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Nestled within the coronary heart of the Berkshires in Western Massachusetts, Lenox provides the right mix of pure magnificence, cultural sights, and a vibrant arts scene. Arguably one of the crucial well-known cities in Berkshire County, its declare to fame is the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s Tanglewood live performance collection, and Canyon Ranch, one of the crucial well-known luxurious spas within the US.
“Ah, so Lenox is a RICH wealthy city,” I assumed as I ready to go to. And actually…that’s not too removed from the reality.
Lenox is located on the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and glowing lakes. This scenic location makes Lenox a great vacation spot for individuals who love the outside as a lot as they love the humanities.
The city heart is a pleasing place to discover on foot, with quite a few outlets, eating places, and artwork galleries. The city additionally has quite a few historic properties, together with the Mount, which was the house of Edith Wharton.
At first look, Lenox seems to cater to the wealthy. However don’t be fooled by the elite exterior; there’s a lot to expertise and luxuriate in. Whether or not it’s a calming weekend within the Berkshires or a fast day journey from elsewhere, Lenox is a vacation spot that I feel may be very a lot value visiting.
(Planning a visit to the Berkshires? You’ll want to try the Finest Issues to Do within the Berkshires and my information to the Cities of the Berkshires.)
This submit was printed in January 2024 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Susan Stephens.
The Finest Issues to do in Lenox, MA
Expertise the Tanglewood Music Competition
The primary factor to do in Lenox, with no query, is to expertise the Tanglewood Music Competition. Tanglewood is the summer season residence of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and it is without doubt one of the hottest sights in Lenox. The Tanglewood Music Competition takes place each summer season, and it options a wide range of classical, jazz, and common music live shows.
The pageant is unfold throughout a number of venues on the Tanglewood grounds. The primary venue is the Koussevitzky Music Shed, which hosts the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s summer season live shows. There are additionally quite a few smaller venues that host chamber music, jazz, and different sorts of performances.
I’ve mates who attend John Williams evening at Tanglewood yearly, that includes his most memorable movie scores, from Star Wars to Jurassic Park to Dwelling Alone. I have to attend that sometime!
Tanglewood is a fantastic place to go to in the summertime months, even if you happen to don’t attend a live performance. There are guided excursions of the property’s gardens and grounds, in addition to lectures, workshops, and different academic applications.
You should buy tickets to particular person live shows, or you should buy a garden go guide, which lets you picnic on the garden whilst you hearken to the music. Scholar, army, and group charges are additionally accessible. You may see all particulars on visiting Tanglewood right here.
Have a Spa Day at Canyon Ranch
Canyon Ranch in Lenox has lengthy been generally known as among the finest spas in america. And with that come sky-high costs. Come keep for a weekend and depart feeling like a brand new human…simply know that it’s going to price you a reasonably penny.
Nonetheless, lots of people don’t know that Canyon Ranch additionally provides a much more reasonably priced day spa possibility. For $350, you may get pleasure from a 50-minute facial or therapeutic massage; entry to the swimming pools, saunas, and whirlpools; entry to the gorgeous grounds and restaurant; and health courses, amongst different issues.
A spa day is the right interlude on your Berkshires journey! My finest girlfriends and I maintain speaking about reserving this one weekend…
Go to Ventfort Corridor
Ventfort Corridor is a historic mansion that was in-built 1893 by George and Sarah Morgan (sister of J.P. Morgan) as a summer season residence. A testomony to the Gilded Age, the mansion is now a museum that’s open to the general public. Guests can tour the mansion’s 28 rooms that are stuffed with opulent furnishings and artwork. The mansion additionally has a fantastic backyard that’s excellent for a stroll.
I liked touring Ventfort Corridor, and I’ve to present a shout-out to the guides, who’re so educated and captivated with this constructing, desirous to share tidbits concerning the architectural quirks. Additionally, The Cider Home Guidelines was filmed right here!
