downtown north adams

Fairs and Festivals to Hit in the Berkshires

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Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and pulsating with a vibrant cultural heartbeat, the Berkshires are gearing up for a season of jubilant celebrations. From pride parades to art exhibits, opera performances, and harvest festivals, the Berkshires beckon locals and visitors to immerse themselves in a world of diversity, creativity, and community spirit. Let’s take a closer look at some of the exciting events lined up in the region.

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1. ArtWeek Berkshires 

Date: May 17-27, 2024

ArtWeek Berkshires is an annual celebration of local creativity, inviting individuals and organizations to participate in various experiential events. From gallery shows to live performances and poetry readings to painting demos, the festival offers over 100 hands-on or behind-the-scenes experiences across the region. Whether you’re an artist, a performer, or simply a lover of the arts, ArtWeek Berkshires is a chance to engage with the vibrant, creative community of the Berkshires.

2. Berkshire Pride’s Annual LGBTQIA+ Festival

Berkshire Pride Parade

Source: berkshirepride.org

Date: June 1-9, 2024

Get ready to immerse yourself in a celebration like no other, as Berkshire Pride’s annual festival promises to be an unforgettable experience overflowing with joy, acceptance, and solidarity. This year’s event is set to ignite the spirit of inclusivity with a lineup of vibrant activities that will leave hearts soaring and spirits lifted. First, experience the thrill of the inaugural Berkshire Pride Rainbow Run 5K, where participants of all ages and backgrounds come together to spread love one step at a time.

As you stroll through the art walk celebrating LGBTQIA+ creators, prepare to be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of colors, emotions, and perspectives on display. From thought-provoking installations to awe-inspiring performances, each artwork is a testament to the richness and diversity of human expression.

But the festivities don’t end there. Join the lively parade, a dazzling procession of love, courage, and pride. And what better way to close out the week than with the annual Tea Dance hosted in the enchanting gardens of Naumkeag? Amidst the beauty of nature and the warmth of camaraderie, attendees will have the opportunity to mingle, laugh, and forge meaningful connections in a setting that exudes tranquility and charm.

3. Berkshires Arts Festival

Berkshires Art Festival Flyer

Source: americanartmarketing.com

Date: July 5-7, 2024

Calling all art enthusiasts! Prepare to be dazzled by a feast for the senses at the Berkshire Arts Festival, a premier event hailed as one of the East Coast’s top summer art extravaganzas. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Ski Butternut venue, this festival promises an immersive experience like no other, where creativity knows no bounds and inspiration awaits around every corner.

Step into a world where artistic brilliance takes center stage as the Berkshire Arts Festival showcases exceptional works of art and fine crafts from talented artists across the globe. From intricately crafted ceramics to dazzling jewelry, from masterfully carved woodwork to striking metalwork, the breadth and depth of creativity on display will leave you spellbound. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a budding enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

4. Berkshire Opera Festival: “Faust”

Date: August 24, 27, & 30, 2024

Dedicated to enriching the region’s cultural landscape, the festival is renowned for delivering performances of the highest caliber at affordable prices, ensuring that the magic of opera is within reach for all.

This season, prepare to be transported into a world of enchantment with Berkshire Opera Festival’s presentation of “Faust.” Gounod’s timeless masterpiece weaves a captivating tale of love, temptation, and redemption, inviting audiences to embark on a journey of intrigue and emotion.

At the heart of the story lies Dr. Faust, who makes a fateful pact with the devil in a quest for eternal youth and boundless love. As the drama unfolds on stage, audiences will be swept away by the stirring melodies and poignant themes that have made “Faust” a beloved classic of the opera repertoire.

5. Berkshire Harvest Festival

Date: October 12-13, 2024

As autumn colors paint the landscape, the Berkshire Botanical Garden comes alive with the annual Harvest Festival. This event offers two days of family-friendly entertainment, delicious food, craft vendors, live music, and more. From hayrides to plant sales, the Harvest Festival celebrates the bounty of the season and the beauty of the Berkshires in fall.

