EXPLORE THE BERKSHIRES

Nestled in the northern Berkshires, Williamstown is a charming gem in Western Massachusetts. This quiet town is home to Williams College and a vibrant arts scene, including the world-class Clark Art Institute and the iconic Williamstown Theater Festival. Just ten minutes to the east lies North Adams, a former mill town transformed into a creative haven. It’s where you’ll find MASS MoCA, one of the world’s largest contemporary art museums (and Mercer’s first adventure into Western Mass!). Venture a little further, and you’ll hit the fertile Pioneer Valley—Theo’s stomping grounds—famous for its rich soil and picturesque farms. Keep going, and you’ll stumble into the storybook-perfect villages of Southern Vermont, where charm and breathtaking views are the order of the day.

We hope you soak up the magic of New England during this time of year—the vibrant fall foliage is truly a sight to behold! To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together some of our favorite must-do activities:

The Clark

ART

MASS MoCA (Highly, highly recommended) – MASS MoCA is one of the world’s largest contemporary art museums, located in a converted 230,000 sq ft factory and featuring art by Sol LeWitt, James Turrell, and Anselm Kiefer. If you do nothing else in Williamstown, visit MASS MoCA. Great for all ages!

The Clark Art Institute – A stellar art museum showcasing masterpieces by John Singer Sargent, Degas, Renoir, and other renowned artists. The museum is equally impressive for its stunning modern architecture by Tadao Ando and its serene pastoral surroundings—well worth a visit!

HISTORY

Chapin Library Special Collections – The Williams College library has a large collection of historical documents and books, and is the only place in the country other than the National Archives to display original copies of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.

Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum – The Birthplace of Susan B. Anthony is a learning center and museum dedicated to showcasing Susan B. Anthony’s early years.

Theo at The Hairpin Turn

OUTDOORS

Mount Greylock – Williamstown is at the foot of Mount Greylock, Massachusetts’ tallest mountain (westerners, try not to laugh). There are hikes ranging from 3 to 13 miles to the summit and around the area, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Many overlap with the Appalachian Trail. If you’d rather skip the hike, there’s a pleasant drive to the historic Bascom Lodge on the summit.

Hopkins Memorial Forest – For those seeking a more relaxed way to enjoy the forest in autumn, the Williams College preserve has a great network of short trails, including some under a mile long.

Apple Picking – If the drive to America’s Greatest Apple Orchard (Clarkdale Fruit Farms, Theo’s erstwhile employer) in Deerfield is too far, consider Jaeschke’s Orchard. They have several heirloom varieties — just please don’t pick the stultifyingly one-note Honeycrisp, for reasons to numerous to include in this paragraph. 

DINING

Mezze Bistro + Bar – Probably the nicest restaurant in the area, Mezze is a locally sourced, New American bistro.

The Barn – Conveniently located within The Williams Inn, with a great bar. Great vibes.

The Spring Street Market + Cafe – A great deli, will probably be a little packed with students. 

PUBLIC eat + drink – Reliably good New American food near MASS MoCA in North Adams.

Lickety Split – A cash-only classic local ice cream shop offering many flavors, including butter and burnt sugar. They also have Wilson’s favorite pup cups!

Further Afield Touristing

Deerfield and Shelburne Falls – An hour of twisty mountain driving east will bring you to the preserved early New England town of Historic Deerfield, the colorful Bridge of Flowers, and America’s greatest apple orchard (Clarkdale Fruit Farms).

Bennington and Southern Vermont – Just 20 minutes north of Williamstown is Bennington, Vermont, with all the quaint New England sightseeing you could want (it’s got at least three covered bridges).

Lenox and Stockbridge – About 45 minutes south are the quintessential Berkshire towns, home to Norman Rockwell and the Norman Rockwell Museum, Edith Wharton’s estate, and Tanglewood.

The Hairpin Turn – Mercer loves this (regionally) famous, almost 180-degree turn on the Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway, which offers panoramic views of the Berkshires and Southern Vermont. Keep driving to the Mohawk State Forest to follow the Deerfield River, with a number of scenic pullouts and picnic spots.

Other

If you want any other recommendations for things to see, do, or eat, Theo would be thrilled to offer more. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask!