Top 35 Best Things to Do in the Berkshires

There are so many things to do in the Berkshires you may not know where to begin! Here we provide a list of the most popular things to do in this westernmost county of Massachusetts.

A farm in the Berkshires of Massachusetts in autumn

With its gorgeous rolling green hills, wide variety of cultural activities, quaint New England towns, expansive culinary experiences, and numerous Gilded Age mansions to explore, the Berkshires are the perfect destination to satisfy just about any interest.

In fact, there are so many things to do in the Berkshires – the westernmost county in Massachusetts – that you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure you can see all the top items on your list!

To make your planning easier, this list includes the most popular sites and attractions within the Berkshires.

Listen to music at Tanglewood

Undoubtedly Tanglewood is one of the most popular things to do in the Berkshires. Visitors flock here throughout the summer for the opportunity to listen to exceptional music in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Not only is this venue the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), it also features other performances in classical and contemporary music and music festivals throughout the season.

As an outdoor amphitheater, Tanglewood allows visitors to listen to music while sitting or picnicking outside, surrounded by the picturesque Berkshire hills.

Tanglewood’s main performance season runs from late June to early September and tickets can be purchased online.

Looking for something more casual and less expensive than a standard BSO performance? Be sure to check out the BSO’s Saturday morning rehearsals beginning at 10:30 AM and lasting about 2-3 hours. (297 West Street, Lenox)

Explore the one-of-a-kind Mass MoCA

The outside of Mass MoCA in Massachusetts

If you’re up for a unique museum experience, be sure to make you’re way to North Adams to take in the exhibits at Mass MoCA.

Formally known as the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, Mass MoCA is one of the largest centers for contemporary and performing arts in the country, if not the world.

It’s truly a unique space and experience and unlike any other museum you’ve previously visited. Even if you’re “not into contemporary art” you may very well change your mind after visiting this museum.

Popular exhibitions at Mass MoCA include Sol LeWitt’s Wall Drawing Retrospective and James Turrell’s Into the Light collection (be sure to check out his incredible Perfectly Clear – it’s truly a remarkable experience!)

Mass MoCA is open Wednesday – Monday (closed Tuesdays). Check the website for times as they change during the warm weather months. Admission is $20 with discounts for select groups. (1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams)

Hike Mount Greylock

A view of Mount Greylock

While you’re up in the northern half of the Berkshires, be sure to carve out some time to hike the highest peak in Massachusetts – Mount Greylock.

This towering mountain offers a variety of trails and features absolutely stunning vistas from the summit. On a clear day, it’s possible to see as far as 90 miles away.

There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty up Mount Greylock, catering to both novice and experienced hikers. While a few trails begin within Williamstown, many start at other points along the mountain base.

The most popular route, the Appalachian Trail, leads to the summit and offers the chance to explore diverse landscapes, including lush forests, rocky ridges, and scenic overlooks. Check the Mount Greylock map here to see which route makes the most sense for you.

Auto roads are available during the summer months. Camping, snowmobiling, and hunting are also permitted.

Get nostalgic at the Norman Rockwell Museum

The outside of the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge MA - among the best museums in the Berkshires
Photo credit: Kerry Flatley

Norman Rockwell, an illustrative artist from 1910 to the 1970s, created drawings and paintings that resonated with millions of Americans, depicting everyday scenes with humor, warmth, and poignant social commentary.

The Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge celebrates his life work and a visit to the museum allows you to explore hundreds of his famous Saturday Evening Post covers, view a wide collection of his paintings, and develop a deeper appreciation for American culture during this pivotal time.

In addition to exploring the museum, you’ll also be able to visit Rockwell’s studio (during select months and with a reservation) and wander through the many trails on the museum’s property.

Online ticket purchases come with a discount. See the website for more details. The museum is open every day except Wednesdays and select holidays. (9 Glendale Road, Stockbridge)

Catch a dance performance at Jacob’s Pillow

A dancer in a turquoise skirt jumping through the air

One of the best things to do in the Berkshires for dance enthusiasts is to see a dance performance at Jacob’s Pillow.