Plan Your Visit to The Berkshires for Festival Season

As the Berkshires prepare to host these diverse and dynamic festivals, locals and visitors alike have much to look forward to. Whether you’re celebrating love and inclusion at Berkshire Pride, immersing yourself in the world of art at the Berkshires Arts Festival, or enjoying the cultural richness of the region at the Berkshire Opera Festival and beyond, there’s no shortage of reasons to join in the festivities. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to make memories in the heart of the Berkshires.

Need a place to stay after these unique fairs in the Berkshires? Book a stay at Porches Inn, where art and history converge.

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hiking trail

Hiking in the Berkshires

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The Porches Inn in North Adams is your perfect home base for a spring full of hiking in the Berkshires of Massachusetts.

The snow is melting, the flowers are beginning to bloom, and the weather is warming up. It’s time to get back into nature—and there’s no better place to be outside in the spring than in North Adams, Massachusetts!

There are many amazing things to do in the Berkshires in spring. However, hikes are by far a visitor favorite. Nearby trails vary in levels of difficulty, scenery, and terrain. No trip to North Adams is complete without a hike. And the best part is, Porches Inn at Mass MoCa is close to all of the best hiking trails in the Berkshires.

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Benefits of Hiking in the Berkshires in Spring

Summer is indeed the most popular time to visit the Berkshires. But, spring in North Adams has some amazing opportunities and benefits that rival the allure of the warm months.

Firstly, it’s much less crowded. Booking rooms at our Inn is much easier than at the height of the tourist season. You might even have the trail to yourself! It can also get very hot and humid in the summer, but the cool spring season makes hiking more enjoyable. Picture this: a wooded trail lined with budding blossoms and seed leaves—perfect for your Instagram. 

And if the sunshine happens to turn to rain, accommodating the weather is super easy! Simply bring a rain jacket or some hiking boots, and you’ll have just as much fun on any of our hiking trails regardless of rain, sun, or mud. Their versatility is what makes them the best things to do in the Berkshires in spring.

Hiking Trails Near North Adams, MA

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie, there’s a trail near Porches Inn just for you. If you’re looking for easy hiking in the Berkshires, we recommend you try out Steadman Pond at Hudson-Howard, Monterey. This easy trail is only a quarter of a mile and ten minutes one way. But don’t be fooled: the scenery is expert-level. The new growth along the trail is beautiful in spring and the pond glitters in the seasonal sun. 

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, try out Stevens Glen in West Stockbridge. This fan-favorite hike features a waterfall that is in full force during the springtime! The waterfalls usually dry out by mid or late summer. 

Or, for one of the best hiking trails in the Berkshires, climb Mount Greylock! It’s the highest point in Massachusetts. And if you take the 4.4-mile paved road before May, you’ll avoid all vehicular traffic and any dirt from the mud season. 

Visit the Berkshires this Spring

Beat the crowds and the heat by staying at the Porches Inn at Mass MoCa this spring! We’re only a short walk or drive away from the best hiking spots in the Berkshires of Massachusetts. And, we’re the perfect, most hospitable place to crash after a long day outdoors. Check our availability today while there’s still plenty of space!

smores

Fun Things to Do in the Berkshires with Family

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The Berkshires are full of family-friendly activities, like museums, train rides, farms, butterfly sanctuaries, and more! Make it the backdrop of memories you’ll talk about for years and years to come. Read on to find fun for the whole crew. 

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Zoar Outdoor

Plan the perfect family excursion with Zoar Outdoor. They offer a variety of adventures, from white water rafting trips to kayaking clinics to rock climbing classes. We recommend their one-of-a-kind zipline experience. Over three hours, move from treetop to treetop, traversing 11 zip lines, two sky bridges, and three rappels. It’s the best way to experience the beautiful Berkshire landscape above the Deerfield River Valley and connect with loved ones. 

