Must-Try Activities for Your Berkshires Summer Bucket List
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.
Things to Do in North Adams, MA
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.