Open year-round, each day guided excursions can be found. Admission to Ventfort Corridor is $18 for adults, $17 for seniors and healthcare staff, $10 for college students ages 18-23 with ID, $7 for ages 5-17, and free for kids beneath 5.
Tour Edith Wharton’s The Mount
The Mount is the previous residence of the Pulitzer Prize-winning creator Edith Wharton, and visiting right here is well among the finest issues to do in Lenox MA. Wharton spent a lot of her prolific writing years right here, and as we speak it’s among the many most gorgeous historic properties within the area.
Her great sense of favor remains to be prevalent within the furnishings (the eating rooms are particularly luxurious and colourful). The Mount additionally has a fantastic backyard that was designed by Wharton herself. My mates who grew up within the Berkshires would typically come right here to stroll year-round.
One large motive Edith continues to be related as we speak, greater than 80 years after her demise, is essentially as a result of authenticity of her writing. She was a eager observer of society and maybe extra importantly, what it means to be human.
The museum provides guided excursions of the home and grounds, and it additionally hosts a wide range of occasions, together with lectures, live shows, and exhibitions. Admission to The Mount is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, $13 for college students with ID, $10 for the army, and free for kids beneath 18. The grounds are free to go to.
Admire the Arts
Lenox is a small city filled with creative sights which might be proper beneath your nostril. Three of probably the most notable embrace the Tom Fiorini Sculpture Yard, Glendale Brook Studio, and Sohn Positive Arts.
The Tom Fiorini Sculpture Yard is an outside museum devoted to his work. As a sculptor recognized for summary metallic creations, guests can wander by means of the yard and admire the sculptures, which vary from small tabletop items to monumental works that soar overhead. The yard is open to the general public and is a superb place to spend an hour or two exploring and taking in the fantastic thing about his work.
Glendale Brook Studio options the work of Alex Kamaroff. Guests are invited to tour the studio and observe his artistic course of. Kamaroff’s portray method is described as “a messy type of magic,” by which he makes use of solely artist’s tape, acrylic paint, and a hair dryer. The result’s a contemporary twist on the whimsical. The gallery is open seasonally, often from March by means of October.
Sohn Positive Arts is a up to date artwork gallery situated within the coronary heart of Lenox. The gallery represents a various group of rising and established artists, showcasing a wide range of media however specializing in up to date images. The gallery additionally hosts exhibitions and occasions all year long, offering a platform for artists to share their work with the general public. Guests can browse the gallery’s assortment and discover distinctive items so as to add to their very own assortment.
Gilded Age Museum
The Gilded Age Museum, housed throughout the opulent Ventfort Corridor Mansion, transports guests again to the grandeur and extravagance of the Gilded Age. Inside its partitions is a singular expertise, permitting guests to step into the footwear of the rich and immerse themselves within the extravagance of the period.
Admission right here is included in visiting Ventfort Corridor.
Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum
Contrasting with the opulence of the Gilded Age, the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum showcases the area’s industrial heritage and the enduring energy of transportation.
The museum’s spotlight is the restored New Haven Depot which is on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations. Guided excursions can be found, and guests also can board and expertise the joys of a prepare journey by means of the Hoosac Valley. (Wishing there have been extra trains in New England? Effectively…there you go!)
Admission to the Railway Museum is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $5 for kids ages 5-16. It’s open seasonally from Memorial Day by means of Labor Day on Saturdays.
Keep in a Gilded Age Mansion
Lenox was a preferred summer season vacation spot for rich People within the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and most of the city’s Gilded Age mansions are actually open to the general public as award-winning lodgings. Among the hottest Gilded Age mansions in Lenox embrace Blantyre (reopening in late 2024), Wyndhurst Manor and Golf Membership, Wheatleigh, and naturally, Canyon Ranch.
These magnificent properties have been constructed by rich industrialists and financiers again within the day and so they provide a glimpse into the opulent way of life of that period. In the event you’re searching for a really distinctive expertise, contemplate staying in one among these opulent properties.
They provide a wide range of facilities together with luxurious visitor rooms, positive eating, spa providers, and gorgeous views of the Berkshires.
