Valley Kid Stuff

Great Falls Discovery Center

2011-09-14T17:38:00.000-04:00

The Great Falls Discovery Center is a nicely kept little nature center, near the fish ladder and Unity Park, a decent playground with the only real see saw I've seen recently. I parked on the street, for free, right outside the Center. There is a cute little garden outside and well maintained yards, but this isn't really outdoor space for the kids to play.
The interior boasts many dioramas of local animal life, including several interactive features (buttons to push, a computer program to play with). However, for my 5 year old, the displays were quickly digested (especially because he has seen quite a lot of these kinds of exhibits). The most engaging area for the kids was a small table set up near the gift shop that held tadpole-to-frog models and books on the same subject. There are quite a few activities held there for the preschool set, though I haven't attended any yet.
The whole museum was clean, including the restrooms.
After exploring the Discovery Center we made our way to Unity Park, down the street. What appeared at first glance to be dilapidated turned out to be a pretty nice park! The equipment was a good mix of new and old, a pavilion provided shade for our snack, and the sport fields were in use, creating a nice community feel.

Laurel Loop Trail at the Notch, Amherst, MA

2011-09-14T17:12:00.000-04:00

This is one of my very favorite hikes with the kids because it's super short (.75 miles), it's a loop, so there is no whining about turning around, the trail is well kept, it's right near the Eric Carle Museum and Atkins, and if you worry about being isolated, you don't have to worry much here.

If you are hiking with a small toddler who is barely able to walk the full length, I recommend heading to the right hand side (when the Visitor Center is at your back) to start (going counter clockwise). This is the steepest part of the trail, so if you end up going clockwise you will face a steep hill when the children are the most tired.

After a rain, you'll find every color of fungus on this trail. It is lovely in all seasons, and buggy in most seasons - you really need some serious bug spray here, the poisonous stuff. I have found that the bug repellent wipes are really handy, especially for little ones who can't hold their breath and shut their eyes while you are spraying them.

Evergreene Golf, Belchertown, MA

2011-09-14T17:08:00.001-04:00

Located on Rt. 9 in Belchertown, Evergreene Golf offers regular and mini golf. The grooming of the course is great. This is a family business, so it is managed with care. The air conditioned building has restrooms, the rental counter, souvenirs and ice cream!! This is always an idea for slightly older kids on summmer evenings.
One caveat : there is no shade (really, none). My first visit there with an infant in a stroller had me fearing heatstroke. We have visited several times and find this is a nice option.

West Hartford Children's Museum

2011-09-14T17:05:00.002-04:00

We've visited the West Hartford Children's Museum several times. It takes one hour exactly from our home, and is very close to the highway so it's easy to find. Parking is free, and though the lot has often been crowded I've always found a spot.

This museum really is a kid pleaser. A physics oriented room painted vividly is a big draw. Other features: A large fossil dig area with goggles and dress up vests, a surprising number of live animals (many snakes, lizards, turtles, and a few small mammals), a lego room, a toddler area, and some other fun nooks and crannies. The outdoor space is disappointing here, and I haven't seen much improvement over the course of my visits - though I allow there has been some. A dinosaur themed mini golf area had really gross old water that the kids kept fishing golf balls out of. My friend and I were appalled. Really Gross.

You can choose indoor seating for your snack, next to some exhibits and basic vending, or outdoor seating at picnic tables under a shade tent.

Admission is FREE with your Springfield Quadrangle membership.

D.A.R. State Park, Goshen, MA

2009-08-17T12:28:00.004-04:00

Our initial experience at the DAR was disappointing. It was our first camping trip with kids (24 months and 6 months old). We thought that the drive-in aspect would be a boon, but it turned out to be a pain. Our fantasy of letting the toddler run free in the woods was quickly dispelled as we realized that our backyard would have afforded us more privacy, more room, and to some extent more nature, than we found here. The campsites are packed together tightly, though they are well maintained. We could see and hear all of our neighbors, and spent most of the weekend explaining to a two year old how an outdoor space needed to be treated like a room with walls. The rest of the weekend involved keeping him out of the road. Though drivers were mainly respectful and drove slowly, it doesn't really matter how slow a car is going when it hits my kid, you know? The lessons from this trip were not really what we were hoping to communicate to our youngsters about nature.

Well, we found an awesome place to camp the next year, Tully Lake. That's another post altogether.

My recent visit to the DAR was a day trip to visit my brother. We used the camper's beach and had a wonderful time. I swam on this lake during the summers when I attended Camp Howe, the 4H camp in Goshen. It's still gorgeous!

The photos above were all taken at the camper's beach - take a look at their website to find out about the day use/camper use restrictions.

Beachgrounds Park, South Hadley, MA

2009-08-10T08:01:00.003-04:00

I first heard about this new park because they had a big opening day festival. I was later reminded of it by an acquaintance, Julie Ross of Belchertown, who took her two children to Beachgrounds in July and was pleased with the park, though not the restrooms.

On Sunday morning we finally made it over there, and the whole family was quite impressed. It seems a feat of urban planning - the small park is eco-friendly in many ways (recycle bins, rubber tire "mulch," recycled plastic "lumber" used for benches and tables), surrounded by a variety of housing types (apartments and a neighborhood of single family homes), aesthetically pleasing, designed with varied age-groups in mind (for instance, baby swings near the toddler play area and regular swings off to the side). The playground structure itself was an unusual one, which is great. All too often I find myself trekking to a new park only to encounter pretty much the same equipment as they have in the park by my house. My 5 year old described it as an obstacle course and "completed" the play structure a number of times. Both older boys loved the spray park, in which the water is activated by a sensor which my middle son enjoyed figuring out and then using. The spray park is laid out in an organic way which seemed to encourage the kids to move & to use the entire spray pad area. The pad includes a sprayer that the kids can move around, and which is cleverly designed to shut off when sprayed toward the outside of the water pad. The water feature is significantly smaller than the one found at Look Park, but there was plenty of room on the day of our visit.

The park also offers the opportunity to head down to the riverbank by the Holyoke Dam. This was an adventure that our family undertook - it is not advertised as part of the park. The trail down to the water was steep and the rocks on the edge interspersed with broken glass and the occasional piece of trash. However, it was nice enough to teach my oldest to skip a stone.

From several articles (here's one) I've seen on this project, it seems that the funding and creating of this space was a triumph of the political process, as used by community/local organization. This sweetens the experience of watching the kids play there.

Cindy's Drive In, Granby, MA

2009-08-05T08:45:00.001-04:00

The kids had free soft serve at Cindy's last week, via the Granby Public Library and the Massachusetts Summer Reading Program.

Cindy's is on 202 in Granby, conveniently close to Dufresne Park and the library. The young woman who waited on us was SO sweet, and patient with the kids. She even made me a tiny tiny mini cone for the baby.

The outdoor seating area wasn't particularly scenic, situated on the pavement contiguous with the parking lot and next to a fence. However, the tables and seats were clean. The ground was virtually free of junk, the trash can was wiped down. I really liked all of that. There is indoor seating also, a few stools at a tall counter. The decor is very cute. And of course they are supporting reading and libraries, which is a great practice.

Caveat: NO RESTROOMS. We had to leave for that reason, though the kids were thoroughly enjoying the play area (pictured above).

Heritage State Park Visitor Center, Holyoke, MA

2009-08-04T09:12:00.004-04:00

Holyoke's Heritage State Park is home to the Holyoke Carousel and Children's Museum, and the Volleyball Hall of Fame. Our recent stop at the Visitor Center revealed exhibits under construction. After speaking with Charlie Lotspeich of DCR, I learned that the renovations have been undertaken as part of a program called "Creating Holyoke." Funds from the National Endowment for the Humanities were matched by the state, via DCR. This is a wonderful enhancement to a city park, and a city that has an important place in the industrial development of the Pioneer Valley.

The renovation is nearly complete now, and the Visitor Center is open for business Tues-Sun from 12-4PM. I am looking forward to returning there to take a look at the new installments and will certainly post an update with pictures.

Northfield Mountain Visitor Center, Northfield, MA

2009-08-03T21:50:00.000-04:00

I have only visited this attraction in the winter, so my experience is certainly incomplete. Parking is plentiful.
The exhibits at this visitor center are interesting. The whole mountain is "sponsored" by a utility company. Thus the exhibits are focussed on the economy of the Connecticut River - ice harvesting, logging, transporting good by waterways, etc. There's a real icebox that is ok to touch, and an example of an old logging tool, which, again you can touch.
A set of stairs lead down to a ski shop/vending area/restrooms (clean, nice). You may want to pause (endlessly, if you are my child) in front of a bank of birdfeeders in the bushes outside the window on the landing.
The yurt outside is awesome and had a fire going when we were there. It was toasty and cute in there.
In the winter the trails are groomed for skiing thus you cannot hike. The scenery is beautiful.

Northfield Mountain

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Plum Island, MA

2009-08-03T16:52:00.005-04:00

Since we discovered this beach, we haven't been to a different one. From our home in the Pioneer Valley it takes about 2 hrs, 15 min. to get there. Many of the beaches on the refuge are closed early in the season, as this land is primarily dedicated to wildlife, not recreation. Later in the summer, once the nesting season is over, all the beaches open. On your drive down to the beach of your choice, you will almost certainly see some gorgeous birds feeding and flying in the saltwater marshes that make up the island.

For $5, you can park at any one of 7 beaches that are part of the Reserve. For FREE you can drive down past beach 7 and park at Sandy Point Beach.

Beaches 6, 7, and Sandy Point are our favorites. The water deepens so gradually that even when your child has become a speck against the horizon, he is only up to his knees. The sand is light and fine.

The nearby (as in, 5 minutes down the road) Newburyport is a great little town for pedestrian sightseeing. A large waterfront walkway lets you see boats of all kinds, and the people who hang out on them! Fisherman are happy to have an audience. Street musicians are happened upon. The downtown is filled with expensive shops and art galleries - we've mainly avoided those! It is also home to a little playground in the middle of a pedestrian mall, adjacent to an ice cream shop (even the small was $3.70 but you get as many mix-ins as you want for free). On more than one occasion, including last Sunday, there was a festival going on downtown with music and street vending. We've always been able to find free parking in town, and have enjoyed the bookstore and toystore (and restrooms!!) in the Tannery building.

Both the Parker River Refuge and Joppa Sanctuary have visitor centers, though we haven't been yet.
Parker River Refuge

Sandy Point Beach

Groff Park, Amherst MA

2009-08-03T10:50:00.001-04:00

Located just off Rt. 116 in Amherst, Groff Park is a great destination in good weather. A large parking lot is mostly sunny, but if you don't mind crossing the lot, there are shady spots near the baseball field. The park boasts many tall beautiful trees, picnic areas with seating, including a pavillion. At the top of the hill, a decent playground and nice set of swings are near the restrooms, newly constructed a couple of years ago. They are not disgusting, though I've rarely seen toilet paper there. A wading pool with fountain is fenced in. The pool is open for a short season - essentially July and August. The pool might be closed on any given day due to lightening, bacteria levels in the water, lack of lackadaisical teenage lifeguard, or some such. You should not psych your kids up for it unless you call to confirm that it's open. A sandbox and small climbing area at the bottom of the hill are very inviting. A shallow river (Fort River) flows by the park and is followed by a sandy path, so a nature walk is included along with the rest of the features here.

Amherst Wading Pool Schedule
A Review of the Trail at Groff Park

Agricultural Fairs 2009

2009-07-28T19:44:00.001-04:00

Taking the family to a fair is a great time. The rides are, of course, a treat for the kids, but there are so many more activities that most of these events offer, such as petting zoos/4H animal displays, horse or oxen pulling competitions, etc. Your kids will get a chance to hear music and dance. For me, it's exciting to turn my kids on to their first fried dough, first candy apple, first cotton candy, ferris wheel ride, pumpkins bigger than they are. I had a New England childhood filled with the fleeting sights and delicacies that define our seasons.

Tell your kids in advance exactly how much/how long of everything that they'll be getting so you don't get sucked into a "one more _____ (ride, treat, chance to behave...)" Decide what's best for their ages - maybe getting rides out of the way will deprive you of a bribe - or maybe it will allow your kids to focus on everything else that the fair has to offer. Many of these fairs have parades associated with them also.

I've included many fairs on my calendar posts, July 2009 Events & August 2009 Events. More will be listed for September 2009.

Here's my post on our visit to the 3 County Fair in 2008.

I'll also do a post on the Belchertown Fair (my local and the best around!)

