Today’s Northampton, MA, city guide comes from designer Mary Wiseman who five years ago moved to Northampton from Beijing, China. Living right downtown Mary keeps a sharp eye on this quaint little city and its happenings while she develops instructional materials and online courses.
Situated in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts (less than 2 hours west of Boston and 3 hours north of New York City) Northampton is bordered by the Holyoke Mountain range and the Connecticut River and has the feel and picturesque charm of a typical New England city with sophisticated and somewhat quirky twists.
Design devotees will enjoy working their way through town shopping the mix of antiquarian establishments, book stores, artisan shops, boutiques, and galleries. You might even decide to jump on a bike for a spin through the valley’s Bike Rail Trail or walk along the path to see the sights. The adventurous might want to hike the nearby mountains, cross-country ski, canoe or kayak down the Connecticut River and maybe even float aloft the valley in a hot-air balloon ride. All this activity will leave you hungry and Northampton eateries, bakeries, cafes, and bars all strive to serve you their finest. Choosing where to eat and drink might just be the most difficult decision you’ll have to make here.
Art, music, theater, and dance have always played a significant role here in Northampton. An eclectic selection of musicians, from around the world, frequent the Academy of Music, the Calvin Theater, and the Iron Horse and Pearl Street Music Halls. Twice annually [Spring and Autumn] The Paradise City Arts Festival comes to town and showcases the works of some of America’s most prominent craftspeople and artists. Check the Northampton Center for the Arts schedule to find performance dates for theatre and dance. If you happen to be here for New Year’s Eve, Northampton celebrates “First Night,” a cornucopia of entertainment occurring simultaneously at locations throughout the entire city.
On any second Friday [of each month, year-round, rain or shine] prepare to explore Northampton’s galleries and studios during “Arts Night Out”. Plan to stroll along enjoying the various exhibitions and meeting the artists. Festivities usually begin around 5pm. During late spring and summer Northampton is home to several outdoor Farmer’s markets: Saturday mornings on Gothic Street and Tuesday afternoons behind Thorne’s Marketplace. Northampton’s Winter Farmers Market can be found indoors November to April, Saturday’s 9 am to 2pm in the Basement of Thornes.
Boosting a population hovering near 30,000 Northampton is also home to Smith College, one of five large colleges and universities located in the Pioneer Valley region. The influx of academic energy brings a youthful, cosmopolitan flavor to the city, which also means the area swells with parents and families during both Parent’s Weekend and Graduation. Plan your visit accordingly. Northampton has been proudly voted one of the top 25 art destinations, one of the best 100 places to live and one of the top 25 places to retire in the USA to name a few.
Downtown Northampton Proper
Stay
The Hotel Northampton Located in the heart of downtown, this lovely, Colonial Revival hotel has preserved the majesty of 1927 the year of its construction. A member of the Historic Hotels of America, it has all the modern amenities you desire and the charm you crave. 36 King Street 413.584.3100 Reservations: 800.547.3529
Autumn Inn This New England Colonial Inn is conveniently located within walking distance to downtown Northampton and Smith College. 32 relaxing and cozy rooms are available with standard hotel amenities. The inn is entirely nonsmoking. 259 Elm Street 413.584.7660
Eat
The Roost For breakfast -you gotta have waffles or a breakfast sandwich [might I suggest The Williston] or a sticky bun? Snazzy gourmet lunch, dinner and snacks are available all day as are coffees, drinks, and fabulous cakes and desserts. Vegetarian and vegan options always available. There is a great vibe here along with wifi as well but no electrical outlets are available, so come with a full computer battery, if you expect to roost and work. 1 Market Street 413.587.2625
