Tag Archive for: winter activities

Winter Wonders: The Best Cold-Weather Diversions in and around North Adams, Massachusetts

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When the winter frost sweeps through the Berkshires, there’s no better place to embrace the season’s magic than in North Adams, Massachusetts. Nestled in the heart of this picturesque region, Porches Inn provides the perfect home base for a winter getaway. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, an art lover, or a foodie who loves experiencing local flavors, North Adams offers a winter wonderland for all tastes. From ice skating at a historic rink to hiking through snowy vistas, here are some of our favorite winter activities in the Berkshires. Best of all—they’re just minutes away from your cozy nook at Porches Inn.

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Winter Adventures at Windsor Lake

Windsor Lake is a magical spot for winter hiking with stunning views of frozen lakes. The lake, located in North Adams and framed by towering pines, features surrounding trails ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. 

Twirling the Day Away: Ice Skating Outing

The Peter W. Foote Vietnam Veterans Memorial Skating Rink, a charming, family-friendly rink in nearby Williamstown, just a short drive from Porches Inn, is a favorite for experienced skaters and those just starting out. After a few laps around the ice, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa in the cozy rink-side lodge. Pro Tip: The rink often hosts themed skate nights, so check the schedule before you go.

Cozy Up at Porches Inn

There might be no better way to warm up than with a dip in the Porches Inn hot tub and all-season pool followed by time in the sauna. Whether you’re coming off a snowy hike, an afternoon of ice skating, or simply soaking in the winter ambiance, this will be your oasis of warmth and relaxation. Afterwards, head inside to curl up by the fireplace, relax in the comfortable surroundings, and enjoy views of the snow-covered landscape. Pro Tip: Don’t miss the seasonal Porches special offers. 

Warm Up with Cool Art at MASS MoCA

MASS MoCA (Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art) is one of the United States’s top contemporary art museums, and its winter programming is tough to beat. With its massive galleries housed in a former industrial complex, MASS MoCA offers a unique indoor escape. During the winter months, the museum is less crowded, allowing you to experience world-class exhibits at your own pace. Don’t miss the museum’s café and shop, featuring unique pieces from local artisans.

Pro Tip: MASS MoCA often offers winter programming, including live music and special events, so be sure to check the website for event details.

Snowy Trails at Notchview: Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

Notchview is one of the best places in the Berkshires for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the Berkshires, and it’s located just a short drive from North Adams. With miles of scenic trails through a snow-covered forest and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Notchview is a local favorite for seasoned skiers and snowshoers as well as first timers. Bonus: Notchview offers rental equipment. 

Pro Tip: Notchview offers beginner-friendly trails and lessons. Check out the Notchview website for details on trail conditions and rentals.

Winter Markets and Local Crafts

North Adams’s winter markets and artisan craft fairs are veritable treasure troves for locally made goods. The North Adams Winter Market is a must-visit for foodies and craft lovers with local vendors selling everything from handmade candles to locally sourced produce and meats. 

The Williamstown Winter Farmers Market, which runs the 4th Saturday of the month from January through April, is the place to pick up artisanal food products and handmade crafts. 

Skiing and Snowboarding at Jiminy Peak

Jiminy Peak, just a short drive from North Adams, is beloved for its family-friendly skiing and snowboarding slopes. And for non-skiers, the resort also offers snow tubing, snowshoeing, and a cozy lodge. At the top of the lift, check out the views: Jiminy Peak boasts some of the best views of the surrounding mountains, making it a great spot for scenic winter photos.

Pro Tip: Jiminy Peak offers deals for evening skiing for those who’d like to hit the slopes under the stars. 

Whether you’re exploring the snowy trails of Windsor Lake, taking in contemporary art at MASS MoCA, or indulging in the festive charm of a winter market, North Adams offers a wealth of activities to make your winter getaway unforgettable. And with Porches Inn as your home base, you’ll have a cozy and welcoming retreat to return to after each adventure.

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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. 

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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!