Magic Wings

Spend a day surrounded by butterflies and moths of all colors, shapes, and sizes. At Magic Wings, nearly 4,000 exotic and domestic creatures, from monarchs to tiger snowtails, fly throughout an 8,000-square ft. glass conservatory. Afterward, head outside to experience beautiful blooms in the garden.

MASS MoCA

Experience a world of evocative art at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA). Wander through soaring galleries and stop to admire sculptures, paintings, and photographs from both well-known and emerging artists. Or catch one of more than 75 performances we put on year-round, including contemporary dance, alternative cabaret, and avant-garde theater. 

Hoosac Valley Train Rides

AshuwillticookRail Trail

Source: exploreadams.com 

Enjoy the sights of northern Berkshire County aboard vintage railroad coaches—a classic 1955 Budd RDC, to be exact. The one-hour Hoosac Valley Train Ride operates between Adams and North Adams, offering a unique view of the area that complements the community’s cultural attractions. We particularly love their seasonal events like the Tinseliner and Fall Foliage journeys. 

Jiminy Peak

Jiminy Peak offers year-round fun for the entire family. Best known for its snow-making capabilities, Jiminy Peak hosts snowboarders and skiers alike throughout the winter months. With 45 trails that wind across 167 acres, suit up and spend your days on the slopes, from casual greens to double black diamonds. Come warmer weather, opt for their aerial adventure park, mountain biking tracks, and scenic chairlift rides. 

High Lawn Farm

High Lawn Farm, a family-owned Jersey dairy farm located in the heart of the Berkshires, is a refreshing stop on your tour around town. Walk around the land and spend time with their impressive cattle herd—hint: you’ll most likely find them in the milking barn or nursery. Before you leave, grab a fresh ice cream cone or artisanal cheese board from the Farmstead Creamery Shop. 

Where to Stay in the Berkshires 

After a day of family fun, unwind at Porches Inn, complete with a community fire pit, sauna, and four-season pool and hot tub for everyone to enjoy. Book now!

band performing

Concerts in the Berkshires to Hit in 2024

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The thrill of live music is a unique blend of sensory stimulation, emotional connection, and a shared sense of community. Picture it: the thumping bass, the melodic guitars, and the powerful harmonies create a multisensory experience that transcends the confines of headphones or speakers. Thankfully, opportunities to catch a concert in the Berkshires are abundant. 

Musicians take to stages at iconic venues, from Tanglewood, Colonial Theatre, MASS MoCA, and beyond. Read the blog to get a glimpse into the diverse scene that exists here.

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The Best of the ’70s

Step back in time at the Colonial Theatre as a 12-piece live band serenades you with sounds from the 1970s. The setlist includes covers from legendary musicians like Neil Young, Bob Seger, Elton John, David Bowie, Eric Clapton, James Taylor, Billy Joel, and so many more. Dust off your bell bottoms and tie-dye shirts for this era-inspired evening. 

Samantha Fish

Samantha fish

Source: mahaiwe.org

Make your way to the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington to see blues musician Samantha Fish on her Bulletproof tour. Known for her famous fretwork and vivid lyrics, Fish recently topped the contemporary blues charts and received a Grammy Award nomination for her album with Outlaw Country legend Jesse Dayton. Mark your calendars for this show—it’s one you don’t want to miss. 

Sing & Swing Jazz

Lovers of jazz will know Lincoln Center, an advocate for the music genre and arts education. A new initiative takes stars on tour to perform the Great American Songbook in all its playful and sophisticated glory. Booked at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center are Bria Skonberg and Benny Benack III, each armed with prodigious trumpet talent and vocal charm. See how they reimagine classics from Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, Peggy Lee, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, and many more. 

