The Most Charming College Town In Massachusetts Is Home To Delicious Dining, Shopping, And More

Amherst is a beautiful New England town located in the Massachusetts Pioneer Valley. It is known for its gorgeous outdoor spaces, rich history, and thriving collegiate community. Amherst is home to the University of Massachusetts, Hampshire College, and Amherst College. Smith College and Mount Holyoke College are located nearby. Together, this group of close-knit schools is known as the “Five Colleges.” Amherst is a wonderful place to visit any time of year, but it is especially fun when school is in session and students are buzzing about.

As Amherst is such a vibrant college town, there is always something going on in the community.

The universities and colleges offer a number of interesting opportunities and special events for locals and visitors.

The Beneski Museum of Natural History is a fascinating place to spend a few hours.

As you wander through its three floors of exhibits, you can see hundreds of fossils, dinosaur footprints, and geological specimens. The museum is free of charge and is located on the Amherst College campus.

Amherst is also the birthplace of famed poet, Emily Dickinson.

Her childhood home has been turned into a museum which you can visit to learn more about her life and literary contributions.

There are several great restaurants within the city. Formosa Chinese Restaurant is a favorite among locals.

The noodles here are delicious!

Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant & Bar is another fun spot for margaritas and Mexican cuisine.

It's open daily for lunch and dinner and has a live mariachi band that plays on Monday nights.

If you find yourself in Amherst on a Saturday morning morning within the months of April to November, you will definitely want to stop by the farmers market on the Amherst Common.

The market has been going strong for 50 years and has a little bit of everything. It is a great place to pick up some fresh fruits and veggies, delicious baked goods, jams, cheeses, and locally-made kombucha.

Amherst also has many interesting shops and stores. This unique blue house is home to Mystery Train Records.

It is a really fun place to browse, pick up some good music, and even see a live show!

Every college town should have a great bookstore, and this college town is no exception.

Amherst Books carries the newest releases, children's items, and college textbooks. The store also hosts book signings and special events.

Have you taken a trip to Amherst? What do you enjoy most about the town? For more information, please visit Amherst's official town website and Amherst's town Facebook page. If you are looking to stay overnight in town, I recommend staying at the Courtyard by Marriott Hadley Amherst. While you are in the Pioneer Valley, you will find more fun things to explore in the nearby towns of Hadley and Deerfield.