For nearly a century, Jacob’s Pillow has been a revered dance center featuring an annual summertime world-renowned dance festival that draws artists from around the world.

Performances take place on an open-air stage in the warm-weather months with the gorgeous Berkshire Hills as a backdrop and in the Ted Shawn Theatre with 620 reserved seats. Performances span in variety from contemporary and ballet to traditional and experimental.

Tickets can be purchased online and at the box office. (358 George Carter Road, Becket)

Soak up world-class art at the Clark Art Institute

A gallery at the Clark Art Institute - among the best things to do in the Berkshires

A visit to the northern Berkshires isn’t complete without a stop at the Clark Art Institute, commonly referred to as The Clark.

A visit here feels a bit like stepping into a smaller version of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston or the Philadelphia Art Institute. Because of The Clark’s smaller size, it’s possible to view everything (or nearly everything) in just a few hours.

It’s astounding that works from renowned artists Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, Winslow Homer, and John Singer Sargent are on view in this somewhat remote corner of Massachusetts.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also want to allow time to take advantage of the many walking trails on the 140-acre property.

The Clark Art Institute is open Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM – 5 PM from September – June and daily in July and August from 10 AM – 5 PM. Admission is $20. Check the website to verify times and prices, including holiday closures. (225 South Street, Williamstown)

Step back in time at the Hancock Shaker Village

Buildings at the Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield MA

Families in particular will enjoy visiting the Hancock Shaker Village while in the Berkshires, a living history museum that showcases the life and religion of the Shaker people who once lived here.

With 40 buildings and multiple acres of gardens and walking trails to explore, each visitor embarks on a self-guided tour. Kids are encouraged to stop in the discovery room which includes crafts and the ability to dress like a Shaker.

The museum is open in the spring, summer, and fall every day from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission for adults is $20 and $8 for children with special discounts given to select individuals. (Check the website to confirm times and prices) (1843 West Housatonic Street, Pittsfield)

Shop and eat in Great Barrington’s downtown

A rainbow crosswalk in the center of Great Barrington Massachusetts - one of the best towns to visit in the Berkshires

Many Berkshire communities have great downtowns but Great Barrington has one of the best!

Here, you’ll find extensive shopping opportunities including the Railroad Street Collective with a wide selection of artisanal handcrafted items. Across the street, be sure to stop in Griffin – a small, cozy store featuring distinctive women’s fashion picks.

Further down Railroad Street is Karen Allen Fiber Arts – showcasing unique pieces from designers around the world. (Karen Allen is a former actress who is best known for starring in Indiana Jones movies).

Also, be sure to schedule in a meal while visiting Great Barrington. The restaurants are among the best in the region. Marjoram + Roux is a popular breakfast and lunch cafe (be sure to try the farro salad!). For a fine dining experience, head over to the steak house Number Ten which serves both American and French classics in a comfortable atmosphere.

Explore the lavish lifestyle of Edith Wharton at The Mount

The outside of The Mount, a white mansion in Lenox MA

If you’re curious about the lifestyles of Gilded Age aristocrats and have an interest in history or architecture, be sure to visit The Mount in Lenox.

A tour of The Mount is one of the best things to do in the Berkshires. As soon as you enter the home’s foyer you’re immediately engulfed in the (at times scandalous) story of Edith Wharton, the famous author who lived here in the early 20th century.

As the tour continues throughout the mansion, you’ll also learn about Wharton’s rocky marriage, heroic work during World War II, numerous lovers, and connections to other well-known authors of the time.

After the tour, make time to walk through the extensive gardens and trails on the property. During the summer months, the SculptureNow exhibit on the grounds adds interest to the walk from the parking lot to the residence. (2 Plunkett Street, Lenox)

Climb Monument Mountain

A view of Monument Mountain in Great Barrington MA

One of the best outdoorsy things to do in the Berkshires is to hike Monument Mountain in Great Barrington.

