Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield MA The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is located in Springfield, Massachusetts. Media photo courtesy of the Massachsuetts Office of Travel & Tourism Last updated: 3/11/15 | Dateline: 10/3/02 Jump To: Basketball Hall of Fame Visitor's Guide There was magic as the new Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame was unveiled in Springfield, Massachusetts, on September 28, 2002--and I'm not just talking about Earvin "Magic" Johnson , who, as a 2002 Basketball Hall of Fame enshrinee, was, indeed, among those present to celebrate the grand opening of the $45 million, 80,000-square-foot facility. There was the magical interaction of more than 2,700 Springfield kids who participated in the Great Hall of Fame Basketball Pass--shepherding a basketball through the streets of Springfield on a course from Springfield College, the birthplace of basketball, to the new Hoop Hall. There were interactive illusions that put youngsters on video screens throughout the museum--calling the plays, broadcasting the game or challenging NBA stars to a little one-one-one action.

continue reading below our video Before Your Road Trip, Watch This The Harlem Globetrotters, who were also welcomed into the Hall of Fame the prior evening, had a few tricks up their sleeves, too. More about this exciting New England attraction in a bit, but first... A Sport is Born They say that necessity is the mother of invention, and during the brutal New England winter of 1891, James Naismith , a physical education student at the YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts, now Springfield College, found himself with an unenviable assignment--devise an indoor game to occupy the attention of a rowdy class of young men. A couple of peach baskets, a soccer ball and a set of 13 rules later, Naismith had given birth to the game he called "basket ball." The recreational sport spread like wildfire as Naismith's original rules were circulated to other YMCAs, and by 1936, the game's inventor had the pleasure of witnessing the introduction of basketball as an Olympic sport at the Games in Berlin.

Still, it's not likely he ever envisioned that basketball would become a sport played by more than 300 million people in more than 200 countries of the world. Nor could he have likely predicted the heights to which today's professional basketball stars have soared. Hoop Dreams The first Basketball Hall of Fame opened in 1968 on the campus of Springfield College. In 1985, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame was relocated to downtown Springfield. As the city's planners began in the late '90s to dream of an expanded and revitalized urban environment along the Connecticut River, it was only natural that the Hall of Fame would serve as the centerpiece of the Springfield Riverfront Redevelopment Project. In addition to the new shrine to Naismith's game and its legendary players, the 18-acre project features an Uno Pizzeria & Grill, Samuel's Sports Bar and Max's Tavern restaurants, the Hilton Garden Inn ( check rates and reviews at TripAdvisor ), a Visitor Information Center and a riverfront park. Visit the Hall If you call yourself a basketball fan, you really have to plan a pilgrimage to Springfield.

Fans of all ages can easily lose themselves for hours within the three-story, spherical museum, which has 35,000 square feet of exhibit space for basketball memorabilia and artifacts, three theaters, interactive kiosks loaded with Hall of Famer data and trivia, Subway restaurant and a Hall of Fame museum gift shop. That's just for warm-ups, though. The real fun is hitting the full-size "Center Court" for some shooting, passing and other skills challenges or heading to the second floor's high-tech, experiential attractions that allow you to measure your vertical leap, sit in the broadcaster's seat, coach a team to victory and even play a game of " Virtual Hoops ." For a look inside the Basketball Hall of Fame, take my Opening Day Photo Tour . Along the way, you may just get to see a celebrity or two. If you're going to the Basketball Hall of Fame... click here for what you need to know including hours, directions and admission prices. Springfield travel guide - Wikitravel 11 Get out Springfield is the largest city on the Connecticut River, in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts , USA , (pop.

160,000.) It sits only 24 miles north of Hartford , Connecticut , and only five miles north of the Connecticut state line. Springfield and Hartford constitute the 2nd largest urban region in New England (nicknamed the Knowledge Corridor ) with 1.9 million people, 29 universities and colleges, and 120,000 university students. Understand[ edit ] Nicknamed The City of Homes because of its grand, Victorian architecture, and The City of Firsts because of the numerous innovations that took place there, e.g.

the first American-English dictionary (Webster's, 1806;) the first gasoline-powered car (Duryea, 1893;) America's first motorcycle (Indian, 1901;) America's first modern fire engine and fire department (1905 & 1907;) America's first commercial radio station (WBZ AM & FM, 1920;) and UHF television station (1951, WWLP) - Springfield is best known worldwide as the birthplace of the sport of basketball (James Naismith, 1891, at Springfield College.) The Basketball Hall of Fame, located in Springfield beside the Connecticut River, is a major tourist draw. Unfortunately, I-91 separates Springfield from its riverfront On June 1, 2011, a tornado devastated swaths of Springfield. Unfortunately, the city's government has been slow to respond. In the South End, for example, (Springfield's "Little Italy,") visitors can still see widespread damage. The South End is where MGM plans to construct its $1 billion Connecticut River Valley Casino.

An architectural and cultural jewel of a city that fell into disrepair during the 1970s, Springfield is at the dawn of a construction boom. In addition to the casino, $1 billion has been allocated to the Springfield-Hartford-New Haven high speed rail line - as well as separate rail construction linking Springfield with Burlington, Vermont. Ornate Union Station, near the center of Springfield's walkable downtown, is currently receiving a $100 million facelift. Indeed, one of the defining characteristics of a trip to Springfield in 2013 is construction. Unfortunately, as of 20123, I-91 separates Springfield's (highly walkable) downtown and other neighborhoods from its waterfront. Most of Springfield's major sites are in (or near) the Metro Center neighborhood; however, much of the city's attractive Victorian residential architecture is focused in its street-car suburb neighborhoods, (e.g.

Forest Park Heights.) The Springfield Armory, the site of which George Washington and Henry Knox selected personally, made the city a center of invention, industrial innovation, and precision manufacturing from 1777 onward -- for example, America's first musket (1794;) the first use of interchangeable parts and the assembly line in manufacturing (1819;) and the discovery of vulcanized rubber by Charles Goodyear (1844) all took place in Springfield. In 1968, during the Vietnam War, the Pentagon controversially closed the Springfield Armory. The United States' military's loss, however, is a Springfield visitor's gain - the Springfield Armory National Park features the largest collection of historic firearms in the world. [1] Neighborhoods[ edit ] Springfield's Metro Center is the highly walkable, cultural and business heart of the Pioneer Valley - a region of approximately 40 miles by 20 miles that follows the path of the Connecticut River and contains New England's finest farmland. It stretches from the border of Vermont in the north to the border of Connecticut in the south.