A great list can be found at: Livin' in the Belch

Here are a couple of links that list Massachusetts Fairs:

Fairs in Massachusetts

Massachusetts Fairs Association

Lookout Farm, South Natick, MA

2009-07-24T17:50:00.006-04:00

Let me begin by saying that my visit here was several years ago, and since then the operation has been revamped and changed it's name from "Marino Lookout Farm" to "Lookout Farm."
The train that runs through the orchards is a delight for the kids. You can board/reboard however many times you like - getting off to pick a particular variety of pear or apple and then hopping back on the next time a shuttle comes by.
At the end of the train ride is a playground including a tree house, hay bale maze, and a bee house with plexiglass viewing windows. They offer other attractions, such as a petting zoo, seasonally. The petting zoo was open at the time of our visit, but little can be drawn from so far back.
In short, this is on my list of places to return to, and we had a WONDERFUL time the first time around. If anything, I suspect that the grounds have been improved.

Lookout Farm

Ribbon Tree

2009-07-23T14:33:00.001-04:00

I had the kids select a good sized branch and enough stones to "plant" it in a small bucket we had. I cut lengths of ribbon, string, and pipe cleaners for them to use to decorate their tree. This was good practice tying knots. The end result was interesting. Several people, including my husband, found it creepy - maybe because some of the ribbon we had was grayish-black. I thought it was festive. Half way through the boys asked me for sparkly things, so the craft expanded to include glue and spangles. They glued the spangles directly onto the branch, and also on to ribbons which they then attached to it. They did this 100% outside, which was good for me, and they cooperated nicely on it - seems like a project that lends itself to multiple kids working toward one outcome. The older helped the younger with tying, for instance, and the younger one introduced the spangles.

Boston Children's Museum, Boston MA

2009-07-22T09:12:00.000-04:00

This is a wonderful place. The location is both a blessing and a burden. My dad's office used to be down in this area, and parking is very expensive in the private lots that surround the waterfront. I suggest parking at a T station and taking the train in - this is what we've done in the past. The T is easy-peasy (though the time we took our stroller was a little hairy) and once you arrive at South Station you are about 3 blocks from the museum. The museum's website has really good directions. In the coldest winter, on the waterfront, this walk might be unpleasant, but in anything but the most bitter cold it's a nice walk. The kids have been fascinated by the busy waterway and the seagulls.

The museum has so many exhibits that we've never seen them all in a day. The large climbing structure is a sibling to the one at the Holyoke Children's Museum, and goes up three stories. There is usually a staff member posted half way up the stairs to make sure that children don't exit there without parents and become lost. Lucky thing.

There is a large toddler/infant area that we've never spent much time in - but I anticipate using this area with my youngest the next time we visit. There is a large and complex water play area (the photo above shows the toddler water play table, but there is a much larger water system with canals, etc), a "city" including stores, barbershop, streets, etc., a construction area with full scale construction vehicles to sit in as well as various child-height tables with roads, ramps and underpasses which serve as a playscape for toy construction vehicles. On the ground floor, a physics exhibit has kids pedalling bikes to power light bulbs and tugging on a pulley to send a tennis ball high into the air. Plus more. These are the ones that stand out in memory.

The only place to buy food at the museum is an Au Bon Pain that is attached. If you bring your own lunch you can eat it at one of the picnic tables outside by the water - or I think you could bring it into the restaurant's seating area. Our experience at this particular Au Bon Pain was pretty terrible - think of many people standing around while you look at the empty sandwich counter and wonder why no one is making an $8 sandwich for your bawling children. When we got the food it was good. But by then I was almost crying with anger and frustration so my taste buds were compromised.

Admission is FREE for members of the Springfield Science Museum, so I'll have to repeat my harangue that this membership is a WONDERFUL VALUE. You'll gain admission to Boston Children's Museum, Boston Science Museum , the Ecotarium, as well as the Springfield Museums. This has been a great membership for our family and I highly recommend it.

Boston Children's Museum

Boston Museum of Science, Boston MA

2009-07-15T14:35:00.001-04:00

We've visited this museum several times, and keep discovering pockets that we missed before. This is a large museum with exhibits that will fascinate kids from 1 on up. The youngest visitors will probably spend lots of time in the Discovery Center. Though only a corner of this enormous building, it has two floors of preschool age activities: a vacuum tube, various building materials, a strong blower, a water table, a bee hive, animal costumes, live woodland animals and insects, animal bones, hiding spots... those are the elements I can reel off without even thinking about it. Not comprehensive - so you can get an idea of how much the Discovery Center offers. The exhibits in the rest of the museum are too numerous to count. An electricity show is free with admission and is exciting. I still remember the climax of the show from my childhood, when lightening is created right in front of your eyes. The last time I took my children there, my oldest, at 4, did not have the attention span for the show so we'll try again next time.

Parking is extremely convenient and usually costs us $11. The garage is attached to the museum itself so even in winter weather it works out great. There is a large cafe with tons of food choices and copious seating. We choose to bring our lunch and then supplement with buying a treat there. It's really expensive. The other huge advantage is that by bringing your own food you are skipping the whole line experience. There are often large school groups, and it is always crowded. Once the kids' tummies are full they are ready to go.

If you are a member of the Springfield Science Museum/Springfield Quadrangle, your admission is FREE. And you don't wait in line, just continue on to the turnstiles, show your membership card and you are in the museum. That's it. Through the Association of Science and Technical Museums, the Springfield membership will privilege you to free admission at the Boston Children's Museum, the Ecotarium, the Boston Science Museum, and many more museums in other states. We have been members for several years now- our annual fee would be paid for in visits to the Quadrangle alone, never mind the aforementioned additional places.

Museum of Science

Peaked Mountain, Monson, MA

2009-07-13T14:23:00.006-04:00

What a wonderful hike! There are two parking areas, one at the Miller Forest Tract and one at the Peaked Mountain Tract. The second was our choice for our walk. We picked up a map, unusual for us but serendipitous as there are a lot of well networked trails. They are blazed but also numbered at key intersections, which was great. We first headed to the "Valley View" area, and after taking in a snack and a lovely vista, headed to the "Peaked Mountain" area and climbed around quite a bit taking in the view from many directions. A marker indicated the mountain's highest point, and a mailbox jutted out of the side of a pine tree. A journal inside contained memories left by hikers past. A new volume is needed, so if you take this hike you could bring a notebook with you to leave there.

The fact that this park is borded by a wildlife sanctuary (and endless miles of woods) showed itself in the forms of many frogs, croaking away and leaping among the reeds of a small pond we encountered. A larger pond was visible from the top of the mountain, located in the Miller Forest Tract of land. A magical encounter with a fawn was the highlight of our day. For several minutes my family clustered at the edge of a trail, whispering with excitement and peering into the eyes of this graceful and solemn little guy. None of my photos came out, naturally.

This summit was a long hike for our boys, who are quite hardy. I wouldn't choose it for kids who are starting to get used to hiking. But it wasn't too long- we'll do it again in a minute!

Peaked Mountain

Eric Carle Museum, Amherst, MA

2009-07-12T21:53:00.000-04:00

On the grounds of Hampshire college sits this unusual building with it's enormous windows and gnarled apple trees studding the lawn.
There are several areas inside to explore. The staff and volunteers at the museum are very friendly and knowledgeable.
In the art room, children are invited to do a project. They can also choose to color on a papered table. If they are not interested in, or too young for, the project, they can play with a variety of toys in an attractive play area.
In the library, board books, toys and puzzles are available for play. Thousands more picture books line the shelves.

The gallery has some great exhibits, but we usually skip it. It is best seen with a 1:1 child-parent ratio.
The cafeteria is a large sunny room equipped with high chairs. There is no longer any food served there, but there are several vending machines with drinks, snacks, and lunchy items from Atkins Farms. I'm sure the food is good, but it's also quite expensive.
The movie theatre is well appointed. We have seen a couple of shows there.
The gift shop looks lovely, but I've been telling my children for years that it is off-limits to children. I've never really looked around.
The outdoor space is beautiful and we always spend time out there when the weather is nice.
The restrooms are immaculate, cute, and each has a child size potty. Best restrooms ever.
Parking is copious, but there is no shade in the lot.

Eric Carle Museum

Strawberry Picking

2009-07-10T13:31:00.002-04:00

Here's a short list:

J.M. Pasiecnik Farms, 207 River Road, Whately

Koran's Farm and Gift Stand, 160 East Hill Road, Monson

Lakeside Strawberries, River Road at Warner Road, Hadley

Nourse Farms, 41 River Road, Whately

Sapowski Farms, 436 East State St. (Route 202), Granby

Teddy Smiarowski Farm, 487 Main St., Hatfield

Val's Berry Farm, 81 Parker St., East Longmeadow

Meadowbrook Farm, 185 Meadowbrook Road, East Longmeadow

Dickinson Farms, Rt. 202, Granby

Recent Article

West End Creamery, Sutton, MA

2009-07-09T10:44:00.003-04:00

Just down the road from Purgatory Chasm, a visit to this creamery/entertainment center was a nice ending to our day.

We ate ice cream on the deck overlooking a beautiful lazy river, varied fields, a mini golf course that looked really nice from a distance.

I didn't see the "Farmyard" or the mini golf because I didn't want to open that can of worms when we were worn out from hiking. We steered clear. The barn houses various farm animals. According to another patron there it's not exactly a petting zoo, but you can visit with cows, horses, sheep, etc.

Before becoming an entertainment center/ice cream shop, this establishment was the milk purveyor for the area. My father grew up nearby, and remembers the half pint bottles of West End Creamery milk that he drank during snack time at school. Somehow it lent our ice cream an "authentic" taste - we learned that authenticity is creamy and delicious, and sometimes comes in a cute little mini cone.

West End Creamery

Purgatory Chasm

Purgatory Chasm (my post)

Quabbin Hike, Belchertown, MA

2009-07-07T14:52:00.004-04:00

After checking to see whether the viewing tower had reopened (it has not), we headed down one of the trails that snakes down the hillside.

In the aftermath of severe weather, we found massive trees downed, jagged trunks and limbs, dripping sap from a severed pine, and twig litter all over the path.

The trail had no spectacular view, save for the top of the hill. It wound through beautiful old forest, was lined with soft mosses, and offered glimpses of that gorgeous pink Quabbin rock. We ended up at a road and decided to turn around, as two juice boxes would barely get us through the climb back up.

Quabbin Reservoir (DCR site)

Quabbin Fishing Area (my post)

Quabbin Viewing Tower (my post)

Winsor Dam (my post)

Purgatory Chasm, Sutton, MA

2009-06-29T16:36:00.020-04:00

Our first visit here was a great success. We hiked the short but challenging chasm, then circled back on a one mile loop. The trails were well-blazed. The "hike" through the chasm involves mostly climbing, some precarious. The kids needed help in one or two places. The only injury to our party, a severely skinned knee, happened on the sidewalk my oldest was hurtling down, so eager to show me that he had just safely descended a slab of rock two stories high. The second part of our walk was a more traditional hike through woodland with really cool, huge rocks scattered about.

The parking area was clean and new, as was the pavillion where we ate our sandwiches. The trails were very well blazed. The visitor center looked very kid friendly and hosts a lot of programs.

If the natural wonder of the place were not enough, they've built a fantastic playground in a clearing surrounded by incredibly tall pine trees. Swingset, climbing structure, climbing rocks, even a spinning, climbing thingy. The playground was so well situated it seemed to have grown there.

Picnic spots dot the playground area and the areas near the parking lots. The spots have barbecues and picnic tables. The restrooms were clean.

We'll definitely go back to explore some of the overlooks and special features.

There is an ice cream place down the road, if you're into that sort of thing!

Purgatory Chasm

Natural Treasure Hunt

2009-06-24T09:22:00.005-04:00

My sons needed some encouragement to get outside yesterday morning as the day was gray. My oldest is obsessed with TV, so I told him to collect these items before he could watch any. During the process he forgot about watching TV and became totally engaged in the activity. While I started the list, he soon asked to make the pictures himself (none of my kids read yet). I was impressed at the textures that he put into the bark, and at his suggestion to add mushrooms to the collection items. I liked that this activity incorporates number recognition, following a list, using pictorial "reading" skills, and of course, nature.

The boys found their magnifying glasses and spied all around the yard. They found quite a few items not on the list, most of them alive. I had a long conversation with one about where to find twigs (underneath the pine trees), the difference between evergreen trees and deciduous trees; he ran to every tree in the yard and asked about it - we talked about broad flat leaves vs. small fine needles in clusters. After the collection period, they enjoyed taking everything out of the wagon and comparing the list to the items. As it turns out they had forgotten a few of them and eagerly searched out those last couple of objects.

