I am a BIG fan of where I live. Western Massachusetts is seriously gorgeous (almost) year-round.
(Yeah, that "almost" was for you, March, you jerk.)
However, and I think lots of you will agree with me, it is most beautiful and friendly and fun during the fall! Whether you live in the area or are visiting from Boston or even farther away, here are my six favorite things you need to do to make a fall weekend totally perfect.
The Big E
Don't hate me, I know it's over now. But the food! The FOOD! More than a million people attend the Big E (1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield, 413-737-2443) every year for the state houses, the animals, the rides, the games...oh, and the food. Put it on your calendar for next year.
The corn maze at Mike's
Each year, the talented folks at Mike's Maze (23 S. Main St., Sunderland, 413-665-8331) come up with a brand new intricate design for their corn maze. It's huge and always blows me away. You have to solve little challenges to make it to the end, so stay sharp -- and pick up a few pumpkins on your way out.
Go apple-picking
Quintessentially New England and not exclusive to western Mass., I know. But damn it, we are good at growing apples! I feel like Kristie and I go somewhere different almost every year, there are so many good orchards to pick from. (Including Quonquont Farm, where we got married.)
Eat an Atkins cider donut
These donuts are what fall is all about. They even inspired a candle! Head to Atkins Farms (in Amherst and North Amherst, 413-253-9528) to buy as many as you can carry -- including gluten-free. (Note: GF cider donuts arrive on Fridays and sell out by Saturday! Shop early.)
Hike to the top of Mt. Skinner
(Or drive. I won't tell.) The best views of the Pioneer Valley can be had at the top of Skinner. In fact, that's where Mount Holyoke (my alma mater) and Smith students go for annual Mountain Day festivities! It's a decent hike, but not tough -- if I could do it drunk back then, you can definitely do it today. Bring a donut!
Shop at Northampton Bag Day
This is practically a local holiday. On Bag Day (always a Saturday), special paper bags can be found in that morning's newspapers and at stores all over town. With that bag, you have access to ALL KINDS of amazing sales at local shops. Most offer at least 20% off, and schedule other promotions at the same time. Mark your calendars for November 21, 2015. You can bet I'll be there getting some Christmas shopping done.
