Housing Details

Staying on campus is the most convenient and economical way to be close to workshop activities, campus amenities, and award-winning UMass dining! 

On-campus lodging is available for workshop attendees in the North Residential Area, also known as the North Apartments. North consists of suite-like, air-conditioned apartments, each with four single bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a living room, and a kitchen. The individual, lockable bedrooms have a twin bed, desk, and bureau, providing you with your own private retreat, while the shared common spaces offer you the opportunity to network and socialize with your workshop colleagues. Linen packs are available to reserve for the duration of your stay for $12.00/pack, and contain two flat sheets, a pillow with case, a thin blanket, and two towels. The kitchen has a full-sized refrigerator, microwave, and stove-top oven, but silverware, cookware and plates are not provided. Complimentary parking is available in a surface lot located adjacent to the North Residential Area. Guests will be housed with other workshop attendees based on age and gender, but if you have any specific suitemate requests or accessibility needs please indicate such during the online reservation process and we will be sure to accommodate you accordingly. If you wish to learn more about the North Apartments please contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Office at 413-577-8102 or registration@umass.edu!


Rates & Availability
A single room in a North Apartment is available for $60.00 per room, per night (plus a 3% administrative fee). Linen packs, containing two flat sheets, a pillow case, a thin blanket, and a towel, can be reserved for use during your stay for $12.00 per pack.

Rooms are available for the nights of Sunday, May 31, through Thursday, June 4 (checking-out on Friday, June 5). Guests wishing to arrive and/or depart outside of these dates should contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Office to inquire about availability (413-577-8102 or registration@umass.edu).

Check-in is available starting at 1 p.m. on your date of arrival and check-out is by 11 a.m. on your date of departure. Check-in/out will be available in the assigned North Apartment lobby. Pets are not allowed.

Reservations will be accepted until May 15, 2020, or until space fills.


Reservation & Payment Procedure
Reservations are accepted online: click Register Now at the top of this page to complete your reservation! If you've attended an event with us before you will be able to log back into your existing account to access the reservation form. If this is your first time using our reservation system you can instead click "Sign Up" to create an account using your email address and password of choice. Reservations will be accepted until May 15 (or until space fills) so early registration is encouraged. 

You will be prompted to submit payment in full by credit/debit card to complete your reservation. Online payment is accepted by Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express through our secure, PCI-DSS compliant online payment gateway. If you wish to discuss alternate payment options, such as check or recharge, or if your organization/institution would like to cover your lodging fees, please contact us prior to completing your reservation (413-577-8102, registration@umass.edu). 

After completing a reservation you will need to complete and return a Credit Card Authorization Form to us by May 15, 2020. This can be completed and faxed to 413-577-8130, or completed by phone at 413-577-8102 (open Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. EST). This process is similar to a hotel requiring your card at check-in for incidentals, but due to the large number of residence halls we utilize throughout the summer it is more secure for us to collect this data prior to your arrival on campus. Your card data will be kept securely on file for the duration of your visit and will only be charged in the event of any lost/damaged room keys, lost/damaged access cards, and/or residence hall damages. 

Cancellation Policy: Guests should cancel in writing directly with the UMass Conference Services Registration Office (registration@umass.edu). Cancellations received by the close of business (5 p.m. EST) on May 15, 2020, will receive a full refund of their fees less a $60.00 cancellation-processing fee. Cancellations received after 5:00 p.m. on May 15, including cancellations made after arrival and no-show reservations, will be ineligible for a refund.


Questions?
If you have any questions about the University of Massachusetts Amherst, our on-campus lodging, or the reservation process, please click through the tabs above or contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Office (413-577-8102, registration@umass.edu)!

Which residence hall will I be in?
The North Residential Area consists of four apartment buildings - A, B, C, and D. All of these buildings are located next to each other, forming a quad. At this time we do not know which of these four buildings you will being staying in, but a detailed arrival email (including your exact building assignment) will be sent as the workshop approaches. The North Apartments are all located on Eastman Lane in Amherst, MA. If you need to arrange for shuttle transportation that requires an address prior to this information being determined, you can use the address for North C: 54 Eastman Lane, Amherst MA 01003.


Who will I share an apartment with? 
Guests will be placed in an apartment with other workshop attendees, with each guest assigned to their own individual, lockable bedroom (there are 4 bedrooms in each apartment). If you provide specific suitemate requests during the online reservation process we will do our best to house you accordingly, with preference being given to early registrants. Please also note all parties should request each other (if you wish to be assigned to an apartment with another attendee, remind them to request you as well!). If you do not request any specific suitemates you will be housed with other workshop attendees based on your age and gender. Please note that each bedroom is lockable: although you will share common spaces with you suitemates, only you will have access to your bedroom. 