I have used this activity in the past as a way to get the kids out in the wintertime, when it's really cold and they need something short - in those cases you can just pick 3 or 4 things to get such as a dried up leaf, 2 pine cones, and 3 snowballs, and maybe one of those mittens that you left outside yesterday! In the autumn I've asked them how many different colors of leaves they can find. This has been an interesting excercise in the spectrum (one brother calls it yellow, another insists that it is brown - discuss!).

Usually my children need no incentive to go hiking, but if they were reluctant, introducing a list like this might sweeten the deal.

McCray's Farm and Creamery, South Hadley, MA

2009-06-23T18:01:00.011-04:00

McCray's has improved it's petting zoo since my last visit, but still straddles the fence between ramshackle charm and dilapidated mess. My previous visit there was so unpleasant that it kept me away for several years. The animals had been groomed fairly recently and looked somewhat healthier than last time, but the smell was still overpowering (in relation to other farms and petting zoos). The beginning of the petting zoo path is well maintained, but the further you go, the grosser it becomes. The duck pond was adorned with lots of trash, as well as the adorable baby duck pictured above. They've removed the dirty but fun "castle" that used to be there. The pig was nowhere to be seen, but his sty was still the stinkiest pen. One of the best parts of the outdoor area is an old tractor planted in the ground for kids to ride. My boys spent more time on that tractor than anywhere else. So, McCray's is a mixed bag.

The store/restaurant is very clean and very cute, with murals painted all around. Cones of animal feed are 3/$1. Most of the patrons that we saw had brought their own bags of stale bread or vegetables, which the animals were eager to gobble.

The restrooms can be accessed from outside and were clean.

The real reason to visit McCray's is for the hayrides in the fall. They have a super scary one for adults, which I have been on and it really was scary! (Well, disclaimer: I can't even tolerate previews for horror movies). They have a more tame version for kids. The lines are often long but these are great rides. Next time I visit here, it'll be for that reason. In a couple years probably, when my kids are ready.

McCray's website.

Lake Wyola State Park, Shutesbury, MA

2009-06-21T14:29:00.002-04:00

This is a small recreation area with nice amenities. The restrooms were spotless - though I was there on the off season, on a rainy day. Perhaps the restrooms don't sparkle quite as much when the park is being used heavily.

Parking is $5, but that of course includes swimming. Two lifeguard chairs were being installed on the beach during our visit. The beach is quite small, but the sand is nice. Restrooms are adjacent. There is a floating fishing dock. My boys enjoyed the rocking feeling you could get when you tried moving the dock.

Several trails lead from the parking area side of the road. We hiked a small loop that was very pretty. Markers along the way indicated various species of trees on the trail.

Lake Wyola

UMass Duck Pond, Amherst, MA

2009-06-20T06:54:00.006-04:00

Kids find a lot of things fascinating when walking through UMass Amherst. The dramatic architecture of the Fine Arts Center, the W.E.B. Dubois Library, the sidewalks, installation art, etc.
Throwing stale bread to the ducks is just the icing on the cake. You can also go into the library and take a LOOOOOONG elevator ride.

Exploring the campus on foot, especially if you did not attend UMass or grow up near it, is pretty cool. It's a large place when you are walking, and the conglomeration of landscaped pockets, handicapped access ramps, lawns and roads and sidewalks, make for visual interest and a feeling of discovery.

Sometimes I participate in psychology experiments at Tobin Hall at UMass - the kids do anyways. You don't get paid, but you get to park in the heart of the campus and it's usually fun for the children. They get a little toy at the end.

So, best bets for parking, in my opinion, are free spots on town streets adjacent to campus. That's a bit of a walk. There are metered spots in the U shaped drive in front of the Fine Arts Center. I'm a paranoid parker - always convinced I'll get a parking ticket, which I have already dedicated thousands of dollars to paying. Thousands.

Grossology Exhibit, Springfield Science Museum, Springfield, MA

2009-06-19T20:40:00.003-04:00

This exhibit was better than I expected it to be. My oldest, who is almost 5, liked it the most and utilized almost every display, except for one that really required reading. The activities spanned oversized "Operation," a climbing wall, a burping feature where you pumped soda up a straw until the machine burped (a favorite), video games and a fart noise maker. It really kept them occupied, though I was pretty bored. I get my share of gross raising my family, you know?

The exhibit is housed in the same special exhibit room that is usually used. Take the right hand staircase when you reach the double stair, or wheel up the African animal ramp then make a left.

The prices of the special exhibits keep going up, unfortunately. This time you'll spend $4 per person over 3 years old.

My post on Springfield Science Museum

Springfield Science Museum

September 2009

2009-06-19T14:50:00.000-04:00

1,8,15,22,29 (Tuesdays) - Moms' Fitness Hike and Nature Story Time at Mt. Tom Reservation 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (Tuesdays) - Storytime at the Hitchcock Center, Amherst 3 - Moonlight Hike, Red Gate Farm, Buckland (my post) 4 - Free Admission to the Springfield Museums (my post), courtesy Highland Street Foundation

4, 5, 6 - Spencer Fair

4, 5, 6, 7- Day out with Thomas

5 - Farm Fest Weekend, Hilltop Farm, Suffield

5 - Charlemont Reggae Fest

5,12,19,26 (Saturdays) - Free concerts at Fish Park, Athol

11 - 4-6 PM, Kids' Activity at Smith College Museum of Art (Free)

12 - Ludlow Community Center, Boys & Girls Clubs Day for Kids, Free

12 - Monarch Butterflies at the Great Falls Discovery Center (Free)

12 - Music Fest at Sweet William Farm, Upton (Free)

12 & 13 - Mattoon Street Arts Festival, Springfield (Free)

13- Birds of Prey Program at Mt. Tom Reservation (Free)

17 - Third Thursdays in Pittsfield, Downtown, Free

18 - Oct 4 - Big E

19,20 -Powwow at Sweet William Farm, Upton (Free)

19,20 - Soule Harvest Fair, Middleboro

19, 26 -(and Saturdays through Dec. 19) - Young Farmers at Red Gate Farm (my post) (Free)

20 - Art on the Street, Worcester (Free)

22 - 3:30PM, Autumn Craft at the South Hadley Library (Free, but pre-register@ 538-5045)

24, 25, 26, 27 - Belchertown Fair

26 - Community Heroes Festival (Spidey!!), Carver 26, 27 - Wachusett Kidsfest

Ecotarium, Worcester, MA (Update)

2009-06-18T20:39:00.005-04:00

Our recent visit (June 2009) was a lot of fun. I found that exhibits had been changed/renewed since our last visit, sometime in the midwinter of 2008-2009.

We got to see the polar bear. The tree canopy was still not open. The person I spoke with said that there are pretty strict weight and height limits so my kids might not be eligible to do that yet anyways. We'll be back there soon - after several visits I am even more convinced of it's lasting interest. The boys played on the pirate ship in the toddler area for a good 45 minutes, a feature that had barely caught their eyes previously. There are plenty of corners to discover here.

Original Post:
We are very happy to have discovered the Ecotarium. Our admission is free with our membership pass to the Springfield Museums. After gaining admission at the front gate, the parking is free.

The museum itself is an interesting building with an eclectic array of exhibits. You'll enter at the top level, right by the gift shop. The shop is nice and they do have some smaller items. When we get our kids a treat we tend to want to spend $1 or so.

Walk down a curved staircase to the second level. More animal stuff, some dino stuff, a presentation area - on our first visit we saw an excellent owl presentation.

On the ground floor, there are live animals in the aquarium/terrarium area, lots of fun weather related exhibits. My husband's favorite feature is a tidal pool camera; by turning a dial you can watch hours of sea activity in mere moments. It is really cool to see the starfish and sea urchins moving in time lapse.

From the ground floor you exit to the grounds. This is the reason that the compound is such a wonderful destination. There are more animals in small, self contained buildings and environments throughout the grounds. We haven't seen the polar bear (!) but it has been fun to explore the trails.

The playground is fine - the rope ladder is an interesting feature & the sandbox is large.

There is a train - tickets are several dollars. We haven't gone yet.

The snack bar that is open only a few hours a day, so bring your food.

Ecotarium

New England Air Show, Westover Air Force Base, Chicopee, MA

2009-06-17T14:56:00.002-04:00

Update, June 2009: There will not be an air show this year, or next. Maybe not until 2012. Bummer!
However - check out the Barnes Air Show in September of 2009.

Original Post:

I did not attend this event. My husband took our two older boys - they had a blast. There was plenty of shade under the enormous wings on this hot summer day. The tricks in the air and the displays on the ground were both great. The kids climbed into an army vehicle, sat in a C5 (a C5!!), and played other games. Food was available, but my guys had brought their own.

Parking was free.

Great New England Air Show

Summer Concert Series

2009-06-17T07:38:00.005-04:00

Agawam, Wednesdays at 7 on Veteran's Green

Barre, Sundays at 7, Harding Allen Bandstand

Belchertown, Thursdays in July, 7 PM, on the Common

Brimfield, Tuesdays 6:30-8:30

Charlemont, Mohawk Trail Concerts

Easthampton, Fridays at 6:30, Pulaski Park

East Longmeadow, Wednesdays at 7, High School Athletic Field

Florence, Sundays at 6, Look Park

Holyoke, Summit View Banquet House , Fridays 6:30 -8

Orange, Brown Bag Concert Series (this link 2008 info only)

South Hadley, Thursdays 6-7:30

Springfield, Thursdays at 7:30, Stearns Square

Springfield, Fridays from Noon-1:30pm, Tower Square Park

Ware, July 12, 26, August 9, on the lawn of the Meeting House at 6:30 PM.

For more info: 508 - 867 - 7461

West Brookfield, June 24, July 3, 8, 15, 22, 29, August 5

West Springfield, Thursdays at 7PM

Wilbraham, Orchard Valley Senior Community, June 24, July 15, August 12, 6:30 PM

Granby Public Library, Granby, MA

2009-06-16T17:04:00.003-04:00

I had a great first visit to this library today. The children's room is separated from the rest of the library, with the whole downstairs to itself. (The videos are located upstairs, which could be a boon or a burden. I found myself glad about it today, because the kids were more focused on books than DVDs). The restroom was clean and well equipped for children. There was a train table as well as another play table with plant and dinosaur legos. I browsed the parent - oriented books, such as crafts and activities. The selection was fantastic. There were lots of themed backpacked available to check out. Plenty of puzzles too. Two computers were set up, but I didn't bother checking whether they were library-catalogue only or had internet access.

The room is small and cramped, but has a well cared for and friendly feeling. A large table had coloring sheets and library information, but it was being used more as a work surface during my visit there. There was an adult sized chair that I sat in to nurse the baby, but in a small space it's hard to create true privacy.

When I checked out my books, on the main level, the children's librarian introduced herself and welcomed me to the library. All in all, a really nice small community library.

Granby Public Library

3 County Fair, Northampton, MA

2009-06-16T08:59:00.001-04:00

It will cost you a pretty penny, but you'll have an awesome time, too. Last year we paid for bracelets for the kids and it was so worth it. On the inflatable slide alone, which my middle son slid down about 700 times, we made our money back. There were tons of rides that both kids were tall enough to go on.

The food was good, the soda was cold. One child watched a puppet show with Grandma while I followed the other around. There were plenty of animals to look at, and in a special barn a children's paradise - from a toy tractor driving area, corn kernel sandbox, giant pig and horse, and goats, etc., a lasso game, a magnet board.... it was a really well done feature.

We found side street parking quite close - we were lucky that day. I believe you'll have to pay to park, but if you are willing to walk a bit, you can park free.

The dates for 2009 are August 28-30.

Three County Fair

Westview Farms and Creamery, Monson, MA

2009-06-15T20:46:00.009-04:00

This was a nice spot to take the kids for a morning. It had a few things going for it and the biggest one for me was the incredible view. For my children, it was the goats. There were so many goats and kids in the enclosure, of all different colorations, all ages. They were some of the healthiest, best smelling, and beautiful goats I have ever seen. For only 25 cents each I bought my older boys wafer cones filled with animal feed (the goats can eat the cone, too).

We used the restroom inside the restaurant (totally clean, totally well stocked), but there was a porta potty provided outside, with - get this- a porta sink, which I have only really seen before at Phish shows. It's an awesome convenience, too bad there isn't a porta sink for every porta potty. The large lawn held picnic tables and various benches lined the sides of the lawn. The playground was clean, though as you can see from the photos, not the modern type.

We packed a lunch, but observed the protocol of "no picnic baskets" on the lawn. We just ate in the car. I was pretty disappointed about that, to be honest. But as the sign indicates, it is a full service restaurant and they do want to make money from their business and grounds.

Next time we'll sample the homemade ice cream, and eat it at the picnic tables. On a visit that does not happen, as I pointed out repeatedly to my eldest, before 11 AM. (Ice cream for breakfast? Check out Flayvors of Cook Farm, who hold ice cream breakfasts monthly in the summer).

