Peru MassachusettsATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Peru, Massachusetts.
1. Peru State Forest
VAST OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Peru State Forest offers expansive woodlands ideal for hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and wildlife observation. This high-elevation state forest is a tranquil setting for those seeking natural beauty and solitude. Its remote trails and forested landscape make it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
2. Dorothy Frances Rice Sanctuary
WILDLIFE REFUGE AND TRAILS
The Dorothy Frances Rice Sanctuary is a protected wildlife area offering peaceful hiking and snowshoeing opportunities. Named after a local conservationist, the sanctuary features quiet trails through meadows and forests ideal for birdwatching and gentle exploration. Visitors often spot deer, songbirds, and native flora along the well-marked paths.
3. Lake Ashmere
SCENIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Lake Ashmere's eastern edge lies within Peru, offering waterfront scenery, fishing, boating, and access to several summer camps. The lake is a favorite spot for swimming and picnics during the warmer months. Its calm environment makes it a cherished spot for families and campers alike.
4. Frances Rice Wildlife Refuge
SERENE NATURE PRESERVE
The Frances Rice Wildlife Refuge features a mix of wetlands, woodlands, and open spaces perfect for casual walks and observing native plants and animals. It is a peaceful retreat for those seeking a quiet connection with nature. The refuge is particularly popular among birdwatchers and photographers.
5. Peru Wildlife Management Area
POPULAR HUNTING GROUNDS
The Peru Wildlife Management Area is frequented by hunters, hikers, and snowmobilers thanks to its vast woodlands and wildlife habitats. This publicly accessible land is known for game such as deer and turkey, as well as winding trails. Its remote and rugged terrain offers a true backcountry experience in the Berkshires.
6. Peru Country Store
RURAL ESSENTIALS & SNACKS
The Peru Country Store serves as a local gathering place, offering basic groceries, snacks, and household essentials to residents and visitors. It is the go-to stop for quick provisions and friendly conversation in town. The store maintains the cozy, small-town atmosphere typical of Berkshires hilltowns.
7. Clarksburg State Park
NEARBY HIKING AND CAMPING
Clarksburg State Park, located a short drive from Peru, offers year-round outdoor activities including camping, hiking, and swimming. The park surrounds scenic Mauserts Pond and provides miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands. Families appreciate the picnic areas and rustic campgrounds.
8. Bascom Lodge at Mount Greylock
HISTORIC SUMMIT LODGE
Bascom Lodge atop Mount Greylock provides panoramic views, rustic accommodations, and a popular restaurant serving locally-sourced fare. The historic lodge is a favorite spot for hikers completing the Appalachian Trail segment. Seasonal events, cozy ambiance, and mountain vistas make it worth a visit.
9. The Dream Away Lodge
ECLECTIC DINING DESTINATION
The Dream Away Lodge in nearby Becket is famous for its quirky ambiance and creative cuisine, drawing visitors from across the Berkshires. The vintage roadhouse offers live music, local artwork, and a menu featuring both comfort food and inventive dishes. Its storied past and theatrical atmosphere provide a unique dining experience.
10. Lenox Village Shops
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING AREA
The Lenox Village Shops present a charming mix of boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores in a walkable downtown setting. Visitors can browse for unique gifts, fine art, books, and local crafts while enjoying the historic architecture of Lenox. Cafés and bakeries further enhance the shopping experience.
11. The Old Inn on the Green
HISTORIC FINE DINING
The Old Inn on the Green is a renowned farm-to-table restaurant and inn set in an 18th-century building. Candlelit dining rooms and a menu focused on local, seasonal ingredients create a memorable culinary experience. Its rural location and period decor evoke classic New England charm.
12. Lee Premium Outlets
OUTLET SHOPPING DESTINATION
Lee Premium Outlets feature dozens of brand-name stores offering discounted apparel, footwear, and home goods. Shoppers enjoy a spacious, outdoor setting with a range of shopping and dining options. The outlets are a popular stop for visitors seeking major brands at reduced prices.
13. Berkshire Museum
ART, HISTORY, AND NATURE
The Berkshire Museum in Pittsfield blends art, science, and history with engaging exhibits for all ages. It houses collections ranging from natural history specimens to contemporary artworks. Interactive displays and rotating exhibitions offer fresh experiences throughout the year.
14. Barrington Stage Company
ACCLAIMED REGIONAL THEATER
Barrington Stage Company is a top regional theater known for staging high-quality plays and musicals, many of which receive national acclaim. The venue draws theater enthusiasts to downtown Pittsfield with its innovative productions and lively schedule. It is a cultural highlight for the Berkshires.
15. The Marketplace Cafe
LOCAL CAFÉ AND EATERY
The Marketplace Cafe provides a cozy atmosphere for enjoying breakfast, lunch, coffee, and baked goods in downtown Pittsfield. The menu showcases fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and inventive sandwiches. Frequent art displays and live music make it a vibrant gathering place.