What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in will be available in the lobby of your assigned building beginning at 1 p.m. on your date of arrival. A Summer Conference Housing staff person will be located at the desk in the lobby of your building around the clock once check-in begins, so if you need to check-in late or need any assistance during your stay please stop by the desk in the lobby anytime after 1 p.m. on your date of arrival. Check-out is by 11 a.m. on your date of departure. Early check-in and late check-out are not available. Please remember to return your room key and building access card at check-out to avoid being assessed any additional fees ($60.00 per lost/damaged key; $20.00 per lost/damaged card)!


Can I stay a night early or a night late?
The workshop has reserved apartments in North for the nights of Sunday, May 31, through Thursday, June 4 (checking-out on Friday, June 5), so these are the only dates guaranteed and currently available on this page. However, if you wish to stay outside of these dates please contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Office at 413-577-8102 or registration@umass.edu and we will see if we can extend your stay! Unfortunately we cannot guarantee availability outside of these dates.  


Is linen provided?
Linen is not provided, but linen packs can be reserved for use during your stay for $12.00 per pack. Each linen pack contains two flat sheets, a blanket, a pillow with case, and two towels. If you do not reserve a linen pack remember to bring your own (linen packs cannot be guaranteed on-site). To make your stay a bit more comfortable, we also recommend you bring an extra blanket or soft mattress pad as well.


What is a Credit Card Authorization Form?
The required credit card authorization form is the same idea as a hotel taking your credit card data at check-in for incidentals, but for security purposes we have you submit this before your arrival (we use residence halls spread out all over our large campus, and many don't have a secure space to collect and hold this data). All guests must complete and return the credit card authorization form to the UMass Conference Services Registration Office by May 15, 2020. The form will be kept securely on file for the duration of your stay and will only be run in the event of any lost/damaged room keys and/or access cards, or in the event of any residence hall damages. Guests will be charged $60.00 for any lost/damaged room key and $20.00 for any lost/damaged access card. Click here to download the Credit Card Authorization Form. Forms can be returned by fax (413-577-8130), mail, or completed by phone (413-577-8102). 


Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, wireless login credentials will be available at the desk in the lobby of your assigned building. Please ask the Summer Conference Housing desk clerk for the credentials at check-in. 


Where do I park?
Complimentary parking is available in Lot 44, the large lot located adjacent to the North Residential Area. Click here to view a parking map of campus and enter "Lot 44" in the search box to be brought to additional information (note: search for "Lot 44", not "Lot 44 Eastman Lane"  [these are two different lots!]). At check-in the desk clerk will provide you with a parking pass valid for this lot. This parking pass must be filled out completely and prominently displayed on your dashboard at all times throughout your stay to avoid any ticketing and/or towing. Upon your arrival we recommend pulling into the half circle in front of your assigned building, putting on your flashers, and then checking-in/moving in your luggage. Within 15 minutes return to your car with your completed parking pass, put the pass on your dashboard, and proceed to park in Lot 44. 


What should I bring?
We encourage you to bring anything that will make your stay more comfortable! Below are some suggestions based on our knowledge of the buildings and feedback from previous guests. 

  • We suggest reserving a linen pack during booking so you have a few less things to pack. Each linen pack contains two towels, two flat sheets, a pillow with case, and a blanket. Previous guests have found it helpful to bring an extra blanket and/or a soft mattress pad as the mattresses are on the thinner side. If you do not reserve a linen pack, please remember to bring these items from home.  
  • The apartments are air-conditioned and some guests find them to be a bit cold, so we encourage you to bring a sweater, sweatshirt and/or extra blanket. 
  • There are no additional amenities or appliances in the bedrooms: cots and cribs are not available and bedrooms are not equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, or televisions. Your bedroom will have a bureau and wardrobe where you can store your folded clothes, but note that there are no hangers, irons, or ironing boards provided.
  • The shared kitchen has a microwave, stove-top oven and full sized refrigerator/freezer. However, we do not provide dishes, silverware, cutlery, pots, pans or any cookware, so if you plan to cook please bring your own supplies or purchase some upon your arrival. There is a Target, a Walmart, and a variety of grocery and convenience stores located within a 10 minute drive from campus (also accessible by PVTA bus). Click here for additional area retail information.
  • The living area has a couch and chairs, but the room does not have a television or cable access. You may want to bring a laptop or tablet so you can connect to the internet and/or streaming services during any downtime.  
  • Both of the bathrooms have a shower, but guests should be sure to bring all of their own toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and a hair dryer. Because the bathrooms are shared with the other suitemates in your apartment, some guests find it useful to bring a portable shower caddy, robe, and/or shower sandals. 
  • Summer in New England can be unpredictable and June can range from quite warm (80s to 90s) to chilly (50s). It can be rainy, too, so we suggest you check the area's forecast before your arrival and pack accordingly!
  • UMass Amherst in a large campus. Most workshop sessions and events will be held in close proximity to the Campus Center, located about a 10 minute walk/5 minute drive from the North Residential Area. Please note that your exact workshop location will be emailed at least 2 weeks prior to your arrival, but in previous years, locations have included the Campus Center and the Integrative Learning Center (ILC). For those who plan to walk, we recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing, including a rain jacket or umbrella. Click here to take a look at a campus map.
  • Please keep in mind these are residence halls occupied by students during the academic year: when the students move out they take their belongings with them, leaving only the furniture and kitchen appliances in the apartments!

