Thrive Here

Stake a claim in the Pioneer Valley and you’ll be part of a world of year-round natural beauty, outdoor recreation, entertainment, and cultural and athletic events. UMass Amherst alone is a reliably rich source of concerts, performances, and appearances by outstanding speakers in an endless variety of fields; add to those the similar events offered at the nearby colleges and you’ll find that you’ll rarely lack for something of interest to hear, see, or otherwise savor. The towns of Amherst and Northampton are renowned for their cultural riches, which in Amherst include a thriving multiplex cinema showing the best of contemporary independent and international films. There are plenty of attractions for children, nearby parks are ideal for hiking, biking, or boating, and sports fans can find any number of teams to support.