Joe’s Pizza People line up at this old neighborhood establishment for pizza, spaghetti, and other Italian delights. There is a fully stocked bar and extensive beer and wine list. Opens at 4 pm weekdays and noon on weekends. 33 Market Street 413-584-3168
Paradise Bar Grab some appetizers, sandwiches, and much more while you watch sports on the many TVs. Burgers, beer, and fries served daily from 4-5 pm. for $6.95. 1 Bridge Street 413-586-2664
Thai Garden Authentic Thai food. Cozy seating and take out. 2 Bridge Street 413-587-3336
LaVeracruzana Authentic Mexican food served here in a basic friendly setting. Great selection, beer and wine and the TV is usually turned onto soccer or Latino soap operas. Eat in or take out. 31 Main Street 413-586-7181
Fitzwilly’s Began in 1974 as an exercise in comfort, quality food, great service, and moderate prices this is a place to come back time and time again. Good food, seating at the bar and tables. 23 Main Street 413-584-8666
Ibiza Tappas Small authentic dishes from Spain served here along with a great wine list. Come for a snack or full meal. 7 Strong Street 413-303-0808
Sierra Bar & Grill They have a wonderful wine and beer selection here and a full menu. Cozy seating in front and tables in back. I suggest you stop in for drinks and a little nosh. 41 Strong Street 413-584-1150
Dirty Truth Draft and bottled beers from around the globe can be found here. Ask for a sample taste [or 3] before you commit to your draft brew. Nice eclectic menu of bar foods in good proportions, you might want to share, as well as brunch on the weekends. Check the art that rotates and hangs inside as well. 29 Main Street 413-585-5999
Tunnel Bar Martini Heaven located underneath the old train depot. Inside you will find a dark atmosphere with lots of comfy, leather chairs and a small bar if you prefer to sit and watch the bartender make drinks. Just down Strong Street on the left side, along the stone wall. You are there when you reach the arch and double wood doors. 125 A Strong Street 413-586-5366
Bishop’s Lounge Bar with live music and a small dance floor. Check the schedule to see whose playing. Music usually starts later-after 10 pm-ish and there might be a small cover charge. 41 Strong Street, upstairs 413-586-8900
Local Burger Burgers, fries, shakes and more! It’s not fast food… It’s good food fast. Veggie burgers are also available. Be sure to have a plate of fried onions rings to share with the whole gang. Open late. 16 Main Street 413-586-5857
Zen Sumptuous, Asian fusion cuisine is what you’ll find here. Weather permitting, reserve a window table otherwise sit upstairs or at the sushi bar. 41 Main Street 413-582-6888
Karma Pure food, organic, raw, juices and music, entertainment-even yoga is offered here. 48 Main Street 413-727-8143
Amanouz Café Authentic Moroccan and Mediterranean Cuisine, coffees and pastries as well. Breakfast here is lovely and be sure to get some Turkish coffee. 44 Main Street 413-585-9128
Spoleto Delicious Italian cuisine with great atmosphere and a full bar. Come for a cocktail and check out the posters. Weather permitting seating outside. Reservations suggested as it can get crowded. 50 Main Street 413-586-6313
Sweeties Candy Quirky candies and a vast selection of chocolates, including vegan chocolate. 68 Main Street 413-586-4180
Go Berry Fresh yogurt made with local ingredients. Healthy, comfy, wifi, good music, and open from noon onwards. 80 Main Street 413-586-9290
Jake’s Basic and good for breakfast and/or brunch. 17 King Street 413-584-9613
Wiggins Tavern Step back in time, 200 years and enjoy the atmosphere, food, and libations. This is a great place to cozy-up in the wintertime. Dinner served daily and Sunday brunch as well. 36 King Street 413-584-3100
Bruegger’s Bagels Bagels, coffees, drinks, sandwiches and salads. Opens M-F at 5:30 am and Sat-Sun at 6 am. Stop in for some fresh bagels or grab a bag of day-old for the gang. Probably the earliest place to get your morning coffee in Noho. 96 Main Street 413.585.0275
Pinocchio’s Pizza Slices of thick and thin pizza [or buy the whole pie] eclectic variety, cash only, eat in [slightly cramped] great take out and always yummy. Wonderful folks who give great service run this place. 122 Main Street 413-586-8275
Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium All the chocolate you can handle, from fudge to truffles and taffy, coffee, ice cream [during the summer months], and much more. The store is narrow, so take turns entering. While you wait outside watch them whip up something in the front store window. 141 Main Street 413-584-5695