Is there a gym available?
Yes, the Recreation Center will be available for use during your stay, with day passes available for purchase. Guests may email registration@umass.edu to make arrangements prior to your arrival, or ask the Summer Conference Housing desk clerk at check-in for additional information.


What happens if I need to cancel?
If you find you need to cancel your reservation, please send a written notification of your cancellation to the UMass Conference Services Registration Office (registration@umass.edu). Cancellations received by the close of business (5 p.m. EST) on May 15, 2020, will receive a full refund less a $60.00 cancellation fee. Cancellations received after 5:00 p.m.  EST on May 15, including cancellations made after arrival or no-show reservations, will be ineligible for a refund.


Is this a hotel?
No, the North Apartments are apartment-style residence halls occupied by students during the school year. While we comfortably house thousands of guest in our on-campus residence halls each summer, please note this is not a hotel or hotel style lodging option. If you are unsure if this option is right for you, please contact us to further discuss any questions, concerns, or lodging needs before completing a reservation (413-577-8102, registration@umass.edu)!

The North Residential Area is located on Eastman Lane in Amherst MA, 01003. There are four North buildings (A, B, C and D) and your specific building assignment will be sent via email as the workshop approaches. Please note that your exact workshop location will be emailed at least 2 weeks prior to your arrival, but in previous years locations have included the Campus Center and the Integrative Learning Center (ILC). These buildings are located about 0.7 mile (13 - 15 minute walk) from the North Residential Area. As you plan your visit, please note that check-in will be available beginning at 1 p.m. on your date of arrival and check-out is by 11 a.m. on your date of departure.  


By Car

Click here to obtain turn-by-turn directions (please note this link will provide directions to North D, but as all 4 North buildings are located next to each other these directions can be used regardless of your final building assignment).

From the South, via I-91 North
Take Exit 19 in Northampton. From the exit ramp, stay to the right to merge onto Route 9. Travel approximately 4.5 miles to Route 116 North. Turn left onto 116 and go one mile to the UMass Exit. Stay to the right as you exit to merge onto Massachusetts Avenue. Take a left at the second set of lights onto Commonwealth Avenue. Commonwealth Avenue will become Governors Drive. Stay on Governors Drive until you reach the rotary. Take the second exit onto Eastman Lane. Take your second left (immediately after Totman) onto the one-way street. You will see the first two North buildings on the right. Based on the housing assignment email you will receive closer to the event, pull into the small half circle in front of your building and check-in.

From the North, via I-91 South
Take Exit 25 in Deerfield. At the end of the ramp turn left onto Routes U.S. 5/10/116. Follow until the lights and then turn right to stay on 5/10/116. Go one mile and turn left onto Route 116 South. Follow Route 116 South for eight miles to the UMass exit. Turn left at the stop sign. Take a left at the second set of lights onto Commonwealth Avenue. Commonwealth Avenue will become Governors Drive. Stay on Governors Drive until you reach the traffic circle. Take the second exit onto Eastman Lane. Take your second left (immediately after Totman) onto the one-way street. You will see the first two North buildings on the right. Based on the housing assignment email you will receive closer to the event, pull into the small half circle in front of your building and check-in.

From the North, via I-93 South
Follow I-93 to I-495 South. Follow to Route 2 West. Continue on Route 2 to U.S. 202 South. Follow for about 15 miles to the blinking light at the Pelham exit marked “Route 9 and 116 Amherst.” Turn right and follow for seven miles to Amherst center. Turn right onto North Pleasant Street. Stay on North Pleasant Street (you will need to turn left twice to remain on North Pleasant Street, and will then need to turn right upon entering campus - take a look at street signs and signs to the UMass Campus). Follow North Pleasant to the traffic circle. Take the first exit onto Eastman Lane. Take your second left (immediately after Totman) onto the one-way street. You will see the first two North buildings on the right. Based on the housing assignment email you will receive closer to the event, pull into the small half circle in front of your building and check-in.

From the East or West, via I-90 
Travelers have a choice of four routes:

  • Off Exit 8 (Palmer/Ware): Follow Route 32 South to Palmer; take Route 20 West to Route 181 North into Belchertown, and then Route 9 West to Amherst. Follow signs to UMass.
  • Off Exit 7 (Ludlow): Follow Route 21 North to U.S. 202 North to Route 9 West to Amherst center. Follow signs to UMass.
  • Off Exit 5 (Chicopee): Follow Route 33 North to Route 116 North to Amherst center. Turn left at the light onto Route 9 West. Follow signs to UMass.
  • Off Exit 4 (West Springfield): I-91 North to Exit 19 to Route 9 East to Amherst. Follow signs to UMass.

