A true getaway is not far when you head to the idyllic Berkshires of Massachusetts. The seemingly sleepy Berkshires, left natural and wooded, hold many surprises for adventurous families. Families can enjoy hiking the highest point in Massachusetts or experiencing free dance performances at the country’s only dance institution that is also a National Historic Landmark.
Jacob’s Pillow Festival
During the summer months there is nothing more satisfying than a dance in the woods. At Jacob’s Pillow, eclectic performers wow families with their dancing. Before the performances, order up a picnic dinner and eat outside. No matter how you drive there, the road to Jacob’s Pillow is scenic and peaceful.
The good folks at Jacob’s Pillow recognize the importance of educating youth about the arts, including dance. They offer special youth and wallet-friendly tickets to select performances throughout the summer season. A tight budget shouldn’t stop you from taking the family to enjoy the dance performances because the Inside/Out series offers free performances for everyone, as well as free lectures about dance. For more information contact Jacob’s Pillow in Becket.
Hiking
Gain a different perspective on Massachusetts when you see it from 3,491 feet above sea level on Mount Greylock in Lanesborough. There is a nominal parking fee at the state park, but entry to the park is free. For a less rugged hike, take the family to the half-hour hike at Sheep Hill Trails, one mile south of Williamstown.
For a less strenuous day outside, consider taking the family to the Berkshire Botanical Gardens in Stockbridge.
Hancock Shaker Village
Enjoy some history and explore a different world at the Hancock Shaker Village. Families may explore the pastoral grounds and 20 historic buildings. Children 12 and younger never pay admission to this historic gem in The Berkshires. Admission is free for everyone on Tuesdays after 3 p.m. between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Hancock Shaker Village is located in Hancock.
Art Kids Like
The Berkshires are home to a variety of stellar museums. One top choice for families is the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA). Even small children will be fascinated by the bold colors and the large sculptural installations. The MoCA is located in North Adams. Or visit the Animagic: The Museum of Animation Special Effects & Art in Lee, where kids can make their own animated movie.
Families can also explore the outdoors and art when they visit Chesterwood, an outdoor sculpture museum in Stockbridge. Children can visit for free.
Indulgences
No trip to The Berkshires is complete without an indulgence or two. Stop off at the Chocolate Springs Cafe for a seasonal chocolate beverage or chocolate dessert. Also find the time to shop around Lenox and Williamstown, even if it’s just window shopping.
This is just the beginning of what families can experience when they visit The Berkshires.
Sources:
Berkshire Botanical, http://www.berkshirebotanical.org
Chocolate Springs, http://www.chocolatesprings.com
Chesterwood,http://www.chesterwood.org/CSCShow.html
The Clark, http://www.clarkart.edu
Hancock Shaker Village,
Jacob’s Pillow, http://www.jacobspillow.org
Mass MoCA, http://www.massmoca.org
Mount Greylock State Reservation, http://www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/mtGreylock
Personal Experience
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