During conversation with a couple who live nearby, I found out that the rolling fields in the background of the photos above are pumpkin patches. The large parking area and copious seating are all filled to capacity, I'm told, during the autumn season. I look forward to it.

Westview Farms

Quaboag Hills Region

Mud Spun Arts Center, Belchertown, MA

2009-06-11T04:40:00.004-04:00

The studio at the Mud Spun Arts Center, settled with pink dust, decorated with works in progress, is a wonderful place to spend time with your children. It is a well- appointed workspace, with several wheels, open shelving for projects, canvas covered tables, and bright windows that open up the room. A blue kiln stands in the corner, a generous sink stands at the rear. It is a space that is prepared, a space where creativity has room to grow.

The space put me in mind of Reggio Emilia, a theme that seems to crop up continually in my exploration of truly great places for my children. This educational philosophy values playing with clay very highly and posits that clay itself, not play dough or silly putty, is an important aspect of kids' art experiences.

The proprietor and resident artist at Mud Spun is Becky Laliberte. Her gallery and studio here are labors of love that have expanded gradually over the past few years. With experience in both art and education, Becky is well suited to the task she's set for herself. From her website: Mud Spun strives to offer experiences in art that encourage exploration, discovery, and creativity.

On our visit there my children were offered clay, a wide variety of tools, and introductions to techniques like creating patterns, rolling out, and wetting the clay. On the potter's wheel the kids watched Becky center the clay and begin to form a vessel. They were able to touch the clay as the wheel spun, poke it with a tool, splash water on it. It was a thorough and much appreciated introduction to the medium.
Becky is an open teacher who interacted so well and so calmly with my guys, who can be revved up easily. She offers courses at the studio ranging from adult classes to summer camps, as well as birthday parties/get togethers. In the fall, look for a Mommy & Me class also - I will be!
Mud Spun

Intro to Clay for Kids

August 2009

2009-06-10T18:54:00.018-04:00

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - Children's Event at Eastfield Mall (Free)

1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - Drop in Watercolor Workshop, Clark Museum ($5/person)

2 - Abstractions of Nature Family Day at the Clark Museum (Free)

2 - Pittsfield Ethnic Fair (Free)

5 - Movie at Red Gate Farm (my post)

August 7 - Free Admission to Plimoth Plantation, courtesy Highland Street Foundation

August 8 - Antique & Classic Boat Show - "Twenty first annual judged in the water show hosted by the Baystate Woodies located at the Ox Bow Marina, Northampton, Ma. Annual judged show on the beautiful Ct. river. Antique and classic boats and automobiles. Raffle, BBQ, and river cruise. Please join us for a great time. For more information, contact Charlie Raymond at 413-562-8442 or Jeff Cramton at 413-427-2619" from http://www.antiqueboat.com/content/calendar.aspx

13 - Zoo on the Go, Stanley Park

13 - 2 PM, Bubblemania at the Chicopee Library (Free)

14- Free Admission to Stone Zoo, courtesy Highland Street Foundation

14- (Rain date 8/15) Three Rivers, Hryniewicz Park, Movie: Wizard of Oz (Free)

14,15,16 - Old Home Days, Montague (2008 Web Page, but these dates are correct for 2009)

14,15,16 - Middlefield Agricultural Fair

15 - Illustrator Tomie di Paola @ the Eric Carle Museum

15, 16 - Meadow Magic

19 - Movie at Red Gate Farm (my post) (Free)

19- Walk In Craft at the Chicopee Public Library

20- Children's Day at the Holyoke Farmer's Market (Free)

21 - Heath Fair

21, 22 - Hardwick Community Fair

21,22,23 - Peach Festival, Wilbraham

21 - Free Admission to Peabody Essex Museum, courtesy Highland Street Foundation

22 - Tomato Festival, Red Fire Farm, Granby

24- Evening Sing-Along at the Montague Center Library

25 - Storytime at the Hitchcock Center, Amherst (Free)

27, 28, 29, 30 - Cummington Fair

27 - Children's Music at Cup and Top Cafe

28,29,30 - 3 County Fair (my post)

28 - Free Admission to the Boston Museum of Fine Arts, courtesy Highland Street Foundation

29 - Atkins Farms Food Fair

29 - Chilifest at Stone Soup Farm, Belchertown

31 - Evening Sing-Along at the Montague Center Library

Fireworks 2009

2009-06-10T12:03:00.014-04:00

I'll edit this post with new displays as I find them. I haven't included the parades, etc., in each town - this is fireworks only.

Amherst, at UMass, July 4

Chicopee, Szot Park, July 4

East Brookfield, Connie Mack Field, July 11 (rain date July 12)

Easthampton, Sat. Jul 04 -- Stars Over Montauk by Grucci 9:00 p.m. Umbrella Beach Old Montauk Hwy. approximately 1/3 mile west of town Rain date July 5th

Greenfield, Beacon Field, July 5 (rain date July 6)

Holyoke, HCC, July 3

Monson, Quarry Hill School, June 27 (rain date June 28)

Monson, SummerFest, July 4

South Hadley, Michael E. Smith Middle School, July 3

Springfield, Memorial Bridge, July 4

Springfield, Court Square, July 4

Sturbridge, Sturbridge Village, July 4

West Springfield, Town Common, July 4

Westfield, Stanley Park, July 3

Hadley's 350th Anniversary Celebration

2009-06-06T23:57:00.009-04:00

With a parade, farm tour days, lectures and more, and a comprehensive website, this celebration is gaining steam as the halfway mark of the year is passed.
The Valley, and Hadley in particular, have long agricultural histories. Farming as a way of life is alive here in a way that becomes scarcer as food production becomes homogenized and consumers are distanced from food sources. CISA- Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture
Among the many ways that Hadley is being honored this year is with scholarship. Several volumes on the area have been planned.

Tom Pelissier of Belchertown, MA, has written a concise and colorful history of his French Canadian ancestors and the community that they lived in- our community. Tom's background in anthropology lends his short commentary authority and structure, while extensive research into the geneologies of his families has provided Tom with a personal connection to his subject. Beautiful and original illustrations by local artist Nancy Haver, as well as antique photographs, enhance the book aesthetically.

The French Canadians of Hadley Massachusetts; Why They Came and Why They Stayed, will be available shortly at the Hadley 350th Souvenir Shop.

Feel free to email the author at tompelissier@charter.net for further details.

For all of us who share his interest in our region, I highly recommend this volume.

Fishing Area 1, Quabbin, Pelham, MA

2009-06-02T12:00:00.008-04:00

I headed North on 202 and clocked 4.5 miles from Townmart in Belchertown to the Fishing Area Sign.

After turning onto a gravel road, I drove (erratically) two or three more miles. I wasn't sure what I was looking for - all of the pull-offs had large NO PARKING signs. When I finally pulled into the parking area, I was stunned by a wide open, glittering vista. Tidy boats line the shore, and the distinctive dip of the Winsor Dam is barely visible across the water. A tower peeps over the left hand hill.

I paid a $4 parking fee and was directed to the trail head, behind the porta potty, on the far left when facing the reservoir.

We hiked several miles on a beautiful trail along the edge of the Quabbin, peeking out at half a dozen lookout spots. At each of these points, the pinky-orange granite of the mountains could be seen extending from ground cover to bare rock, to lake floor. The lookout nearest to the parking area became our snack and play spot. I nursed the baby while the boys jumped around like mountain goats on the jagged rocks. The water deepened very gradually, so I wasn't worried about their safety.

The kids found two varieties of caterpillar and more than a few insects along the way. They had the opportunity to play on a small beach where my oldest was fascinated by the waves "rolling in." When we returned to our starting point by the boat launch, they spent some time heaving rocks into the water while I stalked an amazing butterfly, who seemed to be begging me to photograph him. My son had identified one of the caterpillars as a swallowtail, and he said that this was a swallowtail as well. We looked it up later to confirm his information (he seemed a little miffed, but he is only 4); he was correct. It's an Anise Swallowtail butterfly.

We loved this walk so much that we're going back later this week with my husband. And going back in a week or two to rent a boat for $5! $5!!

Quabbin Fishing Areas

Winsor Dam (my post)

Quabbin Hike (my post)

Quabbin Viewing Tower (my post)

Odyssey Book Shop, South Hadley, MA

2009-05-29T12:36:00.001-04:00

This is a fantastic bookstore and it does a lot for children. The children's book section itself is fun and well stocked. Additionally, the Odyssey hosts storytimes and in the summer, weekly saturday morning family entertainment.

I'll confess I don't go there often, I think I went to a reading by Jenny Boylan several years ago and haven't gotten back. I plan on returning soon, however. A local writer (and parent) named Samantha Wilde will be reading from her new, mommy-lit, novel at the Odyssey on June 25, 2009 - you can check out her website, linked below.

A South Hadley afternoon might include a visit to the Mt. Holyoke Conservatory, or the Art Museum. The Village Commons, where the Odyssey is located, is an interesting outdoor mall with businesses that include a delicious deli, movie theatres, and a few stores.

Odyssey Book Shop

Samantha Wilde

Northfield Drive In, Hinsdale, NH

2009-05-29T06:05:00.001-04:00

This is a great place to take the kids at least once per summer. A green and beautiful drive takes you up to Northfield (actually Hinsdale), where you can enjoy the parking lot atmosphere and have something to eat while you wait for dark. A large playground is provided (though it's pretty old equipment). Concessions are available but why not bring a spread of your own with everything that you like? If your kids start to cry during the movie, just roll up your windows and turn the movie's volume up on your radio. Eventually they will fall asleep and you can watch the rest of the double feature.

We are really looking forward to visiting again this year.

Northfield Drive In

July 2009

2009-05-28T20:00:00.030-04:00

July 1,8,15,22,29 - "FAMILY STARSHIP" series: Wednesdays at 6:30 pm - Free family fun in the Levanway Meeting Room or on the back lawn of the library.

July 1 - Children's Music Concert, Williamstown, MA (Free)

July 2, 3, 4, 5 - Chicopee Fest Of All (Free)

July 3- Free Admission to the Boston Museum of Science, courtesy of the Highland Street Foundation (Free)

July 4 - Monson Summerfest , Monson, MA (Free)

July 4 - Boat Parade at Congamond Lake, Southwick (Free)

July 4, 5,6 - Hoop City Jazz Festival, Springfield, MA (Free)

July 5 - Old Fashioned Ice Cream Social, Keep Homestead Museum, Monson

July 7 - Children's Music (Mudcakes) at Cup and Top Cafe (Free)

July 7, 14, 21, 28 - Watercolor Workshop at the Clark (Free)

July 7,14,21,28 - Storytime and Craft at the Granby Public Library (my post) (Free)

July 8 - Children's Music Concert, Buttery Brook Park (Free)

July 8 - Toe Jam Puppet Band, W.S. Middle School Auditorium, West Springfield (Free)

July 8, 15,22, 29 - Free movies for kids. 10 AM. Showcase Cinemas, West Springfield. 413 733 5131. Movie listings.

July 9 - Toe Jam Puppet Band at the Palmer Library, 10:30 AM

July 11 - New Park Opening in South Hadley - Celebration (Free)

July 11 - Learn to Fish Clinic at Aldrich Lake, Granby. Free, but Pre Register at 413 253 2883

July 11 - 19th Century Children's Circus, Emily Dickinson Museum, Amherst

July 11, 12 - Living History Days, Belchertown

July 11, 18, 25 - Children's Event at Eastfield Mall (Free)

July 12 - Royalston Music Festival

July 12 - Cherry Festival, Outlook Farm, Westhampton, MA (my post) (Free)

July 13 - Children's Music at the Palmer Library, 10:30 AM

July 15 - "Starry Night" Take a look at constellations with Rachel Roberts. 6:30 PM, Greenfield Public Library (Free)

July 16 - Free Frisbee Clinic, 4:30 PM on the Belchertown Common, sponsored by the Clapp Library

July 16, 17,18 - Green River Festival, GCC

July 17 - Big Rig Day at Buttery Brook Park

July 18, 19 - Yankee Doodle Days, Charlemont (Free)

July 20 - "Blast-off into Reading" with award-winning science teacher Rachel Roberts, Saturday, June 20 at 10:30 am. Kick off summer with free science fun! Go on a "Space Walk" and get to know your planets! Meet in the Levanway Meeting Room downstairs at the library. In the kids' room, sign up for "Starship Adventure" & learn to use "ReadsinMa" to list your books. Greenfield Public Library (Free)

July 23 - Puppet Show at the Palmer Library , 10:30 AM (Free)

July 24 - Free Admission to the Franklin Park Zoo, courtesy Highland Street Foundation

July 25 - Christmas in July at Heritage State Park, Holyoke (Santa from 12:30 - 3:30 PM)

July 25 - Hampden County 4-H Fair

July 25 - Celebrate Ludlow - includes fireworks! (Free)

July 25 - Historic Angino Farm Tours, Newton (Free, but Register)

July 25 - Blackstone Valley Celtic Festival

July 25 - Becket Community Fair

July 25 - Learn to Fish Clinic at Mt. Tom State Reservation (my post) Free, but Pre Register at 413 584 6788

July 30 - Storytelling and Music for kids, 10 AM at the Monson Free Library.