FIREBIRD

An artist collective of musicians, performers, and visual artists, Touki Delphine presents FIREBIRD at MASS MoCA, a “rule-breaking concert” and “extraterrestrial installation” in one. Inspired by composer Igor Stravinsky’s 1919 “Firebird Suite,” the production features over 600 recycled car taillights, sourced locally in the Berkshires, that hypnotically illuminate the dance of the animal. 

Community Chamber Concerts

The Boston Symphony Orchestra Community Chamber Concerts offer audiences the opportunity to experience the unique intimacy of chamber music for free, performed by members in various community venues throughout Massachusetts. The next event is set at Linde Center for Music and Learning and includes a long list of talented musicians who study violin, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, and piano. 

Book a Stay at Porches Inn

From more intimate performances, Porches Inn is the home base for the Berkshires’ boundless creativity. Visit Studio 9, a state-of-the-art recording studio and intimate performance venue nestled on our campus. We’re also steps away from MASS MoCA, Clark Art Institute, and Williams College Museum of Art. Come experience the wonder for yourself. Book your stay now.

A couple walks hand-in-hand along a path leading to a modern curved building in a park-like setting near North Adams hotels with homes in the background.

Plan a Romantic Getaway to The Berkshires

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Ready to plan a romantic getaway for you and your partner? There’s no better place than the Berkshires. Everyone defines romance differently, but whether you want a charming city steeped in art and history or prefer idyllic landscapes, you’ve come to the right place. Our ideas for a couples’ retreat speak to every love language, set the stage for everlasting memories, and define the very essence of everyday passion. 

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Couple Up at the Spa

spaA trip to the spa is the perfect way to relax and reset your relationship. InTouch Massage & Day Spa offers unique massage options, from Swedish to deep tissue to Japanese hot stone. You can also pair your package with facials, body treatments, or a stop at the semi-private outdoor riverside hot tub for some extra tranquility.

Meet Up at a Museum

Whether a first date or an anniversary, a museum trip can quickly spark romance. MASS MoCA is home to some of the most evocative art in all forms, from sculpture to dance to theater. How can you pass up the opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder with your partner and look up in awe at Spencer Finch’s Cosmic Latte? Or how about a stroll through the five rooms of Amy Yoes’ colorful Hot Corners? 

You can also plan to visit the Clark Museum, filled with British works on paper and vibrant geometric prints from Maine artist Elizabeth Atterbury.

Plan an Outdoor Date

There is no shortage of beautiful hikes in the Berkshires. From the Benedict Pond Loop trail to Spruce Hill (which boasts breathtaking views of Mount Greylock), the outdoors is all yours! Bring a basket with your partner’s favorite foods, a comfortable blanket, and a thermos with a warm beverage to show them you cherish quality time as much as they do.

Share a Drink

Berkshire Cider Project

Source: berkshire-cider.com

Something is alluring about bar lighting that can turn an old fling into a new lover or reignite a passion between long-term partners. Luckily, the Berkshires has many options, from the Berkshire Cider Project to the Balderdash Cellars. There’s also The Distillery at Greylock WORKS or Public’s for a quick cocktail or nightcap. No matter where you end up, relive your favorite memories over a glass of Chardonnay or welcome the future while you cheer with sparkling rosé.

Book a Romantic Stay at Porches

Porches Inn is the perfect last stop on your romantic getaway. Unwind in our traditional Finnish-style sauna or year-round heated pool, cozy up by a bonfire, and stay in one of our Victorian row houses. We also offer seasonal experiences that can add an extra bit of charm to your idyllic escape. Don’t wait, book your stay now!

woman hiking in north adams

What to Do in North Adams, MA

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For much of its history, North Adams has been known as a mill town. Today, it’s the perfect blend of old and new, as a fresh vibrance has revitalized the area. Whether you want to reach new heights on the Appalachian Trail or embrace all forms of art at MASS MoCA, it’s clear the soul of the Berkshires is alive and well here. 

Need help planning your North Adams trip? We’re happy to be your guide. From good eats to geological marvels, check out our favorite recommendations.

