A Weekend in Western Mass

Spend the day at a spa: Some of the best spas in the world are at your fingertips here in Western MA. Spend your day blissed out by a resort's pool (Highly recommend Miraval) after a top-notch massage.

Hike Mt. Greylock: Enjoy the breathtaking views from the highest peak in MA.

Spending time perusing the shops in downtown Northampton: Local shops abound in this historic downtown with everything from jewelry and clothes to some of the best food in the region. Make sure to stop in Thornes to check out a kitschy candy shop, homemade eclectic jewelry, and high-end home goods and kitchenwares.

Check out River Valley Co-op and have a picnic in Look Park: Some of the best local cheeses and meats. Make yourself a small picnic filled with local ingredients and spend time at this incredible park that has a splash pad, picnic tables, tennis courts, mini-golf, and so much more.

MASS MoCA (Museum of Contemporary Art, North Adams MA): A venue with live performance and galleries filled with immersive and introspective collections. Spend the day walking through some of the most evocative art you will see on the East Coast.

Emily Dickinson House (Amherst, MA): Pay homage to one of America's greats, Emily Dickinson, by visiting her former home and immersing yourself in her timeless legacy.

Northampton Food Tours: Find some hidden gems while getting a small bite from each local stop. Learn about the history of the town while snacking!

Yankee Candle Village: Great space for children and adults alike. You can make candles and other crafts are available all throughout the village. The Village is extra special during the Christmas season when you can visit a life-sized Santa's village.

Savannah's (Amherst, MA- Dinner): Upscale fare with a wood-fired pizza oven. Cocktails are phenomenal, and the food is even better.

Local Burger (Northampton, MA - Lunch/Dinner): Locally sourced, farm-to-table burgers with traditional and fun and funky combinations. Also very vegetarian-friendly.

Mosaic Cafe (Northampton, MA - Breakfast, lunch, and dinner): Some of the best Middle Eastern food you can find in Western MA. House-made hummus and pita, yes please!

Florence Pie Bar (Florence, MA- Breakfast/Lunch): The best handmade pies and baked goods with both simple and unique treats that will make all ages happy (think ham and cheese handpies).

The Break Room (North Adams, MA - Breakfast): The greatest homemade cinnamon rolls and donuts. Insider tip: Get there early or else you will miss out on the baked treats!

Alina's Ristorante (Hadley, MA - Dinner): Italian food that has a focus on fresh ingredients and is great for both families and couples.

Public Eat + Drink (North Adams, MA- Lunch/Dinner): Upscale bar favorites served in a higher-end pub setting. Try everything from the braised brisket taco to the summer truffle risotto.

Artifact Cider Project: Warehouse with outdoor seating brewing delicious hard ciders. Also serve great snacks. Another Pro tip: If they have caramel apples (a seasonal treat) get them!

The Archives (Amherst, MA): Hidden bar in the basement of a local hotel and some of the best craft cocktails in the region (book with me to be in the know!).