Bueno Y Sano Burritos, quesadillas, tacos, and salads Open daily 11 am to 10 pm. Eat in or take out. 134 Main Street 413-586-7311
Heavenly Chocolate A collection of exotic chocolates, which have to be experienced to be believed. Get a few pieces to mix and match and fill a box full. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413-586-3800
Lhasha Café I lived in China for fifteen years and never got to Tibet. So, I stop here for Tibetan cooking, which is richly varied and comforting food. Lhasa Café has very kind service, indigenous music, and a pleasant environment. 159 Main Street 413-586-5427
Herrell’s Ice Cream Hand-made ice cream, frozen yogurt and sorbets made on the premises. Be sure to try the hot fudge and take an extra jar home with you. This is an ice cream lover’s heaven. On hot days, prepare to wait in line. All the famous people know, the wait is worth it. 8 Old South Street 413-586-9700
Osaka I think this is the best Japanese fusion menu in town with a sushi bar, hibachi tables, and a full bar as well. Ask to sit at the sushi bar and watch the rolls be made. 7 Old South Street 413-587-9548
Caminito Argentinean Steak House Wood fired grilling of hand-cut steaks. Only the best, for meat lovers here. 7 Old South Street 413-387-6387
Northampton Brewery This is the oldest operating brewpub in New England. Stop by for a brew and American food. When weather is permitting, sit in the rooftop beer garden. 11 Brewster Center 413.584.9903
Paul & Elizabeth’s Specializing in natural foods, fresh fish, and tempura. Open for lunch and dinner and Sunday brunch. You can’t go wrong here. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace #5 413.584.4832
Rao’s Coffee & Café Gourmet coffees, teas, baked goods, sandwiches, and soups 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413-586-2649
Postcard Café Coffee and tea in the Booklink Bookstore on the second floor 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413-585 9955
Eclipse Here you will find an eclectic menu featuring fresh, local ingredients, artfully prepared, great wines, and wonderful people watching. Open evenings and you’ll probably find a small jazz quartet playing here as well. You might want to call for reservations or sit at the bar and eat. It’s all good. 186 Main Street 413-584-6006
Bakery Normand Fresh bread, croissants, scones, cookies, and cakes are available here along with coffee, tea and a cute little gift shop. Tuesday to Saturday 7:30 am to 5:30 pm 192 Main Street 413-584-0717
Sip Fine coffee, artisan teas, and wifi. Try their chai hot or chilled. 8 Crafts Street 413-727-3432
Taipei & Tokyo Yummy Chinese can be found here to eat in or take out. 16 Crafts Avenue 413-582-1888
Haymarket Café Offering a wide selection of drinks, baked treats from the café and a juice bar. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, wifi included and a downstairs seating area is available as well. 185 Main Street 413-586-9969
Viva Fresh Pasta European cuisine with the flavors of the Americas. Tapas, pasta, salads, desserts etc. Get fresh pasta and sauces to go. 249 Main Street 413-586-5875
Bela’s Eclectic vegetarian dining for lunch and dinner served Tuesday to Saturday. Open noon to 8:30 pm. Cash only. 68 Masonic Street 413-586-8011
Woodstar Café Fresh healthy baked goods, coffees, teas, and other treats. Breakfast, lunch or any-time-of-the-day snack. Wifi and limited electric outlets. Outdoor seating available weather permitting. 60 Masonic Street 413-585-9777
India House The very best authentic Indian cuisine is served here in a charming atmosphere. Voted the best in the Pioneer Valley since 1984. 45 State Street 413-586-6344
Mama Iguana’s Authentic Mexican foods served along with the largest selection of tequilas and mescals in all of New England. Come by to see the intriguing display of tequila bottles and have a drink or two and snacks at the bar. Opens at 4 pm daily. 274 Main Street 413-586-0400
The Green Bean Socially responsible breakfast & lunch menus created with locally grown food geared for people with varied diets. Vegetarian and vegan options available. Come early, as waiting is part of the experience and worth every minute. 241 Main Street 413-584-2326
