Monson is a town in Hampden County, Massachusetts, incorporated in 1775. The population was 8,378 at the 2020 census. Monson is home to the highest point in the Pioneer Valley, the Connecticut River's fertile intervales, and the scenic Quabbin and Ware Rivers. Monson is a popular location for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking trails and parks and a skate park that attracts visitors from all over the country. There are playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, and picnic areas, all accessible to people of all abilities.
Every year, on the last weekend in June, the Town of Monson sponsors "Monson Day," a celebration that brings residents and visitors together for family-friendly activities, live music, and food. All profits from the event are returned to the community through civic projects and donations to local charities.
Early settlers of Swedish, Yankee, and Irish descent are reflected in Monson's diverse culture. The town's history is celebrated during the annual Monson Day Festival and other festivals throughout the year. Monson is home to an extensive public library and the Monson Historical Society and Museum.
Monson, Massachusetts, is a charming town in western Massachusetts. It is home to about 8,500 residents and several small businesses.
The town has a rich and storied history, and it's the perfect destination if you're looking for rural charm and a relaxed atmosphere. Here are some of the best things to do in Monson, Massachusetts.
1. Monson has a thriving restaurant scene, with plenty of options for food. For a delicious meal, visit the iconic Red Rooster Country Store and Deli or Uptown Table and Bar. The Red Rooster is a family-owned business that has been serving customers for decades, offering pies, sandwiches, soups, and take-out meals. An extensive menu of seafood, steak, pasta, and burgers is available at Uptown Table and Bar, plus a full bar with creative cocktails.
2. A fascinating local museum is the Monson Historical Society and Museum. The Society's mission is to preserve, protect, and educate the public about Monson's history and to provide a safe environment for our community.
3. The Water Park at the Monson Family Campground offers the largest water park in the region. A lazy river, water slides, a wave pool, and a kiddie pool are just some of the attractions at this water park. There's something for everyone, with food and beverages, lockers, and lounge chairs.
4. Those who love the outdoors will enjoy Monson, which is surrounded by beautiful countryside, parks, woodland, and hiking trails. Great races are held throughout the year, from 5ks to triathlons. In the summer, there is live music weekly at the bandstand in the park.
5. The Monson Free Library was established in 1876 and has a collection of 24,602 items. Monson's original Carnegie Library was razed and replaced by a new library in 2002. The library offers wireless internet access and public access computers for word-processing and web access.
6. A varied variety of products is available from the small businesses in the town's center, including artistic goods, baked items, sporting goods, home goods, and apparel.
7. At the Monson Motorcycle Museum, biking enthusiasts can see vintage bikes of historical significance. In 2019, there was a motorcycle-themed art show titled "The Art of Motorcycling."
Small-town life in Monson offers that quiet, New England charm that's perfect for slowing down and enjoying the simple pleasures in life.
A few attractions make this place enjoyable for everyone. The town celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as a weekly summer concert series, a fall Apple Festival, a two-day Christmas holiday celebration, and an annual Fourth of July Parade with a fireworks show at dusk.
Monson, Massachusetts, is a lovely place to stay if you want a tranquil, laid-back retreat from city life. The town has something for everyone, from its fantastic eateries to its historical sites, water park, parks, and specialty shop.