Montague Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful town of Montague, MA with our helpful travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, eat, and stay, and gain insight into the local customs and culture.


Introduction to Montague

Nestled in the heart of the Pioneer Valley, Montague is a charming town in Massachusetts known for its scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. This travel guide will give you an in-depth look into the town of Montague, providing a comprehensive list of places to visit, activities to do, and cultural insights to keep in mind when visiting.

List of Places to Visit in Montague

Montague has a number of cultural landmarks and natural attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best places to visit in Montague:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Great Falls Discovery Center, a museum dedicated to the natural and cultural history of the Connecticut River.
  • The Montague Bookmill, a converted mill that now houses a bookstore and café.
  • The French King Bridge, a historic bridge spanning the Connecticut River and connecting Montague to Erving.
  • The Captain Charles Leonard House, a historic home that serves as a museum and cultural center.

Natural Attractions of Montague: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Montague Plains Wildlife Management Area, which boasts 3,000 acres of open fields, forests, and wetlands.
  • The Mount Toby State Reservation, a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • The Connecticut River, which flows through Montague and provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Montague

Montague is home to a number of great hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • The Robert Frost Trail, a 47-mile trail that runs from the Connecticut River to the New Hampshire border.
  • The Great Falls Discovery Trail, a 1.5-mile trail that winds through the Great Falls area of Montague.
  • The Montague Plains Wildlife Management Area, which has over 30 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Montague: Activities and Tours

Montague offers a range of activities and tours that cater to all interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Montague:

  • Take a guided tour of the Great Falls Discovery Center.
  • Visit the Montague Bookmill for a cup of coffee and a good book.
  • Explore the nearby towns of Turners Falls and Greenfield.
  • Attend a live performance at the Shea Theater Arts Center.

Week-Long Itinerary for Montague

Here’s a week-long itinerary for your trip to Montague:

Day 1 – Arrival and check-in at your chosen hotel or guesthouse. Day 2 – Explore the Great Falls Discovery Center and the Montague Plains Wildlife Management Area. Day 3 – Take a hike on the Robert Frost Trail and visit the Montague Bookmill. Day 4 – Visit the nearby town of Turners Falls and Greenfield for some shopping and dining. Day 5 – Attend a live performance at the Shea Theater Arts Center. Day 6 – Take a guided tour of the Captain Charles Leonard House and visit the French King Bridge. Day 7 – Departure from Montague.

Food and Drink Scene of Montague

Montague has a diverse food and drink scene, with a range of options for all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Clam chowder, a New England classic.
  • Lobster rolls, a staple of seafood lovers in the area.
  • Maple syrup, which is produced locally and used in a variety of dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer from Element Brewing Company in nearby Millers Falls.
  • Sweet cider from Carlson Orchards in nearby Harvard.

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

Montague offers a range of accommodation options, from historic inns to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Montague:

  • The Montague Inn, a historic inn located in the heart of Montague.
  • The Deerfield Inn, a charming bed and breakfast in nearby Deerfield.
  • The Greenfield Hostel, a budget-friendly option for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Montague has a number of local products that are worth bringing home as souvenirs. Here are some of the best items to buy in Montague:

  • Maple syrup, a local specialty produced in the area.
  • Handmade crafts and pottery from local artisans.
  • Locally-produced cheeses from nearby farms.

Local Culture and Customs of Montague

Montague has a rich culture and history that is worth exploring. Here are some insights into the local culture and customs of Montague:

  • Montague has a strong agricultural heritage, with many local farms producing fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
  • Historically, Montague was home to a thriving mill industry, which provided employment and contributed to the town’s growth.
  • Montague celebrates its heritage with a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Turners Falls RiverCulture Festival and the Montague Old Home Days festival.

Best Time to Visit Montague

The best time to visit Montague is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most beautiful. Summer is also a great time to visit, as the town offers a number of outdoor activities and festivals during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Montague

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Montague:

Do:

  • Take the time to explore the natural beauty of the area.
  • Respect the local customs and culture of the town.
  • Try the local cuisine, including seafood and locally-produced cheeses.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect the historic landmarks and cultural landmarks in the area.
  • Be loud or disruptive in the residential areas of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in Montague

Montague is generally a safe town with a low crime rate. However, it is always important to exercise caution and common sense when traveling, including keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Montague

Montague has a number of medical facilities and pharmacies for any health needs that may arise during your trip. It is always a good idea to travel with any necessary medications and insurance information, as well as to follow basic hygiene practices to prevent illness.

Getting to Montague: Transportation Options and Logistics

Montague is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are some options for getting to Montague:

Airports Near Montague

The nearest airport to Montague is Bradley International Airport in Hartford, Connecticut.

Bus Stations Near Montague

The Peter Pan Bus Lines station in Greenfield and the Greyhound station in Springfield are both located within easy driving distance of Montague.

Other Options

Amtrak’s Vermonter stops at the Amherst and Greenfield stations, providing access to Montague via bus or taxi.

How to Get Around in Montague

Montague is a small town that is easily navigable by car or bike. There are also taxi and shuttle services available for those without access to a vehicle.

Where to Go Next from Montague: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Montague is located in close proximity to a number of other great destinations and attractions. Here are some nearby excursions to consider:

  • Visit the nearby towns of Amherst and Northampton.
  • Take a scenic drive through the Berkshire Mountains.
  • Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge.

Conclusion

Montague is a beautiful and historic town that offers something for everyone. With its cultural landmarks, natural attractions, and range of activities and tours, Montague is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Plan your trip today and discover all that Montague has to offer!

Avenue A, The Village Of Turners Falls Avenue A, The Village Of Turners Falls East Main St in Millers Falls East Main St in Millers Falls The Montague Bookmill The Montague Bookmill