Old sturbridge village (Amherst, Northampton, Hamilton: rent, live in, shop)

[njmovetoma]

Has anyone been here recently??(Old Sturbridge Village) If so, are you able to spend a whole day there and is it worth it? Our family is coming for a visit in late September and I'm just trying to find some things to do. Also any one heard of Hancock Village? Any other places to visit you all could think of would be great, thanks. We live in western mass, Hamphsire Co. anything in that area???

[MontanaTripper]

I took my family from Italy there last year. I was eager to go, thinking that they would enjoy the old country and walking around. Well...I enjoyed it. They were non-plussed. I think it's a great thing to do, but it is low-key, for sure. The kids enjoyed chasing the chickens. If they have kids, I would go for sure; otherwise, only depending on their interest.

We also went to Quabbin [sp?] and that was great. You can rent little boats, and it's fun to motor to the little island and walk around. It should be glorious in fall.

Also, don't forget to take them apple picking at Hamilton Orchards. Go in the mornning to enjoy hot donuts and good coffee there, too.

Enjoy!

MT Tripper

[njmovetoma]

Thanks, we actually live about 3 miles from Quabbin, but haven't rented the boats yet!! We have two small children, and it is my parents who are coming for the visit. My mom loves anything country, (primitive/amish)

[Xenos]

Went to Sturbridge with the kids and in-laws last month. I enjoyed, but i am the sort that sits down and starts discussing the finer details of the 1830s regional economy with the role-players, while everybody in the party is bored stiff.

There is more than just the history, though. There is a working sawmill, which is pretty impressive, a fully operating blacksmith, and a very extensive herb garden. I spent less time in the buildings, but what I saw was very well put together.

Unless your kids are history buffs, they will not be so fascinated. But it won't hurt them, either. If you are going after labor day, call ahead and make sure that the things you want to see are open.

[MontanaTripper]

I have young three kids, and when we lived in Amherst and had parents visiting I found that old Deerfield was very enjoyable for everyone. The museum there is good, and the walking tour is fun. Don't miss the candy "shoppe" on the way there from Amherst -- made the trip for us every time.

BTW: Renting the boats is fun and safe.

[Giantone]

Originally Posted by njmovetoma

Has anyone been here recently??(Old Sturbridge Village) If so, are you able to spend a whole day there and is it worth it? Our family is coming for a visit in late September and I'm just trying to find some things to do. Also any one heard of Hancock Village? Any other places to visit you all could think of would be great, thanks. We live in western mass, Hamphsire Co. anything in that area???

Since you don't give age or family details I'll take a shot.Hancock Shaker(sp) village is nice but then again so is Sturbridge,there is the Norman Rockwell museum and Tangelwood,take a ride and go up to Bennington to see the memorial and grandma mose's museum,or go to the Yankee candel company flagship(S.Deerfield) store that can take a couple of hours.Also if your company is older.....you might want to try dinner at the Red Lion Inn....the Food is to die for.

[mommytotwo]

I love the Norman Rockwell museum and Red Lion Inn.
Cold spring is nice for Apple picking.
You probably already know this, but the Fall is high TICK time at Quabbin, so spray up!
How about Yankee Candle co in deerfield? I have heard that Chandlers makes a nice brunch.
of course Northampton is always nice to walk around and shop.
basketball hall of fame for basketball fans.
if they are coming from an area far from the ocean the cape is beautiful, but obviously not in the immediate area.