Not only does this mountain provide spectacular views at the peak, but it also carries a great deal of history. The mountain’s name is derived from the Mohican tribe’s stone prayer offerings left atop its summit. Thus the name “monument”.

Author Herman Melville is also said to have found inspiration for his celebrated work Moby-Dick here. And William Cullen Bryant found inspiration in his 1815 poem Monument Mountain. Author Nathaniel Hawthorne also spent considerable time on the mountain, finding inspiration for his works.

The mountain is open from sunrise to sunset. There’s a $6 fee for parking except for members of The Trustees of the Reservations. Access to the hiking trails can be found on both Route 183 and Route 7 but the more popular hike is from the parking lot on Route 7. Check the map for more details.

Experience the life of aristocrats at Naumkeag

The outside of Naumkeag mansion - among the best things to do in the Berkshires
Photo credit: Kerry Flatley

The Berkshires have numerous mansions dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries – a time known as The Gilded Age.

One of the best-preserved of these homes is Naumkeag, the former residence of the Choate family.

The house features 44 rooms – most of which contain the original furniture from when the family lived here. Wandering through the mansion you’ll notice exquisite woodwork throughout as well as views from the back of the house that can’t be beat.

Naumkeag is opened seasonally. Check the website for hours and secure your spot on a tour on the website. (5 Prospect Hill Road, Stockbridge)

Catch a show with the Barrington Stage Company

One of the best cultural things to do in the Berkshires is to attend a performance at the Barrington Stage Company.

The Barrington Stage Company offers a diverse array of productions, spanning contemporary and classic plays, musical theater, off-Broadway and regional theater transfers, as well as debuts of new works and world premieres, among others.

You’ll have the choice of three distinct performance stages, all conveniently situated in the heart of downtown Pittsfield.

For your convenience, tickets are available for purchase either online or at the box office located at 30 Union Street in Pittsfield.

Wander through the Berkshire Botanical Garden

White and yellow flowers at the Berkshire Botanical Garden
Photo credit: kathryn / Flickr

For those with a passion for horticulture, a must-visit destination is the Berkshire Botanical Garden. This exquisite sanctuary boasts a diverse array of plant species and showcases a range of themed gardens, including a rock, herb, and woodland. Click here to see a map detailing the garden’s layout.

Throughout the year, the Berkshire Botanical Garden hosts several significant events, including the Harvest Festival, Winter Lecture series, plant sales, and the Fête des Fleurs Garden Gala, among others.

The garden welcomes visitors from April 29th to October 31st, from 9 AM to 5 PM. General admission costs $18, while children aged 12 and under enjoy free entry. Various discounts are also available; for further information, please consult the website for up-to-date details on dates and pricing.(5 West Stockbridge Road, Stockbridge)

Hike to Bash Bish Falls

A photo of Bish Bash Falls in Great Barrington MA

If during your stay in the Berkshires you’re up for a short hike with a sweet reward at the end, Bash Bish Falls is for you!

This natural wonder is situated to the southwest of Great Barrington. A quick 30-minute drive will transport you to this popular destination where water gracefully cascades from a height of 80 feet into an emerald plunge pool.

After you’ve marveled at the falls, if you’re still eager for outdoor exploration, make your way to the neighboring Mount Washington State Forest. Here, you’ll find an extensive network of 30 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, including the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views from the summit of Alander Mountain.

Drive the scenic Mohawk Trail

The famous hairpin turn along the Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts

If you’re arriving or leaving the northern Berkshires from the east, be sure to add the Mohawk Trail to your journey – you won’t be disappointed!

This is one of the most scenic stretches of Route 2 in Massachusetts. It climbs up steep mountains providing spectacular views – such as from the famous hairpin turn in North Adams (pictured above) where views extend for 90 miles!

The Mohawk Trail also curves along the forested landscape through ravines and at times can feel a bit like driving through mountainous western states.

