The Berkshires region is nationally recognized for its pastoral scenery, fall foliage, and ample outdoor recreation opportunities. While you’re in the area, catch a performance or exhibit at MASS MoCA, see the Cascade Waterfall near downtown North Adams, or go to the top of Mount Greylock to view the Berkshires from the highest point in Massachusetts. 

We’ve put together this helpful guide with nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions to make your visit to the Berkshires one to remember.

What to eat in the Berkshires

There is no shortage of unique and delicious eateries in the Berkshires region. To help you narrow down your decisions, we’ve compiled some of our favorites below. 

• Trail House Kitchen: This restaurant was named due to its location along the Mohawk Trail and the Appalachian Trail. The menu boasts local farm-to-table fare, vegetarian meals, and offerings for those with food sensitivities. Stop by for a family-friendly environment, fresh comfort food, and great hospitality. 
• PUBLIC eat+drink: If you want to experience a twist on American food, look no further than PUBLIC. This restaurant offers an extensive, rotating craft beer program and over a dozen types of bottled beer, along with a carefully curated wine list and creative cocktail offerings.
• Jack’s Hot Dog Stand: Since 1917, Jack’s Hot Dog Stand has been a staple in the Berkshires. The restaurant serves American favorites like hot dogs, hamburgers, onion rings, and french fries. If you’re looking for a restaurant that’s stood the test of time, Jack’s Hot Dog Stand is a must-visit. 
• Bright Ideas Brewing: Bright Ideas Brewing was created as a place for North Adams locals and MASS MoCA visitors to share a beer under the same roof. Voted Best Brewery in the Berkshires, Bright Ideas Brewing is the perfect place to unwind and connect with the community. 

Things to do in the Berkshires

There is so much to explore in the Berkshires. Visual and performance art lovers will be awed by the local art scene, and nature lovers will enjoy all the outdoor activities and sprawling forests fit for hiking, camping, fishing, and more. 

• MASS MoCA: The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art features vast galleries of visual artists, indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, and more than 75 performances a year. Be sure to stop by the MASS MoCA to explore the stunning museum and year-round performing arts events. 
• Natural Bridge State Park: Formed over 13,000 years ago by the forces of glacial meltwater, Natural Bridge State Park is the only natural white marble arch in North America. The bridge spans across the Hudson Brook and tumbles down a 60-foot gorge. You can also see an abandoned marble quarry and a man-made white marble dam while visiting the park. 
• Mount Greylock: Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts — 3,491 feet. From the top, you can see 90-mile views of the Berkshires and all the surrounding landscape. Guests can drive to the top of Mount Greylock to take in the views from May to October every year. 
• Cascade Waterfall: Just a short walk down the Cascades Trail will take you to the beautiful Cascade Waterfall. This trail is only minutes away from downtown North Adams and Williamstown — perfect for those looking for something to pass the time while immersed in nature. 
• Mohawk Trail State Forest: Only 10 miles from North Adams is the Mohawk Trail State Forest. This forest is known to be one of the most scenic in Massachusetts — with 6,000 acres of mountain ridges, miles of rivers and streams, deep gorges, and towering old-growth trees. The Mohawk Trail State Forest has day-use picnic areas and a swimming area for guests to enjoy on their visit. 

Where to stay in the Berkshires

Whether you want to stay at a historically inspired inn or go with a more budget-friendly hotel option, you can’t go wrong with these accommodations. 

• The Porches Inn at MASS MoCA: The Porches Inn is your home away from home in the historic community of North Adams. Located at the MASS MoCA, every morning guests are greeted by museum views from the steps of their 19th Century Victorian row house. 
• Holiday Inn Berkshires: Tried and true, the Holiday Inn Berkshires is perfect for those wanting to stay in downtown North Adams — just a short drive from museums, theatres, historic sites, and outdoor activities. 
• Maple Terrace Motel: Enjoy comfortable accommodations and warm hospitality at the Maple Terrace Motel. Situated on three acres next to a horse farm, Maple Terrace offers peaceful country living in the heart of Williamstown.
• The Guest House at Field Farm: Set in the middle of 315 acres with four miles of hiking trails, and views over Mt Greylock, this 1948 mid-century-modern guesthouse is the ideal place for those who love being surrounded by nature. 
• Blue Vista Motor Lodge: Only 5 minutes from the forest. The Blue Vista Motor Lodge sits at the peak of Whitcomb Summit in Florida, Massachusetts. Each of the 17 guest rooms faces the stunning mountain view to the east.

Choose a lasting legacy in the Berkshires

Making end-of-life plans relieves the burden from your loved ones, and empowers you to take control of the process. At Better Place Forests Berkshires, your ashes will be spread in an idyllic protected forest, with the Berkshires to the south, the Green Mountains to the north, and pastoral meadows lined with giant, syrup-producing sugar maples. It’s a beautiful legacy to leave where your family and friends will always be able to visit. 

For more information about our Berkshires forest, schedule a free online forest tour today. 

Helpful Links

Driving Directions to Better Place Forests Berkshires
Your Upcoming Forest Memorial in the Berkshires