Cummington Travel Guide

Explore the best attractions, activities, and culture of Cummington, Massachusetts, with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about museums, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Cummington

Cummington is a small town located in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts, New England, in the United States of America, in North America. Despite its small size, Cummington is packed with natural beauty, fascinating history and culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you want to explore the local museums and historical sites, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking, or simply soak up the charming New England countryside, Cummington has something to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Cummington

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bryant Homestead: Visit the historic homestead of William Cullen Bryant, a renowned poet and journalist, and enjoy guided tours of the colonial-era house and grounds.
  • Huntington House Museum: Explore the historical artifacts and exhibits showcasing life in Cummington over the past several centuries, including household items, farming tools, and textiles.
  • Old Creamery Co-op: Browse the unique selection of locally-made products, including artisan crafts, specialty foods, and gifts, all while supporting the local co-op community.
  • Cummington Fair: Join in the fun at the annual Cummington Fair, a quintessential New England fair featuring livestock exhibits, live music, food vendors, and carnival rides.

Natural Attractions of Cummington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cummington Wildlife Management Area: Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, hunting, and fishing in this beautiful natural area, which encompasses rolling hills, streams, and woodland glades.
  • Swift River Reservation: Hike or bike through this picturesque area of Cummington, which includes a historic mill site and prime spots for birdwatching and enjoying scenic views.
  • Pittsfield State Forest: Take a short drive from Cummington to Pittsfield State Forest, a sprawling park with miles of hiking trails, swimming ponds, and camping areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cummington

  • Bryant Homestead Trail: Take a guided hike along the Bryant Homestead Trail, which circles through the woods and fields around the historic homestead of William Cullen Bryant.
  • Curtisville and Creamery Trails: Enjoy a peaceful and scenic hike or bike ride along these trails, which run through a mix of woodland, open fields, and riverbank.
  • Manitou Trail: This challenging hike rewards adventure-seekers with stunning views of the rolling hills of Cummington, as well as quiet forest settings and rugged terrain.

Best Things to Do in Cummington: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking on the Westfield River: Rent a kayak or join a guided tour and admire the beauty of the Westfield River, which flows through Cummington and the surrounding area.
  • Local Brewery Tours: Take a tour of local breweries like the Berkshire Brewing Company, and sample some of the best beer that Massachusetts has to offer.
  • Fly-Fishing: Discover the art of fly-fishing in Cummington’s pristine streams and rivers, and learn from experienced guides and instructors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cummington

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Bryant Homestead and enjoy a guided hike on the Bryant Homestead Trail.
Day 2 Explore the Huntingdon House Museum and the Old Creamery Co-op in downtown Cummington.
Day 3 Take a scenic bike ride or hike along the Curtisville and Creamery Trails.
Day 4 Enjoy kayaking or a guided fly-fishing excursion on the Westfield River.
Day 5 Visit the Cummington Fair and enjoy live music, carnival rides, and local food vendors.
Day 6 Hike the Manitou Trail, which offers stunning views of the rolling hills of Cummington.
Day 7 Take a guided tour of local breweries like the Berkshire Brewing Company and sample some of the best beer in Massachusetts.

Food and Drink Scene of Cummington

Must-Try Dishes

  • Apple Cider Donuts: Indulge in this sweet and savory treat, made with locally sourced apples and cinnamon.
  • New England Clam Chowder: Sample this quintessential New England dish, featuring tender clams in a creamy, flavorful broth.
  • Maple-Glazed Barbecue Pork: Try this delicious twist on traditional barbecue pork, featuring a sweet and smoky maple glaze.
  • Sweet Corn Chowder: Savor the sweetness of fresh-picked, local sweet corn in this savory and satisfying chowder.

Local Beverages

  • Berkshire Brewing Company Beer: Sample some of the best beer in Massachusetts at this local brewery, featuring a range of flavors and styles to suit every taste.
  • Hard Cider: Enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavors of local hard cider, made with fresh, locally sourced apples.