The beginning (or end) of the Mohawk Trail is in Williamstown and continues to about Westminster MA. Without any stops along the way, the journey is 2 hours.

The most popular time of year to drive the trail is when fall colors are at their peak. But driving along the Mohawk Trail is a treat no matter the season.

To read more about the Mohawk Trail see: Driving the Mohawk Trail: Everything You Need to Know

Catch a show during the Williamstown Theatre Festival

The outside of the Williams College 62' Center for Theater and Dance

If you’re a theater enthusiast planning a summer visit to Williamstown, MA, you’re in for a real treat – the Williamstown Theatre Festival awaits!

This illustrious festival has been a beacon for the industry’s most talented actors, directors, and playwrights for almost seven decades. It’s a stage that has hosted the likes of Sigourney Weaver, Gwyneth Paltrow, Christopher Walken, Matthew Broderick, and Uma Thurman, just to name a few of the incredible talents who’ve graced its boards.

Every year, the festival unveils a fresh season, with typically three distinct plays running at various times throughout July and August. The lineup includes everything from groundbreaking new works to captivating reinterpretations of timeless classics.

Check out the website for more information. And when showtime rolls around, you’ll find yourself at the Adams Memorial Theatre, right on the picturesque Williams College campus. (1000 Main Street)

Tour Arrowhead and see how Herman Melville lived

Arrowhead the former home of Herman Melville - among the best things to do in the Berkshires
Photo credit: Daderot / Creative Commons

If you’re a literary enthusiast, one place you must visit in the Berkshires is Arrowhead, the former home of the iconic American author Herman Melville.

Melville resided here for a significant portion of his life, and it was within these walls that he crafted some of his most enduring literary creations, including the timeless masterpiece Moby-Dick.

As you meander through the interior of Arrowhead, you’ll gain valuable insights into the life and creative process of Melville. This site serves as a unique portal to the daily happenings of the author, his family, and the very environment that ignited his literary brilliance.

Arrowhead is open from the middle of May to the end of October by guided tour only, Thursday – Monday. Tours are every hour and begin at 10 AM with the last tour at 3 PM. Adults are $20 and children under 12 are free. (Check the website to verify times and admission prices) (780 Holmes Road, Pittsfield)

View a diversity of art at The Williams College Museum of Art

Another cultural thing to do in the Berkshires is to visit the Williams College Museum of Art.

Inside, you’ll discover a staggering collection of 15,000 artworks that transcend eras and cultures. From thought-provoking contemporary creations that challenge the mind to classic European paintings, this museum is a haven for the art aficionado.

Rotating exhibitions often highlight important social and cultural themes. The museum also frequently hosts educational programs, lectures, and gallery talks.

WCMA is open to the public from 10 AM – 5 PM every day except Monday. Admission is free. (15 Lawrence Hall Drive, Williamstown)

Wander through downtown Lenox

Buildings in downtown Lenox MA

Another Berkshire downtown that’s worth exploring is Lenox.

While not as compact as Great Barrington, and a little more high-end, Lenox’s downtown town still features streets flanked by historic buildings, art galleries, boutiques, shops, and places to sate your appetite.

Among the more intriguing shops in Lenox is Design Menagerie (26 Housatonic Street). Inside, you’ll discover an assortment of unique gifts, home decor, and women’s clothing.

Right across the street, you’ll stumble upon The Bookstore & Get Lit Wine Bar, a haven for bookworms and wine enthusiasts alike. Here you’ll find both new and used books, perfectly complemented by a wine-tasting experience (11 Housatonic Street).

If you’re in town for breakfast or lunch, don’t miss Haven (8 Franklin Street). Here, you can savor freshly baked pastries, delightful salads, and a range of scrumptious sandwiches. For those seeking a quick bite or cup of coffee, Shots Cafe is a cozy spot to consider (27 Housatonic Street).

For a satisfying dinner, Brava is an excellent choice (65 Church Street). Their menu boasts tapas, salads, bruschetta, and a delightful assortment of pizzas.

