band performing

Where to Find Concerts in the Berkshires

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One of the best things to do in the Berkshires is attend a live music concert. Some of the best music venues, bands, studios, and performance centers in the country exist here in our little corner of the world, drawing musicians of all genres for concerts to excite fans of all ages. Here are some upcoming venues and concerts in the Berkshires you won’t want to miss!

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Tanglewood

Home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, this prestigious performance venue draws in a diverse range of musicians, from classic to eclectic. For example, James Taylor and his All-Star Band will perform two concerts here on July 3rd and July 4th, 2023 to officially kick off Tanglewood’s summer season for the year. And there will be fireworks after the July 4th concert! 

 

A few days later at Tanglewood, the Boston Pops Orchestra will perform Ragtime: The Symphonic Concert. This symphony comes from the 1975 novel by E.L. Doctorow, weaving together the stories of Eastern European immigrants, the Harlem African American community, and an upper-class white family. It’s going to be one of the best summer concerts in the Berkshires this year. 

Later in the summer, multi-Grammy Award-winning, diamond-selling band Train will play at Tanglewood with special guest Parmalee. The group has had 14 songs on Billboard’s Hot 100 and has sold over 30 million tracks worldwide. Hearing them in a setting as special as Tanglewood is an experience you will never forget.

Mass MoCA

One of the largest contemporary art museums in the world sits nestled in the Berkshire town of North Adams but is also a fantastic music venue that brings in the uprising, cutting-edge artists with unique performances that can change your life. On August 5, 2023, Ilana Glazer will grace the Hunter Center of Mass MoCA. A comedian, director, producer, writer, and actress, she will give you a night of raunchy, witty humor and music that will have you rolling on the floor laughing.

At the end of the summer comes one of the best concerts in the Berkshires for 2023. The alt-rocker band called Pixies and the garage-rocker band called Modest Mouse are teaming up for an epic sundown show. This one-of-a-kind collaboration will be one for the history books. Plus, they have a special guest and indie musician Cat Power joining the show!

The Foundry

This music venue used to be a glass-blowing studio, but now showcases some of the best theater, music, comedy, spoken word, and other performances in all of New England. This summer several amazing artists, such as Dayna Kurtz, will grace this stage. A Jersey-born artist who now goes between Vermont and New Orleans, this vocalist, writer, musician, and producer has won many awards for her amazing talent. She’s been on many high-profile shows and tours, and you won’t want to miss her stop here with us.

See Concerts in the Berkshires While Staying at Porches Inn

This is just a taste of a few of the venues Porches Inn is near and just a sampling of the many concerts happening in the Berkshires this summer. We also have our own special concert venue called Studio 9, an architectural wonder with a revolutionary capacity for sound like you’ve never heard it before. You can walk mere feet to hear some amazing artists perform or record. And we’re right across the street from Mass MoCA and many of North Adam’s music venues! 

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After a fun night of live performances, you can rest easy at our cozy accommodations and feel right at home. Book now so you can see your favorite concerts this summer!

natural bridge

Plan An Outdoor Adventure at Zoar Outdoor Near Porches Inn

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North Adams is a quaint little town known for its artsy vibe and imaginative culture. There’s a plethora of museums, galleries, and artistic businesses on every street. But since this town is in the Berkshires of New England, it’s in a prime location for enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors. Not too far away from Porches Inn is Zoar Outdoor, one of the best places in the region for memorable outdoor adventures. No trip to the Berkshires is complete without enjoying one of their many exhilarating experiences.

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Rafting

Source: Zoar Outdoor

The Berkshires are full of pristine ponds, lakes, and even rushing rivers—perfect for whitewater rafting! On a hot summer day, cruising down the Deerfield River is a sight to behold. Zoar has hosted these rafting adventures for over 30 years, and they know every bend and curve in the river. Their guides are seasoned professionals who can guide you and your group safely through the class III rapids and turns—all while having a blast!

