Springfield, Massachusetts is a wonderful place to call home and we at Baystate are especially happy to call it the home of our Baystate Medical Center. The city of Springfield was founded in 1636 at the juncture of the Connecticut and Chicopee rivers, and since then it has attracted people from all walks of life and industry. Known as The City of Homes for its elegant homes on tree-lined streets, here are ten of the best things to do in Springfield.
1. Oh the Places You’ll Go
Did you know that Dr. Seuss is from Springfield? That’s right! The famed children’s author Theodore Seuss Geisel who penned such classics as The Cat in the Hat lived and worked right here. The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden and The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum are both great spots to take the whole family -- or just yourself -- for a whimsical, wonderful day.
Location: 21 Edwards St, Springfield, MA 01103
Website: https://www.seussinspringfield.org/
2. It’s All Happenin’ at the Forest Park
Who doesn’t love a trip to the zoo? You can’t lose by visiting the Forest Park Zoo! It houses both native and exotic animals of all kinds on 735 acres of woodlands in the heart of Springfield and neighboring Longmeadow.
Forest Park delivers on its promise to the community year round, with Bright Nights in December drawing thousands of spectators a year to its annual festival of Christmas lights.
And from May 1st to October 30th Springfield residents and friends can delight in local bounty at the Farmer’s Market at Forest Park. Stock up on locally sourced fresh fruits and vegetables that feed your body and soul. A full list of vendors can be found here.
Location: 293 Sumner Ave, Springfield, MA 01108
Website: https://www.forestparkzoo.org/ and https://www.farmersmarketatforestpark.com/
3. Titanic Tradition
Fans of off-the-beaten-path museums will want to make sure to visit the Titanic Historical Society. This museum houses all kinds of interesting artifacts from the Titanic, including actual passenger lifejackets to letters and diaries from the passengers.
Location: 208 Main St, Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Website: https://titanichistoricalsociety.org/
4. Take in a Show or a Symphony
If you’re a thespian or a theatre appreciator, there is no better place to visit than City Stage and Symphony Hall. There are different flavors available including Broadway-style (Symphony Hall) and more off-Broadway theatrics (CityStage) available so there really is something for everyone to enjoy. The Springfield Symphony Orchestra also calls Symphony Hall home. A full event list and tickets can be found here.
Locations: 150 Bridge St, Springfield, MA 01103 / 34 Court St, Springfield, MA 01103
Website: http://www.symphonyhall.com/
5. Sports, Comedy and More!
Theater isn’t for everyone, which is why there is also the option to visit the Mass Mutual Center. This venue offers comedy shows, sports events, and even bridal shows. A full list of upcoming options can be found here.
Location: 1277 Main St, Springfield, MA 01103
Website: http://www.massmutualcenter.com/
6. Exercise
A casual day outdoors would do anyone a world of good and in Springfield, finding a place to do just that is easy. Enter the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway, a 3.7 mile scenic route for bikers and walkers alike. There are paved paths for ease or use, benches for resting and even picnic areas!
Location: Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway, Springfield, MA 01105
Website: http://www.springfield-ma.gov/park/index.php?id=riverwalk
7. MGM Springfield Opens August 24
Springfield’s South End has been revitalized since the devastation of the Springfield tornadoes of 2011. August 24, 2018 marks the grand opening of the newest MGM venture. MGM brings a new casino, entertainment, shops and restaurants to western Massachusetts. Stevie Wonder starts off the season with a September 1 show that promises to be amazing.
Location: One MGM Way, Springfield, MA 01103
Website: https://www.mgmspringfield.com/en.html
8. Hoop Dreams
Are you a basketball fanatic? Don’t miss your opportunity to visit the Basketball Hall of Fame! With over 300 inductees and 40,000 square feet of space, this space is a piece of living sports history.
Location: 1000 Hall of Fame Ave, Springfield, Massachusetts 01105
Website: http://www.hoophall.com/
9. Step into the Victorian Age
Springfield also boasts an entire historic district for visitors to explore. Many original Victorian era homes still exist and some websites have even compiled lists of then and now photos and facts. One such example can be found here. Go ahead, take a step back in time!
Location: Various
Website: http://lostnewengland.com/tag/forest-park-neighborhood-springfield/
10. The Big E
If it’s a festival you’re after, you would be hard-pressed to beat The Big E. It is known as New England’s Greatest Fair and there is a definite reason! From 4H and creative competitions to big name musicians this one has it all.
Location: 1305 Memorial Ave, West Springfield, MA 01089
Website: https://www.thebige.com/
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What’s your favorite thing to do in Springfield? Are you relocating to Springfield? Our health care recruiters are well-versed in the area’s offerings, so if you are considering a career with Baystate feel free to ask us any questions you can think of.