The 10 Best Things to Do in Western Massachusetts

Explore Western Massachusetts!

tripsavy.com
Written by Kathryn Cirrone

When planning a trip to Massachusetts, your first thought is likely to visit the city of Boston. Of course, this is a top New England destination for tourists and residents alike, but you may also want to explore Western Massachusetts as well (or on a separate trip).

Western Massachusetts is home to the beautiful Berkshires, which boasts outdoor activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding in the winter, to leaf peeping, hiking, mountain biking, and zip lining when the weather is nicer. The region is filled with quaint towns to explore, with historic bed and breakfasts and luxury wellness resorts for lodging.

Read on for our favorite things to do in Western Massachusetts.

See Fall Foliage Along the Mohawk Trail

One of the best places to see fall foliage in Massachusetts is along the Mohawk Trail on  Route 2, which has been known as the first official scenic road in New England since 1914. On this drive, you’ll view scenery including the Berkshire Mountains, Mount Greylock, and the Bridge of Flowers. These directions will help guide you along your drive.

Indulge in the Ultimate Spa Weekend at Canyon Ranch Lenox

Canyon Ranch Lenox, located in the Berkshires’ town of Lenox, is a wellness resort that’s been promising the ultimate relaxing spa weekend since 1989. While it comes with an expensive price tag, this is the type of all-inclusive experience that doesn’t exist anywhere else in the area. The resort is in the former 1897 Bellefontaine Mansion, which has also functioned as a seminary and boarding school.

Included in your stay are all sorts of wellness experiences, from spa treatments to yoga classes, snowshoeing, and canoeing. You’ll leave the Canyon Ranch Lenox feeling fully refreshed—and looking forward to your next visit.

Get Your Outdoor Adventuring in at the Mount Greylock State Reservation

Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts at nearly 3,500 feet, is where you’ll want to go for all sorts of outdoor activities. Pick from hiking, camping, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, hunting, and more. If you plan on camping, it’s $8 a night for Massachusetts residents and $10 for non-residents.

Go Skiing, Mountain Bike Riding, or White Water Rafting at the Berkshire East Mountain Resort

Another great destination for outdoor activities is the Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont. In the winter, you have your pick of options, including skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. When the weather gets warmer, you can ride at the Thunder Mountain Bike Park, test your fear of heights zip lining at the Aerial Adventure Park, or go on a white water rafting adventure.

See a Concert at the Tanglewood Music Center

The Tanglewood Music Center is home to a summer fellowship program for the Boston Symphony Orchestra, where talented musicians come to study and practice. The campus is on 529 acres in Lenox, and what has become a popular activity for those visiting the area is Tanglewood’s annual Festival of Contemporary Music. Other concerts also take place here throughout the year; check the Boston Symphony Orchestra website for upcoming shows.