Located in central Massachusetts, Springfield, is a city that has been an important player in state history. There are lots of fun and exciting things to do in Springfield MA, including some world-class museums and other entertainment options. Fun family activities include visiting the Basketball Hall of Fame and the World of Dr. Seuss. Things to do near Springfield MA include the Big E and Six Flags New England as well as all the attractions of the Pioneer Valley.
Table of Contents
Springfield MA History
Located in what is known as Pioneer Valley, Springfield Massachusetts was originally settled by families seeking better land for farming. Thanks to the Connecticut River, this whole area has some of the most fertile land in all of New England.
Early Settlers of Springfield MA
Fur trader, William Pynchon set up Springfield in 1636 on the eastern bank of the Connecticut River. In 1660, settlers spilled over the Connecticut River to create West Springfield. In fact, quite a few of the Pioneer Valley towns are spillovers from Springfield. Once they became big enough, these towns incorporated themselves, such as Northampton (1653) and Amherst (1658).
In 1635, William Pynchon surveyed the area for a possible trading post. The next year he came back with settlers and set up Springfield. He was instrumental in aligning the colony with the Massachusetts Bay Colony instead of the Connecticut Colony which was closer. A shrewd businessman, William Pynchon became one of the wealthiest and most influential people in Massachusetts.
Those quarrelsome Puritans. They wanted religious freedom from the Establishment but not amongst themselves.
At the time, Springfield MA was Western Massachusetts. The long arm of Boston law reached into Springfield too.
William Pynchon caused a stir when he wrote the first banned book in the USA, a religious treatise that questioned some Puritanical concepts. His book was burned on Boston Common and he was hauled in front of a court in Boston by the Massachusetts Bay Colony. William Pynchon transferred his assets to his son John, and went back to England.
Today Pynchon Point is a park named after William Pynchon.
You can visit the Puritan statue which is a symbol of Springfield Massachusetts.
Springfield Witch Trials
At the time of William Pynchon’s trial, there was also the first witchcraft trial in the New World.
Hugh and Mary Parsons were a trouble-making pair from Springfield who their Springfield neighbours hated. Accused of witchcraft, they were tried in Boston in 1651 and eventually acquitted. This witch trial was well before the Salem Witch Trial of 1692 immortalised in many books and films.
The story of William Pynchon, Hugh and Mary Parsons and the early years of Springfield have been written into a fascinating book, The Ruin of All Witches: Life and Death in the New World by Malcolm Gaskill, a history professor at the University of East Anglia.
Later Springfield MA History
Nowadays, Springfield is the third largest city in Massachusetts (after Boston and Worcester, respectively).
In relatively recent history, Springfield became known as the city of firsts as the home of many inventions. Examples of such inventions include the Merriam-Webster Dictionary (the first American English dictionary) or the first American gas-powered car.
The Springfield Massachusetts skyline across from the Connecticut River.
Things To Do in Springfield MA
Some of the best things to do in Springfield Mass are historical in nature. For example, Things to do in Springfield include the set of Springfield Museums that relates to art, history and science.
Basketball Hall of Fame
This attraction is a slam dunk for all sports lovers. Canadian-American doctor, James Naismith founded the game of basketball in Springfield Massachusetts.
The museum was opened in 1959 at Springfield College where Naismith had gone to university. In 2002, thanks to its popularity as on of Springfield’s biggest tourist attractions, the museum moved to new premises measuring a whopping 80,000 square feet.
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame consists of interactive exhibits where attendees can learn the history of the game, and celebrate the top-tier players who helped shape the way we play.
You’ll even have an opportunity to pick up a ball and shoot some layups at the end of your tour in the Court of Dreams.
Finish your trip at Max’s Tavern for modern American food. There are other more casual options like Subway and Cold Stone Creamery.
Address: 1000 Hall of Fame Avenue, Springfield, MA 01105
With so many things to do, Springfield visitors are spoiled for choice, such as visiting the Basketball Museum and Hall of Fame
Springfield Armory National Historic Site
Learn about the importance that America’s first armory played in firearm innovation and development for the nation at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, one of the NPS governed sites in Massachusetts.
The Springfield Armory was set up by George Washington himself during the American Revolution and was in operation until 1968. Step backward in time to see the progression of how guns have changed throughout the years.
Even if you’re not a military history buff, this historic landmark is worth checking out. It is free of charge and the friendly rangers are knowledgeable and personable.
Address: One Armory Square, Springfield , MA 01105
Springfield Armory, one of the National Parks in MA, is important as one of the first American factories dedicated to making armaments.
World of Dr Seuss
Springfield isn’t just the birthplace of basketball, it’s also the birthplace of a beloved children’s author, Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr Suess. Born in 1904 in Forest Park, his dad was in charge of the Forest Park Zoo.
Check out the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum which was built after the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden. It gets about 100,000 visitors annually.
Kids can play, make art, and create their own rhyming stories in this playful museum, while adults can learn about the history of the author himself. Visit Whoville to help the Grinch save Christmas, or learn to recycle with the Lorax! There is something to enjoy for everyone at any age. Oh, the things you will do!
