A few weeks ago before my cousin’s wedding, we stopped in nearby Northampton for a bite to eat and I was instantly won over by this quintessential New England town with a funky edge. It’s a fascinating blend of historic and hippy. I had to come back for a day of photography.

Then I remembered reading this post about Central Massachusetts by fellow travel blogger Young Adventuress and decide to add more stops to my driving tour. First up…

NORTHAMPTON

I find a metered spot on main street, feed the meter for two hours, and wander with my camera.

I pass by a lot of homeless people. Most of them say hello.

As evidenced by the rainbow crosswalk, Northampton is an especially gay-friendly town — it’s home to the largest Pride Parade in western New England.

I pass by the quaint Northampton Hotel.

I get my caffeine fix at Wood Star Cafe, the same place where I had lunch with family a few weeks ago. Their iced vanilla latte is divine.

Good-bye for now, Northampton! I look forward to my next visit.

SUNDERLAND

I spontaneously pull over at this scenic overlook in Sunderland, on the way to Montague. It’s the perfect place to eat the deli sandwich I picked up before departing Northampton. This is the Connecticut River:

Exploring with my camera makes me a happy.

MONTAGUE

My next stop is The Montague Bookmill… also known as the coolest used bookstore I’ve ever visited.

It’s a giant barn with lots of nooks, crannies, and books.

These armchairs overlooking the river… can you picture a better way to spend an afternoon? Didn’t think so.

There’s another level of rooms (and armchairs) upstairs.

I’m in my happy place.

I grab an iced tea from the cafe and perch at a table overlooking the river.

Around 6pm I force myself to depart the Montague Bookmill with a promise to return in the near future.

HISTORIC DEERFIELD

It’s my fourth and final stop of the day: the town center of Deerfield, home to dozens of colonial houses and the illustrious prep school Deerfield Academy.

The sun is on its way down so I make my way down main street and snap away.

So New England-y…

Deerfield Academy is right in the center of town and there are high school students everywhere. After I see a few of them go into these cottage-style apartments, I realize they’re actually dorms. HOW COOL IS THAT.

The museum and visitor’s center are closed, but if you’re here mid-day there’s a lot to see. And I believe there are tours available.

The bunting… how more quintessential New England does it get?

As the sun sets, I make my way back to the car and drive home to Connecticut.

I’ve barely scratched the surface of central / western Massachusetts, but I’m thrilled to have seen so much beauty today. Looking forward to my next visit!