What’s Your Berkshires Travel Vibe: The Go-Getter

You are the planner, the seeker, the researcher.

You are the Go-Getter, the one who is energized to pack as much excitement as possible into the day, and set an itinerary to make sure nothing is missed! Between fun adventure outlets and enriching historic sites, there are plenty of ways to pack your agenda. Read on!

It doesn’t get much more challenging and invigorating than jumping into activities at Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont. Whitewater rafting is a must with your family and friends, be it a class or guided excursion. From a family float to a ride over rapids, you can choose your thrill. Rather see the terrain from up high? How about a zipline flight! Or combine the two – zip and dip! Back on dry land, make time to visit MASS MoCA, the nation’s largest contemporary art museum. Depending on when you visit, you can experience mind-bending art exhibitions, dance, and music on the MoCA campus. Take your little ones to KidSpace, a hands-on activity center tied to current art installations. 

In the heart of the Berkshires, you will find Berkshire Theatre Group, with performance stages in Pittsfield and Stockbridge. With a full schedule of shows, both evening and matinee, you must make time for live theater presented in beautifully historic buildings updated with state of the art lighting and sound. Laugh, cry, or sing along between April and September. In Richmond, get yourself to Balderdash Cellars, a boutique winery owned and run by Berkshire natives. Sip your choice of wines inside the sunlit tasting room, or, weather permitting, grab a big red chair outside where you can take in the breathtaking vista, with Richmond Pond in the distance. Music and food trucks are also often available!  

Berkshire Theatre Group, credit Emma Rothenberg Ware

Get your Americana on with a visit to the Norman Rockwell Museum. You know him as the magazine cover artist who depicted everyday life through his images; see all of Rockwell’s collections alongside engaging exhibitions that change throughout the year. Stop in to the gift shop for a treasure, and grab a bite to eat at the Terrace Cafe while you are there. At nearby Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, you can recharge your physical, emotional, and mental batteries through mindful classes and offerings. Signature programs include a variety of retreats featuring yoga, health and fitness, and meditation. Afterward, you will be ready to go for your next adventure.

Looking to curate your adventure from a different perspective? Berkshire Bike and Board has locations in Pittsfield and Great Barrington, and is stocked with bikes available for rent. With as little as 24-hour notice (although more is recommended), grab a bike and go at your own pace. It may even be possible to have the bike delivered to your hotel. The website provides information on the types of bikes available – accessible-friendly e-bikes – and shares detailed biking routes to enjoy.  

The Berkshires is also known for its rich history and legacy, and you Go-Getters can include opportunities to tour some gorgeous homes and gardens. The Mount, home of famed author Edith Wharton, is an estate in Lenox featuring art, European-inspired gardens, a summer lecture series, and outdoor sculptures. Nearby, the Frelinghuysen Morris House & Studio is a sprawling estate, previously the home of American Abstract artists George L.K. Morris and Suzy Frelinghuysen, with a Cubist exhibit on hand. Herman Melville, author of Moby Dick, is commemorated at Arrowhead, a historic house museum in Pittsfield. There are many more Museums, Historic Sites & Gardens listed here to fill every moment of your itinerary.

The Mount, credit Susan Herzfeld

Get ready, get set – climb! Mount Greylock, the highest elevation in Massachusetts, is waiting for you to challenge yourself with a hike to the top, where the view is astonishing. You can see into Vermont, New York, and Connecticut; closer below are the many beautiful local Berkshires towns. Have no fear – if you are not ready to commit to the full hike, you can drive to the summit as well! Sitting atop is the stoic War Memorial Tower, dedicated in 1933; you may have seen the glowing beacon from afar. Inside is a spiral staircase to a platform with stunning views. Walk the trails, have a picnic, or grab a snack in the Bascom Lodge.

Every great adventure includes bringing home the bounty! The Berkshires is rich in unique shops and venues established by our incredibly talented artisans, woodworkers, crafters, bakers and chefs. You can also find antiques, and bountiful farmers markets through the summer and fall. Where, you say? Check here for antiques, specialty retailers, and cannabis dispensaries. 

If your agenda still has room for more excitement, history, art, or shopping, check here for Things to Do, grab a cup of coffee, and get going!

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