Springfield (Massachusetts)
From BuggitGuides
Springfield is a city in the Pioneer Valley in Massachusetts, USA.
Contents |
Get in
Springfield is a major railroad junction, serving trains from all directions. Springfield is also the home of Peter Pan Bus Lines, one of the major bus services in New England.
Bus & Train
From the South
Spingfield one of two northern terminals for Amtrak's Regional Service, connecting Springfield to Connecticut down to Virginia. The Vermonter also travels through Springfield, beginning in Washington DC and terminating in Vermont.
From the North
One of two stops in Massachusetts for the Vermonter is in Springfield (the other in nearby Amherst). These fares are reasonably priced and it is by far the most relaxing way to enter Springfield from the north.
From the East
Amtrak canceled the Bay State (AKA Overland Route) in 2004, limiting rail travel from Boston to one train per day, the Lake Shore Limited. Amtrak generally charges $15 for the hour and forty-five minute one way trip, Peter Pan Bus charges around $20-$25 for a dirty, hot (in winter the heat is turned up too high and in summer airconditioning is nonexsistant on older busses), crowded trip and can often run into traffic on the Mass Pike (Interstate 90), however service from Boston is frequent.
From the West
The Lake Shore Limited begins in Chicago, Illinois and terminates in Boston, stopping in Albany, New York and picturesque Pittsfield, Massachusetts and has one stop per day in Springfield. Bus service is limited and scheduals may change, check before you go.
By plane
- Bradley International Airport, which is 20 minutes away in Windsor Locks, Connecticut.
By car
Springfield is accessible via Interstates 90, 91, and 291.
Get around
Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA) offers service throughout Pioneer Valley with it's main terminal in Springfield. Many in the city get around by taxi as the city is small and distances are reasonably short.
Be advised, crime is high in Springfield and although walking through Sprinfield in the day is safe enough, night time walking is often dangerous. Use caution and avoid the streets whenever possible.
See
Do
Six Flags New England is the largest theme park in New England, located in nearby Agawam, Massachusetts.
The Big E, the largest (and arguably the most entertaining) fair in New England, located in West Springfield. It runs from September 15 to October 1.
The Basketball Hall of Fame is located in Springfield, along the Connecticut River, in a stunning (and quirky) steel structure.
The Springfield Armory is the site that George Washington hand-selected for Revolutionary America's first arms depot, and where the famous Springfield Rifle was made for several centuries.
The Quadrangle is a grouping of several excellent museums. The fine arts museum features a fine and varied collection, particularly renowned for Impressionist works.
The Indian Motorcycle Museum is located in Springfield, where America's first motorcylce manufacturer produced vehicles for many years.
Buy
Eat
- Family Kitchen, 19 St. James Ave. (off State Street), 732-9417. 6AM-7PM every day. Come for a full breakfast (includes grits). Ask for the chicken & waffles.
- The Student Prince, 8 fort street. (off Main Street). German food, locally famous. Make sure you get a good look at the truly massive collection of steins on the walls.
Drink
Sleep
Get out
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