Take part in outdoor activities at Jiminy Peak

No matter the season, outdoor enthusiasts will want to check out Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, northwest of Pittsfield.

As the seasons change, so do the offerings at Jiminy Peak. In the winter, the slopes come alive with skiers and snowboarders seeking the thrill of the mountains. With a variety of trails catering to all levels, it’s a place where both beginners and experts can have fun carving powder.

Come summer, the resort transforms into a hub of outdoor excitement. The Mountain Adventure Park offers an array of thrilling activities, Mountain Coaster, Alpine Slide, and a soaring Soaring Eagle Zip Ride – all surrounded by the lush greenery of the mountains. Ski trails also transform into mountain biking trails with the use of the chairlift during the summer season. (37 Corey Road, Hancock)

See a performance at the Mahaiwe

The front of the Mahaiwe performing arts center in Great Barrington Massachusetts

Among the enriching cultural things to do in the Berkshires is to catch a show at the historic Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center.

This beautifully restored theater hosts a variety of performances, including music, theater, comedy, dance, lectures, and film screenings.

The roots of Mahaiwe trace back to 1904 when the original theater was built. Since its opening, the theater has undergone significant transformations in the 1930s and, more recently, in 2005.

The box office is open Wednesday through Saturday, 12 PM – 4 PM, and three hours before a performance begins. But tickets can also be purchased on the theater’s website. (14 Castle Street)

Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum

Ventfort Hall in Lenox MA - one of the best museums in the Berkshires
Photo credit: Kerry Flatley

Nestled at the heart of Lenox, Ventfort Hall, once the residence of Sarah Morgan, sister to J. P. Morgan, stands as an imposing mansion boasting intricate architecture and opulent interiors.

Back in the late 19th century, Lenox witnessed the construction of around 75 such “cottages” as they rose to prominence during the Gilded Age.

While Ventfort Hall may not be as meticulously preserved or restored as some other historical sites like The Mount, it holds its own charm and story. Inside, guests are invited to embark on a self-guided audio tour, peeling back the layers of history that envelop each room. And once the tour is complete, you can wander through the mansion’s extensive gardens.

Ventfort Hall welcomes visitors every day from 10 AM to 4 PM. Admission for tours is $18, with special rates available for healthcare workers, seniors, children, and members. (Check the website to confirm times and prices) (104 Walker Street, Lenox)

Take in a show at Shakespeare & Company

Another cultural thing to do in the Berkshires is to attend a performance at the renowned Shakespeare & Company, dedicated to presenting Shakespearean plays and contemporary works.

Established in 1978, Shakespeare & Company offers multiple performance spaces both indoors and out. Outdoor performances are especially popular during the summer months – performed both on the lawn and in the Roman Garden Theatre.

Tickets can be purchased online. (70 Kemble Street)

Visit the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum

at train car at the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum - one of the things to do in Lenox MA
Photo credit: Richard Haddad / Flickr

Train enthusiasts will want to make time in their itinerary for the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum‘s Lenox Station Museum.

At this destination, you can delve into the fascinating world of trains, uncovering their history and mechanics.

Additionally, you’ll have the chance to wander through a 1903 train depot, a site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

There’s also the opportunity to take a short train ride from the depot to the train yard on an antique train.

The museum is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, only on Saturdays from 10 AM to 2 PM. (Check the website to confirm times) (10 Willow Creek Road, Lenox)

Tour Bidwell House Museum

Bidwell House and Museum - among the best museums in the Berkshires
Photo credit: Agardner623 / Creative Commons

History buffs will want to check out the Bidwell House Museum, established to preserve and share the heritage of the early American frontier.

Built in 1760, the Bidwell House stands as a living testament to colonial history. As you explore the museum, you’ll gain insight into the daily lives, customs, and challenges faced by early settlers, all within the walls of this well-preserved homestead.

