25 Ultimate Best Things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts)

Looking for the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts)? Springfield, located in central Massachusetts, has played an important role in the state’s history. Springfield is a city and the county seat of Hampden County in Massachusetts. The city is situated on the eastern bank of the Connecticut River, close to the confluence of four rivers, including the Connecticut River, the Eastern Mill River, the Eastern Chicopee River, as well as the Western Westfield River.

The city’s population made it the third-largest city in Massachusetts, according to the results of the 2020 census. Following Boston, Worcester, and Providence, Springfield is the fourth most populous town in New England and the twelfth most populous city in the Northeastern United States. Springfield (Massachusetts) is one of the most desirable places to live in the United States because it is developed, progressive, safe, and full of parkland. 

Springfield is frequently referred to as the “City of Firsts” due to its numerous innovations, the most notable of which are motorcycles and basketball. To honor the sport’s origins, the Basketball Hall of Fame is located in Springfield and is a must-see for any sports fan. The grand old Quadrangle is home to a collection of world-class museums, and the Club Quarter is the largest nightclub district between New York City and Montreal. The opening of the $960 million MGM Springfield casino and entertainment complex, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, changed everything for the Massachusetts city of Springfield.

Now, New England’s fourth largest city is more than just a stop on a road trip; it is a destination in its own right. The addition of a Vegas-based franchise changed the pulse and appearance of the city overnight, catapulting it to the frontline of Pioneer Valley tourism. Springfield has no shortage of attractions, from hip and music-oriented eateries to museums as well as a New England outpost of Six Flags, so be sure to get out of the casino and do some exploring during your stay.

Disclosure: Due to new safety regulations, some of the information regarding the attractions and sites listed below may have changed. For the most up-to-date information, please contact the location.

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What are the Best Things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts)?

Springfield, Massachusetts is a historian’s dream. However, there is much more to this place than just natural history or human history. The city also honors its celebrity residents, such as Dr. Seuss and Edward Kamuda, the world’s foremost Titanic historian. It’s only fitting that Springfield involves time travel, whether through a faithful leisure of an 18th-century town or dinosaur fossils! This city is far from boring, with plenty to keep kids, travelers, and casual visitors entertained.

Many tourist attractions and hotspots, such as the Basketball Hall of Fame, can be found in Springfield, Massachusetts. But that isn’t all. Despite its small-town feel, Springfield is a fantastic place to visit with friends and family. With so much to see and do in the area, we’ve filtered through the chaff to find the best of the best. These activities should be at the top of your list of things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts). When considering what to do in Springfield, take a close look at these intriguing attractions.

Here are our list of the 25 ultimate best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts):

1. Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden 

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One of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts) is to visit the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden. Many people are unaware that Dr. Seuss, Theodor Seuss Geisel, was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. Dr. Seuss grew up in Forest Park because his father was the director of the Forest Park Zoo. This sculpture garden is a beautiful place to visit, with incredible sculptures such as 14-foot Horton the Elephant with Sam-i-am, Sally, and Thidwick the big-hearted Moose.

Aside from the sculptures at the memorial garden, there are some beautiful sculptures throughout the city, such as Dr. Seuss and the Cat in the Hat near the Springfield Library. Dr. Seuss was born in Springfield in 1904 and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden is among the most popular attractions and one of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts).

Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

2. The Paramount Theatre

Paramount-Theater

The Paramount Theater is a popular Springfield attraction; it is one of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts), for some movies. The Paramount Theater in Springfield was built in 1926 for about a million dollars. In the 1960s, the theater was in disarray; it was later restored in 1999 and converted into a nightclub and a live music venue. Since 2011, nearly two million dollars have been spent to restore the building to its original function. 

The cinema also has an organ, which is still playable despite its age; the theater was previously known as The Hippodrome as well as Julia Sanderson Theater. In 1979, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Paramount Theater is one of the best places to have fun while in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Address: 1676 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

3. Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

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The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is a sports as well as history museum; it is named after the inventor of basketball, James Naismith, because its primary focus is basketball. James Naismith is a Canadian-American doctor widely recognized for introducing basketball. This museum was established in 1959, and in 1968, the hall of fame opened a new building at Springfield College. This museum was created for the purpose of preserving and promoting basketball.