Bistro Les Gras Finest farm to table dining. Sustainable, French fusion cuisine served here along with lovely wines in a cozy atmosphere including a small bar. 24 West Street 413-320-4666
Green Street Café Very, very, good food, service and libations. Menus change seasonally and reservations suggested. Full bar and impeccable service. Reservations are suggested. 62 Green Street 413-586-5650
Hungry Ghost Bread Organic artisan sourdough breads created with organically grown grains and baked in a wood fired oven. You can’t go wrong here. Everything is unbelievably fresh. Look for the “Yes” flag flying, which means the bread is out of the oven and ready to go. They also have a variety of cookies, noodles, crackers, pastries, and pizza. The smell inside is reason alone to stop by and watch the bakers in action. 62 State Street 413.582.9009
Shop
Booklink Booksellers New books of fiction, non-fiction, travel…a little something for everyone. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.585.9955
25 Central Young, hip women’s clothes, shoes, and accessories. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.584.8017
Cedar Chest Soaps, gifts, makeup, and so much more. Come and explore. Be sure to check out the upstairs. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.584.3860
Rebekah Brooks Handmade contemporary jewelry and gifts. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.584.0905
Strada European comfort footwear for women. Beautiful shoes and great service. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.584.6621
Monella Modern contemporary clothes for women. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.582.7900
Acme Surplus Brand names for less. Stuff you use, stuff you need. New shipments daily. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.586.1122
Jackson & Connor Classically modern apparel for men. They also have handsome jewelry, accessories, and messenger bags. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.586.4636
Noteworthy Stationary destination. Shop a hand-selected mix of greeting cards, gift wraps, specialty journals, and boxed note cards. A paper lovers delight. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.584.3879
Impish Mischievously playful baby gear, stylish maternity wear, hip kid’s clothes & eco-friendly goods for the modern family. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.586.2511
Cornicopia Whole foods, natural body care products, gourmet coffees and cool stuff. 150 Main Street Thornes Marketplace 413.584.3800
R Michelson Galleries Located inside an old bank, this is a must for all art lovers. Meander into the old vault to view the art, wander in the back area and don’t forget upstairs. There is usually some artist featured as well. Custom framing and art restoration is also available. 132 Main Street 413.586.3964
Don Mueller Gallery Showcasing a truly unbelievable selection of jewelry and art pieces. This is a shop within a gallery and an absolute must see. 40 Main Street 413.586.1119
WM Baczek Gallery Fine arts gallery. Pop in and have a peek. 36 Main Street 413.587.9880
The Artisan Gallery This store too is like being inside an art gallery. Contemporary crafts, imaginative clothing, jewelry, and accessories are all here. Come look at all the beautiful things. 162 Main Street 413.586.1942
Provisions Fine wine, craft beers, and specialty foods. Come get gourmet items for dinner and be sure to check what ice creams are in the freezer. 30 Crafts Street 413-727-3497
State Street Fruit and Liquor Enjoy the generous selection of excellent wines, a wide variety of commercial and pub beers, gourmet-quality delicatessen, and the freshest in local fruit and dairy produce available year-round. Picnic tables out back and cafe tables in front to sit and enjoy a bite. 51 State Street 413.584.2301
Serios Market Part little grocery, local veggies and fruits and complete deli with take out available. 66 State Street 413.584.2633
Fly By Night Your place to shop for beautiful furniture, futons, tables, chairs, sofas, lamps, and other home accessories. Pop in to see their collection. They take custom orders as well. 21 State Street 413.586.1464 Open 7 days a week Mon-Wed 10 am to 6 pm, Thur & Fri 10 am to 8 pm, Sat 10 am to 6 pm and Sun 12 to 5 pm.
