3 Must-Visit Attractions in Springfield MA: Basketball Hall of Fame, Dr. Seuss Garden & Forest Park

Visit the Basketball Hall of Fame & Two More Spots You Can’t Miss in Springfield, MA

Springfield doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. This city has quietly built itself into one of those places where you can spend a weekend and actually feel like you experienced something real. No tourist traps. Just good stuff.

I recently spent a few days in the area and hit up three spots that are absolutely worth your time.

The Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden

Right in the heart of downtown, this sculpture garden is pure joy. Life-size bronze sculptures of the Cat in the Hat, the Lorax, and the Grinch sit alongside Theodor Geisel himself. It’s part of the Springfield Museums complex, and the whole thing is free if you just want to walk the garden.

What I loved about it was how it captured that playful spirit of Dr. Seuss without being cheesy. Kids were running around, families were taking photos, and everyone was smiling. That doesn’t happen at every tourist spot. The sculptures are beautiful too, really well done.

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Forest Park

If you need a breather from the city, Forest Park is your spot. At 735 acres, this is one of the largest urban parks in the country. There’s a zoo, walking trails, gardens, and even a spot where you can just sit and watch the ducks.

I grabbed coffee and did a loop around the park one morning. The place was peaceful without being empty. Joggers, dog walkers, people pushing strollers. It felt like the heartbeat of the community. The zoo is small but well kept, and if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll get a kick out of it. The fact that it’s tucked right into the city makes it feel like Springfield’s best kept secret.

If you are visiting in December around the holidays, be sure to make plans for Bright Nights in Forest Park.

The Basketball Hall of Fame

Here’s the thing. I hadn’t been to the Basketball Hall of Fame in maybe 20 or 30 years. I went when I was younger and remembered it being cool, but honestly, I didn’t think much about it after that. Life happens. You move on.

But walking back into that building after all these years hit differently.

They’ve updated everything. The exhibits are modern and interactive now. There’s a full court where you can actually shoot around, which is wild when you think about it. You’re literally playing basketball inside a museum dedicated to the game’s greatest legends. My jumper was rusty, but I didn’t care.

What got me were the stories. Over 430 inductees are honored here, and you start to realize you’re standing in the presence of basketball royalty. Michael Jordan’s display. Larry Bird’s Celtics era. Kobe and Shaq’s championship runs, complete with Shaq’s absolutely massive size 22 shoe on display.

And the women’s side is equally impressive. Sue Bird, Maya Moore, Sheryl Swoopes. These aren’t afterthoughts. They’re front and center where they belong.

The second floor takes you through the evolution of basketball itself. You see Dr. Naismith’s original peach basket, the one that started it all right here in Springfield. Then you watch the game explode into this global phenomenon. It’s the kind of exhibit that reminds you why sports matter. They bring people together.

I spent almost three hours there and could have stayed longer. If you love basketball, this is a pilgrimage. If you’re just curious, it’s still worth the trip.

Pro tip: Before you go, swing by the Springfield City Library to check out their museum pass program. They offer discounted tickets to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Two people get free admission, and you can bring two more at a discounted rate. It’s one of those community perks that actually makes a difference. Call ahead at (413) 263-6828 ext. 218 to check availability.

Springfield surprised me. It’s not trying to be Boston or New York. It’s just confidently doing its own thing, and doing it well. If you’ve got a weekend free, make the drive. You won’t regret it.

Related: Holyoke – Volleyball Hall of Fame, Massachusetts

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame – Visitor Information
Address	1000 Hall of Fame Avenue, Springfield, MA 01105
Phone	(877) 446-6752 (1-877-4HOOPLA)
Website	www.hoophall.com
Hours	Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Closed Mondays during winter months (except select holidays) Check website for special closings and holiday hours
Admission Prices	Adults: $30.00 Seniors (65+): $25.00 Students (13+ with ID): $25.00 Youth (Ages 5-12): $20.00 Children (4 and under): FREE First Responders (with ID): $15.00
Parking	Free on-site parking available
Discount Tickets	Available through Springfield City Library Call: (413) 263-6828 ext. 218 Pass admits 2 guests FREE + 2 additional at discounted rate
Special Notes	• No backpacks or large bags allowed • No food/beverage except water • Full-size basketball court available • Interactive exhibits throughout • 40,000+ square feet of basketball history
Important: Hours, prices, and policies are subject to change. Please visit www.hoophall.com or call (877) 446-6752 to confirm current information before your visit.