Western Massachusetts is known for ingenuity and innovation. The area lays claim to the first gas-powered engine, first national armory and the birthplace of basketball, volleyball and Dr. Seuss.
“What makes the Greater Springfield area group tour friendly are the three A’s,” said Mary Kay Wydra, president of the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Affordability of our hotels, restaurants and the variety of things to do; accessibility via routes 90 and 91; and great group-friendly attractions like MGM Springfield, The Big E, Yankee Candle Village, the Springfield Museums, Basketball Hall of Fame and so much more.”
Western Massachusetts also works well as a hub to explore New England.
ASK
Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau
413-787-1548
explorewesternmass.com
SHOP
Credit: Greater Springfield CVB
Head to Yankee Candle Company’s flagship store in South Deerfield. Check out Wax Works, where guests can make their own jar candles; the Perscentality board, which allows visitors to see which scents are bound to appeal to them, based on their personality traits; and the Fragrance Mixology section.
DISCOVER
Credit: Greater Springfield CVB
In the heart of downtown Springfield, the Springfield Museums offer access to five world-class museums, including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, all under a single admission. Theodor Seuss Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, was born and raised in Springfield.
EXPLORE
The Big E hosts over 1 million people each September during the 17-day event, and the staff at the Transportation Center greet more than 800 motorcoaches of tour groups. Stroll through the Avenue of States, Storrowton Village and the grounds filled with shopping, entertainment, midway rides and foods from around the world.
RELAX
Credit: MGM Springfield
MGM Springfield covers three city blocks in the heart of downtown Springfield. The resort, which combines new construction with revived historic buildings, offers more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space, a 250-room boutique hotel, spa services, diverse retail and dining, a cinema complex, bowling, a seasonal skating rink and outdoor marketplace.