Springfield's Metro Center is located only 4 miles north of the Connecticut state border, and thus increasingly - in both governmental and popular perception - Hartford-Springfield is considered a single metropolitan area, (e.g. like Dallas-Fort Worth.) The two major Connecticut River cities' downtowns lie only 23.9 (35km) apart, with Bradley International Airport located halfway between them. Metro Center features The Quadrangle, which includes three world-class museums - two art and one science museum - two regional history museums, the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, and the palatial, neo-classical Springfield City Library. Metro Center is also home to the Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO) at Symphony Hall; the highly-regarded CityStage theater; and 60 clubs, restaurants, and bars in its lively Club Quarter, surrounding Stearns Square and Worthington Street. Unfortunately, Metro Center is bisected by Interstate 91, which limits access to the scenic Connecticut River. The Basketball Hall of Fame is located on the riverfront in the nearby South End, but amputated from Metro Center and the rest of the city by Interstate 91.

(In 2010, the Urban Land Institute debuted a plan to unite the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Connecticut River with Metro Center and the South End; however, as of 2011, no action has been taken.) The South End is the focal point for Springfield's Italian community, featuring many Italian restaurants, pastry shops, and cultural institutions. Unfortunately, the South End was hard hit by Springfield's June 1, 2011 tornado. The North End comprises three separate neighborhoods, and is the center of Springfield's prominent and increasingly well-heeled Latino community. Springfield's three nationally ranked hospitals are located in the North End, as are several prominent parks (e.g. Van Horn Park.) The McKnight District - known to urban planners worldwide as the United States' first planned residential district (1871) - contains over 900. Victorian "Painted Lady" houses. For decades it was the center Springfield's African-American and Jamaican communities; however, increasingly, both McKnight and Metro Center have become centers of Springfield's increasingly prominent LGBT community.

In 2011, The Advocate magazine rated Springfield #13 among the United States' new "gay cities." Forest Park and Forest Park Heights contain numerous Victorian mansions, many of which surround Frederick Law Olmsted's 735-acre Forest Park -- one of the largest urban parks in the United States. This is where architectural aficionados should head to learn why Springfield is nicknamed "The City of Homes," as it features many parkways and elegant houses. Forest Park - the Olmsted park itself - contains a small but extensive zoo, a skating rink, 38 tennis courts, numerous sculptures, walking and hiking trails, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, tree groves, Victorian promenades and water gardens, a formal rose garden, paddle-boating and fishing on the 31-acre Porter Lake, bocce courts, lawn bowling fields, and The Barney Mansion restaurant and banquet hall, among other features. Get in[ edit ] Springfield is the most centrally located city in New England, between major tourist destinations like New York City, Boston, Vermont, the Berkshires, Upstate New York, and Canada. It features access from every direction, via every sort of transportation.

Bradley International Airport is located 12 miles south of Springfield (equidistant to Springfield's twin city, Hartford, Connecticut.) Westover Metropolitan Airport is located 5 miles north of Springfield in the City of Chicopee, Massachusetts. The City of Springfield itself is a major railroad and bus nexus, with trains and buses arriving from all directions. In 2011-2012, the city's grand 1926 Union Station will be renovated and become and "intermodal transportation hub," (this means that the bus station and local transportation service, the PVTA, will move into Union Station.) Within the next few years, Springfield is scheduled to see an exponential increase in train and visitor traffic. The city will become the main terminus for both an intercity commuter line heading north to Brattleboro, Vermont, and a high-speed rail line heading south through Hartford, Connecticut, to New Haven, Connecticut. By the time that these various construction projects are complete, Springfield should be ready to show-off its revitalized Metro Center. The renovated Union Station will become the headquarters for Peter Pan Bus Lines, (taking the place of Peter Pan's currently dilapidated terminal,) the PVTA, and the regional hub for Greyhound Bus.

In the meantime, Springfield's Bus Station serves as the headquarters for Peter Pan Bus Lines, one of the major bus servers on the East Coast. Bus & Train[ edit ] From the South[ edit ] Springfield is one of two northern terminals for Amtrak's Regional Service, connecting Springfield through Connecticut down to Virginia . The Vermonter also travels through Springfield, beginning in Washington, D.C. and terminating in northern Vermont . From the North[ edit ] Springfield is one of two current Massachusetts stops for Amtrak's Vermonter - the other is in the college town of Amherst, only 18 miles north of Springfield. In 2012, the Vermonter is scheduled to be re-routed to the old, more direct Montrealer route -- down the Connecticut River, through the bohemian mecca of Northampton, to Springfield. Once the renovations are complete, Springfield is scheduled to become the main terminus for the Western Massachusetts' intercity commuter rail, which will conveniently connect the the cities of Chicopee, Holyoke, Northampton, South Deerfield, Greenfield, and Brattleboro, Vermont.

Western Massachusetts' intercity rail service will be a boon to travelers looking to experience the Pioneer Valley's multiple facets - from urban Springfield to bohemian Northampton to the scenic beauty of historic Deerfield and Vermont. Current fares are reasonably priced and it is by far the most relaxing way to enter Springfield from the north. From the East[ edit ] Unfortunately, in 2004, Amtrak canceled the Bay State route (AKA Massachusetts' Overland Route,) limiting rail service from Boston and points east to Springfield. Currently, once per day, the Lake Shore Limited stops in Springfield en route to Chicago. Plans are afoot to revitalize the Overland Route for both passenger and freight service; however, unlike Springfield's two other rail projects, this project has not yet been green-lighted. In the meantime, Amtrak generally charges $15 for the hour and forty-five minute one way trip. Peter Pan Bus charges around $20-$25 for a less enjoyable, hot (in winter the heat is turned up too high and in summer, much needed air-conditioning is nonexsistant on Peter Pan's older buses), crowded trip that can often run into traffic on the Mass Pike (Interstate 90).

That said, service from Springfield to Boston via Peter Pan and Greyhound Bus is frequent. From the West[ edit ] The Lake Shore Limited begins in Chicago , Illinois and terminates in Boston , stopping in Albany , New York and picturesque Pittsfield, Massachusetts before stopping in Springfield. Peter Pan and Greyhound provide bus service from Albany, and points further west. By plane[ edit ] Bradley International Airport, [2] , 12 miles south of Springfield in Windsor Locks , Connecticut ; this major airport serving the Knowledge Corridor region surrounding Springfield and Hartford, Connecticut is equidistant from both cities. Westover Metropolitan Airport, [3] , 4 miles north of Springfield in the City of Chicopee, Massachusetts. Westover is one of New England's largest military facilities; however, its runways are also used for commercial flights.

