10 Best Things to Do in Longmeadow (MA)

Located on the east bank of the Connecticut River, Longmeadow is a prosperous suburb of Springfield, Massachusetts. This historic town was first settled in the mid-17th century and remained united with East Longmeadow until 1894. Known for its sandstone quarries, Longmeadow provided materials for significant projects like the Smithsonian Institution Building. Today, the town blends its rich history with modern conveniences, offering a variety of attractions and activities for residents and visitors alike.

Longmeadow Historic District (Town Green)

The heart of Longmeadow’s historic charm is the Town Green, a quintessential New England common that has served as the town’s center for over 300 years. This elongated grassy area runs north to south along a sandy ridge, just a mile east of the Connecticut River. The green is flanked by beautiful examples of 18th and 19th-century architecture, including the First Church of Christ, dating back to 1768, and the Olde Burying Yarde with gravestones from the 17th century. The district’s only commercial establishment, the Old Country Store, now known as The Spa on Green, has been serving the community since 1805.

Forest Park

Bordering Longmeadow to the north, Forest Park is a sprawling Victorian-era park established in the 1880s. Spanning 735 acres, it ranks among the largest urban parks in the United States. The park offers a wide range of recreational facilities, including hiking trails along Pecousic Brook, scenic lookouts, and beautifully maintained flower and water gardens. Forest Park also hosts a popular farmers’ market and the annual “Bright Lights at Forest Park” during the holiday season, a two-mile trail featuring spectacular light displays.

Fannie Stebbins Memorial Wildlife Refuge

Nature lovers can explore the Fannie Stebbins Memorial Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary protecting over 330 acres along the Connecticut River. Established in the early 1950s, the refuge encompasses part of the Longmeadow Flats floodplain, featuring forests, meadows, and marshes that provide habitats for a diverse range of bird species. In recent years, a portion of the refuge has been integrated into the Silvio O. Conte National Wildlife Refuge, enhancing conservation efforts and offering interpretive signage about the area’s flora and fauna.

Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center

One of Forest Park’s main attractions is the Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center, which has been delighting visitors since 1894. The zoo houses over 200 animals, including native and exotic species such as Arctic foxes, spotted leopards, ring-tailed lemurs, and American alligators. A barnyard area features domesticated animals like miniature donkeys and pygmy goats. The zoo also offers educational programs, including a wildlife camp for children aged 6-13, making it a popular destination for families.

Longmeadow Historical Society

Preserving the town’s rich history, the Longmeadow Historical Society was founded in 1899. It operates the Storrs House Museum, a Colonial-era house built in 1786 that faces the Town Green. Each room in the museum is designed to reflect different periods of Longmeadow’s past, displaying a vast collection of historical artifacts such as furniture, textiles, clothing, and decorative arts. Recent exhibits have focused on the town’s separation from East Longmeadow and its historical role in regional and national contexts.

The Olde Burying Yarde

For those interested in early American history, the Olde Burying Yarde provides a glimpse into Longmeadow’s past. Located behind the First Church of Christ, this cemetery dates back to 1682 and includes numerous historic gravestones. The Longmeadow Historical Society offers a self-guided walking tour, available online, detailing the inscriptions and symbolism found on the markers. This tour provides a compelling insight into the lives of Longmeadow’s early residents.

Riverfront Conservation Area

The Riverfront Conservation Area offers another scenic spot to enjoy the Connecticut River’s natural beauty. Located on Anthony Road near the Pioneer Valley Yacht Club, this town-owned conservation area features 300 feet of peaceful, grassy shoreline shaded by mature trees. Visitors can launch a canoe or kayak, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax while taking in the serene river views, particularly stunning at sunset.

Alex’s Bagel Shop

A local favorite, Alex’s Bagel Shop, is situated across from Laurel Park on Route 5. Known for its freshly boiled and baked bagels, the shop moved to its current location in 2018 after a community-driven campaign ensured its continuation. Offering a variety of bagel flavors and a wide selection of cream cheeses, Alex’s Bagel Shop has become a beloved institution, catering to generations of Longmeadow residents.

Springfield

Just a short drive from Longmeadow, Springfield offers additional cultural and recreational attractions. The third-largest city in Massachusetts, Springfield is the birthplace of basketball and the home of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The city’s cultural hub, The Quadrangle, includes several museums, such as the Springfield Museum of Fine Arts, the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, and the Springfield Science Museum, providing a rich array of experiences for visitors of all ages.

Enfield Regional Farmers’ Market

For those looking to explore beyond Longmeadow, the Enfield Regional Farmers’ Market in nearby Enfield, Connecticut, is worth the trip. Held on Sundays from June through October, this bustling market offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and crafts. During the colder months, the market moves indoors to the Enfield Square Mall, extending the opportunity to shop locally produced goods until the last Sunday before Christmas.

Longmeadow’s blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and proximity to Springfield’s urban amenities make it a desirable place to live and visit. Whether you’re exploring the historic Town Green, hiking in Forest Park, or savoring a bagel from a beloved local shop, Longmeadow offers a charming slice of New England life.

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