June 18–19, 2026

Conference on American Political Development

Smith College (Northampton, MA)

Registration

Overview

The 2026 Conference on American Political Development will be held at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, on Thursday, June 18, and Friday, June 19, 2026. Conference sessions will take place at the Smith College Conference Center (49 College Lane), overlooking Paradise Pond.

Northampton is a highly walkable college town with restaurants, bookstores, and hotels close to campus.

Please register by May 31, 2026 if you plan to attend.

Transportation

Driving Directions

From Boston

Take I-90 (Mass Pike) west → I-91 North → Northampton.

From New York

Take I-95 / Merritt Parkway → I-91 North → Northampton.

Parking is available at the garage on West Street (Route 66), adjacent to Garrison Hall, about a 5-minute walk from the Conference Center at 49 College Lane.

Bradley International Airport (BDL)

Bradley International Airport (BDL), located in Windsor Locks, CT, is the closest airport (about 35 miles from Northampton).

Valley Transporter offers door-to-door service to Northampton and Smith College from the Airport. Advance reservations required.

Amtrak Service

Amtrak service in Northampton, MA is available at a covered platform station located at 170 Pleasant Street. The station serves as a key stop for north-south travel through the Pioneer Valley and connects passengers to major hubs like New Haven, New York City, and Washington, D.C.

Service & Routes

The Vermonter: Runs daily between St. Albans, VT, and Washington, D.C.
The Valley Flyer: A state-supported service providing additional daily round-trip service between Greenfield, MA, and New Haven, CT.
Connections: Passengers can transfer at New Haven or Springfield to reach Boston, Philadelphia, and other destinations along the Northeast Corridor.

Peter Pan Bus Lines also provides service from Baltimore, New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Hartford, and Providence to downtown Northampton.

Lodging Options

The Ellery (Walkable)

$200 (average per night)

Type: Boutique Inn
Location: Steps from Smith College and the vibrant downtown shops and cafes.
Highlights: Known for its "colonial-style" charm and thoughtful interior decor. It is highly rated (9.2/10) and offers an allergy-sensitive breakfast, clean common areas, and pet-friendly rooms.

Hotel Northampton (Walkable)

$300 (average per night)

Type: Historic Boutique Hotel
Location: Heart of downtown, within walking distance of Smith College.
Highlights: Built in 1927, this hotel offers 106 elegantly furnished guestrooms and luxury suites. It features a spacious lobby and on-site tavern dining.

Quality Inn & Suites (≈1 mile)

$100 (average per night)

Type: Budget Hotel
Location: Located on Conz Street, right off I-91 and a short walk or drive from downtown.
Highlights: Offers free self-parking, WiFi, and breakfast. Some rooms include kitchenettes.

Fairfield Inn & Suites (≈1 mile)

$180 (average per night)

Type: Modern Suite Hotel
Location: Located on Conz Street, right off I-91 and a short walk or drive from downtown.
Highlights: This 3-star property is highly rated (9.2/10) and features an indoor pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and a rooftop garden. Guests receive a complimentary hot buffet breakfast daily.