By car[ edit ] Springfield is accessible via Interstate 90 aka "The Mass Pike," (east-west from Boston to Albany, NY;) Interstate 91, (north-south from the Canadian border to New Haven, CT;) and Interstate 291 (a connector from I-90 through Chicopee to Springfield.) Interstate 91 has wreaked havoc on Springfield's urban fabric since it was constructed during the early 1970s, slicing through three riverfront neighborhoods, and amputating the city from the Connecticut River and The Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2010, the Urban Land Institute proposed a remedy to this problem; however, as yet, no actions have been taken. Get around[ edit ] Luckily for travelers, Springfield is one of the Northeast's most walkable cities. Most of its historic sites, points of interest, and entertainment venues are clustered in the Metro Center neighborhood (aka downtown, where the skyscrapers are.) Thanks to Springfield's recent economic and cultural resurgence, tourist sites are well marked, as are many architecturally significant buildings.

The Basketball Hall of Fame and Forest Park - both of which are well worth visiting - are Springfield's only major tourist sites outside of Metro Center; however, the Basketball Hall of Fame is within walking distance (it's less than a mile south of Metro Center, along the Connecticut River.) If you'd like to explore Springfield beyond Metro Center - perhaps experience Frederick Law Olmsted's Forest Park, his largest work next to NYC's Central Park - or further explore the artsy Pioneer Valley (maybe check out bohemian Northampton or Amherst, one of America's best-known university towns,) the clean, green, and reliable Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA) [4] offers service to every Springfield neighborhood, and throughout the Pioneer Valley's cities and towns north to Amherst. For a mere $1.35 ($3.00 for an all day pass) on the PVTA, you can ride the 15 miles from Springfield to the counter-culture mecca of Northampton, or the 18 miles to student-centric Amherst, and vice versa. The PVTA is a cheap and an easy way to experience this compact and diverse region.

Many of the routes that do not serve major points do not run after 7pm-8pm. Meanwhile service on weekends is limited, especially on Sundays, when intervals between buses can be up to 2 hours. You should be aware of the schedule of whatever bus route your using. Many use the PVTA or taxis to get to Springfield's attractions directly across the Connecticut River, like Six Flags New England and New England's State Fair, The Big E, Stanley Park, Holyoke Mall. NOTE: Several years ago, walking through Springfield was considerably more hazardous than today. In the 1990s and early 2000s, crime was high in Springfield - however, the city's crime rate has fallen dramatically, to 51st last year from a high of 18th in 2003. Crime has fallen 50% in less than 8 years. However one should be aware of where they are at all times, avoid walking around certain neighborhoods (Bay-McKnight, Mason Square, certain parts of the North and South End) late at night if possible.

See[ edit ][ add listing ] The Lorax The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, West Columbus Av., Phone: +1 877-446-6752, [5] . M-Sa 9AM-5PM, Su 10AM-5PM. Along the Connecticut River, in a stunning (and quirky) steel structure, it's a shrine to the world's 2nd most popular sport in its birthplace. Adults $17, Seniors $14, Ages 5-5 $12. The Springfield Armory National Park 1 Armory Square. [6] The site that George Washington hand-selected for America's first armory, where the first American musket was made, and where the famous Springfield Rifle was made for several centuries. Half of the site is now a scenic United States National Park and museum, featuring one of the largest collections of firearms in the world. Behind the the National Park is the reasonably scenic campus of Springfield Technical Community College (STCC,) which occupies several former Armory buildings. Admission to the National Park is FREE.

The Quadrangle, 220 State St., is a remarkable cultural grouping that consists of 5 museums, several of which are considered "world-class;" the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden; and the palatial Springfield City Library. The Museum of Fine Arts features a vast collection of European Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, including works by Monet, Degas, and Gauguin; and also, a large collection of American painters, including Springfielders Whistler and Harding. The Museum of Science features the United States' first-ever planetarium (built in 1937,) a large dinosaur exhibit, and replicas of exotic ecosystems. The George Walter Vincent Smith Museum is known worldwide for having the largest collection of Chinese cloisonné outside of China. It also features sets of ancient, Asian armor. The Connecticut Valley History Museum tells the story of the fertile river valley that spawned the two great cities of Springfield and Hartford.

The Quadrangle's newest addition is the Museum of Springfield History, which tells the story of "The City of Firsts": where the first American-English dictionary, first gasoline-powered automobile, first motorcycle, first modern fire engine, first commercial radio station, and first UHF television were invented, (among other innovations.) Visitors will leave astonished by how great the relatively small City of Springfield has contributed to modern culture. The Indian Motorcycle Museum, 33 Hendee Street. Mar-Nov 10AM-4PM, Dec-Feb 1PM-4PM. Where America's first motorcycle manufacturer produced vehicles for many years, featuring a large collection of the company's motorcycles. The Springfield Vintage Grand Prix, taking place from July 22-24, 2011. The Vintage Sports Car Club of America ( will host its annual grand prix in Springfield for the first time this year. It moved from Pittsburgh and promises to bring a lot of excitement along with civic pride (Springfield produced the first American gasoline-powered automobile.) Root for your favorite sportscar!! Springfield Symphony Orchestra, 1350 Main Street at Court Square, ☎ 413-733-2291, [7] .