By Air 
If you are traveling to Amherst by plane, the closest airport is Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut (near Hartford). This airport is approximately 45 miles (about a 50 minute drive) from the UMass campus. From Bradley attendees will need to book a shuttle service or rent a car to get to campus (see the transportation options below). 

Attendees may find additional flight options into Logan International Airport in Boston, located approximately 90 miles from the UMass campus. While more flight options are typically available into Logan, please remember to account for extra travel time to campus. Please also be sure to organize transportation to/from the airport to campus in advance of your arrival. From Logan attendees may book one of the shuttle services below, rent a car, or travel by Peter Pan Bus. Click here for Peter Pan bus ticket purchase details and scheduling. To ensure appropriate bus service to/from campus please select "Boston (Logan Airport), MA" as your "From:" destination and "Amherst UMass, MA" as your "To:" destination. 

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES 
Shuttle services and/or rental cars should be arranged prior to your travel. Please note there are no standing shuttles that run each day between Bradley/Logan and the UMass campus so additional arrangements do need to be made.


By Bus
Amherst and the surrounding area are serviced by Peter Pan Bus LinesGreyhound and the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA). The most convenient service is offered by Peter Pan, so when possible those traveling by bus should book a Peter Pan bus ticket using "Amherst UMass, MA" as the destination (note the "Amherst Center, MA" stop is in downtown Amherst and will require additional travel to arrive on campus). Greyhound offers bus service to nearby Northampton, MA, located about a 20 minute drive from campus. From Northampton attendees should plan to travel to campus via a taxi service, Uber/Lyft, or PVTA bus.


By Train
Amtrak provides passenger rail service to nearby Northampton, MA, located a 20 minute drive from the UMass campus, and Springfield, MA, located a 30 minute drive from the UMass campus. For schedule information and to purchase tickets, visit Amtrak's website and select "Northampton, MA (NHT)" or "Springfield, MA (SPG)" as your arrival destination.

If you take a train to Northampton, MA, you will then need to take either a bus or taxi to the UMass campus. Both PVTA and Peter Pan buses service the area, but the bus stops are not located at the train platform and will require about a 7 minute walk. Many local taxi services, as well as Uber and Lyft, also service the area. We encourage you to carefully plan your trip - including bus or taxi services - prior to your arrival as the Northampton train platform is not a train station and phone access, area maps, bus schedules, and bus tickets will not be available once you arrive. If you decide to take a train out of Northampton, remember to purchase your return ticket online prior to arriving at the platform. The train platform is located at 170 Pleasant Street in Northampton, MA.

If you take a train to Springfield, MA, we recommend booking a shuttle service, such as Valley Transporter, to get you from Springfield to Amherst. Bus services, including Peter Pan, are also available, but will require about a 15 minute walk from the train station to the bus stop. The train will arrive at the Springfield station building, located at 66 Lyman Street in Springfield, MA. This station building does have a waiting room, ticket office, quik-trak kiosk, and payphone, but we do still encourage you to plan your trip, including services from the train station to campus, prior to your arrival.

The North Residential Area is located on Eastman Lane in Amherst MA, 01003. There are four North buildings (A, B, C and D) and your specific building assignment will be sent via email as the workshop approaches. Please note that your exact workshop location will be emailed at least 2 weeks prior to your arrival, but in previous years locations have included the Campus Center and the Integrative Learning Center (ILC). These buildings are located about 0.7 mile (13 - 15 minute walk) from the North Residential Area. As you plan your visit, please note that check-in will be available beginning at 1 p.m. on your date of arrival and check-out is by 11 a.m. on your date of departure.  


Lot 44
Those who reserve lodging in the North Apartments receive complimentary parking in Lot 44, the large surface lot located off of North Residential Drive in Amherst, MA, 01003, adjacent to the North Residential Area (see below). At check-in the desk clerk will provide you with a parking pass valid for this lot. This parking pass must be filled out completely and prominently displayed on your dashboard at all times throughout your stay to avoid any ticketing and/or towing. Upon your arrival we recommend pulling into the half circle in front of your assigned building, putting on your flashers, and then checking-in and moving your luggage to your room. Within 15 minutes return to your car with your completed parking pass, put the pass on your dashboard, and proceed to park in Lot 44.

Click here to view a parking map of campus and enter "Lot 44" in the search box to be brought to additional information (note: search for "Lot 44", not "Lot 44 Eastman Lane" [these are two different lots!]). 

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Accessible Parking
Attendees with a valid state-issued reserved accessible license plate or placard may park in any marked Handicapped Space or any nonrestricted, nonreserved space or lot, at no charge, as long as your plate or placard is clearly visible at all times during your stay. To locate reserved accessible parking, visit the UMass Parking Map. Enter "Handicapped Spaces" in the search bar to view available spots, indicated by a white H in a blue circle. You may also find it useful to view a campus accessibility map here. Note those with limited mobility are also welcome to park in the Campus Center Parking Garage, where there are a number of reserved accessible spaces on Level 2. However, all guests must pay to park in the Campus Center Parking Garage.