July 31, August 1,2 - Adams Agricultural Fair, Adams, MA (Free)

July 31 - Free Admission to the Boston Children's Museum, courtesy Highland Street Foundation

Viewing Tower, Quabbin, Ware, MA

2009-05-28T05:41:00.003-04:00

Update: Tower was still closed on July 4, 2009.

Original Post:

On our recent visit we learned that the tower is closed for renovations, with an expected re-opening date of June 30, 2009. The views pictured above are from the base of the lookout tower.

The vista from the top is of some of the many Quabbin islands - hilltops that have become hummocks on the water. It's often misty, and always very beautiful. Think Avalon.

A large parking lot is surrounded by a circular drive. Picnic spots are dotted along the edge, where scenery is the most lovely.

The walkway leading to the tower is short, and paved, so you could potentially take your stroller. There are also a number of trails leading from this spot. Several years ago we walked around the area quite a bit and found the paths difficult to navigate - if memory serves, we had a barely toddling little guy who couldn't keep his footing on the roots and rocks. We are looking forward to exploring this area again, this time with our baby in a backpack.

Quabbin (DCR site)

Winsor Dam (my post)

Quabbin Hike (my post)

Quabbin Fishing Area (my post)

Fairy Houses

2009-05-28T05:28:00.003-04:00

This activity is great for at home or out somewhere. The fun begins with treasure hunting for various materials to construct your house, and selection of an appropriate location. Then you're ready to start building. It was fun for me to do this, and my boys got into it also - especially my 3 year old. They introduced action figures and animal figures to the houses, so it turned into free play when we were done.

As it turned out, this was also a cool nature activity. Looking at the materials up close prompted a lot of questioning. And answering, of course.

Book that inspired us

How-to information

Sunwheel, UMass, Amherst, MA

2009-05-27T08:32:00.003-04:00

I accessed this spot from Amity street, but I believe you are also able to use the UMass Stadium entrance.
We were there on a sunny day, which I recommend since it dramatizes the rocks/sculptures/icons. The kids had a blast running around here, and spent a long time in the meadow of wildflowers just outside of the mowed circle that surrounds the monument.
The meadow and a small bridge create the sense of being in a park - a defined area. I liked this. We spent about an hour here. That's probably the upper limit of entertainment here, except maybe older kids who were more interested in the meaning of the Sunwheel. Or if you picnicked.

Sunwheel Website

Make a sunwheel at home

Astronomy and Spirituality

Holland Glen, M-M Trail, Belchertown, MA

2009-05-27T05:28:00.001-04:00

Update: Our recent visit here found the trail well used, the parking area full. The top two photos are from May 24, 2009. We went up to a fairly large waterfall area with a pool underneath. A campfire area and large picnic rock overlook the small waterway.

This gorgeous walk follows the path of a babbling brook as it flows through a serene wooded landscape.

From the M-M trail guide:
Mass. Rte. 9, Holland Glen, to Mount Lincoln (5.0 miles)
An interesting walk over ridge tops and beside dancing streamlets on footpaths and old town roads long since abandoned, bordered on the West Hill area by sturdy pioneer stone walls with old cellar holes which mark the site of an old agrarian community, all now in mixed forest. Holland Glen is a steep-sided ravine with a crystal dashing stream, shaded by a mature hemlock stand, forever preserved by the Belchertown Historical Society.

Fish Hatchery, Sunderland, MA

2009-05-22T09:58:00.008-04:00

This hatchery is quite different from the one we usually visit. The pools are layed out to resemble a natural waterway, and the permanent screens arched over the top support wildflowers and tall grass. The area is wooded and the paths are pleasant. On the down side, only two of the pools were inhabited by fish, so there was some disappointment. There was no fish food for sale there (that we noticed, anyways). Also in contrast to my experience at the McLaughlin Hatchery, there was a bit of an unpleasant odor. I noticed it when we first climbed out of the van, but quickly acclimated to it. It didn't really impinge on our visit - but it was there.

Fish Hatcheries

Mt. Sugarloaf, Sunderland, MA

2009-05-21T20:47:00.001-04:00

In the words of my children, "this definitely looks like a hiking zone." We parked way up at the top, so the only hiking we did was up the stairs of the observation tower. There are a number of beautiful picnic spots, including a large pavillion with tables beneath.
The summit is very parklike, and the kids had a great time romping around, inspecting bugs and rocks. The view made an initial impression on them, but they quickly forgot about it. My oldest, at 4, spent the longest time admiring the view, noticing that the cars were very small, and lo and behold, the road was small too. The observation tower was alluring as a castle hosting one red dragon and one blue prince.
Take 116 all the way through Sunderland and into Deerfield (over the blue bridge). A couple of intersections later turn right; immediately start looking for the brown DCR sign on your right hand side. The road to the summit has at least one secondary parking area that I noticed, perhaps there are more. There is a $2 parking fee.

Mt. Sugarloaf

Bonfire at Chestnut Hill, May 21, 2009, Belchertown, MA

2009-05-20T09:45:00.004-04:00

BONFIRE ’09 ADDING MORE HEAT TO BELCHERTOWN ON A HOT THURSDAY EVENING Green Day Tribute Band ‘Dookie’ Scheduled To Play at 8pm at Chestnut Hill Athletic Fields
For Immediate ReleaseMay 20, 2009 Belchertown, MA – A huge bonfire and a live band known as ‘DoOkiE’, a Green Day Tribute Band that plays all over the nation, will take over the Chestnut Hill Athletic Fields on Thursday, May 21, 2009 from 7pm to 10pm. Great visuals from 7:45pm – 8:15pm for special prayer for a recent death of a Belchertown student’s father (Marc C. Sugrue), lighting of the bonfire, national anthem and student singing group performance before the entrance of the band. The Green Day band is famous for Boulevard of Broken Dreams (I Walk Alone), the 2006 Grammy Awards Record of the Year. Along with other hit songs like Longview, Basketcase and When I Come Around, Green Day is known for the song Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) which was the nostalgic musical end of the final episode of NBC’s Seinfeld . DoOkiE, will be performing all these hit Green Day songs and more. Gate opens at 7pm and food and lite fare will be available as well as some great raffle prizes. The Bonfire ’09 event is open to all friends, family and residents of the area and will have plenty of police and fire protection. All the fun will be for a new non-profit organization in Belchertown, MA, Future Leadership: Journey 2009. The new organization is in the process of applying for a State Non-Profit Certificate and will assist six Belchertown High School students in raising funds for educational travel to Europe and Africa this summer. Tickets are available for presale by calling Ms. Lori Brown @ (413) 323.6064 / lbrownma@charter.net or Ms. Elizabeth Taras @ (413) 687.3144 / elizabeth@marketmentors.net. Day of event prices are $20 for those 12 – 21 and $10 for adults over 21. Children under 12 are free.

Stone Soup Farm, Belchertown, MA

2009-05-19T18:59:00.001-04:00

On Jackson St. in Belchertown, across from the DPW, lies the Stone Soup Farm and the Belchertown Community Gardens. Inside the barn are the fresh vegetables picked that day, which you can purchase for great prices. Last summer our kids discovered how refreshing it can be to bite into a juicy cucumber and eat it whole, when you are walking miles and miles through hot summer evenings, in a fruitless effort to jiggle a sibling out of your mother.
There are some chickens running around, and plenty of cattle to view from afar, but there weren't any other animals there at that time. We enjoyed walking along the edge of the community gardens, looking at what individual farmers had done with their plots.

CISA

Dr. Spooky's, South Deerfield, MA

2009-05-19T11:24:00.002-04:00

"I vill Suck zee Money out of your Wallet!"

Dr. Spooky's cost us $26.50 to get in with 2 parents and 2 kids . However, there were a lot of cool exhibits. Spiders, bats, birds, and rodents were the stars of this zoo. There was also a dinosaur section which included killing claw fossils (the second toe of many carnivorous raptors was elongated, curved, and razor sharp), a model of a large pterosaur, and a somewhat disappointing "dinosaur fight" where you basically go in a dark tent and they play a recording of roars and thundering footsteps. The store area had a lot of dinosaurs also. It was open to the rest of the museum (slightly annoying).

On one hand I would love to go back to see it again, on the other hand.... $26.50? I could take us all out to lunch.

Austin Brothers Valley Farm, Belchertown, MA

2009-05-17T17:13:00.002-04:00

Austin Farm is a working farm, so it is not open to the public on a regular basis. However, this fall they plan to have a pumpkin patch, so you can get your pumpkin right here in Belchertown, if that happens to be where you live! They also had an Easter Egg Hunt this year - you can see pictures on the farm blog.

The Farm has been in the Austin Family for generations, and they are truly a farming family. On the day of my visit I watched Mama Farmer corral and feed the ponies, pushing Baby Farmer in her stroller; with a lead or a bucket in her other hand. Girl Farmer explained to my sons that her chore was to clean the fresh eggs and put them in containers. Girl and my boys happily romped all over the mulch pile, scenic road, playground equipment, chicken coops, and open fields.

All of the animals here were well cared for. A working farm is not particularly scenic up close, but having visited a few, it is clear to see when the land is loved. This land is loved.

Austin Farm has a shop that is open year round where you can purchase grass fed meats, including beef and pork. You can also find their booth at the Belchertown Farmer's Market (Thursdays from 2PM-7PM on the Belchertown Common).

Austin Brothers Valley Farm

Outlook Farm, Westhampton, MA

2009-05-17T07:30:00.001-04:00

Outlook Farm was holding a special event on the day of our visit. Activities included a water balloon toss, free ice cream, face painting, tissue paper flowers. The shop is a deli/convenience/small grocer and a restaurant. Westhampton is quite rural, so this is a store-of -all-trades. Quite charming!

I was able to pick up a few plants for my garden at GREAT prices. This is not a regular spot I would take my kids, but I will definitely visit again anytime they are holding a family event like the one I attended yesterday.

Outlook Farm

Long Hollow Bison Farm, Hadley, MA

2009-05-16T17:49:00.006-04:00

Long Hollow Bison Farm is not a regular destination for families, but they hold special events and seasonal events. I've been here on a couple of occasions for hayrides, but not for several years, in all honesty.
The farm is located on Rt. 9 in Hadley. Heading from Amherst to Northampton the farm is on your right, about half a mile past the malls.
The farm has been subject to a degree of debate because a lot of the land was sold to Lowe's for a big new store, which they are building right now, so if your kids like construction vehicles, that's a good reason to stop here in and of itself!

Ludlow Reservoir, Ludlow, MA

2009-05-13T13:50:00.001-04:00

One of the few times that we've brought our 8 month old out in a stroller was at the Ludlow Reservoir. Since the path is paved, it's perfect for bikes, wagons, strollers, joggers, etc. The first time we visited our baby was in a sling and I took the top two photos while sitting on a large rock nursing. We went about a mile out each time, for a total walk of two miles. Some of the side trails are open but many are signed clearly that you may not access them.
There are no restrooms, but there is a porta-potty off to the left a bit down the way.
Parking is free.

Ludlow Reservoir (also called Springfield Reservoir)

Trolley Museum, Shelburne Falls, MA

2009-05-12T06:14:00.004-04:00

This small museum has model train sets which function, history and hobby items. The treat is the real, working trolley car outside which you can ride in - the trip is short but exciting for toddlers. My visit was around 2006/2007 - when we go back I'll add some updated information.

Opening Day for 2009 is May 23rd.

Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum

Lupa Zoo, Ludlow, MA

2009-05-11T23:21:00.003-04:00

Update:

My recent visit here was excellent. The zoo has put a lot of work into improving the landscaping, the insides and outsides of the enclosures, the seating areas. Even the signage directing you around looked fresh and was helpful. The playground had been reinvigorated, too. In all, the facility looked so well cared for, and the attention to detail was remarkable. I was so impressed, especially with my memory of a previous visit around 2006.
I highly recommend visiting here.