River Valley Coop The River Valley Market, a community-owned, full-service grocery store specializing in fresh, local and organically grown food. They have a deli and selection of wine and beer as well. 330 North King Street 413.584.2665
Collectors Galleries Part antique store and art gallery. Be sure to allow some time to soak it all in and strike a deal. 11 Bridge Street 413.584.6734
Sticks and Bricks Revamped, revisited, re-done and all beautiful. These are the new antiques you are gonna want. If you have something custom you’d like, talk to Liz about your ideas. 9 Market Street 413.586.1560
Antique Center of Northampton Antiques and more antiques. Be sure to check out the basement. 9 ½ Market Street 413.584.3600
Metropolitan Books & Records A narrow store, located just above the Antique Center of Northampton, it is chock-full of books and records. A must see. Look for Lucy hanging down on Market Street just at the door or in the antique store. She’ll see you, so don’t worry. 9 ½ Market Street 413.586.7077
Stuart Solomon Antiques Première Stickly furniture, art Nouveau and art deco period pieces. Absolutely stunning. Call to be sure you catch Stuart in his shop-it is worth it. 9 ¾ Market Street 413.531.7776
Whoo Space Part gallery, part store, this Pop-Up Shop always has something new. 11 Market Street 413.727.8173
Paper Paper They have a little something for every paper crafter. Check out their classes. Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays 15 Market Street 413.727.8173
Gabriel Bookstore Well stocked and filled with books of all types bought, sold, and appraised. The book buyer is in the store on Fridays and Saturdays. 21 Market Street 413.586.5596
Birdstone Antiques Call to see if the store is open, the owner has some strange hours to go along with the upscale, high-end antiques and treasures found here. 25 Market Street 413.585.0747
Different Drummer’s Kitchen Everything the foodie wants. 34 Bridge Street 413.586.7978
Roz’s Place Vintage and new clothing & accessories. 6 Bridge Street 413.586.4381
Retro Genie Vintage clothing and accessories. Head downstairs to check out what’s new down there. 26 Strong Street 413.584.4364
Sid Vintage Vintage clothing with an edge. 279 Main Street 413.582.9880
The Fashion Shop Off the beaten path, just down King street, past the Subway sandwich shop left on Trumbull Street. This vintage shop is worth the effort. Stop in and see what’s in store. Be sure to venture upstairs. Vintage clothing, shoes, and items for the home. 6 Trumbull Street
Raven Used Books Here you will find a large variety of book genres including academic books as well. 4 Old South Street 413.584.9868
Broadside Bookshop Dedicated to good books, personal service and community involvement. 247 Main Street 413.586.4235
Faces Fun, fashion, gifts, cards, and home wares. A must for anyone who is curious and looking for the unusual. Kid friendly, but leave your drinks at the door. 175 Main Street 413.584.4081
Pinch A vibrant and eclectic artisan gallery with a focus on the home and art to wear. 179 Main Street 413.586.4509
Gazebo Showcasing a large and varied selection of intimate lingerie, sleepwear, daywear and playwear. Specializing in fit and post mastectomy collections. 14 Center Street 413.584.5783
Harlow Luggage Silver jewelry, leather goods, luggage, travel items and gifts. Brand names carried. 196 Main Street 413.584.5233
Unite Urban styles and brands of footwear you want. Be sure to look up and check out what’s hanging on the wall-exhibitions change regularly. 202 Main Street 413.585.5774
A Child’s Garden Where toys are natural and spark the imagination. Books, toys, games, costumes, and gifts galore. 204 Main Street 413.584.2242
J Rich Clothing for Men Superb clothing for men. Be sure to admire their iron door. 22 Masonic Street 413.586.6336
ODE Creative, fashion and accessories for women 263 Main Street 413.727.8026
The Mountain Goat Specializing in outdoor gear, clothing, and travel accessories 189 Main Street 413.586.0803
Urban Outfitters You know what’s here, men’s and women’s clothing, accessories and apartment ware. Come in and check out the building housing this iconic retailer. 109 Main Street 413.587.4091
