Chicopee

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Chicopee's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chicopee Historical Society, where you can learn about the city's rich history through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque downtown area, admiring the historic architecture and charming storefronts. Enjoy a coffee at a local café as you soak up the morning atmosphere.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Chicopee Memorial State Park for a relaxing picnic lunch amidst nature. After eating, explore the park’s walking trails and enjoy some birdwatching or simply take in the serene surroundings. As the sun begins to dip, consider renting a kayak to paddle around the park's beautiful lake.

evening
:

As evening falls, return to downtown Chicopee for dinner at a cozy restaurant that serves local cuisine. After your meal, take a stroll along the Chicopee Riverwalk, where you can enjoy the tranquil views of the river illuminated by the setting sun. Conclude your day with a visit to a local brewery to sample some craft beers.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Connecticut River Greenway State Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the river. Watch for local wildlife as you meander through the lush landscapes, and bring your camera to capture the scenery. After your walk, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby diner known for its delicious pancakes.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the nearby Mount Tom State Reservation. Hike the scenic trails that wind through the forested areas, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the Connecticut River. Take breaks to appreciate the natural beauty and perhaps have a packed lunch at one of the scenic overlooks.

evening
:

As night approaches, return to Chicopee and visit a local eatery for a farm-to-table dining experience. After dinner, consider attending a community event or concert, which often takes place at local parks or venues. Wind down at a nearby café with a sweet treat and reflect on your day immersed in nature.

day 3
Arts and Culture Discovery
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to the Chicopee Cultural Council, where you can explore local art exhibits and learn about upcoming cultural events. Spend some time at the nearby Chicopee Public Library browsing through art books or participating in a community workshop. Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery to fuel your exploration.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the historic Chicopee City Hall to admire its impressive architecture and learn about its significance in the community. Visit local galleries to appreciate the works of regional artists and perhaps purchase a piece to take home. Take a break at a café, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink while chatting with locals about the art scene.

evening
:

As evening approaches, attend a performance at the Chicopee Center for the Arts, where you might catch a live theater production or musical performance. After the show, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that highlights local flavors and culinary creativity. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of downtown, taking in the vibrant atmosphere.

day 4
Family Fun at the Park
morning
:

Start your morning at Szot Park, where you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Engage the family with a game of frisbee or take a walk around the pond while observing the ducks. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the park's picnic tables as you bask in the morning sun.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take advantage of the park's facilities by exploring the playground or renting bikes to ride along the trails. If you're visiting during the summer, splash around at the park's spray pad to cool off. Create lasting memories with family-friendly activities like mini-golf or a scavenger hunt.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, gather for a barbecue at one of the park's grills, sharing stories and laughter as you cook dinner together. After enjoying your meal, take a leisurely walk around the park to watch the sunset casting beautiful colors across the sky. End your family day with a stargazing session, marveling at the night sky together.

day 5
Local Cuisine Adventure
morning
:

Begin your culinary adventure with breakfast at a family-owned diner famous for its hearty portions and local flavors. Afterward, explore the Chicopee Farmers Market, where you can sample fresh produce and homemade goods while interacting with local vendors. Pick up some ingredients for a cooking class later in the day.

afternoon
:

Attend a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you'll learn to prepare a traditional New England dish using the fresh ingredients you gathered. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow food enthusiasts as you cook and taste various dishes. After the class, visit a local winery for an afternoon tasting of regional wines paired with artisanal cheeses.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a dinner at a renowned restaurant that showcases farm-to-table dining, featuring seasonal ingredients from local farms. After dinner, stop by a dessert shop for a sweet treat to cap off your culinary experience. Consider joining a food tour that dives deeper into Chicopee's diverse culinary landscape.

day 6
Historical Sites and Museums
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to the Chicopee Historical Society to learn about the city's unique past. Engage with knowledgeable staff and explore the exhibits that showcase artifacts from different eras. Enjoy a light breakfast at a café nearby, reflecting on the historical tales you've just discovered.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Polish Center of Discovery and Learning, where you can delve into the Polish-American experience through captivating exhibits. Participate in interactive displays that highlight cultural traditions and history. Afterward, head to the nearby Chicopee Public Library for a quiet afternoon of reading or attending a community event.

evening
:

As evening arrives, find a local restaurant that serves traditional Polish cuisine for dinner, immersing yourself in the flavors of the culture. After your meal, visit a nearby theater to catch a local performance or film that celebrates the community's history. Conclude your day with a reflective walk through a historic neighborhood, appreciating the architecture and stories behind each building.

day 7
Outdoor Activities and Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite before heading out for an adventure-filled morning at the Chicopee Sports & Recreation Complex. Engage in activities such as disc golf or batting cages, enjoying the fresh air and friendly competition. Take a moment to explore the beautiful landscape surrounding the complex.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the nearby Connecticut River for an afternoon of outdoor fun like fishing or paddleboarding. Rent equipment from a local shop and spend the afternoon gliding along the river, surrounded by scenic views. Take breaks to enjoy the tranquility of the riverbanks and have a picnic lunch if you prefer.

evening
:

As night falls, head back to Chicopee for dinner at a casual eatery with outdoor seating. After your meal, consider visiting a local park for an evening bonfire or outdoor movie night if available. Wind down your adventurous day by sharing stories and laughs under the stars.

day 8
Shopping and Relaxation Day
morning
:

Start your day with coffee and pastries at a local café before heading to the Eastfield Mall for some retail therapy. Browse through a variety of stores, from popular brands to unique local boutiques, finding the perfect souvenirs or gifts. Take breaks between shopping to enjoy the mall's atmosphere and perhaps do some people-watching.

afternoon
:

After shopping, treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon at a local spa, where you can indulge in a massage or facial treatment. Enjoy the calming ambiance as you unwind and rejuvenate after a busy morning of shopping. Post-spa, enjoy a light lunch at a nearby bistro known for its fresh salads and sandwiches.

evening
:

As evening approaches, explore more of the local dining scene by visiting a trendy restaurant for dinner. After your meal, consider catching a movie at a nearby cinema or attending a live music event to wrap up your day. Take a leisurely stroll back to your accommodation, reflecting on a day filled with relaxation and enjoyment.

day 9
Community Engagement and Festivals
morning
:

If visiting during a weekend, kick off your day at a local community festival, starting with breakfast from food vendors offering diverse cuisine. Engage with local artisans and craftsmen showcasing their work, and participate in family-friendly activities. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with laughter and music.

afternoon
:

Continue your festival experience in the afternoon, exploring various booths and engaging in workshops that highlight local culture and talents. Sample traditional dishes, enjoy live performances, and make new friends as you immerse yourself in the community spirit. Take the time to appreciate the creativity and hard work of local artists and musicians.

evening
:

As the festival winds down, find a local restaurant to enjoy a celebratory dinner, reflecting on the day’s experiences. After dinner, head back to the festival grounds for an evening concert or fireworks display, capping off a wonderful day of community engagement. Conclude your trip with a walk through the festival, taking in the lights and sounds one last time.

Discover Chicopee

Read more in our Chicopee 2025 Travel Guide.

Chicopee Travel Guide