Springfield, Massachusetts isn’t exactly a City that jumps out in people’s minds when they think of a Family Travel destination but there’s a lot of family fun and some adult fun as well. If you looking for a short getaway there is plenty to do keep your busy for a long weekend or even a full week stay. MGM Casino just opened in Springfield, Mass, and includes a hotel. The MGM Casino has strict rules, not only are kids not allowed on the casino floor but also not to stand on the tiled pathway behind parents who are gambling. No Children are allowed in MGM from midnight till 8 am though there are exceptions for late-night movies. This may be a fun place to stay with friends, Grandparents, or another family who can possibly watch the little ones in the evening while you enjoy an adult-only evening. There’s valet parking for a fee and also self-parking for FREE. while the garage seems far from the main entrance an elevator takes you right to the casino floor.
Springfield Museums
Springfield Museums are a cluster of various small museums including the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum. It’s only half a mile walk from MGM Casino if you happen to be staying there. There’s metered street parking that is free on the weekends they the museum also has a small parking lot. The museums are great for children and have a variety of options that can keep them busier for a half day or even 2. They are also part of the ASTC Museum Reciprocity Program, so you can visit here along with 100s of museums across the country and even the world for the price of one membership.
The Big E fair usually occurs in the last 2 weeks of September. It’s a large fair and includes buildings that highlight each New England State including local food. There’s of course everything you expect at a County Fair including a giant McDonalds Slide. The 2019 Big E will include a circus. Truth be told I find Fairs to be very expensive on top of paying for admission there are often additional costs for rides and definitely, the food prices are steep. Mike however loves fairs and we were lucky enough to win tickets to the Big E so we got to check it out for free.
Six Flags New England
Six Flags New England in Agawam, MA is only an 11 min drive away. Six Flags New England has a wonderful water park that is included with admission. The water park is great for all ages. It includes a small splash area with submarine slide and kiddie lazy river for toddlers, a splash bucket, 2 additional lazy rivers, a wave pool and numerous water slides for every age including 2 family tube slides. The park also includes various amusement park rides including toon town for kids and a handful of roller coasters. Our kids love pandemonium ever since they met the height requirement. Check out why Six Flags season passes are such a good value.
Forest Park
Forest Park is a large park in Springfield that has hiking trails, playgrounds basketball courts and a hockey arena. It also has a zoo. They have some unique animals that I have not seen in other zoos. You can check out the exhibits here.
Springfield, Mass is a great destination for families. If you have never been to a Fair the Big E is a great one to attend and while you’re there why not make a long weekend out of it and check out some of these other activities. The Dr. Seuss museum is absolutely worth a day trip if you live within driving distance and Six Flags is our favorite park especially because of the water park. We spend a day most weekends in the summer here.
Springfield, Mass 3 Day Itinerary
1 Day in Springfield Mass
Head out early so you arrive by 10 am at the Springfield Museums. Have a cooler packed with lunches. Snag you 10 am Amazing World of Dr Seuss passes and head over. After your visit enjoy your packaged lunch either in the courtyard with the Dr. Seuss statues or in your car if its chilly or raining. After lunch visit the Science museum and or a Special exhibit if they are offering one.When you have finished for the day head to your hotel to check-in and get settled in. Head to dinner at one of Springfield’s many restaurants for all tastes and budgets.
2 Days in Springfield Mass
If it’s Big E Fair season head to the Big E if it’s April through December head to Six Flags New England and Enjoy the day. You can either pack food to make it more affordable or enjoy the various food offered onsite.
3 Days in Springfield Mass
Check out of your hotel early and head to Forest Park to enjoy the zoo and various trails and playgrounds. It will surely tire the kids out for the car ride home.
If your lucky enough to have family come along, book a stay at the MGM and spend a couple hours in the evening trying your luck and enjoy complementary drinks in the casino.