state-of-the-art floats, cirque-style music and thousands of sparkling lights! Six Flags has also added a Johnny Rockets restaurant and new Cold Stone Creamery location.

Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau