I knew little about this part of the northeast, admittedly, before watching The Real Housewives of New York. The rural area located between New York and Boston is a popular getaway for city dwellers, but it’d been off my radar until a friend of mine moved there.
My sister and I had just spent a few days in Boston and rented a car to get outside, driving about two and a half hours. My friend Kelsi, who I worked with way back in Sydney, moved to the area a few years ago and I couldn’t miss the opportunity to see her and her family.
Before we could meet up, Sammi and I spent the afternoon exploring the cute towns and attractions of the area. We started in Stockbridge, grabbing lunch and browsing for records at the downtown shops. Later, we visited a few places in Lenox. We didn’t have time to explore further, but Pittsfield is another popular stop, home to the Amtrak station, and so is Great Barrington.
I could have easily spent another week in this area, exploring the small towns, grabbing lunch at cafes, and visiting historic landmarks. Grabbing dinner with Kelsi, her husband, and her son, we caught up on all the things we’d missed in each others’ lives in the last few years since they moved out of Connecticut. The thing I love most about my travels is having friends like her all over the world.
They were also kind enough to get us a deal at the hotel where her husband works. And since she works part-time at The Mount, the home of Edith Wharton, we got to roam the grounds at dusk. When her boss asked about my job, he told me that the famed novelist was also a travel writer! You learn something new every day and everywhere you go.
If You Go
Here are just a few of the places I enjoyed and a few others that were recommended to me!
What to Do in the Berkshires
The Norman Rockwell Museum, The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home, Tanglewood Music Center and The Clark are just a few of the attractions I either visited or heard about. There is also hiking and skiing during the winter. The main photo was taken at Olivia’s Overlook.
Where to Eat in the Berkshires
The turkey sandwich at The Red Lion Inn was recommended, but I enjoyed the chicken salad at neighboring Once Upon a Table. The Marketplace Cafe was also mentioned.
Where to Stay in the Berkshires
Cranwell Spa & Golf Resort was our home for the night. We enjoyed the restaurant near the golf course and the spa amenities. The former mansion makes you feel like you’re straight out of Downton Abbey.
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