If there’s only time for a few hours to spend in the
Berkshires, listed here are suggestions for seeing the most popular
attractions in the region.
A stop in downtown Stockbridge is a must. Stockbridge is
quintessential New England and this is where artist
Norman Rockwell lived his last 25 years.
Rich in history, the Main Street in Stockbridge is sought after in
summer, when visitors and locals find an empty chair on the front
porch of the Red Lion Inn for savoring a cool drink. Begin your
Berkshires tour with a short walk along Main Street. The same scene
was featured in the painting by Norman Rockwell, “Main Street
Stockbridge at Christmas.” The center of town hasn’t
changed much. About a mile away from town you’ll find the
Norman Rockwell Museum, which is dedicated to the enjoyment and
study of Rockwell’s work and his contributions to society,
popular culture, and social commentary. The Museum houses the
world’s largest and most significant collection of
Rockwell’s work, including 574 original paintings and
drawings.
Drive by
Tanglewood in
nearby Lenox – even if you’re not stopping for a
concert. Tours are available for groups in-season. The summer home
of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the host of summer music
education centers, Tanglewood annually draws over 350,000 visitors.
Located on the expansive campus are The Serge Koussevitzky Music
Shed, the Boston Symphony Orchestra performance venue, and Seiji
Ozawa Hall, built in 1994. Each season offers not only a vast
quantity of music but also a vast range of musical forms and
styles, all of it presented with a regard for artistic excellence
that makes the festival unique.
Another cultural stop of interest is
Edith Wharton’s The Mount,
built in 1902 and designed and built by the famous American author.
This classical revival house represents the only full expression we
have of Wharton's architectural interests. Edith Wharton was an
authority on European landscape design as well as a passionate
gardener. She envisioned her gardens as an elegant series of
outdoor rooms and created unique architectural compositions planned
in concert with the house and the surrounding natural
landscape.
Before heading back to Boston, make a stop at
Hilltop Orchards in Richmond
– an historic apple orchard and home to award-winning Furnace
Brook Winery. Explore the 200 acre property, taste some fresh
pressed cider or crisp wine and home-made baked goods from their
Farm Winery Store. The Vittori family celebrates over two decades
owning this farm.