Monterey MassachusettsATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Monterey, Massachusetts.
1. Bidwell House Museum
COLONIAL HOME & MUSEUM
Bidwell House Museum is a beautifully restored Georgian saltbox house, originally built circa 1750 as a parsonage for Reverend Adonijah Bidwell. The museum features a collection of period antiques and offers guided tours that illuminate colonial life in Monterey and the Berkshire region. Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque grounds, which include nature trails and garden spaces.
2. Beartown State Forest
EXPANSIVE NATURE PRESERVE
Beartown State Forest is a beloved outdoor recreation destination offering over 12,000 acres of woodlands, hiking trails, and scenic ponds. Popular activities include swimming, fishing, camping, and winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Visitors often flock to Benedict Pond, a centerpiece of the forest known for its serene beauty and accessible walking trails.
3. McLennan Reservation
WILDLIFE SANCTUARY TRAILS
McLennan Reservation is a tranquil nature preserve managed by The Trustees of Reservations, offering several miles of quiet walking trails through forests and wetlands. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity to spot local wildlife in a peaceful setting. The reservation is particularly renowned for its vibrant wildflowers and undisturbed habitats.
4. Ashintully Gardens
HISTORIC LANDSCAPED GARDENS
Ashintully Gardens in nearby Tyringham showcases the creative vision of composer and landscape architect John McLennan. The gardens feature elegant terraces, fountains, and classical statuary set amid winding woodland paths. A visit offers both horticultural inspiration and a peaceful retreat in the Berkshire Hills.
5. Les Trois Emme Winery
LOCAL FAMILY WINERY
Les Trois Emme Winery, located just outside Monterey, is a charming, family-run vineyard producing a range of red, white, and dessert wines. Guests can sample wines in a friendly tasting room and enjoy views of the rolling Berkshire countryside. The winery is known for its welcoming atmosphere and informative tours.
6. Tyringham Cobble
SCENIC HIKING AREA
Tyringham Cobble is a striking natural formation offering scenic hiking trails and panoramic views over the Tyringham Valley. The area is managed by The Trustees and is a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a moderate climb with rewarding vistas. Seasonal wildflowers and abundant birdlife enhance the experience.
7. Ski Butternut
POPULAR SKI RESORT
Ski Butternut is a well-known winter sports destination offering a range of trails for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. The resort features excellent facilities, ski instruction, and equipment rentals suitable for families and enthusiasts of all levels. In summer, the venue hosts festivals and outdoor events.
8. Otis Poultry Farm
FARM STORE & EATERY
Otis Poultry Farm is a popular local market and eatery specializing in fresh poultry, homemade baked goods, and farm-fresh products. Visitors can enjoy a sandwich or treat while shopping for specialty items and local gifts. The farm is a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Berkshires flavor.
9. Gedney Farm
RUSTIC DINING & LODGING
Gedney Farm is an upscale country inn and restaurant, set in beautifully restored barns surrounded by meadows and forest. The farm's renowned restaurant features locally-sourced, seasonal cuisine with a refined rustic flair. Guests can also stay overnight in luxurious accommodations with a distinctive rural charm.
10. The Old Inn On The Green
HISTORIC DINING DESTINATION
The Old Inn On The Green is an acclaimed restaurant and inn set in a former Colonial-era stagecoach stop in the nearby village of New Marlborough. Candlelit dining rooms and a locally-inspired menu offer an exceptional fine dining experience. Its historic ambiance and warm hospitality attract visitors from across the region.
11. Southfield Store
QUAINT CAFE & MARKET
The Southfield Store is a local favorite for artisanal baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee in a charming, historic building. The store offers a cozy atmosphere for breakfast or lunch and sells a selection of specialty foods and locally made products. It's a great spot to relax and experience the local culture.
12. Dry Hill
QUIET HIKING SPOT
Dry Hill is a serene and lesser-known hiking area that offers quiet trails winding through the woods of Monterey. This spot is managed for conservation and provides peaceful nature walks with beautiful views and the chance to spot wildlife. It's ideal for those seeking solitude and a deeper connection with the surrounding forest.
13. Monterey General Store
HISTORIC COUNTRY STORE
Monterey General Store is a community hub and historic landmark, originally established in the 18th century. The store offers fresh coffee, homemade pastries, local produce, and unique goods from the Berkshires. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it a gathering spot for both locals and travelers.
14. Guido's Fresh Marketplace
GOURMET MARKET & DELI
Guido's Fresh Marketplace in nearby Great Barrington is renowned for its selection of organic produce, gourmet foods, and a full-service deli. The store features products from local Berkshires farms as well as international specialties. Its prepared foods counter and bakery are especially popular with both locals and visitors.
15. The Bookloft
INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE GEM
The Bookloft is a beloved independent bookstore offering a wide selection of books, gifts, and local interest titles in Great Barrington. Known for its knowledgeable staff and welcoming atmosphere, it has been serving readers in the Berkshires for decades. The store frequently hosts author events and community gatherings.