White water rafting in the Berkshires is a great group activity for families, friends, or even coworkers. Nothing bonds people like working together to navigate the river’s obstacles and challenging waves. Zoar also handles all of the logistics. No need to worry about paddles or transportation, just show up to their location and they’ll walk you through everything. All levels of paddlers will enjoy this river ride!

Kayaking

If you want to explore the white waters of the Deerfield River solo, Zoar takes kayaking to a whole new level with its whitewater kayaking adventures. Have you never been kayaking before but want to learn? They offer lessons too! The instructors have numerous awards for their teaching prowess and can show you how to do everything you need to know to kayak. By the time your lesson is over, you’ll be able to navigate whatever the river throws at you with ease.

Zoar offers several different kinds of trips for kayaking in the Berkshires. You can start out small with an afternoon-long guided river kayaking experience. Or, you can sign up for a multi-day advanced whitewater expedition that will take you through every rapid in the river. Whether you go with a group or kayak by yourself, you’ll get an up close and personal encounter with the water, unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Ziplining

There’s no better way to see the New England landscape than ziplining in the Berkshires! Zoar’s one-of-a-kind zipline course sits right at the tops of the trees so you’re truly in the canopy of the forests. It’s an intimate yet thrilling feeling of hopping from one tree to another, almost like a monkey. And of course, there are the zip lines that will make you feel like a bird flying above the Deerfield River Valley!

Zoar’s three-hour canopy tour has 11 zip lines, two sky bridges, and three rappels with scenic views of the entire Berkshire landscape. This award-winning experience is the only one of its kind in New England! Afraid of heights or never been in a harness? Our expert staff will patiently guide you through the course and show you how to brake, ride, and climb safely so you’re having too much fun to think about anything else. 

Zoar By Day, Porches Inn by Night

Zoar offers a truly unique outdoor adventure in the Berkshires unrivaled by any other experience. After a day of making memories outside, take a short trip back to Porches Inn to get a good night’s rest. Whether you’re into art, the outdoors, history, or anything else, the Berkshires have it, and Porches Inn is the perfect place to stay in between your adventures. Book a stay with us and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.

mass moca

What to Expect When You Visit Mass MoCA

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The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (Mass MoCA) is the premiere attraction of North Adams and the entire Berkshires area. As one of the largest collections of modern, contemporary, visual, and performative art in the entire country, people from all over the world come to visit this extraordinary place. No trip to the Berkshires is complete without a tour of this museum. Here’s everything you need to know to have the best visit possible.

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What is Mass MoCA?

woman and children at the art exhibition

Source: MASS MoCA

The short answer is, MASS MoCA is more than just a museum. It’s a center of community and culture for all of the Berkshire area. It has vast galleries for hosting large art collections, as well as indoor and outdoor venues for performances. This allows the space to host artists of all kinds and mediums. Music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, and other groundbreaking genres have all had their day in MASS MoCA. Its mission is to help artists make fresh, forward-looking pieces that the entire community—and even the world—can enjoy. 

What’s the history of MASS MoCA?

MASS MoCA’s history is complex and far-reaching, but here’s a short synopsis. Long before Westernization came to America, the land where MASS MoCA now sits was the ancestral homeland of the Mohican people. When European colonizers arrived, the land became a popular trade and industry landmark due to its location on the Hoosic River. 

Soon buildings rose up, including the O. Arnold and Company printing works. The building produced textiles for many years until the Depression forced it to close. Bought out by an electric company, the new owners renovated the space. It became a lab for designing high-tech weapons in World War II.

When the war ended, town leaders of North Adams sought to creatively re-use the complex. In partnership with many others, they laid the foundation for what is now MASS MoCA.  

What exhibits is MASS MoCA showing right now?

