Chester Travel Guide

Plan your next adventure with our comprehensive tour guide for Chester, Massachusetts. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Chester

Chester is a quaint town located in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts. This small but beautiful town is an ideal place for those looking for a peaceful retreat or a family vacation. Boasting a rich history and stunning natural beauty, Chester is a popular tourist destination in the New England region.

List of Places to Visit in Chester

Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Chester has something for everyone. Below are some of the most popular destinations in the town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors can explore Chester’s rich history by visiting the following museums and historical places:

  • Chester Railway Station and Museum: This historical train station and museum offer a glimpse into the region’s railway history and artifacts.
  • Chesterwood: This historic site used to be the home of the famous sculptor Daniel Chester French, who is known for creating the renowned statue of Abraham Lincoln in the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C.
  • The Old Town Hall Museum: This museum showcases the town’s history from the 18th century to the present day through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs.

Natural Attractions of Chester: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chester’s natural beauty and opportunities to explore the outdoors are among the town’s main attractions. Some popular natural destinations include:

  • Chester-Blandford State Forest: This state forest offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. There are also stunning waterfalls and scenic views along the hiking trails.
  • Granville State Forest: This forest offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. The forest also has a scenic lake where visitors can swim, boat, and fish.
  • Bryant Homestead: This beautiful property is recognized for its historic landscape, original buildings, and stunning views. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chester

Chester is home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in the New England region. The following are some of the popular routes:

  • Chester-Blandford State Forest Trails: These trails offer visitors a chance to explore the forest and the stunning natural beauty of the region.
  • The Keystone Arch Bridges Trail: This trail offers visitors a history lesson as it passes through the ruins of three 19th-century stone arch bridges.
  • The Chesterfield Gorge Trail: This trail takes visitors through a narrow gorge along the Westfield River and offers stunning views of the waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Chester: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are several other exciting things to do in Chester. These include:

  • Chester Theatre Company: This theatre company produces plays throughout the summer and early fall and is a classic example of New England culture.
  • Outdoor Adventure Park: Visitors can experience thrill and excitement while ziplining through the forest or taking on the treetop obstacle course.
  • Westfield River Wildwater Races: This event occurs annually on the Westfield River and attracts kayakers and canoers from different parts of the world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chester

Day 1: Visit Museums and Historical Places

  • Chester Railway Station and Museum
  • Chesterwood
  • The Old Town Hall Museum

Day 2: Explore Nature’s Wonders in Chester

  • Chester-Blandford State Forest
  • Granville State Forest
  • Bryant Homestead

Day 3: Go Hiking or Biking in Chester

  • Chester-Blandford State Forest Trails
  • The Keystone Arch Bridges Trail
  • The Chesterfield Gorge Trail

Day 4: Enjoy an Afternoon of Culture

  • Chester Theatre Company

Day 5: Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

  • Outdoor Adventure Park

Day 6: Watch the Whitewater Races

  • Westfield River Wildwater Races

Day 7: Relax and Recharge

  • Enjoy the tranquility of Chester’s surroundings

Food and Drink Scene of Chester

Chester offers various food choices that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chester Hilltop Farm’s Maple Syrup: This authentic maple syrup is pure, natural, and free of additives and preservatives.
  • Bully’s BBQ: This restaurant specializes in delicious smoked meats such as beef, pork, and chicken. Most dishes are accompanied by traditional sides such as mac and cheese, coleslaw, and cornbread.
  • Chester Common Table: This restaurant serves a range of American dishes using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Chester Hilltop Farm’s Apple Cider: This locally made cider is fresh, crisp and made from handpicked apples.
  • Mangels Vineyards: This local winery produces a range of wines, including red, white, and rose.
  • Big Elm Brewing: This brewery produces a range of beers, including India Pale Ale and American Ale.

Where to Stay in Chester: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chester offers various accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Below are some of the popular options:

  • Chester Bulkley House Bed and Breakfast: This bed and breakfast is an ideal choice for those looking for a peaceful retreat in a historic home.
  • The Lawnhouse: This property offers guests the freedom to choose between a cozy house rental or a luxurious treehouse stay.
  • Hotel Northampton: This historic hotel is located in Northampton, approximately 30 minutes from Chester, and offers a blend of tradition and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Chester: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring back home, Chester has several options to choose from. Some popular items include:

  • Maple Syrup: Chester Hilltop Farm’s maple syrup is a perfect souvenir to bring back home.
  • Chester Railway Memorabilia: The Museum offers several railroad-themed products, such as mugs, T-shirts, and caps that make for a unique souvenir.
  • Chester Common Table’s Spice Mixes: These spice mixes are made from a unique blend of local ingredients and will add flavor to any dish.

Local Culture and Customs of Chester

Chester’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene make it a unique destination. The friendly locals take pride in preserving the town’s heritage, and visitors are welcomed with warmth and hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Chester

The best time to visit Chester is during the summer months between June and August, where visitors can enjoy the town’s many outdoor activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chester

Do:

  • Respect the locals’ cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisines and beverages.
  • Explore the town and its historic landmarks.
  • Take care of the natural surroundings and environment.

Don’t:

  • Avoid littering in the natural surroundings.
  • Do not trespass on private properties.
  • Refrain from creating noise pollution.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chester

Chester is a relatively safe destination, and visitors need not worry about their safety. However, taking common sense precautions such as locking car doors and not leaving valuables on display is recommended.

Health in Chester

Chester has several healthcare facilities available to visitors. In case of minor health issues, visitors can consult pharmacists in town who provide over-the-counter remedies. For more serious medical concerns, visitors can visit nearby hospitals in Northampton.

Getting to Chester: Transportation Options and Logistics

Chester is located approximately two hours west of Boston and 3 hours north of New York City. Here are some convenient transportation options to get you to Chester:

Airports Near Chester

  • Bradley International Airport is located approximately forty minutes from Chester, and there is a bus shuttle available that connects the airport to various destinations in the region.

Bus Stations Near Chester

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines offers bus connections to Chester from major cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Visitors can choose to rent a car and drive to Chester.

How to Get Around in Chester

Chester is a small town and can be easily explored on foot or bike. However, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi for those who prefer to navigate the town’s surroundings with greater ease.

Where to Go Next from Chester: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Chester is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding areas. Below are some popular excursions from Chester:

  • Hiking at the nearby Mount Holyoke Range: Located only 30 minutes from Chester and offering stunning views of the surrounding region.
  • Exploring the City of Northampton: This vibrant city is located only 30 minutes from Chester and offers a variety of dining, cultural, and shopping experiences.
  • Visit the Sebbylanke Ice Creamery: Located only 40 minutes from Chester, visitors can experience the farm to table ice cream experience by enjoying delicious homemade ice cream made from locally sourced ingredients.

Conclusion

Chester is a charming town filled with historic landmarks, stunning natural beauty, and exciting cultural experiences. Whether you plan to spend a week or a day in Chester, this comprehensive tour guide will help you make the most of your time in this unique New England destination.