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Norad Mill

Norad Mill has it all. For the beverage connoisseur, there’s blackberry wine and espresso. For the audiophiles, there are vintage records. For aspiring creatives, there are hand-dyed yarns. One of the oldest surviving buildings in North Adams, Norad Mill now accommodates over 40 local businesses. Stop by to browse, shop, or see stunning views of Mount Greylock, which the tall windows overlook. 

Bright Ideas Brewing

Located on the MASS MoCA campus, Bright Ideas Brewing boasts an impressive menu, from lagers to stouts to ales and IPAs. Voted “Best Brewery in the Berkshires” five years in a row, these local beverage makers give visitors the option to sit and drink or take cans on the go. Throughout the year, enjoy trivia, stand-up comedy, and a recurring midweek session from their resident DJs. The best part about Bright Ideas Brewing (in our humble opinion)? They’re dog-friendly! Bring your pup inside the taproom or on the outdoor patio.

Blackinton Mansion

One of the most elaborate homes in North Adams, Blackinton Mansion has a storied past. Originally an ancestral dwelling, it belonged to Sanford Blackinton, a millionaire and mill owner who provided woolen goods to the Union during the Civil War. Donated to the city after his death, it became the town’s public library and historical meeting place. Stop in to grab a copy of your favorite book or walk by to view the architecture adorned with red brick and brownstone trim.

Greylock WORKS

Once a cotton-spinning mill, Greylock WORKS has reenergized the Berkshire community. It now hosts an assortment of spots for the self-proclaimed “foodie,” from a craft distillery to a culinary lab to a cidery. It also serves as a co-work community with private studios, perfect for local small businesses to reach their maximum potential. For those in town for a short visit, you can also stop by for conferences, maker markets, and cultural gatherings in the Weave Shed and Engine House.

Hoosac Valley Train Rides 

Enjoy the sights of northern Berkshire County aboard vintage railroad coaches—a classic 1955 Budd RDC, to be exact. The one-hour Hoosac Valley Train Ride operates between Adams and North Adams, offering a unique view of the area that complements the community’s cultural attractions. We particularly love their seasonal events like the Tinseliner and Fall Foliage journeys. 

Windsor Lake

Windsor Lake is the perfect place to satisfy anyone’s wanderlust. The lake itself is a 24-acre reservoir stocked with trout for fishing enthusiasts. Not the hook-and-reel type? Try the Historic Valley Campground inside the park. Any avid outdoors person can pitch a tent or pull through their RV. Plus, campers can access a private beach, playground, and picnic area. On warm summer nights, visitors can be carried away by songs during Windsor Lake’s concert series while others kayak or canoe past. The winter months are just as action-packed, with options to cross-country ski or snowshoe on the lakeside trails. 

Natural Bridge State Park

New England is home to untamed surprises at every turn, but Natural Bridge State Park features a one-of-a-kind wonder. After a quick woodland walk, visitors will find the only natural white marble arch in North America. Made of 550 million-year-old bedrock and formed from glacial erosion over 13,000 years ago, the bridge spans the Hudson Brook, which twists and turns through a 60-foot gorge. The park also includes a marble quarry and a human-made marble dam. Need we say more?

Stay at Porches Inn 

No matter the season, North Adams is the ideal destination for artists and adventurers alike. After you’ve explored our suggestions, escape to Porches Inn and relax in one of our beautifully detailed Victorian row houses. Book your stay now!

man skiing

Skiing Near North Adams, MA

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In North Adams, weekends are spent away on the slopes, taking advantage of each new layer of fresh powder. Whether you’re a die hard for that first chair at dawn, or your favorite part of the weekend is aprés ski closer to dusk, there’s a mountain here we know will fit your fancy. To some, winter may be the season of holidays, hot chocolate, and cozying up by fire but to us, the chilly season will always feature snow and Berkshires skiing. If you’re with us, let’s hit the slopes! 

