Nestled in the rolling hills of western Massachusetts, the Berkshires region is a cultural treasure trove, earning its reputation as "America's Premier Cultural Resort." This idyllic county, spanning approximately 25 by 50 miles and bordered by New York, Connecticut, and Vermont, is a haven for art, music, and history enthusiasts. With renowned venues like Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Jacobs Pillow Dance Festival, the Berkshires offer an unparalleled cultural experience. The area is also steeped in literary and artistic history, with the former homes of Norman Rockwell, Edith Wharton, and Herman Melville open to visitors. This article takes you on a whirlwind 24-hour tour, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry and historic charm of the Berkshires.
The Berkshires has long been a magnet for creatives and intellectuals. From the mid-19th Century through the Gilded Age, the region attracted the likes of the Vanderbilts and other industrial magnates who built grand "summer cottages" amidst its verdant landscape. This tradition of artistic and cultural patronage has continued through the decades, with the Berkshires playing host to a vibrant community of artists, actors, writers, and musicians.
Our journey to the Berkshires begins with a scenic two-hour drive from Boston along the Massachusetts Turnpike. Our mission: to immerse ourselves in as much of the region's legendary cultural and historical offerings as possible within a single day.
Upon arrival, we check into The Red Lion Inn, a quintessential Berkshires landmark. This sprawling white clapboard inn, immortalized in Norman Rockwell's 1950s painting "Main Street, Stockbridge," has been welcoming travelers since its establishment as a stagecoach stop in 1773. With 108 individually decorated guest rooms adorned with antiques, oriental carpets, and luxurious linens, the inn exudes old-world charm. The Fitzpatrick family, who purchased the inn in 1968, continues to operate it, contributing significantly to the region's cultural and artistic endeavors.
As we relax on the inn's expansive front porch, we observe a parade of weekenders arriving from New York City and beyond. The porch offers a prime spot for people-watching and soaking in the serene atmosphere of a Stockbridge summer sunset. Nearby, we find the original Alice's Restaurant, the subject of Arlo Guthrie's famous song, and the Austen Riggs Center, where James Taylor composed "Fire and Rain." The Stockbridge cemetery, where Edie Sedgwick is buried, is also a stone's throw away, with the Sedgwick family graves arranged in a unique inward-facing circle.
Our culinary journey takes us to The Old Inn on The Green in New Marlborough, a 30-minute drive through the picturesque countryside. The inn's history is a tapestry of transformations, from a post office and tavern to a private home. Today, it stands restored as an elegant lodging and dining destination. Executive Chef Peter Platt, who acquired the inn in 2002, has garnered acclaim for his exquisite cuisine, earning praise from Zagat's, Wine Spectator, and the New York Times Magazine, among others.
We indulge in the Chef's Tasting Menu, a seven-course feast paired with an array of fine wines. The menu features delicacies such as Wianno oysters with Malossol caviar, seared La Belle Farm foie gras, Maine diver scallop, and dry-aged sirloin steak au poivre. Each course is a testament to Chef Platt's culinary artistry, making the journey to the country well worth the drive. The tasting menu is priced at $70, with a wine pairing option for $130 (excluding tax and gratuities). Reservations can be made by calling 413/229-7924 or visiting The Old Inn on The Green's website.
As the night draws to a close, we head to the Lion's Den, the cozy basement of The Red Lion Inn, to enjoy live music and a relaxed atmosphere, capping off our 24-hour cultural escapade in the Berkshires.
The Berkshires' cultural landscape is a testament to the region's enduring appeal. According to the Berkshire Visitors Bureau, the area attracts over 2.5 million visitors annually, with cultural tourism playing a significant role in the local economy. The region's cultural institutions not only provide entertainment but also educational opportunities, with programs designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages.
In conclusion, the Berkshires offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences that are often overlooked. From the historic Red Lion Inn to the culinary masterpieces of Chef Peter Platt, the region is a testament to the enduring power of art, music, and history to enrich our lives. Whether you're a local or a traveler seeking a cultural getaway, the Berkshires beckons with open arms, ready to offer a slice of New England's finest cultural offerings.
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