Lee Chambers
Marketing Manager
Greater Springfield CVB
What are three of the most interesting ways groups can experience the rich culture and heritage of the Pioneer Valley?
Marketing Manager
Greater Springfield CVB
What are three of the most interesting ways groups can experience the rich culture and heritage of the Pioneer Valley?
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame: Corporate groups are frequent visitors to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, which celebrates the history of one of America’s most popular sports—from its invention by Dr. James Naismith in 1891 to the present day. All levels of the game are represented in this $45 million museum that features dozens of hands-on exhibits, a regulation-sized basketball court and hundreds of artifacts. Group tours for 15 or more can be arranged, and discounts are applied if booking more than a week in advance.
- Springfield Museums: Culture vultures are naturally attracted to the four world-class museums that make up the Springfield Museums: the Museum of Fine Arts, the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, the Springfield Science Museum (featuring the Seymour Planetarium), and the Connecticut Valley Historic Museum. Also included in the collection is the Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden, a series of full bronze sculptures of Dr. Seuss’ whimsical creations. Group tours and facility rentals are available at all the museums; guides can be arranged for an additional fee, or groups may tour on their own.
- Yankee Candle Company: Group tours receive special treatment at the Yankee Candle Company in South Deerfield, which provides fascinating insight into candle-making history, along with shopping and entertainment venues. Greeters welcome guests and guides escort them through the world’s largest candle store, where they can observe a demonstration of antique candle-making and are given the opportunity to create their own candles in the “Dip Your Own” area. The 90,000-square-foot facility features over 160 true-to-life scents, plus accessories and collectibles. A band entertains guests in the Candle Mountain Lodge, while fine dining is available in Chandler’s Restaurant.