Location: Springfield
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7 Museums in Springfield That You Shouldn't Miss
Springfield is perhaps best known as the birthplace of basketball and home of the Basketball Hall of Fame. (The story goes that local physical education teacher James Naismith invented the sport to fill the gaps between football and baseball seasons.) But this historic town on the shores of the Connecticut River is famous for a few other reasons and definitely worth a quick jaunt or weekend away. Springfield was the birthplace and home of beloved children's author and illustrator, Theodore Geisel, Dr. Seuss. In fact, the Zoo in Forest Park, a sure hit with the kids, is said to be the inspiration for many of his wild and wacky tales. Wander through the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, at the Quadrangle, for a look at the Cat in the Hat and Yertle the Turtle cast in bronze. The city served as a major arsenal during the Revolutionary War, a role that is commemorated at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, which displays an enormous collection of small pistols. History buffs will also enjoy the Connecticut Valley Historical Museum, a tribute to the ordinary people of the region who, during various periods in time, did extraordinary things.
Restaurants in Springfield
1. Springfield Armory National Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 297 reviews
The Armory, which manufactured and tested firearms for the U.S. military from 1794 to 1968, houses the country's largest collection of US military small weapons. The displays include rare weapons and the largest collection of confederate weapons anywhere. When it started, the Armory was the first high tech manufacturing to occur in the country, and the advancements in mass production and the ability to create interchangeable parts that started at the Armory, initiated the development of the countries first high tech manufacturing corridor.
Reviewed By oldbonesgenealogy - Chicopee, United States
Incredible collection and history of the Armory which was an integral part of the War for Independence
2. Springfield Museums
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 484 reviews
The Springfield Museums, located in the heart of downtown Springfield, Massachusetts, is comprised of four world-class museums covering art, history, and science, plus the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden.
Reviewed By Maxy2011 - Southampton, United States
You really need to plan more than one day to see this gem in the middle of Springfield, Ma. Something for everyone, even the little ones. The Dr.Suess museum is hands on for the kids. Well worth the price but, check online for discounts. Springfield residents are free with proof of residing in the city. I am already planning my next visit. How wonderful to have this right here in our community. Plenty of parking and even a very nice restaurant right on the property.
3. The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 112 reviews
Reviewed By dustythoughts - Manchester, United States
This glorious, fantastic museum is wonderful for both kids and for adults who grew up reading Dr Seuss, who was a native of Springfield. The museum is colorful and interactive, and has exhibits from a lot of Dr Seuss' stories, like the Cat in the Hat and Who-Ville. The first floor is more aimed at younger kids, with interactive exhibits, like rhyming games and fun vocabulary games. The second floor highlights major parts of the author's life, with a recreation of part of his home, family photographs, and other memorabilia.
4. Basketball Hall of Fame
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 676 reviews
Located in the town where basketball was invented, this 48,000-square-foot museum has three levels of exhibits on the history and heroes of the game and gives visitors a chance to participate in skill contests.
Reviewed By alexphillies10
I learned a lot about basketball history and about my favorite players. I was also able to play basketball in the center court during my visit which was a fun thing to do after viewing all of the exhibits. One of my favorite things about the basketball HOF was all of the players spread out across the top of the dome. Finally, the gift shop was a good place to visit and buy souvenirs.
5. Titanic Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By chrispW4353IV - Ivoryton, United States
Wow, if you love hidden history and local people with passion, this is the place for you. Tucked in the back of a jewelry store and packed with an endless array of artifacts, some with a stronger connection to the Titanic than others, this is a true hidden gem. Although I didn't catch her name, the woman who owns the store and museum had an amazing knowledge of the event and shared it willingly if asked. This is not a flashy museum but it was a great authentic experience.
6. Pan African Historical Museum U.S.A.
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 5 reviews
Non-profit organization features African and African-American history and art exhibits.
Reviewed By 400tracih - Palm - Eagle Beach, Caribbean
I contacted this museum as I was visiting and teaching a class for a week at a nearby school and had read about their Underground Railroad walking tour. I stumbled across it when researching Springfield's history. The museum was quick to accommodate and put together something for our class. I even screwed up the days and came a day early and they ended up giving us a tour of their museum of the their current exhibits, as Black History Month was ending and that was fabulous and beautiful. Then, we were able to return on the next day. The tour was incredible. I was a visiting teacher and didn't have the full schedule and parameters of the school's program and unfortunately we had to cut our tour short, but the museum again, accommodated us. Nevertheless, what was taught to us and what they put up just for our week of Civil Rights and Black involvement in Labor Movement was truly exceptional, in addition to the Underground Tour. One of my students wants to get involved in this museum now and I am hoping the school includes it as a regular occurrence. I do encourage anyone who is going to visit for the walking tour to call ahead, as the Museum plans it out for you, its interactive. Their founder has recently passed away and the team that is working to keep this amazing place going is doing a great job. I hate seeing reviews of folks that do not appreciate all the hard work that goes into that. The number is accurate on their contact us page. Their email is: [email protected]. This museum is seriously a goldmine. I wish I lived closer to be involved in their regular activities, as the museum does regular events. They have an amazing wall up on Women now.
7. Indian Orchard Mills
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 5 reviews
Awesome Galleries! In this galleries you can not only shop but buy art. Theses galleries are becoming increasingly popular with people.
