The best things to do in Hampshire County

Campus spot for UMass hockey & basketball, plus skating, racquetball, concerts & theater shows.

Historic former university library hosting concerts, events & lectures in a church–like interior.

Academy of Music has that old-school charm from the 1890s with a calendar that swings from Swan Lake to Graham Nash, Ira Glass to Pat Metheny. Plus poetry slams, workshops, and youth programs keep it local and lively, so you always have a reason to step out.

From the Northampton newsletter, October 22, 2026

When you need a low-effort, high-fun plan, Spare Time Northampton nails it with state-of-the-art lanes, an arcade, laser tag, and escape rooms, plus legit eats and drinks. Easy pick for birthday chaos, team outings, or just proving you still have a hook.

From the Northampton newsletter, October 29, 2026

UMass Campus Recreation is basically Amherst’s fitness playground, with a full jogging track, rows of cardio and weights, smaller studios, plus pools, a climbing wall, intramurals, club sports, and 100+ weekly classes. Mix up your routine without leaving town, and soak up the contagious energy.

From the Amherst newsletter, October 20, 2026

Whether you’re chasing smooth laps with the music going or burning off energy in the laser tag arena, Interskate 91 North keeps the vibe fun and very local. Solid spot for birthday parties, group hangouts, or brushing up your skills with skating lessons if your legs forgot how.

From the Amherst newsletter, October 10, 2026

Between the driving range with grass tees, mini golf that keeps the friendly trash talk alive, and BallPark Batting cages, Western Mass Family Golf Center is a no-fuss way to shake off this week. Book a lesson with PGA pro Ed Twohig Jr. or try the indoor simulator and actually groove it.

From the Amherst newsletter, October 23, 2026

Whether you're corralling kids or settling a friendly rivalry, Look Park Mini Golf’s newly refinished, 18-hole garden course hits that sweet spot between chill stroll and sneaky challenge. Bring your A-game, your B-game, or just vibes... it’s a quick local reset that actually feels like summer.

From the Northampton newsletter, October 15, 2026

Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.

Amherst Cinema is an independent, nonprofit spot screening indies, classics, and current gems, plus National Theatre Live and Sound and Vision programs that actually feel special. This week has CatVideoFest 2026, Almodóvar’s Volver on 8/9 and 8/11, and The Iron Giant on 8/15... choose your vibe and go.

From the Amherst newsletter, October 29, 2026

Prodigy is a nearby sober, low key 13+ gameroom built for strategy fans, with a deliberately challenging mini golf course plus thousands of playable 80s-90s console and board games. Go with a small group, soak up the rare retro artifacts, and settle in for serious, distraction-free fun.

From the Amherst newsletter, September 2, 2026