Boston - May 24, 2007

The Weekend Guide

What to Do This Weekend

Sure, summering on the Vineyard would be great. If you had a tycoon-size wallet. Instead, head to Northampton, an artsy corner of Western Mass where you can get culture on the cheap.

STAY
Hotel Northampton
What: This historic hotel is at the heart of downtown.
Why: Cozy guest cottages have gas fireplaces and balconies.
When: Bedtime.
Where: 36 King St., Northampton (413-584-3100).

GO
To Neighboring Amherst
What: Take the ten-minute drive to check out picture-book illustrations at The Eric Carle Museum (of The Very Hungry Caterpillar fame). While there, tour Emily Dickinson’s home.
Why: For art’s sake.
When: Eric Carle Museum, Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Emily Dickinson Museum, Wed.-Sun., 12:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: Eric Carle Museum, 125 W. Bay Rd., Amherst (413-658-1100); Emily Dickinson Museum, 280 Main St., Amherst (413-542-8161).

EAT
The Dirty Truth
What: The hippest bar in town serves up delicious gourmet kielbasa and bread-bowl chili alongside an overwhelming selection of rare beers.
Why: Sightseeing makes you thirsty.
When: Mon.-Wed., 4 p.m.-1 a.m.; Thurs. & Fri., 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat. 1 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun., noon-1 a.m.
Where: 29 Main St., Northampton (413-585-5999).

Woodstar Cafe
What: Relax with a cup of coffee and a few treats. Try the Guinness cupcakes, freshly baked bread, or vegan granola bars.
Why: Perk up, Buttercup.
When: Mon., 7 a.m.-6 p.m.; Tues.-Fri., 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 60 Masonic St., Northampton (413-585-9777).

BUY
Sid Vintage
What: Solid selection of secondhand clothing with finds like leather boots, designer shoes, and concert tees that would cost twice as much in the city.
Why: You need something to wear tonight.
When: Mon.-Wed., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thurs.- Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 18 Crafts Ave., Northampton (413-582-9880).

HEAR
Iron Horse Entertainment Group
What: These guys bring big-name acts to lots of venues in town. Coming this summer: Morrissey, Cat Power, and Wilco.
Why: It’s like your own personal event-planning committee.
When: Schedules online at iheg.com.
Where: Iron Horse Music Hall, 20 Center St., Northampton (413-586-8686).

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