Due to the attraction’s popularity, a new facility was constructed along the Connecticut River in 1985, and the Hall of Fame relocated to a much larger building of over 80,000 square feet in 2002. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts features numerous interactive and entertaining exhibits, such as mini-games and beautiful shows, and it’s really a wonderful place to visit.

Address: 1000 Hall of Fame Avenue, Springfield, MA 01105, United States

4. The Big E Fair

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The Big E Fair is the sixth largest fair in the United States and the largest agricultural event on the eastern seaboard. The Big E Fair was previously referred to as the Eastern States Exposition. Some also refer to this event as “New England’s Great State Fair,” and it is known to be most enjoyable between mid-September and early October each year.

The Big E Fair features livestock competitions, equestrian shows, and extensive vegetable displays. The Big E annually displays life-size replicas of six statehouses in the region. Attending the Big E Fair in Springfield, Massachusetts is absolutely a fun activity.

Address: 1305 Memorial Avenue, West Springfield, MA 01089, United States

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5. Forest Park

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Forest Park is one of Springfield’s nineteen parks and one of the city’s most popular parks. Forest Park is situated on the famous Connecticut River and encompasses approximately 736 acres. This park is one of the biggest in the country and features an outdoor amphitheater, a zoo, breathtaking views, a tennis court, a baseball field, a basketball court, charming forest trails, and an aquatic garden.

In addition to well-maintained, beautiful flowers, the park also features these features. Due to the park’s decorations and high-tech lighting show, Forest Park is more beautiful and enjoyable during the Christmas season. Forest Park is an additional enjoyable destination in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Address: 293 Summer Ave, Springfield, MA 01108, United States

6. Forest Park and Education Center Zoo

best-things-to-do-in-springfield-massachusetts

Forest Park and Education Center Zoo is home to more than 150 rare and beautiful species. Additionally, the zoo hosts educational events and programs for children. This zoo is home to amphibians, mammals, avers, and reptiles; some of its programs include Crew in Training, tours, Zoo Camps, Zoo on the Go, and many others. The zoo’s popular Adopt an Animal program focuses primarily on educating children about conservation as well as animals; the Forest Park and Education Center Zoo in Springfield, Massachusetts is another fun place to visit.

Address: 293 Summer Avenue, Springfield, MA 01108, United States

7. Storrowton Village Museum

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The Storrowton Village Museum is yet another historical museum in Springfield, where you can learn about the history of New England. This is a popular tourist destination and a place that welcomes visitors. This museum features exciting programs and living history demonstrations; village tours are also available. Tours of the village are typically led by knowledgeable & helpful staff members.

In the village, you will see restored houses and shops and hear the history behind various artifacts, buildings, and also the people who once resided in these historical structures. This tour is always enjoyable for history buffs due to the village’s 19th-century lifestyle. This Museum and Village is one of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts).

Address: 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089, United States

8. Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History

best-things-to-do-in-springfield-massachusetts

The Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History is located close to the Springfield Museum; Mr. M. Allen Swift donated the building in 2005. The museum occupies approximately 40,000 square feet and focuses primarily on the recent history (19th and 20th Centuries) of Springfield. This museum showcases both temporary and permanent exhibits.

Additionally, the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History houses the Springfield History Library and Archives, which consist of books, manuscripts, computer databases, and photographs. This is yet another beautiful museum in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

9. Blunt Park

Blunt-Park

Blunt Park is a lovely place to spend time in the city, and it offers a variety of outdoor activities. The park is ideal for picnics and other family-friendly activities. Blunt Park has a beautiful picnic area, outdoor grilling, a stunning scenery fountain, soccer field, football field, basketball field, 90-foot diamond, children’s playground, and tennis court to ensure that visitors enjoy their time there.

You can also play any of your favorite sports, including tennis, soccer, football, and basketball, in this park. This park provides visitors the chance to enjoy quality time with their children. Blunt Park is an ideal destination as well as one of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts) most especially for those who love adventures.