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Jiminy Peak

Source: Jiminy Peak

Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort

When it comes to the Berkshires winter attractions, skiing and snowboarding undoubtedly top the list. Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort offers lessons, night skiing, terrain parks, and a family-friendly atmosphere on their 45 trails covering over 167 acres. Perfect for every level athlete, they have a variety of trails ranging from green to double black diamond. The perfect winter day starts at Jiminy Peak. 

Berkshire East Mountain Resort

If you’re in search of places to ski near North Adams, you’ve come to the right place. Berkshire East Mountain Resort has been run by the Schaefer family for nearly 45 years, and it’s safe to say they know what they’re doing. This mountain resort features modern facilities, lessons, and a variety of on-site dining options. They also take pride in the fact that they were the first ski area in the world to produce 100% of its electricity from onsite renewable energy. 

Stump Sprouts 

While there are a plethora of things to do in the Berkshires in the winter, skiing in North Adams is a family-friendly activity you won’t want to miss—especially if you switch out classic downhill skiing with cross country skiing or snowshoeing. Stump Sprouts Cross Country Ski Center is located atop a high meadow, making for a stunning and wild setting perfect for exploring. Visiting this unique ski center is an experience you won’t want to miss.  

Catamount Mountain Resort

Located right on the New York/Massachusetts border is Catamount Mountain Resort. Though it has events and activities during every season, winter is when this mountain thrives. The resort is known for its varied terrain, perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. They also have alpine racing, tubing, and lessons. 

Ski Butternut 

Since 1962, Ski Butternut has been known as a winter destination for New Englanders who seek quality skiing with a focus on leaving a positive impact on the environment. With 100 skiable acres and 10 lifts, this ski resort is fit for every type of winter lover. Here, they encourage all to get outside, play in the snow, and have some fun. 

Stay at Porches Inn

We play hard on the slopes, but we mirror this sentiment when it comes to relaxation at Porches Inn. When the sun sets on the mountains and your body craves comfort and calm after an exciting day of skiing in the Berkshires, this boutique inn is the perfect retreat. With a community fire pit, sauna, four-season pool and hot tub, it’s the ideal place to soak in the coziness of the season. Spend winter in the Berkshires—book your ski trip stay today!

woman taking a photo

What to Do in the Berkshires in Winter

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In the Berkshires, there’s no off-season. No matter the weather, a visit to our neck of the woods is bound to be filled with excitement, adventure, and discovery—the building blocks of unforgettable memories. Now that the summer is winding down and the chilly season is upon us, it’s time to jump into things to do in the winter in the Berkshires. Grab your jacket, a cup of hot cocoa, and join us in the wonderland that is winter in the Berkshires.

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Norman Rockwell Museum 

Snow activities may come to mind when you first think of the Berkshires. But here, the snowy season is so much more than skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and tubing. Stockbridge’s Norman Rockwell Museum is both inspiring and educational with the mission to use art as a way to shape society and spread the values of kindness, respect, and social equity that founder and namesake Norman Rockwell embodied. 

While you can visit year-round to enjoy the permanent and visiting exhibitions, they host seasonal workshops and events in the winter. This year, during December school break week, don’t miss the family art-making activities inspired by the colorful stories of Leo Lionni. 

The Wizards of Winter Show

When it comes to the Berkshires holiday events, we got you covered! This December, The Wizards of Winter will again light up the stage with holiday cheer. Featuring former members of The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Def Leppard, Rainbow, Alice Cooper, and Blue Oyster Cult, along with Broadway and theater veterans, this 11-member ensemble will grace The Colonial Theatre with soaring vocal harmonies, precision string instrumentation, powerful percussion, and stunning keyboard work during the most exciting family rock event of the holiday season. 

mass moca

MASS MoCA

The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art aims to inspire, enliven, and foster genuine creativity for both artists, visitors, and onlookers alike. As one of the world’s liveliest centers for making and enjoying today’s most evocative art, MASS MoCA features galleries as well as indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, making it easy to embrace all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and beyond. This innovative and thriving museum is located just across the street from Porches Inn—there’s no more perfect place to spend the afternoon on a chilly winter day! 

