This is a continuation of a previous blog article, to see the first part click here
Tasty Places
5. Stop for a bite at Sylvester's Restaurant on Pleasant Street for a hearty and healthy breakfast or lunch. This restaurant is named after Sylvester Graham who resided in Northampton in the early 19th-century and was know for inventing the graham cracker. Graham was one of the first to tout the importance of fresh produce and whole grains in a healthy diet, and which is evident in Sylvester's menu. A perennial favorite is the Sunflower Seed Bread that is baked fresh daily at the restaurant. Among the menu's highlights are Irish Eggs Benedict and Sylvester's Homefries. You may have to wait a bit for a table but it's worth it. Check it out at http://www.sylvestersrestaurant.com/
6. Head off a mid-day sugar craving at Sweetie's Fine Chocolates & Confections on the corner of Main and Pleasant. Another of Main Street's cornerstone boutiques, Sweetie's makes you feel like a kid again. Tall clear bins hold classic candies and some new-fangled ones too. The candy counter displays creamy filled chocolates and fresh fudge. Wonka would be proud of this brightly lit, sugar laden, fun factory.
7. Try Spoleto's Restaurant for an Italian-inspired dinner. The atmosphere here is modern and comfortable. There's a large bar in the center of the restaurant that offers wine list and a selection of local microbrews. Spoleto's menu offers superb seafood, beef and vegetarian dishes, most of which involve some form of pasta. To see a sample of the menu, go to http://www.fundining.com/
8. Chill out at the classy, yet unpretentious Tunnel Bar. Just a block down from Spoleto's is a hidden gem that locals love and visitor's find much too late. The Tunnel Bar is a lounge that has been built into an abandoned tunnel on Pleasant St. The tunnel runs underneath the former Union Train Station, which was renovated and is now a restaurant. The arched stone walls, warm lighting, and leather couches make this place quaint and ultra-relaxing. Tunnel Bar serves food and has impressive wine, beer, and liquor menus. See photos of the inside and sample menus at http://www.unionstationrestaurant.com
Music to Your Ears
9. Catch a show at the Iron Horse Music Hall. The Iron Horse is one of three music venues in this artsy college town. The Iron Horse hosts acts from many genres and is known for its intimate setting. It's not uncommon to see a nationally known musician in this narrow little music hall. The stage is small and there's seating around round café tables on the first floor. The second floor balcony area has a few more places to sit and features tiered seating with an unobstructed view of the stage. Enjoy a drink and have a bite to eat while watching the show. A concert schedule is on http://www.iheg.com
10. Stay at the historic Hotel Northampton, located in the center of it all. This hotel is part of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and is known for its clean and comfortable accommodations. The Hotel Northampton has colonial styling with all the modern amenities. A continental breakfast is included with your room which you can enjoy while dining al fresco on the hotel restaurant's outdoor patio. For reservations, or to learn more go to http://www.hotelnorthampton.com/
Taking It All In
Northampton is the perfect place for an overnight or long weekend getaway. Summer and school breaks are typically quieter here since the area colleges are not in session. Except for the balloon ride and Look Memorial Park, all of the places mentioned in this article are within walking distance of each other, making Northampton a walker's paradise. You'll find that exploring this quintessential New England city is one trip that will stir all of your senses.
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