Most of the performances and exhibits at MASS MoCA are temporary, so many artists get the chance to display their work. Artists like Lee Boroson and Barbara Takenaga have had exhibits at MASS MoCA. There are also music festivals and concerts hosted there, like the annual FreshGrass Festival. You can see what’s on display right now at MASS MoCA and what events are coming up on their events page.

What is the admissions price for MASS MoCA?

The admissions price for MASS MoCA differs on age and member status. Members get in for free, adults are $20, seniors and veterans are $18, and children ages 6-16 are only $8. Students who bring a valid ID can enter for only $12. 

We recommend reserving a timed ticket so you can skip the line and ensure tickets don’t sell out on the day you plan to visit. Hours are from 10am-5pm Wednesdays through Mondays. You can spend the whole day at the museum, but we suggest you take your time and move at your own pace as you observe the exhibits. 

Where is the MASS MoCA parking?

There is no official parking for MASS MoCA. But there is lots of parking a close walk away in the town of North Adams. Check out this parking map of MASS MoCA for some recommended parking spots. Or better yet, stay at the Porches Inn which is right across the street from MASS MoCA and walk over!

Stay at the Porches Inn Today

If MASS MoCA is the cultural center of North Adams, Porches Inn is the town’s heart. Within walking distance of the museum, downtown, and the best local eateries, our humble inn is waiting to welcome artistic pilgrims and Berkshire tourists like you. Come stay with us on your visit to North Adams to be the first at MASS MoCA when it opens!

Sand Springs Pool

Best Places to Go Swimming in North Adams, MA

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Summer is officially here, and so is the hot weather. There’s no better way to beat the heat than to go swimming. There are so many rivers, ponds, lakes, springs, and more to try around our quaint town of North Adams, you’ll have fun staying cool all summer long. Here are some must-see places to go swimming in North Adams, MA.

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Best Swimming Spots Near North Adams

 

Windsor Lake

This small but charming lake is a beautiful hidden gem for anyone, from nature lovers to casual tourists. You can not only swim but also boat, fish, kayak, and more in Windsor Lake. Bring a picnic and stay all day on the beach, then catch a Concert at the Lake at night! Live outdoor concerts free to the public run here every Wednesday evening from June through August.

Sand Springs Pool

Sand Springs is one of the only thermal springs in New England. Native Americans used the naturally-filtered and tempered water as a primitive spa, water source, and healing spring. Today, the site hosts a non-profit, community pool open to everyone, as well as a recreational center for sports, activities, and special events.  

Ponds in Savoy Mountain State Forest

This forest is only a short drive from North Adams, but its rugged rural landscape will make you feel like you’ve left the everyday world behind. Savoy Mountain State Forest has the North and South Ponds at either end of the park for a tranquil place to fish, swim, or picnic. There’s also several hikes that lead to waterfalls such as Tannery Falls and Parker Brook Falls. Make sure to check the park’s website before swimming in any of the falls though.

Rivers in Mohawk Trail State Forest

The Deerfield River is a clear, cold cascade that runs through the pristine Mohawk Trail State Forest. The short drive to and through it from North Adams is one of the best scenic woodland journeys in all of Massachusetts! The river provides miles of trails and water for trout fishing, swimming, hiking, and more. There’s also a designated swimming area at one calmer bend of the river for younger swimmers. 

Swim at the Porches Inn in North Adams, MA

Sometimes the thing your body needs after a long day of exploring the Berkshires is a dip in a heated pool or hot tub. At the Porches Inn in North Adams, we have both of those! They’re heated year-round and available to all our guests during the day. Grab a chaise by the pool to soak up the sun or relax in our heated spa tub with pulsing jets. 

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Make your summer season the best one yet by seeing all of the amazing swimming places near North Adams, MA! Porches Inn is the perfect place to soak in all the water fun as we’re only a short walk or quick drive to all the best swimming spots around. We can’t wait to have you stay with us.

man playing guitar

Summer Concerts in The Berkshires You Can’t Miss

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Summer is almost here, which means it’s almost time for our favorite warm-weather activity: concerts! From outdoor performances to classical theater indoors, every music lover can get their fix. Then, you crash at the nearby Porches Inn after a fun night of live music in the Berkshires. 