Housed in Springfield's beautiful, gilded-age Symphony Hall - one of only a handful of locations in the United States renowned for "perfect acoustics" - the highly regarded Springfield Symphony Orchestra is led by Maestro Kevin Rhodes. Rhodes is a true showman, known for his stage presence and innovative musical selections. $12-$60. edit City Stage at Symphony Hall, 1350 Main Street on Court Square, ☎ (413) 788-7033, [8] . Springfield's most well-known theatre organization features plays, musicals, traveling Broadway shows, comedians, and lecturers. Programming varies widely. $5-$65. edit MassMutual Center (formerly The Springfield Civic Center)), 1277 Main Street, [9] . The MassMutual Center is a newly renovated Arena and Convention Center. Springfield's NBA Development League team, the Springfield Armor play home basketball games here, as do Springfield's AHL hockey team, the Springfield Falcons. The arena's capacity is over 7,000. The Conference Center features various ballrooms, halls, lecture rooms, exhibit and pre-function rooms with 30' ceilings.

price varies according to event. edit Hoop City Jazz Festival (presented by Hampden Bank), Main Street at Court Square, [10] . July 8-July 10 : The third annual Hoop City Jazz Festival presented by community stewards Hampden Bank. Expected to draw over 25,000 people, this year's line-up features a tribute to New Orleans jazz. 2011 Hoop City Jazz performers include Samirah Evans & Her Handsome Devils, Gerald Albright, Marcus Anderson, and Grammy Award winner Pancho Sanchez. Includes a "Taste Springfield" restaurant menagerie. FREE edit Do[ edit ][ add listing ] Six Flags New England, 1623 Main St., Phone: +1 877-474-9352, [11] The largest theme park in New England, located across Springfield's South End bridge in Agawam , Massachusetts. It opens in April as the weather starts to get warm and closes in November as it starts to get cold. Features 10 roller-coasters, including the #1 roller-coaster in the world since 2004 -- The Bizarro.

The Eastern States Exposition - "The Big E", 1305 Memorial Av., West Springfield, Phone: +1 413-737-2446, [12] . The six New England States' collective State Fair. The Big E is the largest fair in New England, and the 6th largest agricultural fair in the United States. Located 1.5 miles across Springfield's Memorial Bridge in West Springfield, The Big E runs from September 15 to October 1, (or thereabouts,) featuring carnival rides, concerts, food, and, of course -- The Avenue of the States, large replicas of each New England state's state house. The Club Quarter - Over 60 nightclubs, bars, LGBT-oriented bars and clubs, and restaurants line the blocks surrounding Stearns Square and Worthington Street near the Connecticut River. Upper Worthington, west of Chestnut Street, remains a "Club Quarter;" however, much of that entertainment is rated X. The Connecticut River Walk - near the Basketball Hall of Fame, one can access this pleasant park and marvel at the Connecticut River scenic beauty.

Unfortunately, it's difficult to find an entrance to this park due to the inhibiting presence of Interstate 91 - a highway that virtually amputates Springfield from recreational opportunities on the Connecticut River. If you can find your way in, bring a partner at night. Forest Park (featuring the Forest Park Zoo and Bright Nights), Sumner Avenue, [13] . One of the largest urban parks in the United States at 735 acres, Forest Park was established via the donations of Springfielders like skating blade magnate Everett Hosmer Barney (whose family mausoleum is in Forest Park.) Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead of NYC's Central Park fame, Forest Park offers amenities including a sizable zoo, America's first public swimming pool, picturesque gardens, hiking and walking trails, athletic fields, whimsical sculptures, (one can see where Dr. Seuss got his inspiration,) and camping facilities. During the winter it serves as the venue for Bright Nights, a nationally known holiday light display. edit Bright Nights in Forest Park [14] A nationally known, innovative, creative lighting display in Springfield's Forest Park, featuring various themes during the holiday season (Christmas, Chanukah, Dr.

Seuss' characters, etc.) Nearly 2 miles, cars and buses drive through the lighting display, which seems to become more intricate each year. Bright Nights usually impresses both children and adults. November-January. $8 The Zoo at Forest Park [15] The Zoo at Forest Park features a wide variety of exotic and indigenous creatures found throughout North America and the world. Lions, kangaroos, reptiles, and birds of all sorts populate this well-maintained zoo. The Paramount Theater (formerly The Hippodrome), 1700 Main Street (Club Quarter), ☎ (413) 787-0600, [16] . Equipped with state of the art sound, lighting, and video production facilities, this is the most technologically advanced club north of New York City. It features live performers, club nights, and movies. As of 2011, it's in a transitional period as it re-emerges as The Paramount Theater after years as the Hippodrome.

Its new identity, (actually its original identity from when it opened in 1926) is likely to feature an increased accent on arts, films, and culture, as opposed to its previous incarnation which functioned as the epicenter of New England's late 1990s-early 2000s rave scene. edit Learn[ edit ] American International College, [17] . A university located in Springfield's Mason Square neighborhood, notable for America's first "Model Congress" program. Springfield College [18] Founded in 1885 as Y.M.C.A. International College, basketball was invented at this institution by Dr. James Naismith. In addition to basketball, America's first physical education course was taught here in 1912. A $50 million student center was constructed here in 2011. Springfield Technical Community College [19] Located on 35 acres behind the Springfield Armory National Park, surrounded by the Armory's distinctive wrought-iron fence, STCC is Massachusetts' only "technical" community college. STCC continues Springfield's tradition of technical innovation.

Tufts University School of Medicine [20] Baystate Health serves as the western teaching campus of Tufts University's School of Medicine. University of Massachusetts Urban Design Center [21] UMass opened an urban design center in Springfield in 2010, where it houses its urban design graduate program. Western New England University [22] University in Springfield's suburban Sixteen Acres neighborhood, featuring a pretty campus, prominent law school, and as of 2011, a $40 million, new pharmacy school. Main Street features hundreds of shops and of restaurants. State Street features many ethnic shops and restaurants. Eastfield Mall on Boston Road has a large movie theater and all that one would normally expect of an American mall. Eat[ edit ][ add listing ] Red Rose Pizzeria, 1060 Main Street. (South End) An Italian, South End classic! Truly excellent pizza, pasta, and meatballs. Former Secretary of State Madeline Albright claims that Red Rose has "the best meatballs in the world." High-praise from a well-traveled woman, although she's probably right.

Red Rose suffered severe damage during the June 1, 2011, E4 tornado that ripped through the South End of Springfield, destroying 35, mostly 19th century buildings within two blocks of this landmark restaurant. Despite damages, Red Rose remains open. Adolfo's, 254 Worthington Street, [23] Excellent new (as of 2011) Italian restaurant on Stearns Square, in the heart of Springfield's entertainment district. Adolfo's, named for a well-known, former Springfield Mafia Don, is one of the city's best restaurants. There is not a bad dish on the menu. Classy and casual at once. The Munich Haus, 13 Center Street (downtown Chicopee ), Phone: +1 413 594-8788, [24] . Excellent German food and a good selection of German beer. Family Kitchen, 19 St. James Av. (off State Street), Phone: +1 413 732-9417. Daily 6AM-7PM. Come for a full breakfast (includes grits). Ask for the chicken & waffles.