Urban Exchange The area’s largest brand name and designer consignment shop 233 Main Street 413.585.8729
Happy Valley Gifts, jewelry, household items, toys, and much, much more. 229 Main Street 413.586.1661
Casa Del Sol Apparel, jewelry, and crafts from Ecuador, Peru, Latin America and Asia. 207 Main Street 413.584.0109
Oh My Walk downstairs and into a world of sensual delights. 18 years or older only please. 122 Main Street 413.584.9669
Guild Art Supply Large selection of art supplies, journals, papers, paint and everything else for your artistic urges. 102 Main Street 413.584.6343
Essentials A quirky selection of papers, cards, gifts, books, and other stationary items. You have to visit to appreciate it. 88 Main Street 413.584.2327
Ten Thousand Villages Preserving crafting traditions-gift items from around the globe. A fair trade shop. 82 Main Street 413.582.9339
NBO Tickets Buy all your tickets here for events in the area. 76 Main Street 413.586.8686
Silverscape Designs Stunning gems and jewels from the finest artists all housed in a beautiful old bank. 1 King Street 413.584.3324
Backyard Bird All the bird supplies you need, friendly, helpful staff as well. Get your bulk birdseed here. 17 Strong Street 413.586.3155
A to Z Learning A really fun store full of toys, books, games for the whole family and all ages. A must stop for kids and for those who live like kids. 57 King Street 413.586.1611
Birdhouse Music Consignment, sales & rentals of musical instruments 13 King Street 413.584.0404
Northampton-Florence /North West
Stay
Sugar Maple Bed and Breakfast Located, on the Bike Trail, the Sugar Maple has two comfortable guest rooms on the second floor—each with private bathrooms. This B&B is within walking distance to Northampton, using the Bike Trail or public sidewalks. 62 Chestnut Street, Florence, MA 413.575.2277
The Knoll Bed and Breakfast This spacious 12-room house of country Tudor design was built in 1910 and has guest rooms on the second floor. The Knoll is situated on 17 acres of farmland and forest in the Florence residential section of Northampton. The Knoll sits well back from route 9, providing a peaceful atmosphere for a good nights rest. This B&B is also within walking distance to Northampton. 230 North Main Street, Florence, MA 413.584.8164
Eat
Side Street Café Serving lunch and dinner these folks do it right. Simply prepared fresh foods delightfully created. They also have a beautiful beer and wine bar. Live music and outdoor seating [weather permitting] round out this experience. 42 Maple Street, Florence 413.587.8900
Cafe Evolution This vegetarian cafe has some of the very best vegan foods in the Pioneer Valley. Order breakfast, lunch or dinner and their vegan baked goods are legendary in Western Massachusetts. Enjoy a full meal or a snack with coffee or tea and relax in the warm atmosphere. Open daily 7:30 am to 4 pm. Thursday 7:30 am to 6 pm. Friday 7:30 am to 8 pm. Saturday 9 am to 9 pm and Sunday 10 am to 2 pm. 22 Chestnut Street, Florence 413.586.0200
Ms. Flo’s Diner Slide into a booth in this traditional diner and get ready to enjoy a great breakfast, sandwich or pie. The coffee flows from the friendly waitstaff. 99 Main Street, Florence 413.584.3137
Cup and Top Stop by for delicious soups, sandwiches, baked goods, organic coffee and teas. Open daily 6 am to 6 pm. Weekends 8 am to 3 pm. 1 North Main Street, Florence 413.585.0445
Shop
Goldthread Herbal Apothecary A full service herbal dispensary specializing in custom formulas using the highest quality herbs [many are organically grown at their own local farm] crafted with the greatest care and attention to detail. Tuesday – Friday 10 am to 5:30 pm. Saturday 10 am to 3pm. Closed Sunday and Monday. 1 North Main Street, Florence 413.587.0620
Kid’s Kloset A fun, hip consignment shop for women and children. They carry top clothing brands, toys, books, puzzles, games, baby equipment and accessories. 22 Maple Avenue, Northampton 413.586.0333
Northampton-Pleasant Street/ Southeast
Stay
Clarion Hotel 1 Atwood Drive 413. 586.1211
Quality Inn & Suites 117 Conz Street 413.586.6549
Both of these chain hotels are located just off Interstate 91 and part of Choice Hotels chain. Each offers full amenities and heated indoor pools.
