Things To Do
in Amherst
Amherst is a charming town located in the state of Massachusetts in the United States. It is known for being home to Amherst College, one of the prestigious institutions in the country. The town offers a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, music venues, and theaters.
Visitors can also explore the beautiful natural surroundings, including hiking trails and parks.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at the Amherst Woodlands. The scenic views and fresh air will energize you for the day ahead.
After lunch, explore the nearby Puffers Pond and enjoy some time kayaking or picnicking. It's a perfect spot to unwind and soak in nature.
Wrap up your day with a walk through the local gardens reflecting on the beauty you've experienced. A quiet evening picnic here is a lovely way to end the day.
Begin your day by visiting the University of Massachusetts Amherst campus. The architecture and vibrant student life create an exciting atmosphere.
Head over to the UMass Museum of Contemporary Art to explore some modern art. It's an entertaining way to fuel your creativity.
Discover local flavors at a nearby restaurant for dinner. Enjoy a lively atmosphere as the campus comes alive at night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong educational institutions, including Amherst College.
- Quaint New England charm with beautiful scenery and landscapes.
- Vibrant cultural scene with various arts and music events.
- Great accessibility to outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly residents.
- Cold winters with significant snowfall.
- Limited job opportunities outside of education and small businesses.
- Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for many.
- Smaller town might lack some amenities and entertainment options found in larger cities.
Best Activities in Amherst
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails and waterfalls at the Notch in Amherst.
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the scenic Norwottuck Rail Trail, which offers beautiful views of the countryside.
Experience the beauty of the Connecticut River by kayaking or canoeing, and take in the picturesque surroundings.
Relax and enjoy a peaceful picnic at Puffer's Pond, surrounded by serene natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Amherst with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Amherst
Visit one of these nice places.
Enjoy picturesque surroundings and scenic views at Amherst College, perfect for photography.
Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Pioneer Valley and the surrounding landscapes, great for photography enthusiasts.
Visit this mountain pass for stunning vistas and photo opportunities.
Food in Amherst
Amherst Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic New England dish, Amherst's clam chowder is creamy and brimming with fresh clams and potatoes. Try it at the Black Sheep Deli.
Must-Try!
Made from pure maple syrup, this sweet treat is a must-try. Look for it at the local farmer's markets or the Maple Valley Creamery.
A hearty breakfast dish made from corned beef, potatoes, and spices. Enjoy it at The Lone Wolf.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Amherst better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The market offers a wide range of local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and food stands with freshly prepared street food.
An annual event featuring a variety of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, from gourmet burgers to global street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Amherst, it is important to be mindful of personal space and not invade someone's personal boundaries.
Punctuality is valued in Amherst, so it's important to be on time for appointments and meetings.
Using polite language and showing respect in interactions with others is a valued cultural norm in Amherst.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Amherst with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Amherst
Ensure a smooth experience
In Amherst, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, cafes, and other service-related industries. It is customary to tip between 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
Payment in Amherst is predominantly done using credit or debit cards. Cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular, and most establishments offer this option.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Amherst.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Amherst, with blooming flowers, warmer temperatures, and the start of outdoor events and activities.
Summer offers the warmest weather in Amherst, perfect for outdoor adventures, festivals, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Fall is a popular time to visit Amherst, with stunning foliage, harvest festivals, and pleasant temperatures for exploring the outdoors.
Winter in Amherst brings snow and cold temperatures, offering opportunities for winter sports, holiday events, and cozy indoor activities.
Amherst at Night
Hiking in Amherst
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with a variety of trails offering scenic views of the Pioneer Valley and Mount Tom.
A local park with trails for hiking and a picnic area, perfect for a quick nature escape.
Located on Mount Tom, it provides hiking trails and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A more secluded hiking experience with well-marked paths and rich wildlife.
Part of the Metacomet-Monadnock trail system, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Amherst through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Amherst by plane.
The primary airport serving the Buffalo area and a major international gateway in Western New York, located about 20 miles from Amherst.
An international airport located in Niagara Falls, New York, approximately 30 miles from Amherst, offering service to various destinations.
Located about 70 miles from Amherst, this airport serves the Rochester area and offers international and domestic flights.
Canada's largest and busiest airport, located about 90 miles from Amherst, serves many international destinations.
Located around 130 miles from Amherst, it is the primary airport for Cleveland, Ohio, with numerous international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority demographic group, representing a significant percentage of the population.
A growing demographic group, contributing to the diversity of the community.
An important demographic group with increasing representation in the area.
A smaller demographic group, yet an integral part of the community.
A demographic group that reflects a blend of various ethnic backgrounds.
A minority demographic group with historical significance in the region.
A lesser-represented demographic group in the Amherst area.
The Soul of Amherst
Discover the essence of Amherst through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer has a strong youth and community presence in Amherst, with various local clubs and school teams participating in competitive leagues.
Basketball is popular among students at local schools and universities, featuring multiple leagues and recreational opportunities.
American football is a significant sport, with high school teams and intramural leagues drawing community support.
Track and field events are widely participated in at high school and collegiate levels, particularly through organized competitions.
Lacrosse is growing in popularity, with youth leagues forming and local schools competing at various levels.
Swimming is a key sport in local schools, with facilities available for both competitive swim teams and recreational use.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amherst.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Amherst offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as tofu stir-fry, quinoa bowls, and vegan pastries.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs can find options like gluten-free pizza, salads, and rice-based dishes at several eateries in Amherst.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Amherst with these cultural adventures.