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Studio 9 at Porches Inn 

Studio 9 is a unique recording studio located on the property of the Porches Inn in North Adams, MA. 100% carbon neutral and sustainably designed, it’s the only professional recording studio of its kind in New England. The unique shape of the hive-like structure has allowed celebrities, award-winning artists, and others to record new songs here. And, it is the perfect venue for live shows. Imagine walking from your room at Porches to a private backyard concert!

Mass MoCA’s Concerts 

The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art is only a short walk from Porches Inn. Every summer, they have an incredible lineup of concerts at Mass MoCa. Enjoy a three-day music Freshgrass Festival outdoors, or live music every Thursday at the Chalet beer garden, or a moving performance by Mexican artist Armando Cortés. Check out their full lineup on their site so you don’t miss a thing!

Barrington Stage Company

This award-winning theater is in Pittsfield, MA, just a short drive from North Adams. The Barrington Stage Co. puts on impressive shows every season that will have you on the edge of your seat. They have theater classics like Waiting For Godot, Broadway shows and legends like Joshua Henry, and even concerts with artists such as Grace McLean. Tickets usually sell out due to the intimate performance setting, so don’t wait to see their schedule!

Tanglewood

This venue is one of Boston Symphony Orchestra’s premiere performance venues. Set in the glorious countryside of the Berkshires, Tanglewood hosts only the best in classical music. The fresh green grass even allows for outdoor concerts during the summer. The Boston Pops hosted their annual Independence Day performance here in 2021. 

This year, you can look forward to Mozart’s Don Giovanni, the Danish String Quartet, and the BU Tanglewood Institute of Young Artists Orchestra and Wind ensemble. You’ll be swept away by the beautiful symphonies and acoustics of Tanglewood!

Other Local Events

North Adams is one of New England’s greatest artistic cultures and musical communities. In addition to the larger establishments, there are always several smaller shows and venues hosting live music in the summertime. Be sure to check out the Wallflowers at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, or stop by a local restaurant to hear a rising young artist perform for you over dinner. There’s something musical happening almost every night in the Berkshires!

Enjoy Music From Porches Inn in North Adams, MA

Make the most out of a wonderful summer season by seeing all of the amazing live music in the Berkshires! Porches Inn is the perfect place to rest and relax after a euphoric musical event. We’re only a close walk or short drive to all the best performance venues around. We can’t wait to have you stay with us and enjoy the music of the hills of the Berkshires. 

hikes with a waterfall

Hikes with Waterfalls in North Adams, MA

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Hiking is a wonderful way to explore the great outdoors. Not only does it provide exercise and social time with friends, but it can take you on adventures to amazing places and sights. And there’s no better sight than a waterfall along the trail! Here at the Porches Inn, we’re lucky to be very close to several waterfall hikes in North Adams, MA.

Spring is the best time to go to these hiking trails in search of waterfalls. The rain from the season and the melting snow make the waterfalls thrive. They are at their most beautiful during this time, as opposed to the hot summer or fall when the water has evaporated. Here are a few stunning waterfall adventures you’ll want to check out this spring for an outdoor adventure!

Cascade Waterfall in North Adams, MA

A Berkshire’s classic trail, this hike is perfect for beginner hikers or people looking for a quick but beautiful walk to a waterfall. Wander alongside a glistening river until you hear the sound of rushing water falling into a blue pool. The Cascade Waterfall hike is the closest to North Adams, hidden at the end of Marion Avenue. It’s a must-see on any visit. 

Natural Bridge State Park

Did you know there is only one natural white marble arch in North America? You can find it at Natural Bridge State Park. In addition to the pristine stone geological wonder, a dazzling waterfall flows over the rocks formed in a natural bridge formation. There’s also an abandoned marble quarry and man-made marble dam nearby to explore on this hike as well.