Catch a Efficiency at Shakespeare & Firm
Shakespeare & Firm is a famend theater firm based mostly in Lenox. Immerse your self in the summertime efficiency season that brings to life the timeless works of Shakespeare, alongside a charming array of traditional and up to date performs.
This skilled theater firm is well-known within the Berkshires and presents one of the crucial intensive actor coaching applications within the nation. It’s also residence to an award-winning, nationally acknowledged theatre-in-education program.
The corporate provides a wide range of academic applications, together with workshops, courses, and summer season camps. So whether or not you’re searching for a terrific evening out or a enjoyable academic expertise, that is the place to go!
Go to the Lenox Library
Housed in a stately Greek Revival constructing, the Lenox Library is a calming place to be taught concerning the city’s historical past and tradition. Inside its partitions, guests will discover a powerful assortment of historic paperwork, pictures, and artifacts that inform the story of Lenox from its early days as a farming neighborhood to its transformation into a preferred vacationer vacation spot.
And similar to any good library, you’ll discover a wholesome assortment of over 100,000 books. The Lenox Library holds a particular place within the mental, historic, and cultural panorama of the town. The library additionally provides a wide range of applications and occasions, in addition to lectures, live shows, and exhibitions.
Benefit from the Open air
Simply minutes from the middle of Lenox lies Kennedy Park, a serene oasis the place the rustling of the timber provides their very own soundtrack to woodland walks. Hikers will enjoy 15 miles of groomed trails, together with a brief stroll to a scenic waterfall and a more difficult climb by means of hemlock and pine forests. Path entry is through Essential Avenue subsequent to Church on the Hill, in addition to through Route 7.
One other escape is to a 1000-acre haven for wildlife and out of doors recreation referred to as Nice Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a peaceable stroll by means of meadows and dense forests on miles of in depth trails whereas preserving a watch out for deer, foxes, and extra. Avid birdwatchers ought to go to the sanctuary’s many wetlands, the place they will catch sight of herons, egrets, and the occasional osprey. Admission to Nice Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, and $3 for kids age 2-12.
For a little bit of contemporary air within the coronary heart of Lenox’s Historic District, Lilac Park is a aromatic sanctuary. It’s residence to over 1,000 lilac bushes that burst into vibrant bloom every spring. Take a stroll by means of the park’s peaceable gardens, stopping to admire the colourful blossoms and inhale their candy aroma. When it’s time to stretch your legs, discover the community of strolling trails that wind by means of the park’s wooded areas.
Parsons Marsh Reserve is situated just some miles west of Lenox. This reserve is an excellent place to go for a hike, mountain biking, or simply to understand the serenity and wildlife. There are various vernal swimming pools that present an ideal breeding floor for amphibians. The reserve’s intensive path system takes hikers by means of marsh wetlands, the place they will observe resident wildlife reminiscent of muskrats, painted turtles, and extra.
In the event you’re searching for a more difficult hike, you may attempt a portion of the Appalachian Path in Massachusetts, which passes simply east of Lenox.
Go Cross-Nation Snowboarding
The Berkshires are a year-round vacation spot, and if you happen to go to within the winter, Lenox is a superb place to do some cross-country snowboarding! Listed below are among the finest locations to go cross-country snowboarding in and round Lenox:
Situated only a quick drive from downtown Lenox, Kennedy Park provides 15 miles of groomed tree-lined trails for cross-country snowboarding. The paths wind by means of meadows and forests, providing lovely views of the encircling mountains. The ski terrain is generally flat and easy, however for individuals who need a bit extra of a exercise, difficult trails are close by.
Canterbury is a neighborhood farm that provides a number of miles of groomed trails with numerous terrain; not for the start skier! Additionally, October Mountain State Forest is the most important state forest in Massachusetts, and right here you’ll discover over 16 miles of trails for cross-country snowboarding that are groomed usually.
