North Adams, Massachusetts

Travel up to the northern edge of the Berkshires and you'll find yourself in the city of North Adams, a true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. While there are plenty of cultural attractions, the incredible natural surroundings and the outdoor recreation they provide are the real stars of the city.

Natural Bridge State Park is one such attraction that’s a must-see! The park is located right outside of downtown, and visitors can take in the beauty of a natural marble arch, formed over millions of years by glaciers and rivers.

In addition, no matter which direction you look while in town, the majestic hills of the Berkshires will always be in the background, and with that, you’re never far away from a variety of hiking trails.

If you’re really up for a challenge, head just south of town and tackle Mt Greylock, the tallest peak in the Berkshires at almost 3,500 ft! At the top, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the entire region and the nearby Green Mountains of Vermont.

For a more relaxed experience that combines a bit of the outdoors and a bit of history, be sure to visit the Western Gateway Heritage State Park. Here, visitors can learn about the rich history of the town by exploring original structures from the 19th century and immersing themselves in various exhibits and stories.

But like we mentioned, North Adams also has its fair share of cultural attractions. In fact, you’ll find the Mass MoCA (Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art), which is the largest contemporary art museum in the entire country! Here, guests can experience an exciting and ever-changing variety of performances and exhibitions in the visual and performing arts. Be sure to visit their website ahead of your trip to see what’s going to be on display during your visit!

Visitors to North Adams will also notice the abundance of churches and historical architecture that make the center of town perfect for exploring. And with an array of shops, breweries, restaurants, and cafes, there’s no shortage of things to do in between all of your hikes!

So, if you’re looking for some of the Berkshires’ best outdoor activities, look no further than North Adams and the surrounding area. And better yet, combine it with a trip to neighboring Williamstown and you’ll get the best of both worlds in terms of nature and culture!