(BPT) - If you're planning a family trip for the next school break or long weekend, how about a destination offering unique attractions for the whole family? Whether you're traveling when there's still snow on the ground or after spring has sprung, there's a wealth of fun attractions and activities to explore in Western Massachusetts.
Here's just a sampling of what you can discover.
Oh, the places you'll go!
Did your kids grow up reading Dr. Seuss books? If so, you'll want to check out the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in Springfield, Massachusetts, the town where Dr. Seuss - also known as Theodor Geisel - was born in 1904. Kids will enjoy the lively exhibits and interactive play stations. Even better, time your visit to celebrate Dr. Seuss' birthday (March 2).
Then stop at the nearby Springfield Science Museum, where budding scientists can indulge their curiosity about the natural sciences, anthropology and physical sciences. Through May 4, The Robot Zoo exhibit will explore the biomechanics of complex animal robots to discover how real animals work. Make sure to save time for a Seymour Planetarium show to further ignite their imaginations - the sky's the limit.
Hungry for more? Take a trip through The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other beloved stories at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, where your children can learn how their favorite books were created.
This venue is a slam dunk
Did you know Springfield, Massachusetts, is also the birthplace of basketball? For fans of the world's most popular sport, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is a must-see. Learn about the game from its very beginnings to today, experience the fun interactive exhibits, then test your skills on the Jerry Colangelo "Court of Dreams."
The Hall of Fame also hosts events year-round, so it's best to check their calendar before planning your trip. One highlight is Hooplandia, the Northeast's Ultimate 3x3 Basketball Tourney and Festival held in June.
Shine a little light on the subject
Creative kids will have a "scentsational" experience at the Yankee Candle® Village in South Deerfield, offering special events all year including live music, games, seasonal attractions - and even the chance to create your own custom scent in a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Kids and kids-at-heart will be dazzled by the 7-foot-tall gumball machine and over 125 different types of candy. You can also enjoy craft beer, pizza, wraps and salads to fuel your visit. Make sure not to miss the awe-inspiring Candle Emporium featuring 200,000 candles.
Get outdoorsy together
While your kids may not be as awed by the area's stunning natural beauty as you are, the range of outdoor activities will thrill them. During winter you can choose from numerous area resorts for activities including skiing and snow tubing, such as at the Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Hancock or Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont for tons of family-friendly outdoor fun.
Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center in Northfield, Massachusetts, offers year-round activities including cycling, boating, fishing, paddle sports and more. Adventure seekers will definitely want to check out the Catamount Zip Tour at Catamount Mountain when the weather warms up. Their two-hour outdoor experience includes three dual-zipline spans and a chairlift ride up the mountain. The final span of the tour - the "Cata-monster" - is the longest zipline span in the U.S., just over one mile long.
The ultimate family fun spot
From April through October, you'll thrill the family with a day or two at Six Flags New England in Agawam, which offers exciting rides suitable for a variety of ages, plus water rides, live shows, family entertainment, dining, shopping and more. Check their website for hours, reservations and other information to help you make plans before booking your travel.
Entertainment galore
You'll find all kinds of entertainment options for your family at the MGM Springfield Casino. While those under 21 aren't allowed on the casino floor, there's so much more to this resort that will make your family vacation memorable, including the city's only AAA Four Diamond-rated hotel (which also offers dog-friendly accommodations), ice rink, bowling alley, movie theater, rooftop pool, concerts and numerous dining options - not to mention close proximity to dozens of area attractions.
Whatever will make your vacay special, you'll find it in Western Massachusetts. Plan your next amazing family adventure at ExploreWesternMass.com.