Address: 21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103
Dr Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden
Established in 2002, the Dr Seuss Sculpture Garden is one of the must-see things to do in Springfield.
If you’re ready to meet Dr Suess’ characters, head to the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, where you’ll be greeted by the familiar faces of the Lorax, Horton, the Cat in the Hat, and more. The statues are surrounded by a beautiful, peaceful garden where you can take a stroll down memory lane with all of your favorite Dr Suess characters.
Address: 21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103
The Dr Seuss Sculpture garden, one of the fun things to do in Springfield MA (Image credit: Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism)
Forest Park
Located along the Connecticut River, this city park spreads out over almost 800 acres. The land was donated by the guy who invented skating shoes.
Forest Park was set up Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect who designed Central Park in New York City and the Emerald Necklace in Boston.
One of the largest city parks in the United States, Forest Park has an outdoor amphitheatre and a zoo along with the usual picnic area, walking paths, playgrounds, tennis court, baseball diamonds and basketball courts.
In winter, Forest Park is lit up with the very popular Bright Lights festival, a drive-through holiday lights display.
Address: 300 Sumner Avenue, Springfield, MA 01108
If you are looking for nature things to do, Springfield MA has lots of great outdoors spaces like Forest Park.
Forest Park Zoo and Education Center
The Forest Park Zoo and Education Center is located within the Forest Park.
There are over a couple of hundred animals house at the zoo which are mostly rescue situations where the animals can’t be released back into the wild. Kids will love that you can buy animal feed at the gift shop so that you can feed the animals.
Every August the Forest Park Zoo runs the popular Brew at the Zoo event which is a craft beer festival of food trucks and local breweries from Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Address: 293 Sumner Ave, Springfield, MA 01108
One of the fun things to do in Springfield MA with kids is visit the Forest Park Zoo (Image Credit: Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism)
Titanic Historical Society
The story of the Titanic will truly come to life in this intimate museum as you learn about the history of the ship, and those who were on board that fateful day.
Allow the artifacts and pictures to tell the stories of the passengers, and take in all the information you can from the knowledgeable, and helpful staff. The museum is filled with memorabilia from the real Titanic, such as the lifejacket worn by famous socialite survivor, Mrs. John Jacob Astor.
Address: 208 Main St, Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Springfield Science Museum
Museums are a great place to have fun while learning on vacation. People of all ages can learn about African culture and animals, enjoy the dinosaur hall, or any one of the museum’s rotating displays.
Spark innovation with younger visitors in the Spark!Lab where they can use their imagination and problem-solving skills to think up their own inventions. For a small extra fee, museum-goers can also access the Seymour Planetarium on the second level.
Address: 21 Edwards Street
Wood Museum of Springfield History
If you’re a history buff, a visit to the Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History is one of the cool things to do in Springfield, Mass. Spread over 80,000 square feet, this museum focuses on the 18th and 19th century history of Springfield.
Learn about the innovative transportations built in Springfield including automobiles, motorcycles, and racing aircraft.
Visit the Smith & Wesson Firearms gallery, or learn about the civil war and the heroes dedicated to the abolitionist movement. Upstairs is the Hasbro Game Land where you can play a variety of games that test your memory, and strategy, and expand your imagination.
There is also the Springfield History Library & Archives located within the Wood Museum.
Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103
George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum
George Walter Vincent Smith and his wife were avid art collectors who donated their 1896 Italian-style palazzo along with their famous collection of art. They travelled extensively in Europe indulging their hobby and had a keen eye for talent.
The Smith Art Museum is a collection of decorative and fine arts focusing on Asian art. There is also a collection of American landscape paintings, including from the nearby Hudson Valley School of Art painters who worked in nearby New York in the 19th century.
Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103
D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts
The Donald D’amour Museum hosts a collection of American, European, and Japanese art with galleries consisting of paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Artwork dating from the late medieval era can be found here, as well as local modern pieces. Don’t miss their impressive Currier & Ives lithograph collection.
Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103
MGM Springfield
If you’re not staying at MGM, take a trip to the property which boasts a casino, bar, and multiple on-site restaurants.
It’s one of the best fun places for adults to enjoy in Springfield. Enjoy a Las Vegas-themed night and save some coins for the slots or check out a show after dinner. If you’re looking for a quieter night, catch a film in their movie theater or aim for a strike in their bowling alley.
Address: One MGM Way, Springfield, MA 01103
The hotel lobby of MGM Springfield brings a bit of Las Vegas glitz to Springfield (Image credit: Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism)
Symphony Hall
Built in the early 1900s, Symphony Hall is part of a civil government complex that includes the City Hall as part of a set of grand Greek Revival architecture in downtown Springfield.
In addition to being the home of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Hall hosts lots of live concerts and performances, including children’s programs. The annual Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony is held at Symphony Hall on Court Street.