Original Post:

There is plenty of parking here, right when you pull in. Pay at the gate and buy food if you care to.
Once you're in, wander where you will. They have a very wide variety of animals.
This is not the most wonderful zoo in the world. Some cages are so thick with bars and mesh that the animals can't be seen. Some areas are not cared for or are stinky. However, compared to the higher profile Southwick Zoo, Lupa compared favorably in these areas. All zoos are smelly, and all except for a prize few have too many bars on the cages.

A small train ride is adjacent to the giraffes, who have their own viewing area up a staircase.

You can leave Lupa Zoo feeling nickle and dimed, as there are separate charges to enter, for animal food, for seeing the giraffe, for the giraffe food, for the train ride.... catch the drift? On the other hand, the admission price is really reasonable, compared to similar attractions.

Bring a lunch.

Restrooms are located in the main zoo building. As far as I know this is the only restroom location, so use it the first time you pass or you may be backtracking quite a bit.

Lupa Zoo

June 2009 Events

2009-05-09T07:40:00.024-04:00

June 4 - Ice Cream Social at the River Valley Market, Northampton, MA

June 6,7,13,14 - Silver Kingdom Renaissance Festival

June 6 - NATIONAL TRAILS DAY - There are activities all over the region.
1. Wachusett Mountain

2. Ashfield - Come enjoy National Trails Day with some hard work in a beautiful area with good company. Ashfield Trails is coordinating a trail clearing day for the five-mile trail from Sanderson Academy to Bear Swamp. Crews will head north and south from the two trailheads at Bug Hill.
When: Saturday June 6th 9:00 am
Where: Meet at the top of Bug Hill Rd., Ashfield
Questions? Call Phil Pless at 628-3959

3.Little Tom Reservation, Holyoke
Saturday, June 6th 9-1PM
National Trails Day- Little Tom Trail Workday
Help staff and volunteers to develop and improve the visitor trail in preparation for the opening of Little Tom (in 2012). Extend the mile that has already been built while enjoying Little Tom’s beautiful woodlands. This event is coordinated with events being held on trails around the country. All tools provided. Please dress in long-pants, a work shirt and sturdy shoes. Bring gloves, snack, and water. Free. Pre-register at 413-532-1631 x 13 or pvregion@ttor.org for directions and logistics.

4. Tully Trail Blitz, June 6, 2009 - National Trails Day 8:30AM - 12:30PM Meet at Tully Lake Campground

This June 6th, National Trails Day you can have the opportunity to give back to a trail you adore, or to discover something new in a meaningful way. Our goal is to clear the entire 22-mile trail loop in one half day. We'll only be able to do it with your help, so bring your boots and your bug spray and come find out how good it feels to care for our connection to this amazing area.

5. At the Notch, from 10am-12pm. "This easy trail is perfect for all ages and abilities. My post.

June 6 - Farm Tours throughout Hadley, MA (Hadley 350th Celebration)
1. Mapleline Farm
2. Hibbard Farm (311 River Drive, 1:30 PM- 4:30 PM, 413-549-5684 for additional info.)

June 7 - Astarte Farm Tour, Hadley, MA. Tours at 11AM and 2PM.

June 7 - Pop Up Book Workshop:
There will be a pop-up bookmaking workshop given by artist Jeannie
Hunt on Sunday, June 7th from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Senior
Center in Chesterfield. Children ages 8 – 12, with one attending
parent or grandparent, will learn how to create simple pop-up books.
Refreshments will be provided. Space is limited; call Kester
Warlow-Harry at 413-296-8058 to register. The workshop is supported by
the Friends of the Chesterfield Public Library and grants from the
Cultural Councils of Chesterfield, Goshen, Westhampton, Williamsburg
and Worthington.

June 9- Children's Music Concert, Amherst, MA (Free)

June 10 - Children's Music Concert at Buttery Brook Park, South Hadley, MA

June 12, 13, 14 - Charter Days in Granby!

June 13- Book Festival at the Eric Carle Museum (my post) featuring children's music concert

June 13 - Volunteer Day at Red Gate Farm (Free)

June 13 - Kids Festival at the Christ Lutheran Church, Southwick (Free)

June 13 - Shelburne Falls Riverfest

June 13- Birch Hill Dam Recreational Area Hike (Free)

June 13 - Kids Ride FREE at the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat

June 14 -Hadley's 350th Anniversary Parade, Hadley, MA

June 16 - Children's Music Concert, Florence, MA (Free)

June 18-21 - Taste of Amherst

June 20, 21 - Playshop

June 20 - Storrowton Village Opening Day Celebration (Free)

June 21 - Fathers' Day Event at the Wisteriahurst Museum

June 27 - Family Bird Fest at Mt. Tom Reservation 1-5PM (my post)

June 27, 28 - Bryant Homestead, Cummington, 1–5 PM
I Spy! at the Bryant Homestead
207 Bryant Road, Cummington
Be a detective and discover the Homestead’s secrets on this self-guided walk using a hands-on spy pack. Trustees of Reservations members: Child $4; Non members: Child $6. Family rates. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call 413-532-1631 x13 on weekdays or 413-634-2244 on weekends for information.

June 27 - Miller Tract, Peaked Mountain, Butler Road, Monson
10AM-12 noon
Wet and Wiggly: Pond Exploration
Join naturalist Kevin Kopchynski for an all-ages day of pond playing and muck making in Lunden Pond. We will look at aquatic macroinvertebrates, beaver lodges and more!

June 27 - Monson Fireworks!

June 29 - Stanley Park’s Friday Mornings for Children, Gary the Silent Clown, Beveridge pavilion from 10:00 am to 10:45 am.
For further information on the Friday Mornings for Children Series please call the park office at 413-568-9312.

Glue and Dirt

2009-05-09T06:35:00.006-04:00

My children were inspired by the art on display at the Clapp Library. The exhibit features photos of the children making the artwork, as well as the pieces themselves. It's very Reggio Emilia. One technique was using natural materials on the sticky side of some contact paper. I did not have the sticky paper but we were able to re create the idea anyway.

This was an awesome project requiring nothing but Elmer's glue and cardboard, though at one point I think I brought the tape out. A variation on this is to use cardboard cut into the shape of a wreath, to make a seasonal decoration.

Reasons to Look Under a Dead Log

2009-05-05T15:50:00.004-04:00

1. Nature is not dangerous for children. Take commonsense precautions like sunblock and bug repellent, but if you find yourself on a path by a river on a gorgeous day in May, sunlight streaming through new, unfurling leaves - think of it as an extra dose of vitamin D and keep walking. I'll admit that when I had two children under 2, and when I had two children under 3, and now with three children under 5 - I avoid deep water because I feel it isn't safe with only one parent. There is no need to worry about wild animals or bugs. Hiking with kids is safer than a lot of other activities due to lack of motor vehicles.

2. Children do appreciate nature. Kids need you to model appreciation for nature - to call their attention to beautiful or fascinating aspects of the natural world. This pays off when your 4 year old spontaneously prays, "Thank You, God, for this day! The sky is so blue!" and your 3 year old pipes up, "Mom, I see a forsythia! It's a beautiful yellow forsythia, over there!" My kids love water - small streams that they can dam up with rocks and sticks, or still water to throw stones into. They love sticks, for walking, throwing, weilding, smacking - and in the open woods, they can have sticks. They will eagerly hunt for Signs of the Season, identify plant species and observe animals.

3. It's not difficult to introduce your children to nature. All you need to do is step outside. The book, Last Child in the Woods, makes a point that natural world is not a separate entity from an "artificial world" that you live in, but can be found immediately outside our doors and windows in most cases, if not down the street. Your yard probably contains plenty of plant species, bugs and worms, and you can see birds, squirrels, clouds, sun and moon. This book posits that continuity in observation of a familiar nature spot is more important than far flung exploration, climbing mountains, etc. Louv demonstrates the importance and lasting effect of watching a single area, for instance an empty lot at the end of a city block, or the ditch behind the grocery store where kids ride bikes - or your backyard.

4. There's a lot to do in every season. In our area, hiking can happen all year long, with the exception of really cold snaps where temperatures are in the teens and low twenties. Bundle the kids up, keep the activities short. Include short outdoor play sessions when you do another activity, like a museum or shopping. Snow is the ultimate play dough, blocks, art surface, science experiment... Kids are different - I have one that complains of the cold incessantly and another who will hardly wear his coat. Experiment with what works for your family, but don't stay in once the temperature dips below 50, or refuse to walk in the rain. A rainy day is a day you are living and breathing.

Richard Louv, Last Child in the Woods

Dead Log Activity Guide

May 2009 Events

2009-05-05T14:28:00.024-04:00

May 8 - Nature Program with Rachel Roberts (Free)

May 9 & 10- Amherst Town Fair

May 10- Open House at The Art Bridge (Free)

May 11- Happy Dan at the Belchertown Family Center

May 12- Children's Music at Bart's Ice Cream (Free)

May 16 - Northampton Day at Look Park

May 16- Outlook Farm Bloomin Festival (Free)

May 16- International Fair, Amherst Montessori School (Free)

May 17- Five Mile Pond Family Fishing Festival (Free)

May 21- Nature Program - Fascinating Frogs! (Free)

May 21- Concert and Bonfire, Belchertown

May 23- Opening Day at the Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum

May 23- Playshop at the Hitchcock Center

May 23- Mass. Sheep and Woolcraft Fair

May 24- Littleville Fair Association's Memorial Day Festival

May 24- Antique Tractor Show at the Long Hollow Bison Farm (Free)
My post with photos of the Farm

May 24 - Folk Music Concert at Mt. Greylock (Free)

May 28- Belchertown Farmer's Market 2009! On the common,2PM-7PM,every Thursday.

May 29, 30 - Seed Festival, Colrain 400 Adamsville Road, Colrain
Family activities:
4:00 Make wildflower garlands, Sing peasant worksongs
5:00 Seed-exchange with workshops
6:30 Potluck
7:30 Seed Circle: Growing Local Seed Systems
growseed@yahoo.com
413 624 0214
www.growseed.org
Celebrate spring renewal, exchange seeds and plant almost-extinct heritage wheats. Bring a local organic potluck dish. Study circle on ancient food and seed systems and modern challenges.

May 29 - Hidden History Along the Auto Road at Skinner State Park - Mass. Dept. of Conservation and Recreation sponsors 3.2-mile nature walk along the auto road May 29, 6-9 p.m., Skinner State Park, Route 47, Hadley. Meet at Main Gate, Mountain Road, off Rte. 47, Hadley. Free. Ginny, 584-6788.

May 30 - Same as above, at 9 AM.

May 30- Hilltown Spring Festival

May 30- Fort River Festival, Groff Park, Amherst (my post on Groff Park)

May 30 - Hudson Community Fest, Hudson, MA

Mt. Pollux, Amherst, MA

2009-05-05T11:49:00.005-04:00

Update: How to Find It

OK. A couple of things. There are two roads, easily confused. One is called Mt Pollux and is NOT the street that leads to the parking area - it's a dead end and signed as such. If you were coming from South Amherst Common you would pass it first and continue 3/10 of a mile down the road to Mt. Pollux itself. Coming from Bay road, if you see the dead end you've already passed the entrance. Adjacent to the drive up to the parking area is a yellow house with a red metal roof. The street looks like it could be the driveway to this house, but of course keeps going. If you have not reached the parking area in about 20 seconds you are on the wrong street. There is only room for one car and tall grasses line the road and mid summer almost choke it.
Hope that helps!

Original Post:
Just off SouthEast St. in Amherst is a small road leading up a hill to a parking area with half a dozen spots. Leading up the hill is a path through a meadow (home to small yellow butterflies in number). At the top of the hill you have a 360 degree view of trees, mountains, and steeples. Several enormous shade trees and a few benches make this a divine picnic spot.

The Amateur Astronomers Association meets here.

Also,
Paneurhythmy - Meditative movement set to sacred music every Saturday, Sunday and holiday at 8 a.m., Mt. Pollux, South East St., Amherst. Free. 253-0628 or 549-1112.

Cold Spring School Conservation Area, Belchertown, MA

2009-05-03T07:41:00.005-04:00

Just across a field from the Cold Springs School Playground, this conservation area is very convenient if you'd like to blend a little nature with a little climbing. During the summer the back of this field is covered in beautiful wildflowers.

Higgins Armory, Worcester, MA

2009-05-02T12:50:00.006-04:00

Parking is ample, and free. Admission is on the pricier side. The exhibits were fantastic, many many full suits of armor, weaponry, a large and fun kids room, stained glass windows, and more. The museum is even designed to look like a castle inside.

The children's area was a large open room. My sons spent most of their time at a model castle, using a myriad of toy horses and knights. There was a large dress up area - I wore the "queeniest" thing my oldest could find. An oversized chess board was surrounded by smaller gaming tables, set with checkers or chess. Other features were a puppet theater, a reading area, crayon rubbings, real helmets to try on.

