Winter in Western MA: Indoor and Outdoor Ways to Enjoy the Season

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One of the perks of living in the northeast is having four unique seasons. Spring is a time for mild temperatures and the occasional rainstorm, summer is hot and humid, fall is perfectly cool, and in winter things get cold and the snow comes. The spring semester at UMass Amherst starts right in the middle of the winter season, creating the perfect opportunity to explore cold-weather activities both indoors and outdoors in Amherst and the surrounding areas. If you’re looking for ways to enjoy the winter season, be sure to check out these recommendations! 

Sled in Orchard Hill 

As many students know, the Orchard Hill residential area is at the top of a tall slope, which makes it the perfect spot to sled. On a snowy day at UMass, you will be sure to find plenty of students suited up in their snow gear ready to head down the hill. I personally haven’t made the trek to Orchard Hill on a snowy day, but I definitely plan to before I graduate. 

Catch a movie at Amherst Cinema

Amherst Cinema is an independent and nonprofit education center that screens both new and classic films, most of which are often not shown at commercial movie theaters. The venue boasts four full-size screens and shows more than 120 films each year. This would be a great spot to check out on a cold day when you’d rather stay inside in the warmth. 

Go indoor rock climbing 

Just down the road on Route 9 in Hadley, you could spend the day indoor rock climbing at Central Rock Gym. Both beginners and experts would be sure to enjoy time at the expansive gym. If you aren’t up for a drive, Fieldstone is home to its rock climbing wall, Ascend. The Ascend climbing facility boasts a 14-foot wall that is suited for every level of climbing, and it is also open to all UMass students. Once you take the one-time, basic orientation you can climb your heart out. 

Hit the road and head to MassMoCa

Just over an hour from UMass is The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA). This museum displays all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, and theater. When I visited, I personally felt that each exhibit was captivating and more unique than any other museum I have been to. Heading to North Adams makes for a great day trip as the downtown area is home to delicious cafes and restaurants. You’re sure to see some snowy winter scenery on the drive from Amherst through the Berkshire mountains as well.  

Ice skating at the Mullins Center

As I am sure many of you know, the Mullins Center offers free public skating on certain weekend days. Skating is a great way to blow off some steam and have fun with friends and peers. If you live in the CHC residential area it is just a short walk to the rink. Check the public skate schedule online for more information. 

Hit the slopes at Berkshire East

Just 45 minutes away in Charlemont is Berkshire East Mountain Resort, a 200-acre skiing mountain. If you want to get away for the day, a full-day pass is just $38 as I write this. Even if you aren’t an avid skier, Berkshire East is home to three 500-foot snow tubing trails which is perfect for all ages. If you wanted to go snow tubing it would only cost you $28! 

University Museum of Contemporary Art

One of the most beautiful places on campus is our very own art gallery located in the basement of the Fine Arts Center. The University Museum of Contemporary Art (UMCA) is known for its exhibitions, permanent collections and educational programs that are offered year round.  The museum itself is expansive and is home to beautiful, multidisciplinary art. I first visited the museum during my first-year with my class, Ideas that Change the World, an Honors Signature course. It was a wonderful experience and I would recommend it to anyone. 

As I said before, winter in the area is cold and snowy, which creates the perfect opportunity to explore the indoor delights and outdoor activities. Growing up in the area I have learned to love Western Massachusetts in this blustery season and I hope you will too!