Address: 1780 Roosevelt Avenue, Springfield, MA 01109, United States

10. George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum

best-things-to-do-in-springfield-massachusetts

The George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum is one of the ideal museums found in Springfield. This museum was constructed in 1895 in the style of an Italian villa, and it opened to the public in 1896. This museum focuses primarily on decorative and Fine Arts; Mr. Smith was a well-known art collector who specialized in Asian artworks from Japan, China, and also the Middle East.

Mr. Smith amassed an extensive collection of 19th-century paintings, the majority of which were landscapes created by Hudson River School artists. This museum features a selection of exhibits, as well as the Hasbro Games Art Discovery Center, a hands-on center for children. A visit to the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum is one of the enjoyable activities in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

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11. Springfield Armory National Historic Site

best-things-to-do-in-springfield-massachusetts

Springfield Armory National Historic Site concentrates on the preservation and interpretation of the city’s history and the role the Springfield Armory played in supplying the United States Armed Forces with superior firearms. This museum is housed in the armory’s original structure; it features numerous exciting exhibits, public programs, activities, noteworthy collections, and online resources. During the Revolutionary War, General George Washington established this armory.

Springfield Armory is the country’s first federal armory and one of the country’s first manufacturers of weapons. In 1794, the Springfield Armory began manufacturing Muskets. In 1978, the Springfield Armory was reopened as a National Historic Site. This center is renowned for housing the largest collection of American Historic Firearms in the world. There are numerous programs, events, and phenomenal exhibits at Springfield Armory National Historic Site. Self-guided or ranger-led tours of the grounds are offered. This site is a historical and entertaining destination in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Address: 1 Armory Street #2, Springfield, MA 01105, United States

12. Max’s Tavern

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Max’s Tavern is one of the most popular restaurants in Springfield, it is located at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, and it is a popular destination for local sports fans. This restaurant has a pleasant atmosphere, delicious food, and breathtaking views. The restaurant specializes in American cuisine and other delicious classic dishes.

This restaurant frequently serves exceptional house specials, such as grilled red-onion, Caribbean Jerk Chicken sandwich with pineapple aioli, sweet potato fries, arugula, as well as fried cherry peppers. Max’s Tavern is the place to go if you want to eat in one of the best fun restaurants in Springfield. They also have an excellent selection of wine and craft beer.

Address: 1000 Hall of Fame Avenue, Springfield, MA 01105, United States

13. Springfield Museums

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The Springfield Museums are the cultural hub of the city and one of its most popular attractions. This complex is located in the city’s central business district, and it houses five distinct, world-class museums. The Museums include the Springfield Science Museum, George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts, and Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History.

Depending on the visitors’ interests, each museum has something to offer. These museums feature temporary exhibit galleries, permanent collections, traveling art, science, and history exhibitions, and various special events. This museum complex in Springfield, Massachusetts is a wonderful place to visit.

Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

14. Red Rose Pizzeria

Red-Rose-Pizzeria

Red Rose Pizzeria is also another excellent dining establishment in the city; it was founded in 1963 and has expanded four times since then. Mama Edda Caputo founded the restaurant, which has been managed by the Caputo family ever since. This restaurant is currently run by the fourth generation of the Capito’s family, and their pizza remains a local and tourist favorite. Green and red peppers, pepperoni, and a generous amount of mozzarella cheese are the simple recipe.

Red Rose Pizzeria’s dining room has a pleasant, cozy atmosphere, a beautiful crystal chandelier, and gleaming wood paneling, and the menu features Italian cuisine. Add Red Rose Pizzeria to your list of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts) as Red Rose Pizzeria is indeed one of the most entertaining restaurants in Springfield.

Address: 1060 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

15. Springfield University

Springfield-University

A visit to Springfield University is one of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts). Additionally, the college houses the Springfield college museum, which features various displays, exhibits, and historical information, among other things. This college has been in existence for over 130 years, and its athletics section is known as the Birthplace of Basketball because James Naismith, (the founder of basketball) was an alumnus of the school.

James Naismith’s handwritten application letter to the college is on display at the Springfield museum; this college is a prestigious private institution that offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. The college was established in 1885 as a branch of the School for Christian Workers, and by 1895, several buildings had been constructed. In 1954, the college’s name was changed from the International YMCA College to Springfield College.