I was disappointed that they were asking an additional $5 for the kids to make a cardboard shield. I peeked in, to decide whether I wanted to pay that much, and it was a very easy decision. We did not participate in that project. Just a few months ago we made much more impressive shields at home with a diaper box and some hot glue. For free.

There was a gift shop downstairs with several small tables adjacent to it. There was a vending machine with soda and juice.

Higgins Armory

Reed Conservation Area, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-26T07:53:00.001-04:00

This mostly low lying and marshy area is home to a lot of wildlife and interesting ponds and vegetation. The trails were wide and the hike was pretty. Two picnic tables in great condition are set out by the pond pictured above.

From the Belchertown Conservation Commission:

Reed Property Conservation Area
This 93-acre parcel, located on Gold St., is Belchertown’s was purchased on May 7, 2002. The main goal for this land acquisition was to protect the Jabish Brook, to maintain the water quality and wildlife habitat capacity of this brook. This property is adjacent to Knights Pond, which are the headwaters for the Jabish Brook.
This property already contains an extensive network of trails throughout the entire parcel that can be utilized for hiking, skiing and other passive recreation activities. A 2-acre pond is located on Lot #10.00, easily accessible by car, which is located within the area the Conservation Commission wants to develop into a picnic and fishing area. The Reed property provides the Town and the surrounding community with a conservation area, which has handicapped accessibility, the first in the area. This property is contiguous with other open space areas and will provide a greenway, connecting lands owned by Springfield Water District and the Cadwell Memorial Forest, located in Pelham, which is owned by the University of Massachusetts and is home to Mt. Lincoln.

Earth Week 2009, Western Massachusetts

2009-04-21T20:21:00.004-04:00

I'll continue to add events that look good, as I find them.

At the Notch - (April 20) This is one that I'll definitely attend with the kids. I have always been pleased with nature programs here. (my post)

Review: We had a good time at this event. The leader, Ginny, was very welcoming and very prepared. The group was larger than usual and all the kids were excited about the program. Children searched for signs of spring and collected loose treasures in clear boxes that were provided.

At UMass - (April 22) Sounds like fun, with a petting zoo and other attractions. Parking might be hairy - but on a nice day, park in downtown Amherst and walk.

Review: We attended this event and found it fun. A collaborative painting on big planks of wood was set up, my kids rather liked the bubble machine, there was live music and free tea. This event could possibly have been a little better organized, (the main thing being that there was no petting zoo as promised...)

In Belchertown - (April 22) The Conservation Commission will be hosting a Nature Walk of Piper Farm on Earth Day.
Article in: http://www.belchertown-news.com/

In Belchertown - (April 25) Earth Day Celebration at the Clapp Library, 11-1. Sponsored by the Belchertown High School L.E.A.F. Club (Local Environmental Action Club)

At the Springfield Quadrangle - (April 19) Earth Day Festival. We attended last year and had LOTS of fun casting a fishing line, making paper, eating free ice cream, dancing to live music, and much more. (my post)

Review: We arrived around 12:30 and were able to enjoy the all of the above exhibits and activities, as well as visit the George Walter Vincent Smith Museum to make an elephant puppet (one kid), visit the Science Museum (the other kid). They do a great job on this event.

At Mt. Tom - (April 22) Earth Day for Families. Two times with different activities/age groups at each one. (my post)

Nature/Art/Music Playshop

2009-04-21T19:56:00.009-04:00

This is a day long program to be held at the Hitchcock Center on April 26. I haven't attended one of these in the past, but it sounds like a compelling mixture of disciplines.

From workshop leader Marcy Gregoire:

"This is our third day long work/playshop, and has been a GREAT success.
Each time we spend time in nature, create original art, and write, record, and perform an Earth-based song.

We are asking a $35 fee for the day, with scholarships and sliding scale prices available. No one will be turned away due to lack of financials.

We do ask that they bring a lunch and snack. The age ranges from 3-12 so far. We love involving various age groups. It's great to see them all interact."

For registration or additional information:

marcy@underthetreeart.com

(413) 768-7114
Under The Tree Art

Hike at MacLeod Pond

2009-04-20T19:21:00.002-04:00

From Hilltown Families

COLRAIN, MA
The Deerfield River Watershed Association is continuing its hikes to help people know the wonderful spots in their watershed. On Saturday, April 25, there will be an easy (less than one mile) hike in to MacLeod Pond in the Catamounts. This is a very special small lake and a beautiful spot. From there, some can return to their cars or there are interesting hikes around the pond or to other smaller ponds in the area. We will meet at the state parking lot on Route 2 in East Charlemont at 10:00 a.m. to car pool since parking is limited at the trail head. Those interested in joining us should pre register with the leader, Polly Bartlett at 625-6628 or at dbartlet@crocker.com after April 14.

Cold Springs Orchard, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-16T13:45:00.001-04:00

The views are pastoral and relaxing, the apples are crisp and fresh, the prices are reasonable. Pick your own or buy them at the orchard store. I like to purchase the large bags of seconds in the autumn for pies and crisps. Squash is also available in autumn - gourds, pumpkins and other eating squashes.

The store is open seasonally.

Further down Sabin St. you might see sheep, llamas, and cows. In the evening hours look for bobcats and coyotes.

Cold Spring Orchard

Red Gate Farm, Buckland, MA

2009-04-13T14:00:00.000-04:00

This is an educational farm and as such it offers quite a few programs. We attended a regular Saturday afternoon event, during which children are taught to feed and water various farm animals. These included sheep, goats, bison, and chickens. They carry the hay, operate the water pump, and reach under hens to retrieve eggs. They also had the special treat of holding lambs, only a few weeks old, in their arms. The program leader, Jen, was really comfortable directing the kids in their tasks and knew our kids' names by the end of the hour.

Red Gate Farm

Piper Farm, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-10T10:28:00.004-04:00

This short walk is right off 202 near the Belchertown schools, so it's good if you are heading to the playground after, as we did. Otherwise, I think I'll pick a different spot.

There was plenty of interesting-looking rusty trash, plenty of bittersweet vines- which actually looked haunting and amazing because the leaves aren't yet out, plenty of old stone walls.

A short loop was probably a half mile or so.

No restrooms, free parking.

Flayvors of Cook Farm, Hadley, MA

2009-04-08T18:02:00.004-04:00

This is a long-operating family farm. They offer lunches, ice cream, and other dairy products for sale in a little store/restaurant. Across the parking lot you can walk up to a pen of cows and say hi. There are usually a few chickens clucking around as well as a cat or so.

Inside, a large restroom is exceptionally clean. The staff here have been so friendly each time I've gone in. I have often stopped just to let the kids see the cows, but have made purchases on occasion as well and I've always been pleased with the quality of the items.

This is not a petting zoo. There is an electric fence adjacent to the viewing area - it is well marked but obviously your children will not care. It is muddy and smelly - it's a farm!

Flayvors of Cook Farm

Arcadia, Easthampton, MA

2009-04-08T18:02:00.003-04:00

There are numerous trails, a beautiful view of the oxbow of the Connecticut river. We started out along a wide leafy lane, smaller trails branching off at intervals. Heading down to the water, we saw birds overhead. In the late fall the air was damp and it was windy. There was a neat viewing tower with a long wooden walkway leading up to it.

This would be a nice shady summer hike.

The visitor center was closed when we visited recently. Parking is not free. There were no restrooms.

Arcadia

Description and Story

Nature Programs with Rachel Roberts

2009-04-08T12:07:00.005-04:00

We have attended a workshop given by Rachel Roberts at Northfield Mountain. We found it to be a great experience. There were multiple hands on projects, I mean half a dozen, not two! There were activities from complicated to simple. Rachel read two books and the kids enjoyed that also.

Below, I have copied the text of Rachel's email outlining the next 4 events that she will be leading:

The Greenfield Public Library presents "Sensational Seasons: Buds & Blossoms" a FREE workshop for families with young children. Join educator Rachel Roberts on Saturday, April 18 from 10:30-11:30 am in the Levanway Room for a workshop featuring games, books, and hands-on science and art activities exploring the parts and processes of plants in the springtime. To register, call Rachel at (413) 774-7290 or email robertsrml@verizon.net. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Greenfield Local Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

The Great Falls Discovery Center presents "Discovery Science: Fascinating Frogs!" a FREE workshop for families with young children. Join educator Rachel Roberts on Thursday, May 21 from 10:00-11:00 am for a workshop featuring games, books, and hands-on science and art activities focusing on the fascinating life cycle of frogs. No pre-registration is required, so pop in! For more information, go to the Great Falls Discovery Center's website: http://www.greatfallsma.org/ . This program is supported in part by a grant from the Montague Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

FOR SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN:

The Great Falls Discovery Center presents "Discovery Science: Playing with Plants" a FREE workshop for school-aged children. Join educator Rachel Roberts on Wednesday, April 22 from 10:00-11:00 am for a workshop featuring hands-on science and art activities focusing on the fascinating processes of plants. No pre-registration is required, so pop in! For more information, go to the Great Falls Discovery Center's website: http://www.greatfallsma.org/ . This program is supported in part by a grant from the Montague Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Join educator Rachel Roberts at Northfield Mountain Recreation & Environmental Center for an exciting FREE program exploring the parts and processes of plants in the springtime, "Nifty Nature: Buds & Blossoms" on Friday, May 8 from 10:00-11:30 am. Together we will read Susan Blackaby’s, “Buds & Blossoms” and do a variety of fun hands-on science and art projects connected with the book. We’ll learn about how plants respond to seasonal changes and look closely at their life-cycle. Weather permitting; there will be time to investigate buds, blossoms and other wildlife outside around Northfield Mountain (so dress appropriately). Pre-register by calling NMREC at 800-859-2960. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Northfield Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Easter Egg Hunt, Heritage State Park, Holyoke, MA

2009-04-08T10:43:00.003-04:00

From the Holyoke Merry Go Round website:

Saturday, April 11, Open 9-4.
Easter Egg Hunt 9-11am in Heritage State Park sponsored by Holyoke Parks & Recreation Dept.
Sunday, April 12, Easter Sunday, Open 12-4.
Easter Bunny visits 12-3pm and will give out treats, pose for pictures and take rides. Visitors wearing Easter finery, rabbit ears, whiskers, etc. receive a free ride.

For more information call 322-5620.

Heritage State Park

Mill River Recreation Area, Amherst, MA

2009-04-07T14:17:00.007-04:00

The Mill River complex is home to a pool, a wading pool, a playground, pavillion, and access to the Julius Lester Trail.

The wading pool is a tad deeper than the others in Amherst, which is nice for budding swimmers. The fountain is more of a spout and not very exciting.

There is a toddler playground area, including baby swings, and a newer structure for the bigger ones, pictured above.

Amherst Pool Schedule

Hitchcock Center, Amherst, MA

2009-04-07T12:07:00.007-04:00

Near the Larch Hill Reservation and the Bramble Hill Farm, this low brown building houses a gem of a nature center. Not only a great selection of books for browsing (borrowing if you are a member), but a live turle, goldfish, stick bugs, madagascar hissing cockroaches, millipedes, and more. Stuffed (as in, taxidermically) animals surround you, animal-themed puzzled, puppets and toys abound. There's a clean restroom there. It is a small space. The storytime at 11 on Tuesdays is fantastic and includes a nature walk. The walk is usually well under one mile and geared toward the group on any particular day. It is guided and the children are engaged in nature study- finding tracks, buds or birds' nests.
Hitchcock Center
Hitchcock Center History

Bramble Hill Farm

Barnes & Noble, Hadley, MA

2009-04-07T11:47:00.009-04:00

The children's section is a mixed bag. Of course, it is filled with beautiful books. It is also filled with so many shelves that your toddler is out of sight the instant he lets go of your hand. It is also filled with toys in boxes that require close supervision so that toddlers don't rip open packages. It is moreover filled with stuffed animals begging to participate in elaborate reenactments of Diego in the middle of the floor where people are trying to walk.
I have only attended one storytime here, but the fact that it was a disaster had nothing to do with the location and everything to do with my day. The story area is a slightly raised stage and is surrounded by child sized tables and chairs. Very cute.
At the other end of the section is the second "play area."
The restrooms are clean and nice, but inconvenient to the kids' area.
The food is Starbucks, so good coffee and high prices.

Barnes & Noble

Southwick Zoo, Mendon, MA

2009-04-07T11:46:00.014-04:00

My visit here was two summers ago, on a hot hot day. The zoo was less impressive than I remembered it, having gone there as a child. However, the large visitor/science center was great, volunteers were holding millipedes and snakes; there were a lot of activities. If I return to this zoo I'll spend more time here. There were some charming features like a wooded area with a stream. My kids enjoyed the fox that they glimpsed through the trees.

