Nothing compares to a New England fall, and Amherst is a hub for all things New England. Between window shopping and browsing vintage stores in nearby NoHo, getting a hot caramel macchiato at Amherst Coffee, and heading down to the Emily Dickinson museum to read poetry, fall is by far the least boring season. Below, I have a well-curated list of fall activities in Amherst. These activities can be done solo, with a special someone or even with a group of friends!Â
- Apple picking
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While there’s an abundance of places to go apple picking here in Western Massachusetts, after doing some research, I have learned that one of the best places to go is Pine Hill Orchards. Although the orchard is located about 30 minutes off campus, it is worth the drive. Not only does the farm offer apple picking, but it also has a deli that is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Along with this, there is also freshly pressed apple cider, homemade pies, breads, and other delicious produce and groceries at the farm’s store! A visit to Pine Hill Orchards is not just apple picking, but a whole experience too.Â
- Pumpkin carving
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Along the lines of apple picking, there are a plethora of places to buy pumpkins suitable for carving, both in and near Amherst. A town favorite is definitely Atkins Farms. There is guaranteed to be not only the perfect pumpkin for carving, but also a fall treat like apple donuts or seasonal ice cream.Â
- Emily Dickinson museum
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Being outside in the fall is a great way to spend time, but for those who can’t stand the cold, being inside and appreciating local culture and history may be a better option. The Emily Dickinson Museum is located on Main St. in downtown Amherst and comprises two historic houses. The museum hosts a poetry festival every fall, which is a great way to learn more about poetry and Dickinson’s connection to the area. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays. The museum also offers an array of workshops and presentations that individuals can sign up for through their website. This is a great way to get to know Amherst, while growing yourself creatively.Â
- Farmers markets
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If driving to an apple-picking orchard feels like too much—especially during midterms season—then another great activity to do to get in the spirit of fall is visiting the local farmers markets that take place right here on campus every Friday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The on-campus farmers markets are a great way to support local UMass artists, while also enjoying some time outside in the fall weather. If you want to go off-campus, Amherst has a farmers market every Saturday where you can purchase a ton of local produce, pastries and crafts.Â
- Fall Foliage hike
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One of the best ways to spend a sunny, chilly fall day in Amherst is to go for a hike. Luckily, the Pioneer Valley has a large number of beautiful trails that are worth trying out, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing colors. While there are some challenging hikes like Mt. Hitchcock and Lithia Springs, there are also a ton of easier hikes that are friendly to inexperienced hikers and families. Some of these include hiking the Mill River Trail at Puffer’s Pond and hiking trails near Mt. Holyoke. Alltrails is a great resource for finding more hikes if none of these feel suitable for you.Â
Fall is arguably the best season. Between the foliage, crisp weather, and delicious apple and cinnamon spice flavored treats, there is truly no season that compares to it. This is especially true in Amherst. The area is full of classic New England activities and ways to spend time, either outside enjoying the weather or inside learning new things about Amherst’s history and the area.Â
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