In addition to its main campus, Springfield College has nine regional campuses and offers 40 BA majors, several doctoral programs, and 12 master’s degree fields. Visiting this college and museum of historical significance is one of the most amusing things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts) for everyone.

Address: 263 Alden Street, Springfield, MA 01109, United States

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16. Titanic Museum

Titanic-Museum

Titanic Museum is a Main Street history museum that houses the Titanic Historical Society Collection. Edward S. Kamuda established the museum. Edward S. Kamuda is the president of the Titanic Historical Society Collection, a museum devoted to the 1912 voyage of the Titanic. Many of the artifacts, including the ship’s blueprints and Mrs. John Jacob Astor’s lifejacket, were donated by the survivors of the shipwreck. This museum is a fantastic and entertaining place to visit in Springfield (Massachusetts).

Address: 208 Main Street, Indian Orchard, MA 01151, United States

17. Symphony Hall

Symphony-Hall

Court Street’s Symphony Hall is primarily used for concerts and was initially named as “The Auditorium.” This Greek revival-style concert hall was constructed between 1911 and 1913; it was renamed Symphony Hall in the 1940s. The Symphony Hall has approximately 2,611 seats and is renowned for its exceptional acoustics; it is a popular venue for Springfield performances. This venue is home to the Springfield Symphony Orchestra as well.

Symphony Hall hosts numerous events, including lectures, Children’s Productions, and Broadway-style theater performances, among others. Numerous public schools in the vicinity rent this hall for graduation ceremonies, and the annual Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is held here. Symphony Hall is the most important symphony hall in Massachusetts outside of Boston and one of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts).

Address: 34 Court Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

18. Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts

Michele-and-Donald-DAmour-Museum-of-Fine-Arts

The Michele and D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts was founded in 1934; Mr. and Mrs. Philip Gray made the museum’s opening possible through their donations of art and funds. The museum contains numerous American and European works of art, including those of Pissarro, John Singleton Copley, Monet, Degas, Gauguin, and O’Keeffe.

This museum contains artworks from the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. In addition to an extensive collection of Currier and Ives Lithographs, one of the museum’s galleries is known to host temporary exhibits. The Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts in Springfield, Massachusetts is an additional wonderful destination.

Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

19. Six Flags New England

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Six Flags New England is a historic amusement park in Springfield that dates back to 1870; the park has been operational since the Great Depression. The Thunderbolt, which debuted in 1941, is the oldest ride at any six flags park. The six Flags brand acquired this park in 1999 and improved it by adding more attractions and rides. 

Some of the most popular rides include Superman (a mega coaster with a 63-meter drop) and The Dark Knight (with five loops and a maximum speed of 89km/h). This amusement park is one of sixteen in the country; it encompasses more than 235 acres of land; it’s another place to have fun in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Address: 1623 Main Street, Agawam, MA 010001, United States

20. Springfield Science Museum

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The Springfield Science Museum is indeed one of the best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts). This museum was founded in 1859 under the name Springfield Ethnological and Natural History Museum and features exhibits from the physical and natural sciences. Prior to the construction of this structure in 1899, a number of its exhibits were housed elsewhere, including the City Library as well as the City Hall. This is one of the best places for families to visit.

After the opening of the Seymour Planetarium in 1937, the museum’s name was changed in 1961; popular exhibits include the R.E. Phelon African Hall, Dinosaur Hall, Astronomy Hall, and Native American Hall, among others. This museum offers educational programs for children; the Springfield Science Museum in Springfield, Massachusetts is a great place to visit.

Address: 21 Edwards Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

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21. MGM Springfield

best-things-to-do-in-springfield-massachusetts

MGM Springfield is a hotel and casino with 252 rooms and is one of the most prestigious attractions in Springfield; it offers slot machines, table games, and more. The building was designed in the style of the 19th and 20th centuries. MGM Springfield features a seven-screen cinema with recliner seating, indoor and outdoor concert halls, a comedy club, as well as Top Golf Swing Suites for Simulated play. You can also shop at this location, which houses the renowned Kringle Emporium, which sells all types of scented candles. MGM Springfield is among the most entertaining destinations in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Address: One MGM Way, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

22. Student Prince Authentic German Foods

best-things-to-do-in-springfield-massachusetts

Student Prince is another of Springfield’s best restaurants; it’s a great place to enjoy German dishes like bratwurst, spätzle, and schnitzel with noodles. This restaurant was founded in 1935, and it serves German cuisine and beers. This restaurant has the largest collection of steins in the United States and also serves desserts.