Address: 34 Court St, Springfield, MA 01103
Student Prince Restaurant
Established in 1935, Student Prince is one of the best places to have your fill of German food and beer. You’ll find the usual favourites like apple strudel and bratwurst sausages. It’s claim to fame is having the most extensive stein collection in the USA.
The Student Prince Restaurant was built on the site of John Pynchon’s former estate, the Fort. John Pynchon was the son of founder William Pynchon and took over his father’s interests in Massachusetts when his father returned to England in the 1650s. The Fort was the first brick building in Springfield and the only one to survive the burning of Springfield in 1675 when Springfield was laid siege by Native Americans.
There’s a plaque at Student Prince to commemorate the events of the Springfield Siege.
Address: 8 Fort St, Springfield, MA 01103
Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway
This path and bikeway stretches for nearly 4 miles along the Connecticut River. When finished it will be extended for a total of 20 miles through Agawam, Holyoke, Springfield and West Springfield. Visitors have access the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame via a pedestrian bridge.
Address: Forest Park, 299 Sumner Ave, Springfield, MA 01108
Things To Do Near Springfield MA
There are lots of things to do near Springfield MA as well thanks to the proximity of the attractions in Pioneer Valley.
Storrowtown Village Museum
The Storrowtown Village Museum is another historical museum in West Springfield. This living history museum is similar to Old Sturbridge Village also in Massachusetts, and Mystic Village in Connecticut.
There are 9 New England historic buildings from the 18th and 19th century such as an old meeting house, schoolhouse and a blacksmith shop that recreate a little village.
Address: 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089
Eastern States Exposition
Near Springfield, is an exposition center where you can check out car shows, agricultural events, dog and horse shows, and more.
Started in 1916, “The Big E” state fair is an absolute must-see! Happening annually between the middle of September and early October, the Big E is one of the biggest states’ fairs in the USA. Every year, about 1.5 million people come to visit the Big E.
Treat yourself to delicious fair food, hop on the Ferris wheel, or catch an epic concert. Similar to smaller agricultural fairs in the region, like the Barnstable County Fair and the Martha’s Vineyard Agricultural Fair, the Big E is an event the whole family can enjoy!
Address: 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089
Fun things to do near Springfield MA include the annual Big E State Fair (Image credit: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism)
Six Flags New England
For the thrill-seekers on your journey, a trip to this theme park is certainly one of the most fun things to do in Springfield MA for the entire family.
This theme park was originally opened in 1890 under different management. Take your love of history to the limits with a ride on The Thunderbolt, a ride introduced in 1941 and one of the oldest theme park rides in the country.
Spread over 235 acres, this amusement park has the usual roller coaster thrills, kids’ rides and live shows, you would expect to find at any Six Flags outlet. In fact it has 12 roller coaster rides for people who love roller coasters.
On a hot, sunny day, bring your swimsuit with you and float down the lazy river, or plunge down an epic waterslide in Hurricane Harbor Waterpark. There are 9 tube slides and a 500,000 gallon water waver pool at this waterpark.
There are also seasonal special events on site like a summer food festival, a Halloween festival in Fall and Christmas in the Park in winter.
Address: 1623 Main St, Agawam, MA 01001
Fun things to do near Springfield include Six Flags New England (Image credit: Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism)
Explore the Pioneer Valley
Deerfield is only about 30 miles north of Springfield and is part of the greater Springfield area.
- The South Deerfield headquarters of Yankee Candle, Yankee Candle Village, is a ginormous visitors destination selling every candle you can image and lots of other things.
- If you haven’t had your share of historic villages, check out Historic Deerfield. It’s a pioneer village with historic buildings but without costumed interpreters.
Things to do near Amherst MA include visiting Historic Deerfield and the Eunice Williams Covered Bridge.
Take a scenic drive on the Connecticut River Scenic Byway, one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Massachusetts.
Check out beautiful Amherst which has plenty of things to do, including Atkins Farm with its famous apple cider donuts. Fellow liberal college town, Northampton also has a charming downtown with plenty of things to do and to see.
Nearby Massachusetts State Parks include Skinner State Park and the Mount Holyoke Range Park. Montague State Forest is one of the nicest fo the Massachusetts State Forests. Kids will like the Connecticut Trolley Museum which has a collection of vintage streetcars and trains.
Explore Connecticut
Do like the early settlers did and follow the Connecticut River into the state next door. Check out the town of Windsor which was the first settlement in Connecticut. Running alongside the Connecticut River, is the 4.5 mile Windsor Locks Canal Trail.
Map of Things To Do: Springfield MA Attractions
For help with planning your trip, here’s a map of things to do in Springfield showing where things are located.
Here’s a map of things to do in Springfield MA mentioned above.
SPREAD THE WORD! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
We did not receive compensation of any form, monetary or otherwise, from any of the products, services, hotels etc mentioned in this article.
This site generates income via partnerships with carefully-curated travel and lifestyle brands and/or purchases made through links to them at no extra cost to you. More information may be found on our Privacy Policy.
Leave a Reply