Open to the public for guided tours, the Bidwell House Museum invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the history of the Berkshires. Discover the stories of those who once called this place home and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich heritage. (100 Art School Road, Monterey)

Explore the Frelinghuysen Morris House & Studio

The outside of the Frelinghuysen Morris House and Studio
Photo credit: Vlad b / Creative Commons

Another cultural thing to do in the Berkshires is to explore Frelinghuysen Morris House & Studio, the former home of abstract artists George L.K. Morris and Suzy Frelinghuysen.

A visit to this house and its expansive 46-acre estate allows you to step back in time, exploring the space with its original furnishings intact.

Moreover, you’ll have the unique opportunity to admire the artistic creations of Morris and Frelinghuysen, alongside their impressive collection of American and European Cubist Art, featuring works by renowned artists like Picasso, Braque, Leger, and Gris.

The Frelinghuysen Morris House & Studio is open from late June until Columbus Day. For specific days and hours, consult the website, as these may vary throughout the season.  (92 Hawthorne Street, Lenox)

Scale new heights at the Catamount Aerial Adventure Park

Adventure seekers will want to set aside time for a visit to the Catamount Aerial Adventure Park, a 17-minute drive from Great Barrington.

Nestled within the Catamount Ski Area, this adventure park boasts an array of aerial courses and challenges placed high in the treetops.

Here, participants navigate through a series of thrilling obstacles, which include zip lines, rope bridges, and suspended platforms. The park offers 9 courses, each with its own level of difficulty, catering to both newcomers and those seeking a more demanding experience.

Your park ticket grants you 3 hours of climbing fun. Typically, the park welcomes visitors from 10 AM to 5 PM, Thursday through Monday. For precise hours and ticket prices consult the website. (17 Catamount Road, South Egremont)

Visit art galleries and studios

An art gallery in downtown Lenox MA - among the best things to do in the Berkshires

With such a vibrant artist community, the Berkshires have a plethora of art galleries and studios to explore.

You’ll find visual and sculptural art throughout the region but a concentration of galleries can be found in downtown Lenox and Great Barrington.

Here are a few worth checking out:

Visit Chesterwood and learn about sculptor Daniel Chester French

Chesterwood - a home in Stockbridge Massachusetts

Although sculptor Daniel Chester French isn’t widely known outside of artist circles, his most famous work certainly is. In 1920, French sculpted the statue of Abraham Lincoln inside the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC.

A visit to Chesterwood, French’s former residence, provides the opportunity to not only learn about the artist and see examples of his work but also explore his 9-bedroom home, including his studio and gardens. (4 Williamsville Road, Stockbridge)

Explore the many wonders at the Berkshire Museum

The Berkshire Museum can best be described as a “museum for everyone” making it a popular destination in Pittsfield.

Founded in 1903, the museum’s original mission was to blend the best attributes of the American Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art to provide a “window into the world” for the people of Western Massachusetts.

Today that legacy lives on in the wide variety of exhibits such as Animals of the World in MiniatureThe Hall of Innovation, and The Rocks and Minerals Gallery.

One unique feature of the Berkshire Museum is its aquarium with more than 35 tanks that include tropical and freshwater fish, reptiles, amphibians, and more.

The museum is open Monday – Saturday from 10 AM – 5 PM and Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM. Admission is $15 for adults and $8 for children ages 4 – 17. (Check the website to confirm times and prices) (39 South Street)

Relax on Onota Lake

Onota Lake on a foggy day - one of the things to do in Pittsfield MA

Another way to get outside during your visit to the Berkshires is to spend time at Onota Lake in Pittsfield.

This 617-acre freshwater lake is owned and managed by the city. Visitors can enjoy swimming on Ramsey Beach, boating, fishing, or simply relaxing on the shore.

The lake is in the northwest corner of the city. Ramsey Beach can be reached via Lakeway Drive.

Hit the hiking trails

The Berkshires have an abundance of hiking trails – many with scenic views both during the hike and at the summit.