Locals also refer to the Student Prince restaurant as “The Fort,” as it was built on the site of a 1660 fort. Black Forest Cake and Apple Strudel are two of their unique dessert offerings. This is yet another beautiful and entertaining restaurant in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Address: 8 Fort Street, Springfield, MA 01103, United States

23. Van Horn Park

van-horn-park

If you’re looking for a place to have fun in Springfield, Van Horn Park is actually one of the best options. This park is the second largest in the city and one of the most popular. Van Horn Park has a picnic area, playground, beautiful views, football field, water fountain, tennis court, outdoor grilling, soccer field, 60′ Diamond, 90′ Diamond, and a number of other amusing facilities to ensure that visitors have a wonderful time. This park has something for everyone, regardless of their interests; it is a popular destination for outdoor sports and recreational activities. Include The Van Horn Park on your list of best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts).

Address: 494 Armory Street, Springfield, MA 01104, United States

24. Boston

boston-Massachusetts

Springfield is close enough to the state capital for a day trip that is well worth it. The unique character of Boston is evident in the North End, with its cobblestone streets, historic brick buildings, and excellent Italian restaurants. Boston Harbor is a national landmark because it was the site of the Boston Tea Party, a protest by the Sons of Liberty against the British government that set the stage for the American Revolution. The distinguished Fenway Park, home field of the Boston Red Sox and the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, is a more recent American landmark.

25. Pioneer Valley

Pioneer-Valley

Springfield is part of a larger region along the Connecticut River known for its idyllic farmland and green college towns. Within the 24-mile-long Knowledge Corridor are Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College, Smith College, and Amherst College. The campus of Amherst College in South Hadley is surrounded by beautiful parkland and merits a couple-hour stroll. Autumn is the most beautiful season for foliage in the rural areas of Pioneer Valley, when the maple trees surrounding the farms turn orange and yellow.

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Books to Read While on a Trip in Springfield (Massachusetts)

Books-to-Read-While-on-a-Trip-in-Springfield-Massachusetts

Sometimes a Great Notion –  A story about a stubborn Oregonian logging family that goes on strike, causing drama and tragedy in the town. Written by PNW legend, Ken Kesey.

Walden – Henry David Thoreau’s transcendental masterpiece that helped modern Americans rediscover the beauty of nature.

To Have and To Have Not – A family man becomes involved in the drug smuggling business in Key West, leading to a strange situation. Authored by the legendary Ernest Hemingway.

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Final Thoughts

Clearly, Springfield provides a delightful combination of family- and tourist-friendly attractions. Boston and Salem are just beyond, and the state of Massachusetts has a long and enduring history. Along the Connecticut River, there is something for everyone due to the large number of museums and play-oriented locations. This list of best things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts) should provide you with a memorable, learning, and enjoyable experience. Springfield, located in western Massachusetts, is a wonderful city imbued with gorgeous parkland and renowned museums. 

With its advancement, safety, as well as progressive characteristics, Springfield is quickly becoming one of the most desirable places to live and visit in the United States. This incredible city is frequently referred to as the “City of Firsts” due to its numerous innovations, eminent motorcycles, and basketball. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is located next to the Connecticut River and is a must-see for any basketball fan.

The Springfield Museums, which feature scientific exhibits, American paintings and spectacular sculptures, and Asian art, are an absolute must-see for visitors. In addition to these, Springfield Armory is renowned for its documentation of two centuries of significant military history. Springfield, Massachusetts is a beautiful city with numerous museums, parks, and other points of interest; the city is also brimming with enjoyable activities. If you have Springfield on your list of places to visit, learning about the best activities and attractions will make your trip memorable.

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