Hike Lenox Mountain
Lenox Mountain is a well-liked mountain climbing vacation spot that provides gorgeous views of the Berkshires. The mountain is situated only a quick drive from Lenox. There are a variety of various trails you could hike on Lenox Mountain, starting from simple to tough. Word that some usually are not clearly marked or maintained, because it lies on the ancestral land of the Mohican individuals.
For a pleasant mountain climbing problem, Lenox Mountain is a superb place to go. Take the Path of the Ledges and/or Overbrook Path by means of northern a hemlock forest to Lenox’s highest peak. It’s about three miles roundtrip and it provides gorgeous views of the encircling space.
Within the winter, the paths might be icy, and I like to recommend that solely skilled winter hikers deal with this route.
Sip Wine in a Bookstore
Escape to The Bookstore and Get Lit Wine Bar, the place literature and libations collide. Situated within the coronary heart of Lenox’s cute downtown, this distinctive bookstore provides an expertise that’s as wealthy and full-bodied as your favourite Cabernet.
Flick thru a fastidiously curated choice of books, starting from beloved classics to up to date bestsellers, and uncover hidden treasures that await on each shelf. The educated workers is captivated with each books and wine and is at all times readily available to help you to find the right learn. Pair it with an beautiful glass of vino from their intensive assortment and you’re set for the afternoon.
What units The Bookstore and Get Lit Wine Bar aside is its dedication to fostering a way of neighborhood. Common creator occasions, guide golf equipment, and themed gatherings present alternatives for connection and dialogue.
Attempt Forest Bathing
This can be a distinctive expertise! The place the timber stand tall and the air is thick with the scent of pine, lies one thing particular: a two-hour, guided forest bathing session that may transport you to a realm of mindfulness and a deep reference to nature.
Decelerate, breathe deeply, and let the forest embrace you. Immerse your self within the symphony of sounds, the tapestry of textures, and the intoxicating aromas that encompass you.
With every step, you’ll be guided on a journey of self-discovery. Have interaction in brief, contemplative walks, and pause to discover the wonders of nature by means of guided invites. Uncover the hidden secrets and techniques of the forest and forge a profound bond with the traditional timber. No tools or particular abilities are required, simply an open coronary heart and a willingness to give up to the fantastic thing about the forest.
Attend a Competition in Lenox
Sure, Tanglewood is the large summer season pageant in Lenox. Everyone knows that one! However what concerning the different festivals Lenox has to supply?
In the event you’re visiting in early June, try the Rhubarb Competition. This pageant celebrates the vegetable in each kind — oh, and there are many strawberry rhubarb pies readily available. And desserts. And cookies. I’m sorry, what have been we saying?
And if you happen to occur to go to within the fall, the Lenox Apple Squeeze is an efficient one, with a beer tent for adults, actions for youths, and musical performances; and The Fall Competition of Shakespeare brings among the finest Shakespearean abilities and lovers to the Berkshires for once-in-a-lifetime performances.
Go to different cities within the Berkshires
There are many cities within the Berkshires value visiting whilst you base in Lenox. Listed below are a couple of of my favorites:
Stockbridge
Located only a stone’s throw south of Lenox, Stockbridge provides a quaint appeal that’s excellent for historical past lovers. Stroll by means of the Berkshire Botanical Backyard for a second of tranquility, then go to Chesterwood, the previous residence of sculptor Daniel Chester French, creator of the Lincoln Memorial.
The Norman Rockwell Museum is right here as properly and properly value a go to. Don’t miss the bustling Essential Avenue lined with eclectic cafes, outlets, and the Crimson Lion Inn.
See extra in my information to Stockbridge right here.
Nice Barrington
Simply 13 miles south of Lenox, Nice Barrington beckons with its eclectic mixture of tradition. Take a stroll alongside the Housatonic River Stroll, then head to the walkable downtown to peruse the various cool outlets.
One good side of Nice Barrington is its city really feel located close to Monument Mountain; excellent for an brisk hike and views over the panorama.