Campus Center Parking Garage
Parking for all campus visitors is available in the Campus Center Parking Garage, located at 1 Campus Center Way in Amherst, MA 01003. Click here to obtain turn-by-turn directions to the garage from your location. Oftentimes, events offer discounted parking coupons of $6.50/day to attendees to use to park in the Campus Center Parking Garage, with some events covering garage parking fees. Please be in touch with your event organizer for additional details.  


Please note: you should not park at UMass without first obtaining a valid permit as detailed above. Parking on campus without a valid permit, pass, placard, or license plate may result in ticketing and/or towing. 

Local & Campus Transportation
There are multiple transportation options to get you around campus, and from campus to local amenities and attractions. Amherst center, with local shops, restaurants, and small convenience stores, is a quick 15 - 25 minute walk from campus. Local buses, operated by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority, run regularly around campus, between Amherst center and the University, and throughout the Pioneer Valley, including Northampton, Springfield, and Greenfield. If you'd rather take a car, UMass has partnered with Zipcar to bring on-demand car sharing services right to campus, and there is also an Enterprise Rent-A-Car office right on-campus. Another great option is utilizing Valley Bike Share, which offers on-demand bike rentals at five stations located right on campus (stations are located in the Southwest Residential Area, Haigis Mall, Central Residential Area, near the Integrative Learning Center, and near Knowlton Hall). 


UMass Dining
UMass Dining, "America's Most Awarded Dining Program", invites you to join our table! Summer guests can find UMass Dining at every corner of campus. With dining commons, retail cafes, food trucks, and more, we welcome you to enjoy all that the UMass Dining experience has to offer. Details on our various dining options can be found below, or download the UMass Dining App for full hours, menus, and real-time traffic reports for each campus dining location. Note: meals through UMass Dining, UMass Catering and/or at off-site locations may be arranged through your workshop. Contact your event organizers for additional details! 

Dining Commons
Served all-you-care-to-eat style, breakfast, lunch and dinner will be available from 7 a.m. - 8 p.m each day in our award winning Dining Commons. We have four DCs (Hampshire, Berkshire, Franklin and Worcester). Typically one or two of these will be open throughout the summer, but this schedule has not yet been finalized. Regardless, at each meal rest assured that you will find a variety of cuisines, often including sushi, pho noodles, create-your-own stir-fry, pizza, dim sum brunch, pasta and salad bars, deli sandwiches, American fare, Halal dining, vegan and vegetarian options, a range of desserts, ice cream, and more! Daily menus will be available as your stay approaches on the UMass Dining website.

Guests can pay for each meal by cash or card right at Dining Commons entrance.
  Breakfast (served 7 a.m. - 11 a.m.): $8.50   
  Lunch (served 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.): $11.50   
  Dinner (served 4 p.m. - close): $14.50
  

Campus Center Eateries
The Blue Wall, located in the Campus Center, is one of the most popular and convenient dining options on campus. The Blue Wall has 10 different stations served a-la-carte. Offerings include pizza, salads, wraps, deli sandwiches, sushi, burgers, burritos, gelato, and more, ensuring that the Blue Wall has something to satisfy every craving. Harvest Market, located on the main concourse of the Campus Center, is a full service market serving healthy, sustainable, and delicious fare for our on the go customers. The hot bar features Indian, Asian, traditional American and many other world cuisines, and don't miss the salad bar featuring freshly prepared composed salads using locally sourced in-season ingredients. Additional highlights include freshly made bagels from Yum! Bakery, a Dannon yogurt bar, all natural and organic snacks, local cheeses and deli meats, grab-and-go salads and sandwiches, and a made-to-order juice and smoothie bar. Need a quick pick-me-up or caffeine fix? Visit People's Organic Coffee, located on the main concourse of the Campus Center across from Harvest Market. People's Organic offers natural, organic and sustainable foods, Fair Trade coffees, as well as a variety of specialty coffee beverages, organic teas, locally baked pastries, fresh cookies, salads and paninis.

University Club and Restaurant
The University Club and Restaurant, fondly referred to as The UClub, is the eminent fine dining establishment at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Housed in two colonial era New England farmhouses, the University Club and Restaurant offers a contemporary dining experience steeped in historic charm. Many of the ingredients used to create their unique menu come from local farms, and all breads and bakery items come right from the UMass BakeShop. Their friendly and attentive staff and fresh high-quality dishes are sure to make dining at the UClub an experience you'll want to return for again and again! Call 413-545-2551 to make your reservation.

Food Trucks
Our food trucks, Baby Berk and Baby Berk 2, are great options for a quick and convenient meal. Serving freshly prepared food truck fare, including 100% grass fed Beef babyBerk burgers, vegan burgers, steak poutine, an array of fusion quesadillas, upscale grilled cheese, tater tots and more, you are sure to leave satisfied. Checkout @UMassBabyBerk and @UMassBabyBerk2 on Twitter to find daily schedules and location updates, and look for the trucks around campus during your stay.