There was a dinosaur section with large dinos you could ride, as well as an excavation area. Adjacent to this was an amphitheater; on the day of our visit a really awesome bird show was taking place but they were too young to go in at that point - specifically because a sign by the entry said that loud noises scare the birds.

The sea otters put on a wonderful show for us. A seating/vending/ride area had a train and a couple of other things that ranged from coins to a couple of bucks for the train. Waters were $2.

Parking was free, but the lot was pretty packed. Lots of buses, too.

Southwick Zoo

Lupa Zoo

Lupa Zoo (my post)

Belchertown Family Center, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-07T11:46:00.013-04:00

This is a beautiful family center. At one time this building was a school, so the center is equipped with three large rooms for various activities, a snack area, bathrooms, and a fenced in yard. The playground equipment here is more appropriate for toddlers than older children, but the older ones can find plenty to do with the cars (there is a long grassy hill), the sandbox, or swings. The family center hours are limited, but it's really a wonderful place, especially if your kid is gearing up for school and wants peers to play with.

Lynn Paul is the director of the center; she does a great job with programming, but also with being a warm host and making introductions. There are many parents who give their time and skills to improve the Center.

Snacks are provided, or donated by patrons. There is a $4 donation, but it really is a donation.

The family center has a yahoo! group that you can join to receive updates: belchertownfamilycenter@yahoogroups.com

Belchertown Family Center

Clapp Memorial Library, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-07T06:56:00.011-04:00

This is my local library. The building is charming, if controversial. The space is small, but the kids' area features a lego table, and my middle son knows exactly where the dinosaur aisle is. The librarians (ANNE, NANCY, GAIL AND MARY - THANK YOU!!!) at this library are the best ever, but again, it's my local library! Jennifer Whitehead, the children's librarian, creates and hosts wonderful programs for kids all year long. Storytimes from infant to school age children, music programs, science programs, and more. In coming years this quaint library may expand, which we are looking forward to. For now, the staff of the Clapp make this small space efficient, friendly, and one of the anchors of Belchertown's downtown and community.
We are obviously fans!

Clapp Memorial Library
Friends of the Clapp Memorial Library

Chestnut Hill Community Playground, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-07T06:54:00.012-04:00

This is an old playground, and that is the "charm." It was put up when wooden playgrounds were all the rage. The kids love crawling through the tunnels and going into the towers. There are no swings, they broke a couple of years ago. If you are extremely safety minded you'll want to know that splinters are a possibility here. On hot summer mornings there is a huge block of shady grass that you can sit on, and on warm spring days there is a sunny bench that you can sit on. Simple Pleasures.
The school also uses this playground. They can't officially kick you off because it's a community playground, but they may drop hints at you. The fifth and sixth graders rush the playground in a wave of heedless energy. My older son runs out and stretches his arms out wide, SO excited. My middle one finds me ASAP and hides behind my leg. Most of the kids are very nice and enjoy playing with the little ones.

Swift River Recreation Area, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-07T06:40:00.006-04:00

This is a popular spot for boating and fishing. You access the lot from Cold Springs Road in Belchertown. A path follows the Swift River downstream. The only time I took this walk it was very buggy, and it seemed like there was a lot of litter. However, there was also a lot of wildlife. We found a frog that day, as well as a half dozen ducks, birds, etc.
The parking is free.
There are no restrooms.

Kayaker's Opinion

Julius Lester Trail, Amherst, MA

2009-04-07T06:35:00.009-04:00

This walk begins in the wooden area adjacent to Mill River's baseball fields. The trail leads you over charming wooden bridges and along the edge of the river. We paused our walk at Puffer's Pond for lunch, then returned the way we had come. There is a path that leads around the pond, but our guys didn't have the stamina.

You do have to cross a road on this walk - it is pretty clear up ahead but it's something to be aware of. Upon reaching the road, cross the bridge, then cross the road, then continue up a paved path to pick up the trail to the pond. The blazes are yellow diamonds.

Dinosaur Footprints, Holyoke, MA

2009-04-07T06:26:00.004-04:00

Pull of Rt. 5 onto a half circle parking area. Walk down a small hill and you'll find this sign, and actual, honest to goodness, dinosaur prints. There's a culvert with clean water running through, so there were some rock throwing opportunities. The river is in sight through some trees. We did not spend much time here as it was an adjunct activity.

Dinosaur Footprints (Trustees of Reservations)

UMass Barns, Hadley, MA

2009-04-06T22:44:00.002-04:00

The public schedule for the barns is limited. The first Saturday of each month is the only time you are allowed to visit. Parking is in a large dirt lot. A footbridge leads over a muddy ditch, but it's in disrepair. You don't have to take the footbridge, but your kids may not be able to resist it. There are a few shady spots.

Three main barns house livestock, horses, and Mounted Police horses (this one usually closed to the public). A larger exposition building behind the main barns is open at times.
The Livestock Classic , an event held here each year, is a terrific opportunity to see the compound.
During this event you'll find food for sale from a couple of carts, many friendly animals and animal keepers, a small animal area (rabbits, gerbils..), tons of child oriented crafts. We really had a wonderful time at this event.

The Hadley Farm

Magic Wings Butterfly Museum, South Deerfield, MA

2009-04-06T21:50:00.002-04:00

This is a truly magical experience. This large facility has a greenhouse filled with flowering plants, birds, lizards, and THOUSANDS of amazing butterflies.

Parking is free, the lot is large. You enter into an atrium filled with butterfly art and information. Off to the right is a cafeteria. The food prices are ok, not great. You are not supposed to bring outside food, but I have done so in the past without a problem. The last time I visited my middle son requested a dish of fresh pineapple, which I bought for him even though it was $2.50 - it was a pretty good deal as the pineapple was fresh (not canned) and fresh (cut that day) and the portion was fairly generous. There are two entrances to the butterfly area proper. One is through a gift shop - it looks lovely but is filled with countless butterfly decorations made of glass and other non-child friendly materials. I have steered as clear as possible. The other entrance leads through a bug zoo. Many glass cases contain insects of note, and the displays are really great. You will get a lecture on the rules of the butterfly sanctuary but, in short, don't run, don't kill, and don't touch.

Each tour gives you about an hour in the butterfly area, which is a good amount of time. Aides handle the lizards and bugs and allow kids plenty of opportunity to touch them and learn about them. In addition to butterflies, many lizards and birds are housed here.

Look out - it is HOT in here - about 85 degrees year round. Dress yourself and kids in light clothing. There is a coat closet in the main room that you enter into.

Restrooms were not memorable, so, fine.

Magic Wings

Fish Hatchery, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-06T16:21:00.003-04:00

For 25 cents you can buy your kids a handful of fish food. I usually give them an empty Dunkin' Donuts bag that I have hanging around in the car, but of course that will not work for you unless you are also a slob. It's helpful for them to have a container, is my point.
Rainbow Trout swarm to the surface at each nugget of food. It's fun. Often you will see Herons, Eagles, and plenty of hawks and gulls. During part of the year the holding tanks are covered with nets to keep the birds out, but you can still see and feed the fish.
This is a relatively quick activity - don't plan to spend the day! We are usually in and out in under one hour. Sometimes we go in the really cold weather and spend 15 minutes. It is only a quarter, after all.
Biggest surprise about this place: It does NOT smell. Seriously. A faint odor sometimes, but not fishy.
Parking is free.
There are no restrooms.
Sunderland Hatchery (my post)
Massachusetts Fish Hatcheries

Holyoke Children's Museum, Holyoke, MA

2009-04-06T14:23:00.001-04:00

Overall a fun place to go. The climbing tower and tunnels are cool, as are the grocery store and restaurant areas. A small toddler area with privacy for nursing and toys is gated off. You can blow giant bubbles (though you probably won't be able to and either will your kids and they may cry over it, if they are prone to that kind of thing). Kids can pretend to drive a construction vehicle and/or an ambulance.
There is a seating area upstairs, but no food for sale.
This museum loses points for grunginess. It's a shame that it is so run down. However the staff are hard working and innovative. The museum seems to be improving every time I visit.
The climbing structure is right next to the water table area. You might want spare socks.
Restrooms are not gross.
The parking is across a park (Holyoke's Heritage State Park) from the museum. The Holyoke Carousel is the first thing you see. Outside the museum is a very small playground with benches around it. You are right by the canal so you can also look at the water. It's clean.
A very small gift shop area sits inconspicuously behind the check in area. They have toys from 25 cents or so, which is nice.
Passes for this museum are available at most local libraries.

Children's Museum at Holyoke

Erving Elementary School, Erving, MA

2009-04-06T14:06:00.002-04:00

On our way home from another activity, we spotted a great playground and decided to let the kids loose for a while. It was quite early in the season, a warm February or March day; the park was not busy, though our oldest found a friend to play with. The play equipment was very new. A separate toddler area, including a sandbox, is fenced in. The open play space is surfaced with a rubbery, impact-reducing substance. They had a nice swingset, and a tire swing.

Free Parking.

No Restrooms.

Erving Elementary School

Erving State Forest

Hyland Orchard, Sturbridge, MA

2009-04-06T14:05:00.002-04:00

Hyland Orchard has something for everyone. Pioneer Brewing company owns this orchard; you can purchase a delicious beer for a reasonable price. Caveat: only one or two beers are on tap outside, but you can purchase different varieties inside. Wagon and hayrides are available during various seasons to U-Pick areas of the property.
The playground is fenced in and is an amalgam of those large plastic play structures that are usually purchased for home use. The petting zoo has some of the cleanest and happiest animals (if not the most exotic) at any petting zoo I've been to. Animal food is available in $1 bags, or in 25 cent handfuls from a dispenser. Human food is available also, but the selection is rather thin - hot dogs and popcorn is the general idea. We have brought snacks with us most times.
A very large pavillion contains the vending areas, picnic table seating, and a stage for musical acts. The music is free. Parking is free. Restrooms are clean enough but there are only two real bathrooms, and they are located inside. There are a couple of porta potties on the grounds, but I have no idea how they are because I don't go in those.
A large lawn forms the center of the outdoor activity, with animals on one side and the pavillion on the other. There are several shade trees. The grass is very nice, too - we have always had a really fun time here. There is so much room for the kids to play and run around.

Hyland Orchards
Pioneer Brewery
Old Sturbridge Village

North Hadley Sugar Shack, Hadley MA

2009-04-06T14:05:00.001-04:00

During Maple Sugar Season this is a worthwhile place to visit. The restaurant provided an OK meal the only time I ate there. I was pregnant and starving, so that may have helped.

A door leads directly from the dining room to the sugar shack. Free samples of fresh syrup are available. The staff are friendly. Watch your kids near that fire - there is no barrier of any kind and the opening is large. A second door in the boiling room leads outside, to the rest of the activities.

Outside, a double gate leads into a petting zoo area. In the early spring I've found the ground muddy and littered with droppings everywhere - wear boots. However, the animals have very nice dispositions, they are well-cared for; that is the most important criterion for quality. Adjacent to the animal enclosure is a playground area. The equipment is old, but it's tidy.

Seasonally, wagon rides are available, pulled by the most majestic horses - very tall, with those bell-bottomed hooves and thick manes. The route is rather blah, however, and costs a couple of dollars.

The parking is free and the restrooms are fine. There is a cute store there which I'm looking forward to browsing more thouroughly someday.

North Hadley Sugar Shack

Massachusetts Maple Producers Association

Winsor Dam and Visitor Center, Quabbin, Belchertown, MA

2009-04-06T14:04:00.002-04:00

The Quabbin has many entrances and points of interest. The visitor center is located off Rt. 9 in Belchertown, close to Ware. A State Police Station is also there. The Winsor Dam is a half mile across and offers a spectacular view. It is perfect for strollers, wagons, bikes, etc., since it is paved. One side of the path drops away dramatically in a long steep hill of grass, on the other, soft and otherworldly hillocks rise up from the calm waters of the reservoir.
The visitor center is not a museum but it does have many interesting historical documents, pictures of the valley throughout history, and some animal themed displays like some stuffed birds.
The dam is very buggy, especially with gnats, most of the summer. It has two stone walls which children naturally gravitate toward, and which toddlers cannot really be trusted to navigate alone. The wind can be strong - once my stroller was knocked over with baby, infant seat, diaper bag, etc. It's also quite bright out there, with the water reflecting the sun back and no shade whatsoever. You may continue your hike after you reach the other side, a wide path leads over a bridge, with a view of a waterfall - an overflow outlet for the dam. Once, we continued down the brook for some way on a dirt path accessible by a flight of steps off the side of the main road.
Restrooms in the visitor center are adequate. Parking is free and copious; no shade.

The Quabbin