Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Mass Amherst chapter.

We all know that Amherst is one of the best college towns in the United States—why not explore when you have free time? Check out these places next time you’re walking around town!

1. Share Coffee

Share Coffee, formerly known as Rao’s, is one of the best coffee shops in Amherst Center. This is the ideal place to do work on a weekend if you need somewhere to relax and enjoy a good cup of joe.

2. Amherst Farmer’s Market

The Farmer’s Market is the place to be if you need some fresh vegetables and need a break from Big Y. The Farmer’s Market happens every Saturday at the corner of Spring Street and Boltwood Avenue.

3. Mount Holyoke Range State Park

Okay, this one isn’t technically all in Amherst, but if you enjoy the great outdoors, Mount Holyoke Range State Park is just the place for you. The most well-known state parks are Skinner State Park, Mt. Sugarloaf, and Holyoke Range State Park, which are all in the Amherst area.

4. Cushman Market and Cafe

Cushman Market is one of the cutest places in the Amherst area. The market is half-general store and half-restaurant. The market offers groceries such as artisan bread, local dairy products and crazy gifts. The restaurant serves delicious lunches, and includes outdoor seating.

5. The Black Sheep

If you’re in the mood for a great breakfast or lunch, the Black Sheep is the place to go. All of their sandwiches are fresh and come from local sources, and the menu caters to most dietary needs, such as vegan and vegetarian. This cafe is also one of the best places to go if you want to get some work done in an aesthetically pleasing atmosphere.  

Amherst is full of activities if you have time after class and need some time to hang out. Whether it’s taking a gorgeous hike or settling in with some homework at a cafe, our little town has a ton to offer outside the classroom!

Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Chloe Trepanier

U Mass Amherst

Chloe is a Her Campus National Social Media Intern and a senior Communication major at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She is the Social Media Director for Facebook for the UMass chapter and is the Chairperson of the UMass Theatre Guild. Her hobbies include watching 30 Rock and eating ice cream. You can follow her on Twitter and on Instagram. 
Contributors from the University of Massachusetts Amherst