North Adams
A former mill city turned creative enclave, North Adams is nestled 30 miles north of Lenox. Discover the world-renowned Massachusetts Museum of Up to date Artwork for a one-of-a-kind artwork expertise, or calm down in Pure Bridge State Park, residence to the one pure white marble arch in North America!
North Adams embodies a terrific story of a city that has revitalized itself with its artwork and tradition. I can’t wait to see the place it is going to be 10 years from now.
Williamstown
Subsequent door to North Adams, Williamstown is a university city the place historical past, tradition, and artwork collide. Admire the spectacular structure of the Clark Institute, with among the finest collections of Impressionist artwork on the planet (significantly, it’s up there with Paris and New York).
For a theatrical deal with, the Williamstown Theatre Competition showcases charming performances in the summertime. Its tiny downtown provides a great share of retailers and eating places, many catering to the school crowd.
How A lot Time to Spend in Lenox
Whilst you can technically squeeze within the highlights of Lenox in a single day, I feel two days would provide you with much more time to see the city’s highlights. Possibly even a 3rd day if you happen to’re spending a day at Canyon Ranch!
In the event you’re planning on pampering your self with spa therapies or attending a number of performances, positively allocate extra time to indulge within the city’s enjoyable environment and partake in its many cultural choices.
Easy methods to Get to Lenox
To actually expertise the Berkshires, I strongly recommend renting a automotive. Whereas there are cabs and intensely restricted public transportation choices, having your personal set of wheels will provide you with the liberty to discover the area at your personal tempo.
There isn’t a Uber service in Lenox. The closest airport is in Albany, about an hour’s drive away, however if you happen to’re flying in from Boston (the closest main worldwide airport), you may hop on a bus from Boston year-round.
Amtrak has a station in Pittsfield, Mass., not too removed from Lenox. And Amtrak’s seasonal Berkshire Flyer runs from New York to Pittsfield. You may lease a automotive in Pittsfield if you happen to’d like, however I like to recommend doing so upfront, because it’s a small rental with out an enormous choice.
The place to Keep in Lenox
For max walkability, I like to recommend choosing a lodge in downtown Lenox. Except you might have a particular Gilded Age mansion in thoughts, which is its personal type of keep!
High-Rated Luxurious Resort in Lenox: The Cornell Inn — This gorgeous lilac Victorian mattress and breakfast combines historic appeal with trendy facilities. The lately renovated rooms are a feast for the eyes, that includes daring assertion items and splendid touches.
High-Rated Mid-Vary Resort in Lenox: Seven Hills Inn — This inn has a way more resort-like really feel, with cozy dwelling rooms, an inviting hearth pit, an outside chess set, and a refreshing pool. It’s an unbelievable worth for cash, particularly through the low season.
High-Rated Finances Resort in Lenox: High quality Inn (Lee) — There aren’t any price range lodges in Lenox, so I like to recommend you have a look within the city of Lee, a few 15-minute drive from Lenox. Whereas it might not be probably the most aesthetically pleasing, this small inn provides clear, comfy rooms at a budget-friendly worth.
Finest Time to Go to Lenox, Massachusetts
The Berkshires are a year-round vacation spot, every season providing its distinctive appeal. Nonetheless, if you happen to’re eager on theater, music, and different occasions, summer season is the perfect time to go to. In case your coronary heart flutters on the sight of vibrant fall foliage, plan your journey for early to mid-October, when the leaves are at their peak.
I loved my springtime go to to the Berkshires, with a lot of flowers and pleasant partly cloudy skies (although actually, Massachusetts might be fairly hit and miss within the spring months with a lot of grey days). Winter may be very quiet, and never all of the sights shall be open,
Is Lenox value it?
After all Lenox is value it — and if you happen to time your go to for Tanglewood, even higher! Even so, I feel you may get away with merely having Lenox be someday out of an extended Berkshires itinerary. There are such a lot of great issues to do right here.
I hope you might have one of the best time in your journey to Lenox!
Extra on the Berkshires:
Extra on Massachusetts:
Have you ever been to Lenox? Have any tricks to share?