The Turners Falls Cultural District was designated by the Mass Cultural Council in May, 2017. The boundaries of the Cultural District extend along Avenue A from the Great Falls Discovery Center to the Carnegie Library, a grand Georgian building built in 1906 by Andrew Carnegie.

The Avenue A and Third Street business district features restaurants, breweries, parks, public art and unique shops along a wide, tree-lined street. The 330 seat Shea Theater Arts Center is the hub of entertainment. Built in 1927 and completely renovated in 2016, the Shea Theater presents regional, national and international artists as well as community theater, dance and all forms of music.

The Turners Falls Cultural District also offers uncommon recreational opportunities, all situated with gorgeous views of the Connecticut River. Unity Park is designed to encourage physical fitness, relaxation and a connection with nature. With well-appointed ball fields, basketball courts and play structures, Unity Park is a place for people of all ages to recreate. Unity Skatepark is considered the best in the region. Its comprehensive design links a variety of transitions, stairs, banks, and rails making it fun and challenging for riders of all skill levels.

Don't forget to bring your bike! The Canalside Rail Trail is the perfect place to ride, walk or just take-in views of the Industrial Era canal district. Named "Best Bike Path in New England" by Yankee Magazine, the paved, 3-mile trail is wheel chair accessible.

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About the MCC Cultural District Program
The Mass Cultural Council’s Cultural Districts Initiative was authorized by an act of the Massachusetts state legislature in 2010, and launched in April 2011. The goals of the Cultural Districts are to attract artists and cultural enterprises, foster cultural development, encourage business and job development, establish the district as a tourist destination, preserve and reuse historic buildings, and enhance property values.