5 Best Restaurants in Sturbridge and The Pioneer Valley, Massachusetts

Herrell's Ice Cream

$ Fodor's choice

On the lower level of Thornes Marketplace, Herrell's is known for not only having some of the state's best ice cream, but also for being the first ice-cream shop to mix in brand-name candies with its ice cream. Flavors often rotate, but an up-to-the-minute list is available online.

Amherst Coffee + Bar

$
Grab a coffee or a cocktail before the movies at this hip café-by-morning, bar-by-night spot that shares an address with the Amherst Cinema building.

Flayvors of Cook Farm

$
The main advantage of stopping for the delicious homemade ice cream at this family farm is that you can see the dairy cows from the dining tables—and even pet them, if you're brave. Sandwiches and mac and cheese are available as well, if for some reason, you're not in the mood for ice cream.

Recommended Fodor's Video

La Fiorentina Pastry Shop

$

Springfield's South End is home to a lively Little Italy, including this full bakery that has doled out a wide variety of heavenly pastries (and coffee) since the 1940s.

Richardson's Candy Kitchen

$

The name is no joke: the back half of this store is a kitchen where you can see delectable chocolates being made. A short drive from Historic Deerfield, Richardson's sells luscious cream-filled chocolates, truffles, and other handmade confections, not to mention ice cream.