From coffee shops to mountain views, let me take you through a perfect fall day in Western Massachusetts.
- Walk and Coffee
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In my opinion, there is no better way to start a perfect fall day than with a cozy drink and a walk through town. One of my all-time favorite spots is The Works Café in Amherst Center. I am obsessed with their iced chai, and I’m usually very picky about my chai. If you’re in the mood for something savory, you can never go wrong with their fresh mozzarella melt or jalapeño cheddar bagel.
- Take a Walk Through Campus
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I might be biased, but Massachusetts has some of the most beautiful fall foliage, and UMass Amherst was truly made for the season. The sidewalks are covered in red and orange leaves, and if you’re here on a Friday, make sure to pass by the Student Farmers Market on Goodell Lawn. It’s full of local produce, crafts, baked goods, and vintage clothes from students and locals.
After you’re done strolling through the market, take your time wandering through campus. Maybe stop by the hotel stairs and admire the view, or sit under the trees by the pond. It’s one of those places that makes me appreciate how peaceful our lively campus can be.
- Short Trip to Northampton
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Later, I would take the short trek over to Northampton, a neighboring city about 20 minutes from Amherst. It’s home to Smith College and some of my all-time favorite book and thrift stores.
Honestly, I could spend the entire day browsing the carefully curated racks at Born Again Vintage or The Depressed Waitress, especially since I’m currently on the hunt for the perfect pair of fall boots. Small bookshops, like Broadside Bookshop, have some of the best deals, think $1 finds. If you wander through Thornes Marketplace, you’ll find some fun and unique art and décor, which I have proceeded to decorate my apartment with.
- Fall Treat at Atkins Farm
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No fall day in Western Mass is complete without a stop at Atkins Farm in Amherst. It’s half grocery store, half bakery, and their apple cider donuts are among the best I’ve ever had. They are warm, soft, and doused in cinnamon sugar. Pair one with a cup of hot cider and you’ve got the ideal fall snack.
If you’re still hungry, try their maple walnut ice cream or grab a bag of fresh apples to take home.
- Sunset Hike at Mount Sugarloaf
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After winding down for the day, take a scenic drive up to Mount Sugarloaf in nearby Deerfield. It’s one of those spots that is able to capture the beauty of Western Mass. The hike up the steep trail takes about 15 minutes, and though it’s short, and definitely gets your heart pumping, and it’s worth every step.
At the summit, you are able to see the Connecticut River Valley, hills covered in autumn colors, and a view of the W. E. B. Du Bois Library and the Southwest towers off in the distance. It’s a sight that makes you want to stop and take it all in.
- Where to Eat: Campus or Downtown
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By the time you make it back to Amherst, the sun will be setting and the air will have that crisp evening chill. For dinner, you’ve got plenty of options.
If you’re a student or just love UMass dining, head to Berk Dining Hall in Southwest. UMass is known for having the No. 1 dining hall food in the country, and it’s no lie. My favorites are the freshly made stir-fry and pasta.
Or, if you want to end your day downtown, grab a bowl of pho from Miss Saigon to warm up, or a slice from the iconic Antonio’s Pizza, always lively with students and locals.
Whether you spend your day hiking, thrifting, or simply wandering under the fall foliage, Western Mass is the kind of place that reminds you to slow down and appreciate the season.
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