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waterfall hikes north adams, ma

Source: mass.gov

Bash Bish Falls State Park

This waterfall trail is the most popular in Massachusetts and for good reason. It’s the highest one of all! At its peak, water can rush down about 80 feet from the top of the rocks into a deep emerald plunge pool. Although it’s a bit more of a challenge to take this hike from Bash Bish Falls State Park, the view is definitely worth it. And in the springtime, the water is at its strongest while the crowds are at their lowest.

Chapel Brook Falls

If you’re looking for a quintessential hike with waterfalls near North Adams, MA, look no further than Chapel Brook Falls. This waterfall is at the top of the 1,420-foot Pony Mountain of the Berkshires. This trail embodies the rugged beauty of the region, with beautiful overlooks and sights capped off by a waterfall cascading down three bedrock ledges. 

Visit Porches Inn When Hiking in North Adams, MA

Make your spring season one to remember by seeing all of the wondrous hikes with waterfalls near North Adams, MA! After a long day outdoors, Porches Inn is the perfect place to rest and relax. We’re only a close walk or short drive to all the best waterfall hikes around. We can’t wait to have you stay with us and enjoy the natural wonders of the Berkshires.

band performing

Everything to Know About The Music Scene in The Berkshires

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Music and the Berkshires go hand and hand. The region is widely known as a haven for artists, where performers gain inspiration from the stunning natural scenery and have developed a music and arts scene that is unique to the Berkshires.

Read on to learn more about the music scene in the area, including some of the venues and live events you shouldn’t miss on your next visit.

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A Brief History of Music in The Berkshires

To say the music scene in the Berkshires runs deep would be an understatement. While many artists have passed through the region, the Berkshires are truly known for a thriving jazz and folk scene. The likes of Louis Armstrong and Janice Joplin have performed at local venues in the past and festivals like FreshGrass and Wilco’s Solid Sound now draw thousands of visitors each year.

Of course, you’ll also find your fair share of classical and contemporary music as well. The Boston Symphony Orchestra has called Tanglewood in Lenox its Summer home since 1937. Whereas MASS MoCA, known for its contemporary art, has also become a destination for seeing live music.  

As you can see, the over the hundred-year history of music in the Berkshires is eclectic and truly one-of-a-kind.

Live Music in The Berkshires

Today, you’ll still find live music in the Berkshires, MA thriving. Here are just a few of the music venues in the Berkshires you can visit and what makes each of them unique:

Tanglewood

Tanglewood in Lenox, MA is, of course, home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra. However, you will also find many award-winning artists, such as James Taylor, performing at this open-air venue in the summer.

MASS MoCA Live Music

You might not think of music when you consider the MASS MoCA museum. But the performing arts are an integral part of the experience. Check out the upcoming MASS MoCA live music performances for yourself. 

Studio 9

Studio 9 is an intimate state-of-the-art recording studio and performance venue located in North Adams, MA. The venue boasts stunning architectural elements that not only look beautiful but also enhance the quality of sound to set an unforgettable vibe for live performances and professional recording. 

And, of course, there are some amazing music festivals in the Berkshires, such as:

FreshGrass Festivals

FreshGrass Festivals that feature a diverse lineup encompassing the best in grassroots music — from traditional masters and iconic trailblazers to musical discoveries.

Solid Sound

Solid Sound at MASS MoCA is a three-day festival of art, music, and comedy that takes over the entire MASS MoCA campus every other summer.

Berkshires Arts Festival

The Berkshires Arts Festival is in its 21st year! At the Butternut Ski Area, you’ll find dozens of local artisans showcasing their artwork (which you can often purchase), along with live musical performances and more.

Check out this complete list for the most up-to-date live music events in the Berkshires.

Whether you’re visiting the Berkshires for a concert or multi-day music festival, make sure to book your stay at Porches Inn. The premier Berkshires inn places you in the heart of North Adam’s music scene and directly across the street from MASS MoCA.