On-Campus Attractions
You don't need to travel far to find something to do - there are numerous attractions located right here on campus! Below are some of our favorite spots.

  • The UMass Fine Arts Center seeks to engage and inspire the campus and regional communities in the arts through a broad array of exemplary performances, exhibitions and educational programs. Comprehensive in scope, the Fine Art's  Center offers the region's only mix of classical music, dance, theater, jazz, Broadway, special events, and gallery exhibitions. The Fine Arts Center is also home to the University Museum of Contemporary Arts
  • The Mullins Center, our state-of-the-art, multi-purpose facility, is home to our men's basketball, women's basketball and men's ice hockey teams. In addition, the Mullins Center hosts numerous concerts, family and theater shows, and popular touring performance groups throughout the year.
  • The Augusta Savage Gallery, located in New Africa House, is a multicultural and multiarts facility with a mission to promote artistic works from a broad spectrum of cultures. All gallery events and exhibitions are free and open to the public. 
  • The Durfee Conservatory and Garden, established in 1867, is a historic plant conservatory that offers a sanctuary of calm and serenity among the bustle of campus. The jungle-like atmosphere, with a pond, overhanging branches, displays of camellias and orchids in full bloom, and collections of bonsai, cacti, and bromeliads, attract numerous visitors from on and off campus to this plant wonderland. Admission is free.
  • The Rausch Mineral Gallery, located in the Department of Geosciences in the Morrill Science Center, includes more than 250 superb specimens from the mineral collection of the late Dr. Marvin Rausch. Admission is free.
  • The John W. Olver Design Building is notable for many reasons. It is the largest and most technologically advanced academic contemporary wood structure in the US, it is the first in the US to use the wood-concrete composite floor system, and it has received quite a bit of media attention (and several awards). It's also a beautiful space, inside and out, with a rooftop garden located on the third level. This garden is a social gathering area (weather permitting) with a variety of soil depths and plantings selected to mitigate heat island effects, promote biodiversity, and improve storm water quality.
  • In addition to being the most prominent building on campus, the W. E. B. Du Bois Library also has gems hidden within! The 23rd floor has a stunning panoramic view of the valley; the 22nd floor hosts the W. E. B. Du Bois Center; and the 21st floor has bronze statues of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles courtesy of their co-creator, a UMass grad. The library is also home to nesting falcons each year (watch the live action Falcon Cam here).
  • Take a look at the UMass Events Calendar to see what special happenings are going on around campus during your visit!

Campus Health and Safety
At UMass we strive to promote a safe and secure environment for living, learning and working.

Health Services
Located on campus,  University Health Services (UHS) helps you stay healthy and cares for you if you're not. UHS provides comprehensive health and wellness services, including general medical care, walk-in care, and by-appointment services. Note UHS is not a hospital and does not have an emergency department. Walk-In Care is available Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., and from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturday/Sunday. For help and advice, call the Triage Advice Nurse at 413-577-5229 during health center hours. For after-hours medical and mental advice, call 413-577-5000. 

The Center for Counseling and Psychological Health (CCPH) provides confidential services right on-campus, including crisis intervention, psychotherapy and psychiatric services, support and therapy groups, behavioral medicine, and more. CCPH is open from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday (413-545-2337), with 24/7 emergency on-call services via the ProtoCall Crisis Line (877-831-7421)

For medical emergencies, the closest hospital to UMass is Cooley Dickenson Hospital, located at 30 Locust Street in Northampton, MA (9.7 miles from campus).

On-Campus Support Services
UMass offers a number of support centers right on campus. These include  Disability Services (Whitmore Hall, 181 Presidents Drive, Amherst, MA 01003; 413-545-0892), The Stonewall Center (Crampton Hall, 256 Sunset Avenue, Amherst MA 01003; 413-545-4824), and the Center for Women and Community (New Africa House, 180 Infirmary Way, Amherst MA 01003; 413-545-0883). Click here to view additional resources. 

Emergency Alerts
During your stay, we recommend signing up for our temporary text alert system. Text UMassAlertsGuest to 78015 to receive alerts during your stay. Your subscription will automatically expire after one week, or you can test Stop to 78015 to cancel upon your departure. Click here or email oem@ehs.umass.edu for additional information.

UMass Police Department 
The UMass Police Department (UMPD) is located at 585 East Pleasant Street in Amherst, MA 01003. For emergencies, use your cell to call 413-545-3111 for the quickest response. If you call 911 with your cell note that you will be connected to the MA State Police, who can then transfer you to UMPD (say you are calling from UMass Amherst). For non-emergencies call 413-545-2121. During your visit you will also notice over 115 "Help" phones located all across campus. These boxes are easily identified by their yellow boxes topped with blue lights. When the red emergency button is pushed, the caller will be put in immediate contact with UMPD. In addition to providing voice contact with a police dispatcher, "Help" phone use also enables a dispatcher to pinpoint the caller's exact location. If you are deaf or hard-of-hearing and have access to TTY equipment, you can contact UMPD at 413-577-0384, or utilize the telecommunications relay service offered by Mass Relay.


