Things to do in the Northern Berkshires

Out-of-town buyers often ask me about things to do in the Northern Berkshires. This is one of my favorite questions! Whether you prefer to spend your time strolling through museums and shops or whether you want to stay outdoors exploring the beauty of the Berkshires there is no shortage of things to do!

You can spend anywhere from a couple of hours to an entire day at MASS MoCA (The Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art) in North Adams.

While you're there don't forget to check out Bright Ideas Brewery Grab a coffee at Tunnel City Coffee as well!

When you're done at the museum, venture into downtown North Adams. Say hello to Big Bling as you round the corner onto Main Street. The 40-foot tall sculpture can't be missed! It's a great connector between the museum and the city's downtown. It was also on display in NYC and Philadelphia.

If you are a fan of art you should also check out the many murals scattered throughout the city. There are so many! Depending on the day and season, you may be able to check out one of the wonderful Farmer's Markets and peruse the selections of local wares. From there, definitely take some time to look at the historic Victorian homes on Church Street in North Adams, especially the beautiful North Adams Public Library - built in 1865 and one of the most elaborate homes ever built in the city.

Looking for something a little older? Check out Natural Bridge State Park in North Adams. "According to geologists, the park's namesake natural bridge, made of 550 million-year-old bedrock marble, was carved into its iconic arch by the forces of glacial meltwater over 13,000 years ago."

Another great outdoor spot in North Adams is the Cascades hiking trail. At the very end, you will find a beautiful waterfall!

Also popular in North Adams is Windsor Lake - perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing, or just relaxing. It is also home to the Concerts at the Lake. More summer fun can be found at the Noel Field Athletic Complex, which has a skate park, splash pad, and his home to "The Joe," which hosts the North Adams Steeplecats.

When in the city make sure you swing by the NORAD Mill, a historic mill in the west end of town that has been beautifully renovated and is home to many local businesses, including the Norad Toy & Candy Company.

Just down the road, you will find another incredibly renovated mill, Greylock Works. Further down the road is the well-known Tourists Welcome, a demure yet swanky retreat. There's also a terrific walking path winding far along behind the property that's open to anyone.

Also open to all is the 40-acre Spruces Park in Williamstown (a mobile home park until destroyed by Hurricane Irene in 2011). It's a popular walking spot.

Speaking of Williamstown, it would be remiss not to mention the world-famous Williamstown Theatre Festival, which attracts thousands yearly, and the Clark Art Museum. (The museum has a FREE snowshoe program and miles of hiking trails! Check out the story WCVB's Chronicle did on it!

Also in Williamstown is the Williams College Museum of Art.

Adams also has plenty of outdoor recreation available. Mount Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts and offers unbeatable views. There are also incredible views at the Greylock Glen (which will eventually become an outdoor recreation center). Make sure you leave time to stop by Jaeschke's Orchard on your way home from the Glen. The 55-acre orchard sits at the base of the mountain.

Finally, one would be remiss not to mention the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, which runs from Lanesborough to Adams (with plans to extend to South County and Vermont).