The idyllic scenery in Western Massachusetts is just a short drive away. Here’s why we love this road trip:
Why It’s Awesome: Just a short drive from New Jersey, this bucolic area of Massachusetts spans four counties— Hamden, Hampshire, Berkshire and Franklin—and the Mohawk Trail, 50,000 acres of national park stretching across 63 miles. The region is known for its local food and drink, family-friendly attractions and beautiful scenery.
What to Do: A visit to Western Massachusetts is all about exploring, from quaint historic districts with cottages and mansions that have been repurposed as museums or B&Bs to scenic hikes to kid-friendly spots— including The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in Springfield.
“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” fans will love The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst. Nostalgia fans will enjoy the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge and the Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge.
Six Flags New England in Springfield has epic coasters for the adventurers in your family while younger kids will love the Amelia Park Children’s Museum in Westfield, where kids can play doctor and explore space exhibits. Sports fans won’t want to miss seeing The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield.
If your family likes to hike, check out the Tekoa Mountain Wildlife Management Area, Mount Greylock State Reservation, and the parks around Pittsfield and Springfield. The Northfield Mountain Recreation and Environmental Center is ideal for cycling, boating, fishing and paddle sports. The Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Gardens in South Deerfield is also worth a visit.
There’s no shortage of wellness spas in The Berkshires; Miraval Berkshires Resort in Lenox offers luxury treatments while Canyon Ranch hosts immersive wellness retreats.
Where to Eat: TAP Sports Bar inside the MGM in Springfield serves burgers, fried shrimp, mac and cheese and has an extensive selection of beers. It’s a fun place to watch a game and there’s bowling, too. Champney’s Restaurant & Tavern in Deerfield is known for its seasonal local menu. Favorites include fish and chips, steak frites and chimichurri and beef stroganoff. Latitude in West Springfield is a must-try for its cheeses and jams, maple bourbon wings and crispy fish tacos.
Have a cocktail at Berkshire Mountain Distillers in Sheffield or a craft beer at Bright Ideas Brewing in North Adams.
Where to Stay: A National Historic Hotel, The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge is a quintessential boutique hotel that dates back to colonial times. It has a heated pool, hot tub, gym, plenty of dining options and live music most nights.
The Williams Inn in Williamstown is an upscale hotel surrounded by the art, culture and shopping of the Berkshires. Its restaurant, The Barn, serves locally sourced cuisine and craft cocktails.
Hotel on North in Pittsfield is a pet- and family-friendly historic boutique hotel in the center of the Berkshires.
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