Fitness Centers
Day passes to the UMass Recreation Center will be available to conference attendees to purchase upon arrival. Guests may email registration@umass.edu to discuss arrangements prior to arrival, or can inquire with the Summer Conference Housing desk clerk upon check-in.


Libraries
The W.E.B. Du Bois Library and the Science and Engineering Library offer technology and space to work for our community guests, including printing/copying services, collections, and book stacks.

Local Transportation
Whether by bus, car, cab or bike, there are multiple transportation options to get you from campus to amenities and attractions in the surrounding area! Amherst center, with local shops, restaurants, and small convenience stores, is a  15 - 25 minute walk or 5 minute drive from campus. If you find you need to visit a grocery store, large retail store, or pharmacy during your stay, numerous options are located on University Drive and Russell Street (also known as Route 9) in neighboring Hadley, about a 5 - 10 minute trip from campus by car or bus. Retailers include CVS, Big Y, Stop and Shop, Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Target, Walmart, JC Penney, Marshalls, and more (see "Shopping" below).

Local buses, operated by the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA), run regularly between Amherst center and the University, with additional services traveling throughout the Pioneer Valley, including Northampton, Springfield, and Greenfield. If you'd rather take a car, UMass has partnered with Zipcar to bring on-demand car sharing services right to campus, and there is also an Enterprise Rent-A-Car office on-campus. The area is serviced by a variety of cab companies, including UberLyftTaxi Express, Tik Tak Taxi (413-256-4500) and Celebrity Cab (413-253-7330). There are also a number of bicycle rentals around campus, including Laughing Dog BicyclesHampshire Bicycle Exchange, and ValleyBike Share.


Dining
Amherst is home to a diverse range of local restaurants that can satisfy any food obsession. Amherst favorites include Antonio's PizzaJohnny's Tavern30BoltwoodJudie's RestaurantMission Cantina, and the Hangar Pub and Grill. Neighboring Hadley not only boasts many great local spots such as Esselon Cafe and Alina's Ristorante, but also offers many familiar tables on Route 9/Russell Street, such as Friendy's, Applebees, Chilis and Panara Bread. Options abound in downtown Northampton, located a 20 minute drive from campus, such as Jake's RestaurantSylvester's RestaurantLocal BurgerAmanouz CafeNorthampton Brewery Bar and Grille, and more. Full listings are available courtesy of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hampshire County, or click here to download our area restaurant guide. 


Shopping
If you find you need to visit a grocery store, large retail store, or pharmacy during your stay, numerous options are located 5 - 10 minutes from campus in downtown Amherst, as well as on University Drive in Amherst and Russell Street (also known as Route 9) in neighboring Hadley. These locations are also serviced by PVTA buses. Details can be found below and in our area retail guide.

  • Downtown Amherst
  • Amherst Shopping Center - retail/grocery stores and dining, including Big Y, Dunkin Donuts, CVS and Wings Over Amherst. Located at 181 University Drive in Amherst, MA.
  • Hampshire Mall - retail/grocery stores, dining, and entertainment, including Target, Trader Joe's, J. C. Penney, Cinemark, Pinz Bowling, Autobahn Indoor Speedway, LaserBlast, and Planet Fitness Gym. Located at 367 Russell Street in Hadley, MA.
  • Campus Farms Mall - retail/grocery stores and dining, including TJ Maxx, Super Stop & Shop, Dollar Tree, Liquors 44 and Johnny's Roadside Diner. Located at 440-454 Russell Street in Hadley, MA.
  • Mountain Farms Mall - retail/grocery stores and dining, including Wal-Mart, Barnes & Noble, Bed Bath & Beyond, Old Navy, Panera Bread and Whole Foots Market. Located at 335 Russell Street in Hadley, MA

Medical Services 
If you find you need medical services, including emergency care or pharmacy services, below are some options close to campus. For on-campus emergencies please contact the UMass Police at 413-545-2121, utilize an on-campus "Help" phone, or call 911 and ask to be transferred to UMass Amherst PD.

  • Cooley Dickinson Hospital - offers 24-hour full hospital/health care services including emergency and critical care, imaging/radiology, lab services.
    30 Locust Street, Northampton MA (9.7 miles from campus).
    Main Number: 413-582-2000. Crisis Hotline: 413-586-5555.
  • CVS Pharmacy - offers pharmacy, drive-thru pharmacy, MinuteClinic, immunizations.
    165 University Drive, Amherst MA (1.9 miles from campus).
    Main Number: 413-256-0421.
  • AEIOU Urgent Care - offers urgent care services for non-life threatening minor illness or injuries. Open Monday - Friday 8AM to 7PM; Saturday & Sunday 11AM to 5PM.
    170 University Drive, Suite 102, Amherst MA (1.9 miles from campus).
    Main Number: 413-461-3530.
  • MedExpress Urgent Care - offers urgent care services for illness and injuries. Open everyday from 8AM to 8PM.
    424 Russell Street, Hadley MA (2.4 miles from campus).
    Main Number: 413-253-0483.
  • [On-Campus] University Health Services - offers advance appointments, same-day appointments, walk-in care. 
    150 Infirmary Way (near Franklin Dining Commons).
    Appointments: 413-577-5101. Triage Nurse (available during health center hours): 413-577-5229. After-hours medical & mental health advice: 413-577-5000. 

