Local Area In Northampton, you'll find museums, galleries and art offerings so diverse and so unique that Northampton was dubbed the "Number One Best Small Arts Town in America" by author John Villani. Northampton is a destination for shoppers, browsers and diners. If you're a shopper, you will love the unique nature of the owner-operated shops and galleries, from nationally renowned one of the kind art and crafts, to some of today's most contemporary fashion, from the classical to the whimsical, it's all in downtown Northampton. Once a quaint New England village, Northampton continues to thrive with its small town charm and big city vibrancy. Downtown Northampton is home to the prestigious Smith College. Northampton is also the center of the Five-College area with Mount Holyoke College, Amherst College, Hampshire College, and the University of Massachusetts all located within 10 miles. A city of 30,000 people, Northampton is nestled in the foothills of the Berkshires and bordered by the banks of the Connecticut River. Northampton, and the surrounding Pioneer Valley, is a great place to head for a mini or full-blown vacation any time of year. There is something for everyone to do and see and enjoy. New York City, Boston, Hartford, Conn., and the Berkshires are all within driving distance for a day trip, but you won't want to leave after just one day.