The Student Prince, 8 Fort Street (off Main Street). German food, locally famous. Make sure you get a good look at the truly massive collection of steins on the walls. Max's Tavern, [25] 1000 West Columbus Boulevard, beside the Basketball Hall of Fame. Serving exceptional American fare. The White Hut, 280 Memorial Avenue in West Springfield, [26] Thanks to the Food Network, the United States now knows what Springfielders have for years -the White Hut is one of "The Top 10 Burger Restaurants" in America. Serving burgers and hot dogs in the most Spartan setting imaginable. Across the Memorial Bridge on Memorial Avenue in West Springfield, it's well worth the trip . 350 Grille, 350 Worthington Street, located next to Springfield institution, The Mardi Gras, [27] The 350 Grille is Springfield's see-and-be-seen lunch destination for local movers-and-shakers. The atmosphere is upscale but not pretentious, just like the food. It has a patio so diners can enjoy sunny days or moonlit nights.

Pho Saigon, 398 Dickinson St, ☎ (413) 781-4488. Excellent Vietnamese soups and entrees. Though not as widely known as other city restaurants it has a prominent cult following; visit and you will understand why. edit Frigo's, 90 Williams Street, [28] . In Springfield's South End, (it's "Little Italy,") diners have an excellent selection of Italian food from which to choose - and Frigo's stands out above most of them. Since 1950, Frigo's food has made from the freshest ingredients. It's lasagne is amazing. Frigo's chef offers popular Italian cooking classes. edit Milano's, 988 Main Street, [29] . Be sure to stop in and visit Milano Imported Fine Foods in the South End of Springfield. From the finest in imported olive oils and Italian tomatoes to fresh deli meats and cheeses and homemade pasta, this is the area's best Italian Import Store. edit Mom and Rico's, 899 Main Street. This is a nifty little Italian grocer with a small takeout buffet.

They have lots of Italian food specialties along with some local favorites like sauce and meatballs and more. At the buffet you can get anything from Fettuccine Alfredo to Eggplant Parm. You can take it with you to heat later, or they'll heat it for you to eat right away. edit La Fiorentina Pastry Shop, 883 Main Street, [30] . If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to check out La Fiorentina Pastry Shop in Springfield. When you taste one of their freshly baked pastries, you'll understand perfectly why they've been around since 1947.Some consider this one of the best Pastry Shops on the East Coast. edit Sitar Restaurant, 1688 Main Street. Springfield's most popular Indian restaurant, Sitar is the more elegant sister of Sitar Restaurant by Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. Known for its Tandoori specialties, including lamb saag and Navratan Korma. Absolutely delicious! edit Three Cafe, 684 Belmont Avenue (Past The X), ☎ 413-733-3332, [31] . 8am-3pm.

For breakfast and Brunch only, 3 Cafe uses eggs from its own organically-raised, free-ranged chickens, and bakes its own bread continually. The food is as local as it gets, as fresh as it gets, and spectacularly good. One of the best breakfast and brunch restaurants on the East Coast. $5-$15. edit Salsa's Gourmet Mexican, 403 Dickinson St., ☎ (413) 746-4456. Authentic, and tasty, Mexican and Central American food. Stop in for lunch and order authentic Mexican Coca-Cola with your meal. $2-12. edit Golden Pizza, 1350 Allen Street, ☎ 413-783-1109, [32] . 10am-10pm. Serving Greater Springfield Since 1972. $$. edit El Caribeño, 858 State St, ☎ 413-732-7979. 10am-10pm. Cheap and authentic Puerto Rican and Dominican food. Best Mofongo in town. $.

edit Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] Theodore's (Blues, Booze, and BBQ), 201 Worthington Street (Club Quarter), ☎ 413-736-6000, [33] . Named "The Best Blues Club in the United States" by The Blues Foundation and Keeping the Blues Alive - -high praise, indeed -- 30 year-old Theodore's is a regional draw for music, food, and libations. Its baby back ribs are smoked for six hours -- not a second too long or short. $5-$20. edit The Mardi Gras Club (New England's Largest Gentlemen's Club), 91 Taylor Street (Club Quarter), ☎ (413) 733-5057, [34] . 12pm-2am. With over 300 "Gras Girls" from around the world on monthly rotation and even its own magazine, The Mardi Gras Club is one of the East Coast's largest and most lavish "gentlemen's clubs." Outside of New York City and Montreal, there is no club its equal on the East Coast.

Every Thursday night is "bull-riding night," although each night features specialties. Even people who do not appreciate strip-club atmospheres tend to marvel at the Mardi Gras - an aesthetically-pleasing facade featuring a non-stop party inside! edit The Pub Lounge (The Friendly Bar), 382 Dwight Street (Club Quarter), [35] . An LGBT Bar in Springfield's Club Quarter, catering to gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transgendered people - and anyone of any orientation, really - is, according to its slogan, "where old friends... meet new friends." Downstairs, adventurous patrons will fine "The Quarry," which features drag shows, all-male revues, and in the wee hours, everything one could possibly imagine happening. edit Oz Nightclub (Springfield's Hottest Alternative Dance Club), 397 Dwight Street (Club Quarter), ☎ (413) 732-4562, [36] . 10pm-2am. An LGBT dance club in Springfield's Club Quarter catering to a crowd between 18 and 35. Often Oz will feature karaoke, drag shows, and generally, some of the Northeast's best DJs.

edit Pure, 234 Chestnut Street (Club Quarter, by Union Station), ☎ (413)205-1483. 12pm-2am. Neighborhood LGBT bar with free pool all day and night. Hosts a popular bunch on Sundays. edit Club Xstatic (Massachusetts' Nude Male Dancers), 240 Chestnut Street (Club Quarter, by Union Station), ☎ (413) 736-2618, [37] . 1pm-2am. A club featuring nude male dancers, patronized by men and women alike, (but mostly men.) edit Fat Cat Bar & Grill, 232 Worthington Street (Club Quarter), [38] . A college crowd generally gathers at Fat Cat Bar & Grill. Live rock every Tuesday night. Other nights feature DJs. Hot bartenders are the draw, as is a patio that is particularly pleasant during the summer and fall. edit Samuel's (At The Basketball Hall of Fame), (Basketball Hall of Fame), ☎ (413) 731-7267, [39] . Est.