Area Attractions

  • Amherst is known for its rural charm and big city appeal. With many restaurants, bars and local shops, visitors get lost exploring our downtown. Located just a few minutes drive from the campus, it is a convenient and popular destination. 
  • The city of Northampton is a blend of historic, contemporary, intellectual, artsy, athletic and entrepreneurial. With cafes, bars, restaurants, clubs, shops, museums, rivers, parks and spas, Northampton is a place to be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of budget.
  • The Emily Dickinson Museum, located in downtown Amherst, is comprised of two historic houses associated with the poet Emily Dickinson. The Homestead was the birthplace and home of Emily Dickinson, while the Evergreens, located next door, was home to her brother Austin and his family. Offering tours, lively programs, interpretive exhibits and more, the museum's mission is to spark visitor's imagination by amplifying Emily Dickinson's revolutionary poetic voice from the place she called home. 
  • The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, located in Amherst, looks to inspire a love of art and reading through picture books, just a short 15 minute drive from campus. Founded by Eric Carle and his wife Barbara, the Museum is for visitors of all ages: children and families, teachers and librarians, scholars, and everyone interested in the art of the picture book.
  • The Yiddish Book Center is a nonprofit organization working to tell the whole Jewish story by rescuing, translating, and disseminating Yiddish books and presenting innovative educational programs that broaden understanding of modern Jewish identity. The Yiddish Book Center is located on the Hampshire College campus, about a 15 minute drive from UMass.
  • The Amherst College Beneski Museum of Natural History, located about 5 minutes from the UMass campus, is one of New England’s largest natural history museums, boasting three floors of exhibits with more than 1,700 specimens on display, and tens of thousands of specimens available for use by scholars and researchers from across campus and around the world.
  • Looking for some outdoor recreation? The Pioneer Valley has you covered! Puffer's Pond, located Mill Street in Amherst is a popular swimming hole beside a small waterfall, and is serviced by the #33 PVTA bus. The Mount Holyoke Range State Park Notch Visitor Center (and parking) is located at 1500 West Street in Amherst and features miles of hiking trails with some great views of the valley. The Norwottuck Rail Trail, an eleven-mile paved trail running from Amherst to Northampton, is great for running and cycling. The trail is accessible via the Swift Connector path that runs parallel to University Drive. 
  • Yankee Candle, located about 15 minutes away in South Deerfield, offers an enchanting mix of shopping and entertainment. You'll find 400,000 candles in over 200 different famous Yankee scents, but there are more than just candles at this flagship Village Store. It's a unique, entertaining world of New England charm, fairy tale fantasies, and hands-on, interactive candle making that's fun for every age.
  • Historic Deerfield is an authentic 18th-century New England village. Tour beautifully restored museum houses with period architecture and furnishings, see yankee ingenuity at work in demonstrations of colonial-era trades, and explore the world-famous collection of early American crafts, ceramics, furniture, textiles and metalwork. 
  • The Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens is a 14,400 square foot facility that includes a 4,000 sq. ft. glass conservatory filled with butterflies, moths and tropical vegetation, about a 20 minute drive from campus in South Deerfield.
  • Home to more than three hundred inductees and more than 40,000 square feet of basketball history, the Basketball Hall of Fame stirs the spirits of basketball fans everywhere. Hundreds of interactive exhibits share the spotlight with skills challenges, live clinics, shooting contests and enough basketball history to impress the world’s most avid sports fans. 
  • The Springfield Museums grant visitors access to the Springfield Science Museum, George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, Michele and Donald D'Amour Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Springfield History and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden and Museum, all under a single admission. The museums are located in the heart of downtown Springfield, about a 40 minute drive from UMass.
  • Six Flags New England is home to many rides and attractions, from pulse-pounding roller coasters to gentler options for the youngest of thrill seekers. With some of the fastest, tallest, wildest, most gut-wrenching rides in the country (including a few record breakers), as well as family rides, kid rides, entertaining shows and the Hurricane Harbor Water Park, Six Flags New England has fun for everyone.

Want to learn about more things to do in the Pioneer Valley? Click here!

Contact Us!
For questions regarding the campus, residence hall lodging, payment, or completing a reservation please contact the UMass Conference Services Registration Office at 413-577-8102 or registration@umass.edu. Our normal office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m - 5 p.m. (EST). 

UMass Conference Services
Conference Registration Office 
810 Campus Center
1 Campus Center Way
Amherst, MA 01003
t: 413-577-8102
e: registration@umass.edu