Book Your Stay with Us Today!

Give us a call at (413) 664-0400 to book your musical escape in The Berkshires.

north adams during christmas

The Best Christmas Trees and Decorations in The Berkshires

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One of the best things about a Berkshires Christmas is the variety of festive decorations you can find around the region. From bright lights illuminating snow-covered properties to themed and artfully decorated Christmas trees, there’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a trip to the Berkshires this season.

Read on to learn about some of the best Christmas trees and other decorations in the region that you can’t miss.

Best Berkshires Christmas Decorations

Christmas in the Berkshires 2021 is going to be a magical one. Here are some of the decorations and holiday festivities the entire family can enjoy this year:

Winter Lights at Naumkeag

The historic home and public garden in the heart of the Berkshires are beautiful to visit any time of year but truly come to life during the holidays. The Trustees illuminate Naumkeag with thousands of shimmering holiday lights and carefully crafted light installations.

You and your family will enjoy a magical and fun evening with food and refreshments, but make sure to bundle up since these decorations are all outdoors!

Lenox Holiday Tree Walk

Iterations of the Berkshires festival of trees can be found around the region. This includes the Lenox Holiday Tree Walk put on by the Town of Lenox. Starting December 1st, the Holiday Tree Walk is open to the public, which includes a display of 15 white, 6-foot trees down scenic Main Street. Each tree is decorated by local businesses and artists, which makes for a unique and eclectic display.

Bring your family and friends to see which tree will be your favorite!

Winter Wonderland Walkway

For an indoor and outdoor Berkshires Christmas display, take your family on a stroll through the Winter Wonderland Walkway at the Stockbridge Library. On December 4th, the library welcomes families to come and enjoy a day of crafts and festive fun. Children will enjoy a variety of holiday crafts and indoor games. However, the highlight of the day (and the holiday season at the library) is a stroll through the garden walkway which will have 16 lit and decorated trees to admire.

Red Lion Inn Christmas Tree

Finally, we can’t overlook one of the best Berkshires Christmas trees right at The Red Lion Inn. Every year, the historic hotel uses more than 30 Christmas trees and 700 feet of garland to decorate the property much like it appears in Norman Rockwell’s famous “Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas.”

The interior of the hotel matches the festive feel of the exterior. You’ll find the lobby adorned in Christmas cheer, with an eye-catching tree artfully decorated with classic ornaments and garlands that will instantly put you in the holiday spirit.

Ready to spend the holidays in a quintessential New England Christmas town? 

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Book your stay for your holiday getaway in Stockbridge today by calling us at (413) 298-5545. We’re looking forward to greeting you and your family in our decorated inn and helping you discover more festive fun around the town this winter season.

woman taking a photo

Best Places for Winter Photography in North Adams

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Photographers have been inspired by the natural beauty and arts scene in North Adams for decades. But even if you’re not a professional photographer, you can take some stunning photos of the region this season with the right tips and tricks.

Read on to learn about our favorite outdoor photography tips and where you can snap some beautiful indoor and outdoor shots this winter no matter if you’re using a professional camera or your smartphone. 

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Outdoor Photography Tips

The North Adams, MA snow makes the perfect backdrop for outdoor photos. However, the white, bright landscape can also be more difficult to capture accurately in a picture than your average portrait. 

Here are some outdoor photography tips that can help you nail your nature shot in North Adams:

  • Hiking in North Adams, MA to get a great picture? Plan your excursion around good light, which in photography is often the beginning and end of the day.

 

  • With a mostly white backdrop, it can be difficult to find focus for your picture. Some experts recommend switching your camera to single-point AF. Then take your main focus point, and position it over a contrast-heavy area of your snow scene.

 

  • Research and choose the right camera settings for snow photography.

 

  • Add a filter! Even your smartphone comes with filters that can drastically improve your photography by creating more contrast and depth.