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

  • The Berkshire Inn: Stay in the heart of Cummington at this charming, New England-style inn with spacious rooms and cozy furnishings.
  • Cornell Inn Bed & Breakfast: Unwind in this tranquil inn located in a historic country setting, with luxurious rooms, gourmet breakfast, and a spacious garden.
  • The Williams Inn: Enjoy the comforts of home in this cozy bed and breakfast, featuring elegant decor, inviting common areas, and locally-sourced breakfast items.

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

  • Handmade Pottery: Pick up a unique, handcrafted pottery piece made by local artisans.
  • Local Honey: Satisfy your sweet tooth with locally sourced honey, which comes in a range of flavors and varieties.
  • Artisan Cheese: Indulge in the creamy, rich flavors of artisan cheeses made from local milk and cream.
  • Maple Syrup: Bring home a taste of Cummington’s natural beauty by picking up a bottle of locally sourced maple syrup.

Local Culture and Customs of Cummington

Cummington has a vibrant, welcoming, and friendly culture, rooted in its history and farming traditions. Locals take pride in their community and are always eager to share their love of the area with visitors. While visiting Cummington, be sure to take time to appreciate the beauty of the natural surroundings and the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Best Time to Visit Cummington

Cummington is lovely year-round, with each season offering unique experiences and activities. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, while fall is perfect for enjoying the beautiful autumn foliage. Winter brings snow sports, cozy fires, and holiday celebrations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cummington

Do:

  • Respect the natural surroundings and take care to preserve the flora and fauna of the area.
  • Support local businesses and artisans by shopping and dining local.
  • Participate in the local culture and traditions by joining in community events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings by leaving trash or disrupting natural habitats.
  • Disturb the peace of the area by causing excessive noise or behaving in a disruptive manner.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cummington

Cummington is a safe and welcoming town, but it’s always important to exercise caution and common sense while traveling. Don’t leave valuables visible in your car, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings while hiking or biking, and keep hydrated in hot weather.

Health in Cummington

Cummington has a range of medical services available, including local clinics and hospitals. Be sure to bring any necessary medications and travel insurance with you, and be prepared for seasonal colds and allergies, including pollen in the spring and summer months.

Getting to Cummington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cummington is easily accessible by car, with several major highways running through the area, including Route 9 and Route 112. The nearest airport is Bradley International Airport in Hartford, Connecticut, which is located approximately one hour’s drive from Cummington. Local buses and shuttles are available for transportation within the town and surrounding areas.

Airports Near Cummington

  • Bradley International Airport: Located in Hartford, Connecticut, approximately one hour’s drive from Cummington.

Bus Stations Near Cummington

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines: Provides service to Springfield, Massachusetts, approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Cummington.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Rent a car at the airport or in nearby towns like Northampton or Amherst and enjoy the freedom of exploring Cummington and the surrounding areas at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Cummington

The best way to get around Cummington is by car or bike, though walking is also a great option for exploring the downtown area and nearby parks. Taxis and shuttle buses are available for transportation to and from airports and local attractions, as well as for longer trips to nearby towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Cummington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Northampton: Explore the vibrant college town of Northampton, known for its thriving arts scene, hip cafes and bars, and eclectic shopping districts.
  • The Berkshires: Take a scenic drive through the rolling hills and picturesque towns of the Berkshires, home to world-class museums, galleries, and performance venues.
  • Boston: Visit the iconic city of Boston, located roughly two and a half hours’ drive from Cummington, and explore its historic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant culture.

Conclusion

Cummington is a hidden gem of New England, offering a wealth of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and fascinating history and culture. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors can discover the best attractions, activities, and local customs of Cummington, and make the most of their visit to this charming New England town.

Former Cummington Fire Department headquarters Former Cummington Fire Department headquarters William Cullen Bryant Homestead William Cullen Bryant Homestead