What’s New in the Berkshires in ’23?

So, you’re planning a getaway to the Berkshires!

If you’ve been before, you’re surely looking forward to visiting some of your favorite stops and shops again. If you’ve never been, maybe you’ve planned an itinerary full of places to see and things to do. And if you are lucky enough to live here, you know there’s always something new percolating! No matter if you are a valued returning visitor, welcomed first-timer, or a treasured resident, we are excited to share some brand new Berkshire experiences that you won’t want to miss!

Choosing your lodging is an important first step for your trip or local stay-cation. You want your party – be it an intimate twosome or an energetic family – to have the perfect spot to rest and recharge. If you are also looking for luxury, consider a stay at one of Shared Estates vacation rentals, The Kemble or The Freeman Berkshires. If you are looking for a  more traditional hotel then be sure to check into Life House Berkshires in Lenox.

The Kemble, located in downtown Lenox, offers 13 ensuite bedrooms, living and sitting rooms, and a professional kitchen. It’s an ideal location for a family vacation, close to Tanglewood, Kripalu, and the shops and restaurants of Lenox and nearby Stockbridge. The Freeman Berkshires is located in Egremont, on a sprawling 40 acres, including a four-acre vineyard. Kayak on the pond, or take in a movie on premise. Life House, also located in Lenox, has the feel of a writer’s retreat with a 70’s vibe. In addition to its spacious rooms, the Club Room is an all-day restaurant and bar. With plenty of winter ahead, imagine skiing all day, and then heading back to the comfort of these cushy accommodations.

Amidst the arts culture of the Berkshires, you can find the Berkshire Art Center (formerly IS183), a nonprofit community art school with opportunities for hands-on experiences in the visual arts. You may have visited the Stockbridge location for a drop-in class; now you can find BAC in its second home, in Pittsfield. This makes classes accessible to the central Berkshires, including ceramics, bead-making, and painting. Step out afterward for dinner or a glass or wine at neighboring restaurants before heading home. Looking to take some one of a kind art home? Peruse the shop online for ROAM: A Xtina Parks Gallery. Stay tuned for the grand opening at the gallery’s new location in Williamstown! 

Did you know that you can also be a part of some momentous local milestones in 2023?  As tradition would have it, Silas Pepoon established a small tavern in Stockbridge in 1773, under a sign of a Red Lion. This year, The Red Lion Inn celebrates its 250th anniversary! Further north, The Berkshire Museum showcases its 120th year with a first-floor renovation and expanded aquarium. Treat yourself to a present-day taste of history.

Finally, keep the contact information for the Berkshire Shuttle close at hand! This new service makes two trips daily between the Albany International Airport and the Berkshires, and may be available upon request to help transport you within the Berkshires. The Shuttle can make your first trip, return trip, or local jaunt a bit easier. And stay tuned – we know there are more new and exciting additions to the Berkshires scene coming in 2023 and beyond! So you don’t miss a thing, check out Berkshires.org for a complete list of Places to Stay, Things to Do, and an up-to-date Events Calendar.  

Photo Credits: Berkshire Museum, credit Ogden Gigli; Red Lion Inn, credit Corey Favino

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