 

  • Remember to keep your batteries warm and carry an extra set no matter where you go.

 

  • Use the “rule of thirds,” and imagine your photo divided into a three-by-three grid, with the horizon and important elements of the photo found within or along the lines of that grid.

Inspiration Strikes in North Adams

So, where can you take some of the best snow shots in North Adams, MA? These are some of our favorite outdoor areas to capture on film!

Windsor Lake

  • Windsor Lake in North Adams, Massachusetts is one of Northern Berkshire County’s premier destinations for outdoor recreation and nature photography that’s open year-round.

Mount Greylock State Reservation

  • Mount Greylock State Reservation is the highest point in Massachusetts. Rising above the surrounding Berkshire landscape, beautiful views of up to 90 miles may be seen and captured on your camera.

Natural Bridge State Park

  • Natural Bridge State Park is a 48-acre park where you can see the only naturally formed white marble arch and man-made white marble dam in North America, and tour an abandoned marble quarry. The running water and frozen scenery make for a picturesque photo that can’t be missed.

MASS MoCA

  • Of course, we can’t forget to mention MASS MoCA. If you want an escape from the cold, a visit to MASS MoCA can help inspire your next artistic pursuit and many of the installations are fascinating to capture on film.

 

No matter why you come to North Adams, consider Porches Inn your home away from home. The premier Berkshires Inn places you in the heart of North Adam’s outdoor attractions and is directly across the street from MASS MoCA.

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Book your stay for your nature photography escape in North Adams today at (413) 664-0400.

man skiing

Best Winter Activities in The Berkshires

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Winter in the Berkshires shouldn’t be missed. While you may associate warm and sunny summer with fun, family-friendly activities, there are still plenty of things to do in the Berkshires in the winter!

Read on to learn more about what to do in the Berkshires in the winter so you can begin planning the ultimate cold-weather getaway this year!

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5 Things to Do in The Berkshires in The Winter

Winter getaways in the Berkshires are anything but boring. Here are a few of our favorite things to do in the region during the cold and snowy season that you’re sure to love.

1. Go Ice Skating 

Ice skating is a quintessential winter activity when the temperature drops. There are plenty of natural areas in the Berkshires where you can take your skates and soak in the stunning natural scenery. Of course, if you’re ice skating in nature you should always follow these safety tips and skate with a partner. If outdoor ice skating isn’t your thing, a stop at the North Adams indoor ice rink is also fun (and a great place for beginners to learn the ins and outs of this winter sport).

2. Snowshoe Through the Woods

Snow in the Berkshires doesn’t stop people from enjoying the natural beauty of the region. If there’s a generous coating of snow on the ground, it’s time to grab your snowshoes or cross-country skis and explore one of the area’s outdoor spots. We recommend the Cascades Trail in North Adams. This 2.2-mile trail is perfect for all skill levels and is accessible year-round. You can even bring your dog along for the journey, just make sure to keep him or her leashed at all times.

There’s nothing quite like trekking under the snow-covered canopy!

3. Visit MASS MoCA

If you want a break from the cold, you should visit the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art. You and your family can spend an entire day taking in the vast collection of art that is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. MASS MoCA is always introducing new exhibits and events, so take a look at what’s coming to the museum to see if anything piques your interest.

4. Check Out a Brewery

A winter day in North Adams isn’t complete without a stop at a brewery! Bright Ideas Brewing is conveniently located on the MASS MoCA campus, so you can begin or end your time at the museum with a craft brew. Indoor seating is available so you can stay out of the cold and enjoy the creative industrial atmosphere of the space.

Where to Stay in The Berkshires in Winter

Ready to plan your stay in the Berkshires this winter? Look no further than Porches Inn!

The premier Berkshires Inn places you in the heart of North Adam’s attractions so you can experience all of these winter activities and more this season. 

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Book your stay for your winter escape in the Berkshires today at (413) 664-0400.