1989, a Sport's Bar featuring an extensive wine list and bar. edit Alumni Club, 90 Worthington Street (Club Quarter). A popular bar with three separate levels, (each generally playing different music to suit one's mood,) a dance floor, stage, outdoor patio, and a smoker's area, the Alumni Club is very popular among a variety of different crowds. edit Skyplex (Springfield's Best Place to Party), 10 Stearns Square (Club Quarter), ☎ (413) 827-9000, [40] . Three clubs - Skybar, PURE, and Vivid on three separate levels, offering a different atmosphere for everyone. Features a VIP Lounge.

edit Best Western Springfield West Inn, West Springfield Massachusetts BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn 429 Riverdale Street, West Springfield, MA 01089-4625 Phone: 413/785-5365 | Fax: 413/732-7017 | 53 Rooms Check Out Time: 11:00 AM | Check In: 3:00 PM | Online Reservations When the Eastern State Exposition is calling, nothing beats a stay at this quiet West Springfield, MA hotel where every guest is treated like a VIP. Duck into the Basketball Hall of Fame for some much-needed fan-faring. Head over to the nearby Six Flags® of New England for thrills, rides, and some of the best shopping and dining around. No matter what brings you to this part of New England, from an event at MassMutual Center® to a quiet and romantic getaway, staying at the cozy West Springfield, MA hotel is a must. If you’re searching for hotels in West Springfield MA with easy access from Highway 90 and 91 then our hotel is the perfect choice.

Whether heading to a business meeting or a local attraction the BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn is centrally located. The Connecticut River is to the back of the building, and an ideal backdrop for couples on an intimate vacation. However, the property is also close to the Eastern State Exposition and the Big E, so whether you prefer to stay in or explore, there’s always something happening nearby. The Bay State Hospital is conveniently close to this West Springfield property, and staff members warmly welcome healthcare workers, medical tourists and visiting loved ones. Business travelers with Hood Corporation consider this their second home, with each guestroom equipped with all the amenities to make extended stays comfortable. If you’re here for business, be sure to take some time out to discover the joys of nearby Six Flags® New England! Travelers come from all over to discover this jewel of New England. From the local horse shows to some of the best seafood in the state, start planning your trip by choosing the most accommodating hotel. Every member of staff is committed to making your stay the best it can be, from the minute you arrive until the speedy and friendly checkout at this West Springfield hotel. Book your upcoming stay at BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn today! Enjoy your stay.

Outdoor pool Seasonal (June thru August) Exercise facility, 24 hour, free Weight lifting equipment Multilingual staff, Spanish and Hindi Guest laundry, available 24-hours for a $1.50 fee Laundromat Free wireless internet access available in public areas and all guest rooms Business center, 24 hours, free Fax services Send up to 5 pages no charge after 5 pages $.50 per page. Sorry no international. Fax machine Parking for the physically challenged, 24 hours, free Ice/vending machines Higher rates may apply for holidays/special events BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn Take advantage of the savings and fun with this special offer available at the best western springfield west inn in West Springfield. BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn Conveniently located, the best western springfield west inn in West Springfield, Massachusetts is shown on the map. Detailed driving directions from popular points or nearby cities are listed below. For those with GPS, here you go: Longitude: 42.117355 / Latitude: -72.624345 Driving Directions to Hotel From: I-91 North.

Take Exit 13B and follow Route 5 South until you see McDonald's® on your right. Make a U-turn at the light. The BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn will be on your right. From: I-91 South. Take Exit 13B and follow Route 5 South until you see McDonald's® on your right. Make a U-turn at the light. The BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn will be on your right. From: I-90. Take Exit 4, then follow Route 5 South until you see McDonald's® on your right. Make a U-turn at the light. The BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn will be on your right. BEST WESTERN Springfield West Inn We care about the quality of your stay with us. Below are nearby attractions, shopping and restaurants that are popular with our guests. Listed locations are nearby with approximate distance listed where available. Most Popular Area Attractions Amherst College Ranked as one of the best liberal arts college in the nation, Amherst College is located near West Springfield . Founded in 1821, Amherst College is the third oldest institute of higher education in Massachusetts .

Amherst offers over 35 fields of study and provides students with an open curriculum. Visitors to the campus can see landmarks such as the Mead Art Museum, the Beneski Museum of Natural History, the Wilder Observatory, and the Kirby Memorial Theater. As the Amherst Lord Jeffs, Amherst's varsity programs are one of the oldest in the nation and has won numerous national championships. Popular programs include ice hockey, basketball, lacrosse, and tennis. Elms College A Catholic liberal arts college located in Chicopee, Massachusetts , Elms College is also found near West Springfield and the Springfield Street Historic District. Founded in 1928, the campus serves just over 1,000 undergraduates. As a four-year liberal arts college, Elms offers over thirty academic majors and seven academic divisions for its students to study from. The Elms College Blazers compete at the Division III level and most sporting events are based out of the Maguire Center. Notable sports include baseball, soccer, golf, lacrosse, and basketball. Mount Holyoke College A liberal arts college for women, Mount Holyoke College is located in South Hadley near West Springfield in Massachusetts .

A member of the Seven Sisters of colleges, Mount Holyoke enrolls around 2,100 students each year. The school offers 50 departmental majors and several master's degrees. Students can also access academic centers like the Weissman Center for Leadership, the McCulloch Center for Global Initiatives, the Miller Worley Center for the Environment, and the Science Center. Competing as the Mount Holyoke Lions, the school offers 14 varsity sport programs. The campus also includes the Orchards, an 18-hole golf course that has hosted the U.S. Women's Open and an Equestrian Center. A four private and not-for-profit college, Nichols College is located in Dudley near West Springfield in Massachusetts . Founded in 1815, Nichols College today hosts over 1,400 students and offers specialized programs and degrees in business, liberal arts, and education preparation. Other notable institution at Nichols include the Professional Development Seminar and Global Learning study abroad programs. Athletically, Nichols occupies a strong presence in the NCAA's Division III sports. Known as the Nichols Bisons, its 19 varsity sports include the championship-winning men's tennis, women's tennis, and men's ice hockey teams.

