Greenfield

Poet's Seat Tower, a 1912 sandstone lookout tower, was named after a long tradition of poets being drawn to the spot. Poets have long been inspired by the beautiful views throughout the Pioneer Valley from this vantage point. Subsequently, Francis Goddard Tuckerman, a Greenfield poet of some repute --and colleague of Thoreau--composed several poems at this site. Sits atop Rocky Mountain, overlooking High Street (Route 2A), accessible from Mountain Road (take Maple Street off High). Spectacular views of surrounding hills and countryside as well as the Connecticut River from a network of well-marked woodland trails.

Greenfield Energy Park, at 50 Miles Street, is a downtown greenspace featuring timely and unique exhibits on sustainable energy, all set in beautiful gardens with perennial beds, a butterfly garden and agricultural demonstration plots. There's also a refurbished 1944 New Haven Caboose Museum (open at events), a wooden train for children to play on, picnic benches and art work throughout the park. The Station, in the style of the original railroad station, offers a covered outdoor stage for performing arts. For a performance schedule visit the website. 413-772-1553

Historical Society of Greenfield, is housed in a Victorian Mansion on the corner of Church and Union Streets. There are three floors of exhibits and a research library. Among many exhibits tracing Greenfield's history are furniture, photographs, maps, a large collection of industrial artifacts, Indian relics, and objects belonging to author Mary P. Wells Smith, including her portrait, manuscripts and six of the original illustrations for her children's books, "Jolly Good Times" and "Young Puritans." A military room houses uniforms and weapons of wars from the French and Indian to the Persian Gulf War. Open Sunday afternoons in the fall and for special events. Research by appointment. Call 413-774-3663 and leave a message for further information.

Covered Bridge, on Eunice Williams Drive, is a 95-foot structure spanning the Green River in an area called the "Pumping Station." It was built in 1972 to replace a 100-year old covered bridge that was burned by vandals.

Country Club of Greenfield on Country Club Road, is an 18-hole golf course. It is one of the oldest courses in the country, having been organized in 1896 and located at the present site since 1901. Call 413-773-7530 for further information.

Artspace Community Arts Center is located at 15 Mill Street. The Artspace's mission since its inception in 1973 has been to enhance the cultural life of the county. It is known for exhibits in its Art Space Gallery, arts-in-education programs and detail-rich resource and information base for artists, residents and visitors to the region. Rental space is available for organizations for meetings and classes. Call (413) 772-6811 for further information.

Griswold/GTD Conservation Area, on Lampblack Road provides a hiking trail, wetlands, grasslands and open spaces for hikers, birdwatchers, cross country skiers and others. The property spans from Lampblack Road to Interstate 91. Entrance to the trail's parking lot is located just before the Bernardston town line. Brochures that include a map are available at the trailhead.

Museum of Our Industrial Heritage, located at 2 Mead Street. Features a collection of artifacts, archival material, and historic photos represent nearly all of Franklin County’s 26 towns and the neighboring town of Athol. The Museum of Our Industrial Heritage presents these tangible reminders of the past by focusing on the spirit of innovation that fueled each era—and explores how that same spirit might shape our future. Open year-round by appointment. Open Saturday and Sundays during the summer months, 1 to 4 pm. (413) 336-8275

Franklin County Fair, was begun in 1848. The fair is held the first Thursday after Labor Day though Sunday. An opening day parade opens the festivities. The fair includes displays of livestock and farm products, crafts, food, horse and oxen pulls, various competitions, music, stage shows, demolition derby and midway. Call (413) 774-4282 or check the website for further information.

Green River Festival, is held annually in June at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. Featuring world class music and artisans.