Since all four of my years at UMass Amherst have taken place during the pandemic, I realized that there are so many special things about the area I missed out on experiencing. Amherst is especially beautiful in the fall and being in a rural area means there are a ton of different fall activities to take part in.Â
- Supporting Local Businesses at the Amherst Farmers Market
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One of the things that makes Amherst such a unique and charming college town is its rich and vibrant community. Amherst is full of countless small businesses that hook you up with anything from fresh-brewed kombucha, to handmade soap, to one-of-a-kind jewelry, to every fruit and vegetable under the sun straight from the farm! Stop by the Amherst Town Common every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. to check it out.
- Exploring The Big E
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The Big E is one of the largest, most famous fairs in the country. It’s a great place to go with a group of friends, take a ton of pictures, and have lots of fun! There’s something so special about eating fair foods and going on classic rides that just makes it feel like fall has really begun. Plus, you can check out some pretty impressive agriculture and livestock, and attend any of their special events throughout the fair’s run.
- Finding Your Way Through Mike’s Maze
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Who doesn’t love a corn maze? Mike’s Maze is a local staple located in Sunderland, just north of Amherst. This year, their maze is themed like an old-fashioned movie theater. They top the ambiance off with on-theme snacks, activities, and photo ops. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon making fall-filled memories.
Aaron Burden/Unsplash - Eating Cider Donuts from Atkins Farm
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Everyone who has been through freshman year at UMass Amherst knows how good the Atkins Farm apple cider donuts are. But, there’s nothing like stepping into the market, breathing in the smell of their bakery section, and eating one of their warm cider donuts fresh from the kitchen. Plus, you can pick up tons of other staple fall desserts and snacks while you’re there!
Jocelyn Hsu / Spoon - Going on a Foliage Hike
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Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons around Amherst, especially because the leaves throughout all the beautiful green spaces begin to change color. You can get in your steps and spend some quality time with friends by hiking up some local mountains, like Mount Sugarloaf and Mount Tom, and see for yourself, just how beautiful it is. It’s a view you can’t forget!
Whether you’re a fall enthusiast or you just like a themed activity, there’s plenty to do around Amherst this fall to get in a little appreciation for the season!
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