Smith College Located in Northampton in Massachusetts , Smith College offers more than 40 undergraduate programs to over 2,600 undergraduate women. Notable fields of study include business, education, science, engineering, and the liberal arts. The campus is near West Springfield . As the Smith Pioneers, the school competes in the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference and is the largest competing school of the Seven Sisters. Popular sports include soccer, crew, swimming, and squash. Springfield Armory National Historical Site From 1777 to 1968, the Springfield Armory served as the primary center for the manufacturing of firearms for the U.S. Military. Today, it exists as the Springfield Armory National Historic Site near West Springfield . Explore the area's rich history, which once served as the primary arsenal during the American Revolution and saw innovation in manufacturing, including assembly lines, interchangeable parts, and modern factory practices. Today, Massachusetts visitors can tour the site through ranger-guided tours, self-guided tours, and walking trails. Don't miss a calendar full of special events and Junior Ranger activities.

University of Massachusetts - Amherst As the flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts (UMass), the University of Massachusetts - Amherst serves more than 27,000 students and is the largest public university in Massachusetts and in New England. It is near West Springfield . Students can earn bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in over 90 undergraduate and over 70 graduate areas of study. Highly-ranked programs include computer science, artificial intelligence, philosophy, and electrical and communications engineering. Athletically, the university is represented by the UMass Minutemen and Minutewomen. Its 19 varsity teams include baseball, softball, tennis, rowing, and lacrosse. Catch a Minutemen football game at Gillette Stadium and a basketball game at the William D. Mullins Memorial Center. Basketball Hall of Fame - NBA Hall of Fame Basketball Hall of Fame Whale Watching Share The Basketball Hall of Fame is a great stop for sports enthusiasts who are on a vacation in Massachusetts. The Hall of Fame in Springfield offers the opportunity to learn about the history of the game and the athletes who have played a significant role in the sport throughout the years, and to see plenty of basketball memorabilia.

The full name of the facility, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, is in honor of the game's inventor. On December 21, 1891, physical education coach James Naismith first introduced the game in the city of Springfield during a physical education class at the YMCA. Naismith went on to develop his own basketball legacy, which included founding the powerhouse program at the University of Kansas. The Basketball Hall of Fame was established in 1959, and the NBA Hall of Fame had the grand opening for its first public facility in 1968, on the grounds of Springfield College. The first female players were inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1985. The purpose of the Basketball Hall of Fame is to honor those who have made an outstanding contribution to the game. As of 2009, 293 individuals, including players, coaches, referees, and an announcer, have been inducted into the NBA Hall of Fame. The 40,000 square feet of museum space include interactive exhibits, as well as skill challenges, shooting contests, and live basketball clinics, all of which make this a great destination for families traveling with children.

The annual ceremony to enshrine new inductees is open to the public, and it's possible to buy tickets through the Hall of Fame itself. Massachusetts Map There are no scheduled Basketball Hall of Fame tours, which leaves guests to peruse the museum at their own pace. Tickets are reasonably priced, and season passes and multi-day tickets are available for anyone planning to make repeat visits. It's even possible to host children's birthday parties, and packages are available that include food from local restaurants such as Subway, Cold Stone Creamery, and Pazzo Ristorante. The on-site gift shop also allows you to purchase your own souvenirs or to bring back gifts for family members from the Hall of Fame in Springfield. The Basketball Hall of Fame is convenient to Hartford Connecticut , Boston , and New York City , and Springfield and the surrounding area has a wide selection of hotels, which makes this sports mecca the perfect destination for a weekend adventure. Hotels in Springfield include the Hampton Inn, Clarion, Marriott, and Hilton, and several are within walking distance of the facility. Air travel is also convenient for visitors planning a trip to the Hall of Fame in Springfield, as the museum is near the Bradley International Airport and a reasonable drive from Logan International in Boston.

The NBA Hall of Fame is open Sunday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Hotels We offer the closest camping to ALL of the following major attractions: Click on the links above to visit their websites for more information. Six Flags New England Six Flags New England is the Thrill Capital of New England and they’ve taken that reputation to the next level with the introduction of the New England SkyScreamer. The world record breaking New England SkyScreamer takes riders 40 stories in the air as they experience beautiful views of New England. This only adds to Six Flags already impressive lineup of rides including: Cyclone, Flashback, Pandemonium, Mind Eraser, Batman the Dark Knight, Goliath and Bizarro. Rated as one of the top steel coasters on the planet, Bizarro offers thrills second to none with two tunnels, fly through S-shields and a 220-foot drop. When it comes to fun for the little ones, Six Flags New England offers four areas dedicated to children including Looney Tunes Movie Town, Kidzopolis, Whistlestop Park and Splash Island.

They’re also home to New England’s largest water park, Hurricane Harbor. Hurricane Harbor offers a tropical oasis in the middle of New England with two sandy beaches, two wave pools, numerous slides and a lazy river that will float all of your worries away. Basketball Hall of Fame - Springfield The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is home to more than three hundred inductees and more than 40,000 square feet of basketball history. Located on the picturesque banks of the Connecticut River, the new museum is a fitting shrine to the game Dr. Naismith invented more than a century ago. The landmark structure is one of the world’s most distinctive monuments punctuating the Springfield skyline and stirring the spirits of basketball fans everywhere. Hundreds of interactive exhibits share the spotlight with skills challenges, live clinics, and shooting contests. And of course there is enough basketball history to impress the world’s most avid sports fans! The BIG E The Big E, the largest fair in the Northeast, is home to The Big E Cream Puff & Craz-E Burger.

It’s a New England extravaganza with top name entertainment, The Big E Circus Spectacular, The Avenue of States, Storrowton Village Museum, animals, competitive exhibits, rides, shopping, crafts, a daily parade and a Mardi Gras parade, and foods from around the world —- for 17 days each September! It’s the last blast of summer — celebrate at The Big E in West Springfield, Massachusetts! Friends Of The Southwick Rail Trail welcome you to the beautiful, 6-plus miles of multi-use rail trail that passes through Southwick, Massachusetts. Whether you cycle, jog, roller blade or just stroll along, we hope you will enjoy the open vistas of wetlands, agricultural fields, golf courses, and waterways. The rail trail that passes on the west side of the Congamond Lakes extends six miles across Southwick in a north-south direction from Connecticut. It follows, in large part, the path of the New Haven and Northampton Railroad, which, in turn, had followed a portion path of the Hampshire and Hampden Canal. Southwick Motocross 338 Motocross 338 is said to be the worlds fastest sandbox!