Studio 9 

Known as an intimate recording studio and performance venue, Studio 9 was designed and built from the ground up with music and sustainability in mind. It’s located right within Porches Inn, providing an unparalleled backdrop for live shows and professional recording. As a venue that hosts an abundance of North Adams winter events, you can always find something unique and exciting happening here. 

Where to Stay in the Berkshires 

The best part about these Berkshires winter attractions is that they begin and end with you! Start your winter getaway at Porches Inn, complete with a community fire pit, sauna, four-season pool, and hot tub. Located just across the street from MASS MoCA, our boutique inn has everything you need—from blazing fireplaces and luxurious comforters to warm staff and homemade comfort foods—to embrace the chilly season with open arms. Book now!

fall in the berkshires

Don’t Miss These Upcoming Fall-tastic Events in the Berkshires

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If you haven’t spent fall in the Berkshires, you absolutely must make this New England region your destination for your autumn retreat. There’s the blazingly colorful fall foliage, the sweet tastes of local pumpkin and apple-flavored treats, the themed events and performances unique only to this area, and more! Everyone in your family will have an unforgettable time ushering in the new season with this lineup of just a few of the best things to do in the Berkshires in the fall. 

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John Legend at Tanglewood

Multi-platinum singer-songwriter and 12-time Grammy winner John Legend will kick off fall events in the Berkshires on September 3 at Tanglewood! This intimate venue setting will set the stage for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of this melodious artist, where you can witness him perform up close and personal. You’ll hear all of his greatest hits re-imagined for this special performance, from “All of Me” and “Tonight” to his recent releases like “Wonder Woman” and “Nervous.” Tickets will sell fast, so don’t wait!

FreshGrass Festival at MASS MoCA

Not only is MASS MoCA a stunning collection of modern art, it’s also a central venue for North Adams events—including the iconic FreshGrass Music Festival! This family-friendly event features the best indie bands in bluegrass and roots music. Over three days, you’ll hear the euphonious sounds of bands like Dropkick Murphys, Sierra Ferrel, Allison Russel, and more roll over the fields, courtyards, and galleries of MASS MoCA. You get free gallery admission with your tickets, too! Don’t miss out on this three-day extravaganza of world premieres, emerging artist competitions, farm-fresh food, local brews, and pop-up jam sessions.

Berkshire Botanical Garden Harvest Festival

fall in the berkshires

Source: https://www.myglobalviewpoint.com/

From October 6-7, 2023, the largest botanical garden in New England transforms its 24-acre garden into the biggest harvest party ever! Hundreds of artists, crafters, and food vendors come from all across the region to sell their seasonal treats and handmade gifts. There’s also a giant tag sale for repurposed items, clothing, and jewelry, as well as a plant sale. Kids can enjoy some fun Berkshires fall activities like hayrides, pony rides, a haunted house, pumpkin painting, a hay maze, and more!

67th Annual Fall Foliage Parade

Of all the iconic fall events in the Berkshires, none is more fun than the annual Fall Foliage Parade. This year’s parade will take place on Sunday, October 1, 2023, on the main streets of North Adams. With the theme “Once Upon a Time in North Berkshire,” you can expect a festive, inclusive, vibrant party celebrating the art of children’s books and fairytales. For the adults, there will be plenty of drinking holes and restaurants to stop in along the way! It’s by far one of the best things to do in the fall in North Adams.

Explore the Berkshires This Fall Through Porches Inn

Porches Inn is at the heart of the fall fun every year in the Berkshires. Just across the street from MASS MoCA, we’re a short walk or drive from apple picking, hiking, and other family-friendly events—including the Fall Foliage Parade! We have connections across the region to help you plan the most awesome autumnal adventure for you and your guests. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice obsessive, an art enthusiast, or a fan of the great outdoors, your fall here will be one to remember. And our hospitable, quirky inn will be the perfect place to rest in between your adventures. Book now!

