Visit the village of Turners Falls, located in the town of Montague. It takes its name from Captain William Turner, who staged an attack here on the Native American population in 1676. A Reconciliation Day was staged in 2004 involving town selectmen and people from indigenous communities. In more recent times, the town has experienced rejuvenation after an economic slump.
Be sure to explore the Great Falls Discovery Center to learn more about the Connecticut River and its flora and fauna. Walk through the grounds and examine the natural habitats. The center, which is housed in an old mill, contains exhibits devoted to the communities based on the river and the role that the river plays in their livelihood.
Running past the Great Fall Discovery Center is the Canalside Trail. Bike along this trail, which is a little over 3 miles (5 kilometers) and follows some of the Turners Falls Canal, a body of water that once played an integral role in local industry.
Barton Cove is a photogenic area full of natural wonder. Explore the cove by kayak or canoe, both of which can be rented in the Montague area. Try to spot a bald eagle here. They live in a protected part of the cove but sightings of these majestic birds are not unheard of. Don’t miss the Turners Falls Fish Way, where you can look through windows to see fish, including Atlantic salmon and lampreys, going upstream for spawning.
Back in town, stop at the longstanding Shea Theater, which hosts productions ranging from Shakespearean plays to musical performances. The theater, which opened in 1927, was once a cinema.
Turners Falls has its own airport. Bradley International Airport in Connecticut is about an hour away by car and Boston Logan International Airport is just under 2 hours away. Pay a visit to Turners Falls to experience its cultural highlights and natural spectacles.