Northampton is the quintessential college town—home to the prestigious Smith College and many other higher learning institutions in the area. With so many thirsty bookworms, you certainly won’t have a problem finding a good cup of joe at the many downtown cafes. But that’s just scratching the surface of this dynamic city dubbed “the Paradise of America” by the Swedish Nightingale, Jenny Lind.

Here is a guide to the places to see and be seen in Northampton.

Sleep

Lovely Ladies Relaxing in Hotel Northampton's Glass Conservatory

The historic Hotel Northampton anchors the downtown and offers colonial charm, on-site dining, and quirky luxuries. Curl up with a glass of wine by the fireplace or enjoy the inn’s glass-enclosed conservatory.

A complimentary continental breakfast is included in the overnight rates along with access to the exercise room, business center, and parking.

Nosh

Northampton offers everything from sushi to burritos, but for the ultimate dining experience, make a reservation at Eastside Grill. Long a Northampton staple, Eastside Grill has offered flawless upscale American fare for over twenty-five years. For a more casual meal visit Fitzwilly’s—a family friendly restaurant featuring a moderately priced menu packed with comfort foods and bar fare.

Imbibe

The Exterior of the Tunnel Bar

Keep it classy and dip into the Tunnel Bar for a perfect manhattan or single malt scotch. The narrow bar is located in a tunnel—literally. Once an entrance to the above Union Station, the unique space is rumored to be haunted by rail travelers of years passed.

If mahogany and leather isn’t your thing, take a walk over to the Dirty Truth Beer Hall—a modern and industrial space boasting forty beers on tap.

If you’re feeling a little spicy check out Mama Iguana’s for a margarita. The Mexican joint is home to the largest amount of tequilas and mescals in New England.

Shop

Main Street, Northampton

Saunter down Main Street and you’ll be met with blocks upon blocks of art galleries, boutiques, ice cream shops, jewelry stores, and bookstores. Don’t miss Faces for trendy threads, housewares, and gifts. Pop in Thornes marketplace for five floors of restaurants and shopping; standouts Cedar Chest and Monella will keep your credit card out of your wallet. Across the street, browse Cathy Cross for posh boutique brands like Lauren Moffatt, Tracy Reese, Vince and White, and Warren.

Beyond Dinner and Drinks

Take a soak at East Heaven Hot Tubs (EHHT) on West Street.   EHHT offers indoor and outdoor rentals and even rooftop tubs open to the stars. If that’s not enough pampering, head over the attached spa for facials and massages.

Looking for some live music? Northampton offers a number of venues. The legendary Iron Horse Music Hall hosts many top acts in its intimate space.   The Calvin, Pearl St. Nightclub, Pines Theatre, and the Academy of Music are among the other lively locales hosting live music.

Art lovers should check out the Smith College Museum of Art, which houses an impressive permanent collage worthy of much larger cities and costs a mere $5 for adults and free for students with a valid ID.

Northampton is located off Interstate 91 in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts, and bordered by the Connecticut River and the serene mountains of Mount Holyoke and Mt. Tom.

www.northamptonma.gov