While we’ve already mentioned the top three hiking destinations – Mount Greylock, Monument Mountain, and Bash Bish Falls – there are a few others hiking enthusiasts will want to add to their list:

  • Kennedy Park: Situated in Lenox, Kennedy Park features a network of scenic trails through wooded areas and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Bartholomew’s Cobble: This natural area in Sheffield is renowned for its unique geology and offers a variety of trails that take you through diverse ecosystems.
  • Beartown State Forest: Located in Monterey, Beartown State Forest offers hiking along picturesque lakes and through dense forests, with options for both short and long hikes.
  • Tyringham Cobble: This easy-to-moderate hike in Tyringham leads to a scenic overlook with views of the Housatonic River Valley.
  • October Mountain State Forest: The largest state forest in Massachusetts, October Mountain offers a range of hiking trails, including the popular 2.8-mile Laura’s Tower Trail.

Learn about suffragist Susan B. Anthony

The birthplace of Susan B. Anthony - among the best things to do in the Berkshires
Photo credit: Library of Congress / Carol M. Highsmith / Creative Commons

Another fascinating historical stop to add to your Berkshires itinerary is the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum.

Visitors to the museum can explore the rooms where Anthony spent her early years and gain a deep appreciation for her dedication to the suffrage movement.

Multiple exhibits feature a rich collection of artifacts, documents, and memorabilia related to Anthony’s life and her tireless advocacy for women’s voting rights. You’ll also be able to learn about Anthony’s ties to the Quaker religion and explore a replica of her father’s store as it may have looked in 1817.

Hours of operation for the museum vary by season. Admission is $10 for adults with special pricing for seniors and children. Check the website to confirm admissions prices. (67 East Road, Adams)

Stay in a quaint inn or resort

The outside of the Wyndhurst resort and golf club
Photo credit: Kerry Flatley

The Berkshires have a wide assortment of spectacular places to stay and two of the most popular are quaint, cozy country inns and luxurious – and often opulent – resorts.

One of the most famous and popular Berkshire inns is the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge. Built in 1773, much of the inn’s original character has been preserved in the main building. Visitors also have access to a pool and can grab a meal at the inn’s restaurant. (30 Main Street, Stockbridge)

Of the many resorts in the Berkshires, Miraval in Lenox is among the most well-known. The main building, a former mansion from the Gilded Age, serves as the central hub, housing the reception area, restaurants, and spa facilities. The property also features charming cottages and private villas tucked away in the serene woods, offering a more secluded and intimate experience. (55 Lee Road, Lenox)

Attend a farmer’s market

Vegetables at a farmer's market

It seems there’s a farmer’s market occurring in nearly every community in the Berkshires during warm-weather months. If you love to try local produce and cuisine and to explore what small vendors have to offer, be sure to make room in your itinerary for one of these farmer’s markets:

(Check websites to confirm days, times, and locations)

  • Lenox Farmers Market – This market features fresh produce, artisanal goods, baked goods, and more from local vendors. You’ll also encounter musical entertainment organized by Berkshire Busk. The market occurs on Fridays from the end of May through the middle of September. (80 Church Street, Lenox)
  • West Stockbridge Farmers Market – This market, located on the Foundry Green, offers a combination of fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and live music. Occurs from the middle of May to the beginning of October on Thursday afternoons. (Harris Street, West Stockbridge)
  • Pittsfield Farmers Market – This teen-run farmer’s market features fresh produce, local products, baked goods, and artisanal products, and features live music and community events. Held on Saturdays during the summer and fall from 9 AM – 1 PM. (Pittsfield Common, 100 First Street, Pittsfield)

A photo of Kerry Flatley leaning against a wall

About Kerry Flatley

Kerry Flatley has lived in New England for the past 26 years. She has roots in Maine & Massachusetts, family in New Hampshire, and grew up close to the Connecticut border. She loves all that this region has to offer – the ocean, mountains, islands, history, villages, and cities. When she’s not writing about New England, she’s relaxing at home in the Boston suburbs with her two teenage daughters and husband.

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