Eat
Sylvester’s Serves breakfast at 7 am daily followed by lunch. Walk into something wonderful! The baked goods are to die for and the portions are very generous. This is the home of the graham cracker-really. 111 Pleasant Street 413-586-5343
Mimmo’s Pizza The biggest slices of New York style handmade pizza for the buck. Made to order. Grinders are available as well. Sit inside to eat or carry out. 71 Pleasant Street 413-584-1711
Siam Square Café Authentic Thai food made with only the freshest ingredients. Lunch and dinner served. Friendly service. Eat in or take out. Closed on Monday’s. 84 Pleasant Street 413-582-6799
Northampton Coffee The very best single-origin coffees and espresso drinks and an extensive and exciting variety of full leaf teas and botanicals. Homemade hot cocoa and chai, a variety of iced beverages as well as chocolates and freshly baked pastries. I have friends from Rhode Island who, when they visit, always have coffee here. 269 Pleasant Street 413-587-8987
Shop
Webbs Yarn A very comprehensive selection of yarns, needles, books, patterns and supplies for knitters, crocheters and weavers and then some. 75 Service Center Road 413.584.2225
Northampton Wools A large selection of yarns, classes and accessories. 29 Pleasant Street 413.586.4331
Every Pet’s Dream Providing for your animal friends with select, high quality products. 94 Pleasant Street 413.586.5525
Northampton Bikes Rent comfort and tandems – daily rates apply. Or check out what’s for sale. 319 Pleasant Street 413.586.3810
YES Computers Apple headquarters for Apple products and service. 196 Pleasant Street 413.585.0007
Downtown Sounds One of Northampton’s full-service musical instrument retail store. Come in and “play” with the instruments. 21 Pleasant Street 413.586.0998
Turn It Up CD’s, vinyl and more. Used, rare and collectibles 5 Pleasant Street 413.582.1885
Notable Locals
Liz Karney and Adam Dunetz moved to Northampton, in hopes of creating socially responsible businesses. Adam, a restauranteur, with the help of his lovely and talented wife Liz, own and operate both The Green Bean and The Roost. Liz, creates custom furniture from her shop Sticks and Bricks where she builds from scratch, renovates, and re-purposes furniture and housewares from old and reclaimed materials.
Lexie Barnes is a co-founding director of the Twist art fair showcasing all types of talented crafty artists.
Peter Laird is an American comic book writer and artist and best known for co-creating Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles with writer and artist Kevin Eastman.
Andrew J. Crystal, President of the Board of Trustees at the Academy of Music has been a civic leader for more than two decades. Andrew also served as chair or member of Northampton’s Planning Board. His lifelong appreciation for the performing arts drew him to his work at the Academy.
Geography Jerry A beloved Northampton trivia man. Geography Jerry, is the man who comes up to kids and teenagers on the streets of Northampton and asks trivia questions about geography. I know, it sounds creepy, however, in general, the best, nicest guy ever. Look for Jerry on the streets or on the bus.
Martin Jones saxophonist who can be heard playing regularly in downtown Northampton.