Clark Art Institute, Visitor Center

Must-Try Activities for Your Berkshires Summer Bucket List

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Visiting the Berkshires in the summer should be on everyone’s bucket list. The warm weather brings out the best of the region, turning the ground into lush lawns, the plants into eye-popping wildflowers, and the lakes into shimmering, inviting waters. It’s the perfect backdrop for the many exciting events that take place each season. From exceptional cultural and art entertainment to outdoor recreational experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the wide variety of Berkshire summer activities.

Book Your Vist Now!

Things to Do in North Adams, MAband performing

As the cultural and artistic capital of the Berkshires, North Adams is one of the most colorful towns you’ve ever seen. There are new murals popping up on the sides of buildings every day, and new art installations appearing outdoors and indoors to explore. The crown jewel of this town is the MASS MoCA museum. It has one of the largest collections of contemporary art in the world! There are always new exhibits, as well as live performances, to check out here. 

 

Also nearby are the Clark Art Institute and the Williams College Museum of Art. And at our own Porches Inn, there’s Studio 9—a unique recording studio and performance venue. This architectural wonder is a revolutionary design for style, sound, and sustainability. With euphoric acoustics, top-tier equipment, natural lighting, and stunning views, you don’t want to miss a performance or recording session here from artists both world-famous and up-and-coming.

 

North Adam’s summer activities don’t stop there, though. The food scene is immaculate, with inspirations from around the world as well as local flavors. For the best tacos in town, check out Tres Niños, an authentic Mexican-style taqueria. For happy hour, visit Bright Ideas Brewing, which crafts innovative beers from locally-sourced ingredients. 

Must-See in Lenox 

The Berkshires has one of the most vibrant historic, music, and theater communities in the world. Not far from North Adams in Lenox sits the home of Tanglewood, Boston Pop’s signature venue. During the summer, you can listen to concerts like John Williams’ Star Wars symphonies or join workshops, like a conversation with pianist Andreas Haefliger—outside! Tanglewood’s lawn seats let you bring your own picnic blanket and food for a sensational night of music. There’s also Shakespeare & Co., bringing the bard’s best works to life every summer with creative staging, talented actors, and hilarious comedy.  

Outside of Lenox is Jacob’s Pillow, an internationally-acclaimed dance festival set in the Becket Woods. Every summer, dance companies come from around the world to perform on the Inside/Outside stage on a hilltop for all to see. For history lovers, there are several Gilded Age cottages and Edith Wharton’s home, The Mount, with luscious gardens to explore.

Between the Towns

Even self-proclaimed homebodies will find themselves in awe of the spectacular natural wonders outside of North Adams, Lenox, Stockbridge, and the other nearby towns. Hiking, swimming, walking, skating, and jogging are some of the top things to do in the summer in the Berkshires. 

One of the best outdoor spots in the Berkshires is the Ashuwillticook Trail. It runs over eleven miles from Lanesborough to Adams. Set against the shore of the Cheshire Reservoir, it’s full of beautiful views and exhilarating challenges. There are also zipline canopy tours and white-water rafting trips from Zoar Outdoor to the east of North Adams. For something more low-key, stroll through the Berkshire Botanical Gardens near Stockbridge to enjoy an aromatic experience featuring seasonal blooms. 

Find Things to Do in the Berkshires Through Porches Inn

Porches Inn is at the heart of the summer fun every year in the Berkshires. We’re across the street from Mass MoCA, and a short walk or drive from the best experiences in the area. Our history and connections with the region can help you pack your days with fun experiences, and our hospitable, quirky inn will be the perfect place to rest in between your adventures. Book now and get ready for the most memorable summer of your life.