The Berkshires because mountain air is good for the soul
I’m a small town girl who became a city dweller. But my transition wouldn’t have been successful if it wasn’t for runaway weekends in the Berkshires. A deep inhale of fresh mountain air will heal the ails of city life. If you're in the mood to take breather, head up North and be sure to check out these spots to eat, stay and play.
EAT
Baba Louie’s
Located in the heart of downtown Great Barrington, a table at Baba Louie’s often requires a wait as people start lining up outside the restaurant at 5pm for a slice of their sourdough pizza. Their unique pizza pairings offer a little something for everyone, including vegan and gluten free customers.
The Barrington Brewery
It’s no frills but the Brewery always delivers with a pub style menu (don't miss the french fries!) and a vast selection of beer. As a go-to destination for families and group meals, this place gets busy pretty quickly but the staff is great at turning over tables so it’s often worth a short wait.
Bistro Box
This outdoor burger joint serves up locally sourced comfort food from April to October. Check their Instagram feed for daily specials and be prepared to wait in line, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists!
Photo courtesy of @Bistrobox
The Prairie Whale
The Berkshires were a buzz when famed New York chef Mark Firth opened a rustic, farm to table restaurant in the heart of Great Barrington. I normally don't believe the hype but this time it was legit. With a vibe that manages to be both family friendly and just the right dose of hipster, guests often hang out in the front yard playing ping pong or soccer as they wait (for up to an hour!) for what many call “the best meal in the Berkshires.”
The Prairie Whale
SoCo Creamery
This Berkshires born brand can be found in the freezers of select speciality markets throughout the tri-state area but their ice cream, gelato, and sorbet tastes best when scooped fresh from their flagship shop in Great Barrington.
SoCo Creamery
Other Suggestions: Fuel (coffee shop), The Old Inn on the Green (candlelit dinners) Cafe Adam, Alta, Church Street Cafe, Nudel, Taft Farm (for the best cookies), Guido’s (gourmet groceries), The Co-op (organic and natural foods)
STAY
Cranwell Spa + Golf Resort
A 380 acre resort anchored by a Gilded Era mansion, Cranwell features an 18-hole golf course, driving range, award winning spa, tennis courts and an indoor swimming pool. Located in Lenox, Cranwell tends to be the go-to spot for those planning a trip to Tanglewood (see below) or visiting their kids at sleepaway camp.
The Egremont Village Inn
A meticulously restored country inn, this quiet bed and breakfast is minutes from downtown Great Barrington and offers a taste of local nightlife with live concerts at the Egremont Barn.
Red Lion Inn
This quintessential Berkshires hotel retains an old school charm (it's been around since the 18th century) and is located in the center of Main Street in Stockbridge.
Wheatleigh
Be ready to throw down some major dough for a stay at the Wheatleigh. Once the private “summer cottage” of two centuries of old money families, Wheatleigh is often referred to as “the perfect antidote for those seeking a little ‘Europe’ in the heart of an American village”. It’s also happens to be walking distance to Tanglewood.
Other Suggestions: Blayntyre, The Briarcliff Motel, Devonshire Inn
PLAY
Bash Bish Falls
Located directly on the Massachusetts and New York state lines, Bash Bish Falls offers two experiences - uphill for a tremendous view of the Berkshires or a downward trail for a spectacular waterfall. They don’t allow swimming near the falls but there are small areas where you can take a quick dip… But swimmers beware, there are no lifeguards and the water is FREEZING!
Bash Bish Falls
Lee Premium Outlets
It’s not as robust as Woodbury Commons (most outlets are not that vast!) but this outlet center offers the basics including Nike, Gap, Under Armor, Ralph Lauren and J.Crew as well as kids stores such Carters, Gymboree, Osh Kosh and Toys ‘R Us.
Mass MOCA and The Clark
Both Mass MOCA and The Clark are the most frequented museums in Berkshire county. Located in North Adams, Mass MOCA is one of the largest centers for contemporary visual art and performing arts in the United States. The Williamstown campus of The Clark is known for the its collection of French Impressionism and its Renoir collection.
Tanglewood
This outdoor music venue is often a highlight on a Berkshire itinerary. While artists such as James Taylor (who plays an annual 4th of July show), Earth, Wind & Fire, Natalie Merchant, Melissa Etheridge, Andy Grammer, Bob Dylan and Emmylou Harris have played shows at Tanglewood, the average concert-goer comes for classical music and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Tanglewood is family friendly and offers daytime experiences for younger kids during the Boston Symphony rehearsals on Saturday morning and Sunday afternoons.
Other Suggestions: Windy Hill Farm for apple picking, The Cove for bowling, The Triplex for movies, Monument Mountain for a family friendly hike, Lake Pontoosuc for boating, Hancock Shaker Village for baby farm animals, Catamount and Butternut for skiing.
