Stockbridge is one of the most charming and beautiful towns to visit in Western Massachusetts! Enjoy the small, but lively town center and so many fun things to do in Stockbridge MA. Join us in the historic downtown and discover all the best activities, museums, and much more.
Berkshires Travel Inspiration
- 10 Fun Things to do in Lenox MA On Your First Visit
- Hiking Monument Mountain: Guide to the Best Hike in the Berkshires
- Bash Bish Falls: Easy Hike to the Tallest Waterfall in MA
- Ramblewild: Our High Flying Trip to the Aerial Adventure Park
10 Fun Things to Do in Stockbridge MA
1. Explore Stockbridge MA Town Center
So many of the best things to do in Stockbridge MA start in the gorgeous town center! Main Street is full of life, and plenty of great cafes and local restaurants. Our favorite part about the downtown area is visiting it at different times of the year.
Whether the flowers are blooming in Spring, leaves are changing colors in Fall, or you catch a snowy winter day, it’s always a perfect time to be in Stockbridge Massachusetts! Park anywhere along the main strip or surrounding streets and go for a leisurely stroll through Stockbridge MA.
→6 Best Small Towns to Explore on a Trip to the Berkshires
2. Grab a Drink at the Red Lion Inn
You might as well start off your trip to town at one of the most iconic places in the Berkshires! If you can believe it, the Red Lion Inn first opened as a tavern way back in 1773. By the late 19th century it expanded into a 100 guest hotel. To this day still retains its beauty and colonial features.
Even if you’re not staying overnight at the Red Lion Inn you can still enjoy it! One of the best things to do in Stockbridge MA is to grab a drink, sit on the porch, and let the day pass you by.
3. Hike at Goodrich Memorial Park
Stockbridge Massachusetts has some amazing walking and hiking trails. One of our favorite spots to experience nature is Goodrich Memorial Park. Here you’ll find 3 different and unique paths that will take you around and above the Housatonic River.
After parking, cross the Goodrich Memorial footbridge to start your walk. The trails in this part of Stockbridge MA are mostly flat and perfect for all ages.
- Mary V Flynn Trail: This path follows along the river and is a popular one for people with dogs.
- Ice Glen: Hike up into the magical Ice Glen where you’ll be jumping over boulders and expecting fairy’s to fly past at any moment!
- Laura Lookout Tower: The steepest of the three hikes at Goodrich Memorial Park. This tower has beautiful views of Stockbridge MA and the surrounding area.
4. Shop At the Unique Stockbridge MA Stores
Ready for some shopping? You’re in luck! One of the best things to do in Stockbridge MA is to peruse the shops on Main Street. You’ll find everything from jewelry and souvenir stores to local chocolate and wine.
Even with new storefronts opening, Stockbridge has kept its historic charm which can be felt throughout town.
5. Visit Naumkeag in Stockbridge Massachusetts
Stockbridge MA is rich in history and cultural attractions and Naumkeag is the perfect example of that. This stunning public garden features a historic home sitting on 48 acres.
The forty-four-room gem was built in 1884 as a summer home for the former U.S. ambassador to Great Britain Joseph Choat. Touring the Naumkeag grounds is a must when looking for what to do in Stockbridge MA.
Also, if you happen to visit at certain times of the year you can reserve your spot for something special. There are popular shows where they transform the grounds for the holidays. Our personal favorite is seeing the winter lights at Naumkeag!
6. The Norman Rockwell Museum
Speaking of history… Did you know Stockbridge Massachusetts was home to one of the most famous American painters? Norman Rockwell spent his later years in this Berkshires town and now there is a wonderful museum dedicated to his work.
In fact, the Norman Rockwell Museum has the world’s largest collection of the artists paintings! You may recognize one in particular on your trip to this Stockbridge MA museum. Norman Rockwell painted Main Street in Stockbridge in 1967 which has become one of his most iconic pieces.
→ Want to see more of the best museums in the Berkshires? Make sure to check out The Clark Art Institute and Hanco*ck Shaker Village.
7. Stroll through the Berkshire Botanical Gardens
If you couldn’t tell already, there is an abundance of great nature activities in Stockbridge Massachusetts. One of our absolute favorite places is the Berkshire Botanical Garden! The 24-acre property is filled with unique garden areas and dozens of endless types of colorful flowers.
In addition to hosting weddings and private events, the Berkshire Botanical Gardens has workshops, classes, and numerous exhibits. If you’re visiting Stockbridge MA in the Fall don’t miss the annual Harvest Festival.
8. See a Show in Stockbridge MA
One of the best things to do in Stockbridge MA in the summertime is to see a performance with Berkshire Theatre Group. The Unicorn Theatre and the Fitzpatrick Main Stage are both located in Stockbridge Massachusetts.
The Colonial Theatre in Pittsfield is also a great place to see a show. From plays to concerts and even movie premiers, a summer night with the Berkshire Theatre Group is the way to go!
9. Visit Chesterwood in Stockbridge MA
Like Rockwell and Choat, Stockbridge MA had another famous resident. The summer home of sculptor Daniel Chester French is on full display here as a beautiful museum and sculpture garden.
Spending the afternoon at Chesterwood is such an interesting activity if you’re looking for what to do in Stockbridge MA.
10. Kayak the Stockbridge Massachusetts Bowl
Also known as Lake Mahkeenac, the Stockbridge Bowl is a fun place to go swimming during summer in the Berkshires.
Another one of the best things to do in Stockbridge MA is to kayak out on the lake. Also, make sure to see it from above at Olivia’s Overlook!
More Things to do in Stockbridge MA
We hope this blog gave you some great ideas for what to do in Stockbridge Massachusetts. The town has so many great walking trails, historic sites, and cultural activities to experience.
It’s no surprise that Stockbridge MA is known as one of the best places to visit in the Berkshires! Use this is a rough guide to find your own hidden gems when visiting.
Have any questions on this article or want to share your favorite things to do in Stockbridge MA? Leave us a comment below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram@nothingfamiliar!
Where to Stay in the Berkshires
Ultra Luxury–Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa– Take in some luxury in this historic Wyndhurst Mansion turned resort. Enjoy golfing, spa treatments, and views of the beautiful Berkshire countryside.
Fun Vacation–Courtyard by Marriott Lenox– Just a quick drive from downtown Lenox, this is the perfect spot to relax after a fun day of exploring. While there are plenty of historic hotels and Airbnb’s in the area, we enjoyed having the modern amenities and swimming pool at the Courtyard by Marriot.
Bed & Breakfast–Chambery Inn– This beautiful bed and breakfast is situated out in the countryside of Lee, but still close enough to walk to local restaurants and shops. You’ll also be just a few miles from attractions such a Tanglewood and Butternut Ski Resort.
Historic Hotel–Red Lion Inn– This historic hotel is a landmark in the town of Stockbridge. Stroll through town which is right at your doorstep, or simply watch the day pass you by while sipping on drinks on the front porch.
For more places to stay in the Berkshires youcan explore the latest prices here!
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