The Southwick Motocross 338 track is approx. 1.3 mile in length on 28 acres owned by the American Legion Post 338. Motocross 338 has been known for local New England heroes it produces, Doug Henry, and John Dowd were both fixtures on the Motocross 338 podium throughout their careers. Throughout the years Motocross 338 track has become a favorite of some of American motocross racing’s toughtest competitiors. Bob Hannah, Jeff Stanton, and Rickey Carmichael all counted the Motocross 338 amoung their favorite tracks, with Jeff Stanton winning four times in a row at Southwick between 1989 and 1992 and Ricky Carmichael winning nine consecutive races beginning in 1999. Congamond Lakes Congamond Lakes is a interstate series of three lakes between Suffield, Connecticut and Southwick, Massachusetts. A 200’ long wooden fishing pier is located at the south end of the boat ramp area on the middle lake. Feel free to check out the Events that are taking place along the lakes.

Twelve native species of fish inhabit Congamond Lakes including largemouth bass, chain pickerel, pumpkinseed, bluegill, yellow perch, longear sunfish, landlocked alewife, banded killifish, golden shiner, brown bullhead, white sucker and American eel. The most abundant gamefish is the largemouth bass, while the most abundant panfish is the pumpkinseed. In addition the lake is stocked in the spring and fall with rainbow and brown trout. Springfield Library and Museums at the Quadrangle Springfield’s top museums are conveniently clustered in Springfield Museums Quadrangle, a short stroll from Court Square. There are four museums and a library in the grassy area known as the Quadrangle. The Quadrangle is located at 220 State St, Springfield, MA 01103. There is a Welcome Center that is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is located on Edwards Street and this is where the tickets are sold for all four museums. The four museums that are in the Quadrangle are: Springfield Science Museum, Springfield History Library & Archives, The Museum of Fine Arts and George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum.

Where the library sits is a wonderful area that is enjoyed by tourists and locals. The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden has sculptures of the author, The Cat in the Hat and the Grinch. There are marble benches in the Quadrangle for enjoying the weather and scenery. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden is now open at the Springfield Museums in Springfield, Massachusetts, the city where Theodor Seuss Geisel was born and which appears to have inspired much of his work. Sculptor Lark Grey Dimond-Cates, who is also Geisel’s step-daughter, created the endearing bronze sculptures of Dr. Seuss and his most beloved characters for the Springfield Library & Museums Association, located in the heart of this city which is on the Connecticut River in Western Massachusetts. Springfield’s Forest Park & Forest Park Zoo The Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center is a non-profit organization governed by the Forest Park Zoological Society. Situated in Forest Park, a 735 acre woodland park in Springfield, the Zoo features exotic and indigenous animals representing a large variety of species found throughout the world and in North America.

The Zoo is dedicated to wildlife education and offers a variety of educational programs and special events for children and adults. Zoo On The Go, Guided Tours, and Discovery Programs can be adapted to all age groups and interests. Different events almost every weekend allow guests to explore all aspects of science, while having a good time. Animal Tales in July and August introduces the mystery and excitement of nature through literature. Zoo Camp, during both winter and summers school vacations all children ages 6-11 to explore nature, discover wildlife and meet exotic creatures. Old New-Gate Prison & Copper Mine Originally founded as a copper mine in the early 1700’s. With a number of sturdy tunnels and chambers already in place, a copper mine seemed a perfectly fine place to establish a prison, but the site which is now known as the Old Newgate Prison produced more escapees than copper ore. NewGate was first used as a prison to house Tories and Loyalists during the Revolutionary War. It was the first State Prison in America. The Prison also held Confederate prisoners during the Civil War. In 1976 New-Gate Prison was declared a National Historic Landmark. Old New-Gate Prison is one of the leading tourist attractions in Connecticut.

New England Air Museum The New England Air Museum is committed to presenting the story of aviation, the human genius that made it possible and the profound effects that it has had on the way in which we live. The New England Air Museum is owned and operated by the Connecticut Aeronautical Historical Association, a private, non-profit educational institution organized in 1959. Located Windsor Locks, CT, the Museum is the largest aviation museum in New England. This educational organization is dedicated to preserving and presenting historically significant aircraft and related artifacts, engaging visitors through high-quality exhibits helping them to understand aviation technology and history and inspiring students through innovative and hands-on educational programs. Bradley International Airport Bradley International Airport (airport code BDL), is a public and military use airport and is just a 15-minute drive to Hartford. Considered the Gateway to New England, the airport is a 2-hour drive to Boston, Massachusetts and 1.5 hours from White Plains, New York. The airport’s Terminal A, has two concourses. The East Concourse has Gates 1-12 and the West Concourse Gates 20-30. Thirteen airlines serve the airport with flights from around the US and Canada.

The Sheraton Hotel is located between Terminal A and the old Terminal B, which is scheduled for demolition. Connecticut Transit buses transport travelers between downtown Harford and Bradley Airport. Taxi, limos and rental cars are also available. Volleyball Hall of Fame & Holyoke Heritage State Park The museums artifacts are presented as a state of the art experience and now the hall’s outreach extends beyond Holyoke to every corner of the World. They’ve always had the world’s greatest volleyball collection, now we can share more of it with our visitors. With hundreds of artifacts in their collection the Volleyball Hall of Fame has volleyballs most treasured memories awaiting your visit. See where your sport is memorialized and the legends are honored. They are the Volleyball Hall of Fame for the world. Holyoke Heritage State Park’s Visitors’ Center features exhibits about paper manufacturing and Holyoke’s industrial history. A slide show celebrates the city’s rich blend of cultures and people. Special programs are offered year-round. The Children’s Museum, the restored antique Holyoke Merry-Go-Round and the Volleyball Hall of Fame are also located within the park.

Outside the Visitors’ Center, relax and have a picnic in the beautifully landscaped park overlooking Holyoke’s three water power canals and several of the mill buildings. The historic railroad is not running at present, but when in operation it takes passengers on a 10 mile route through Holyoke and the surrounding countryside. Yankee Candle Village Far more than just candle stores, the South Deerfield, MA and Williamsburg, VA locations are special places where magic comes to life. From watching animated, singing characters to celebrating Christmas year ’round, they’re both quite unusual places where your whole family can experience an enchanting mix of shopping and entertainment. Sodom Mountain Campground 233 South Loomis Street - P.O. Box 702 Southwick, MA 01077

Question: Opened in 1959, the Hall of Fame for what sport is found near downtown Springfield, MA?
Answer: Basketball