Springfield Armory, with the flag at half staff, with a path and a picnic table visible.
30 Minutes

Picnic on the Armory Grounds

Springfield Armory National Historic Site

The Armory Grounds are a perfect place to reconnect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the urban center, if only for a short time. Find a picnic table, bench or a tree to sit beneath and take a break and enjoy a snack. What do you hear? Do you hear the workers milling about? Horses moving supplies and firearms? Or just the squirrels and birds?

Throughout the existence of the Armory, the grounds have always included green space that allowed the workers and officers a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the urban center and work. Over time, the landscaping of the grounds changed as new buildings were added or demolished. On the grounds there used to be tennis courts, a swimming pool, greenhouses and numerous gardens. Today, while the grounds don't look the same, they still provide individuals with a place to reconnect with nature. Across the Armory Grounds there are numerous picnic tables and benches where you can sit and have lunch or a snack! As you sit and enjoy, can you hear the sounds of the workers milling about? The pounding and shaping of iron and steel at the Water Shops just down the road? Or do you just hear the birds and chattering of the squirrels? Take a break and reconnect with the workers who helped define and shape the City of Springfield and the Nation while enjoying the peaceful outdoors.

Tags

Self-Guided Tours - WalkingArchitecture and BuildingIndustryMilitaryArmoriesUS ArmyUrban AmericafirearmsTechnology InventionMassachusetts Historypicnic areaSpringfield Armory

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Details

Duration

30 Minutes

Fees Apply

No

Seasons

Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility

The Springfield Armory grounds have picnic tables located behind the Main Arsenal and by Quarters 1. These tables are accessible by paved asphalt paths that are level and even. The pathway down to the Byers Street and State Street entrance is a steep slope.

Pets

No — Pets are not allowed unless they are service animals.

Reservations

No

Age Info

This is a good fit for individuals of all ages, but do note the weather and take into consideration your own personal preferences.

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