Family of three riding bikes on a sunny path through a green wooded area.

5 Family-Friendly Activities in Amherst, MA

Amherst, MA is a unique blend of history, culture, and art. It is home to three educational institutions–Hampshire College, Amherst College, and UMass Amherst–as well as a number of museums, parks, and nature experiences. It offers a variety of things to do for every member of the family, from outdoor adventure to cultural enrichment. Regardless of what you’re looking for, Amherst is sure to please. 


Below is a list of family-friendly activities and destinations in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Dense green forest with low-lying fog, a mountain in the distance, and a colorful sunrise.

1. Mount Holyoke Range State Park

Mount Holyoke Range State Park is known for its more than 30 miles of hiking trails. Some of the favorite family-friendly routes include:


  • Horse Caves Loop: This 3.4-mile circuit is part of the New England Scenic Trail. It wanders beneath towering basalt cliffs with natural overhangs, (the horse caves), and leads to the summit of Mount Norwottuck. 
  • Laurel Loop: This short loop is only a 0.75-mile trail that begins near the Notch Visitor Center. In late spring and early summer, visitors are treated to beautiful blooms of mountain laurel that create a colorful tunnel through the woods. 
  • Robert Frost Trail: Beginning just behind the Notch Visitor Center, this self-guided loop spans approximately 3–4 miles and features six interpretive stops where hikers can pause to read a snippet of Frost’s verse, reflect on nature, and even pen their own short poems.   


This lovely state park is the perfect place for families to picnic while they spot some of the local wildlife. They can also enjoy the Notch Visitor Center and take in the scenery while relaxing on the lawn.

2. The Beneski Museum of Natural History

The Beneski Museum of Natural History at Amherst College invites families into an engaging world of ancient creatures and earth science marvels. Visitors enjoy seeing the mastodons, dinosaur skeletons, meteorites, and the world’s largest collection of dinosaur footprints. Families with children will love the interactive labels and pull‑out drawers that encourage kids to engage with the exhibits. 



With its mix of dramatic specimens, kid‑friendly design, and engaging programs, the Beneski Museum is a memorable stop where visitors can touch history, marvel at natural wonders, and spark a lifelong passion for science.

Red brick church facade with rose window and arched entrance.

3. The Mead Art Museum

Located at Amherst College, the Mead Art Museum is a warm and welcoming destination that showcases an impressive permanent collection. Exhibits include American and European paintings, Tibetan scrolls, Mexican ceramics, West African sculpture, Japanese prints, and ancient Assyrian reliefs. Kids enjoy the tactile 3‑D replicas, perfect for hands‑on exploration.


What sets the Mead apart for families is its lively programming. Monthly Family Fun Days, student‑led tours, and special art‑making events bring the galleries to life for young visitors. During these interactive occasions, children can explore themed exhibits, enjoy story time, and create their own art inspired by the collection. Additionally, special workshops invite all ages to engage directly with artists and art pieces, fostering confidence and creative expression. 

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4. The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art

The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is dedicated to celebrating the artistry behind beloved picture books. Founded by Eric and Barbara Carle in 2002, it's the first full-scale museum in the U.S. devoted to picture-book illustrations. Inside, three rotating galleries showcase original artworks. Interactive booklets guide young explorers through the exhibits, encouraging them to engage with the art.



A highlight for many families is the hands-on Art Studio, where children, and adults, can unleash their inner artists using collage, drawing, printmaking, and more. These projects rotate frequently, drawing inspiration from current exhibitions. With a cozy picture-book library, performance space for readings or shows, and a campus orchard perfect for picnics, the museum offers a full and enriching family visit.

5. The Emily Dickinson Museum

The Emily Dickinson Museum offers a unique, intimate glimpse into the world of one of America’s most beloved poets . Visitors begin at the Carriage House Tour Center before embarking on a 45-minute guided tour through Emily’s childhood home and her brother’s residence, now combined into one immersive experience. Outside, the adjoining gardens and lawns, once tended by Emily herself, provide a serene backdrop ideal for family strolls.


Beyond the historic ambiance, the museum brings poetry and creativity to life through engaging programs perfect for families. Special themed events invite kids into a world of play with stilts, fortune-telling, puppet parades, and mini poetry readings. School-age children and teens can participate in interactive tours which guide them through Dickinson’s writing process and invite them to craft their own verses. 


Whether wandering through candlelit parlors or drawing inspiration from the gardens, families will find the Emily Dickinson Museum a welcoming place where history, poetry, and play come together beautifully.

Stay at The Black Walnut Inn

After enjoying a day out on the town, come back and stay with us at the Black Walnut Inn. Each of our rooms is beautifully appointed for comfort and features all the amenities you’re looking for in a relaxing getaway. Experience our beautiful grounds, our chickens, and the charm of our delightful inn.


Just minutes from the local Amherst colleges, we’re conveniently located for you to begin your adventures. Book now!