Northampton is a lively college town in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, home to Smith College and a thriving arts and dining scene. Main Street is packed with independent bookshops, cafes, galleries, and restaurants — it is one of the most walkable downtowns in New England.
The town has a long progressive tradition and a large LGBTQ community. Colonial-era buildings survive along South Street, Elm Street, and Bridge Street, giving the centre an attractive, historic feel. The Connecticut River and surrounding hills offer good cycling and hiking, and Amherst, with UMass and Amherst College, is just 15 minutes east. The Academy of Music and Iron Horse Music Hall give the town a live music scene out of proportion to its size.