Located in the Connecticut River Valley, Amherst is a bustling college town with late-night pizza joints, a lively nightclub scene, world-class museums, gardens, art galleries, and historical architecture. The area now known as Amherst got its start in December 1658 when John Pynchon purchased land from the native people. The first permanent settlement was established in 1727 with the community gaining township in 1759. Amherst takes its name from Jeffery Amherst, a hero of the French and Indian War.
Getting around Amherst is easy thanks to the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority that provides public transportation to the area. Services run when school is in session and students attending any of the institutions in the Five Colleges Consortium enjoy prepaid bus fare. Amtrak is available in nearby Northampton, and Bradley International Airport is approximately one hour away by car.
Whatever your reasons for visiting Amherst, it's important to find the right hotel that allows you to explore everything this bustling college town has to offer.
Whats the best time to visit Amherst, MA?
Unless you're a college student or family member of a local student, the best time to visit Amherst is in the summer when most classes are out of session. The academic school year results in more traffic throughout town, and summers offer a nice lull that allows tourists to explore area attractions without contending with the college-age crowds. Best of all, average highs hover around 80 degrees from June to August, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the outdoors.
To enjoy rock-bottom hotel rates, visit Amherst in the winter. Most students have gone home for winter break and the holiday season quiets down across town. Try to avoid wintertime graduation events as hotel rates tend to go up, depending on the academic schedule, in anticipation of families visiting. If you are visiting Amherst for a college event, try to plan your trip several weeks in advance to get a good deal.
Although classes are in session, spring and fall in Amherst are lovely. If you prefer the college town vibe, visiting during the academic year is worth it because you'll get to experience the diverse restaurants, dance clubs, the lively downtown, and the town common — all at the town's peak. Just be mindful of any campus move-in and move-out dates as local hotels tend to fill up fast.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Amherst, MA:
Amherst, MA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Amherst, MA. Browse these charts to determine the most cost effective seasons to stay in Amherst during the year.
What are the luxury hotel options in the Amherst area?
4 Star Average Prices: $147.71
If you prefer accommodations with more upscale amenities, Amherst has several options.
Located in the heart of Amherst within walking distance of Emily Dickinson Museum, Inn on Boltwood (formerly known as Lord Jeffery Inn) provides an unforgettable guest experience. The property features event facilities, laundry services, the 30Boltwood restaurant, a bar, complimentary newspapers, and ample parking. Enjoy a full breakfast each morning for an additional fee and take advantage of the hotel's concierge services, fitness center, and rooftop terrace. The beautiful guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs, cable programming, wired and wireless internet access, work desks, ironing facilities, hair dryers, and toiletries.
Courtyard by Marriott Hadley Amherst is another luxurious option close to all Amherst's attractions. Enjoy a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, a spa tub, a bar, wedding services, a fireplace in the lobby, a business center, an outdoor gazebo, and an on-site cafe. Buffet breakfasts are served daily for an additional fee. Guest room amenities include LCD TVs with premium channels, microwaves, desks, hair dryers, and toiletries. Some rooms feature sofa beds.
Located 5 miles from the center of Amherst, Hampton Inn Hadley has a stunning reputation for excellence. Experience Hadley's historic district while enjoying an indoor heated pool, an inviting lobby fireplace, fitness facilities, a 24-hour business center, complimentary Wi-Fi, and express check-out. The comfortable guest rooms feature LCD TVs, pillowtop beds, wired and wireless internet access, shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and complimentary toiletries.
Does Amherst, MA have budget hotels?
3 Star Average Prices: $112.69
If you're looking for affordable lodging near Amherst, you don't have to look far.
University Lodge is a budget-friendly hotel near UMass Amherst. The pet-friendly property features a business center, ample parking, and coffee and tea in the common area. The guest rooms are standard but feature everything you need to enjoy your stay, including complimentary wireless internet access, mini refrigerators, microwaves, flat-screen TVs with cable, hair dryers, coffee makers, and work desks.
If you don't mind staying a little further out, consider Americas Best Value Inn Holyoke/Springfield. Amenities are limited as the property only offers free parking and designated smoking areas, but you can't beat the budget-friendly rates. Guest rooms feature mini fridges, microwaves, free Wi-Fi, desks, ironing facilities, complimentary toiletries, flat-screen TVs with cable, and phones with free local calls.
Another option within driving distance of Amherst is Motel 6 Springfield Chicopee. This pet-friendly hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, free coffee in the lobby, and ample parking. Guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs with cable and modern decor. Upgraded rooms feature microwaves and mini fridges. Wi-Fi is also available for an additional fee.