Becket Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Becket. Explore natural attractions, hiking trails, and local cuisine in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Becket

Becket is a vibrant town located in the heart of the Berkshires in Western Massachusetts. Known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions, the town offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors all year round. Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and lush forests, Becket is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or seeking adventure, you’ll find something to suit your taste in this picturesque town.

List of Places to Visit in Becket

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival

Founded in 1931, Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival is one of the most renowned dance festivals in the world. The festival takes place from June to August each year and features performances by world-class dancers and choreographers from around the globe. In addition to the performances, visitors can take part in dance classes and workshops, explore the on-site exhibits, and enjoy the beautiful grounds of the festival.

Becket Arts Center

Located in the center of town, the Becket Arts Center is a vibrant space that showcases the work of local artists and hosts a variety of cultural events and workshops. Visitors can admire works of art in the galleries, attend a lecture or concert, or participate in a hands-on workshop.

Chesterwood Museum

The former summer home and studio of sculptor Daniel Chester French, Chesterwood Museum is a fascinating destination for art and history lovers. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds and gardens, take a guided tour of the museum and studio, and learn about the life and work of French, who is best known for his famous statue of Abraham Lincoln in the Lincoln Memorial.

Natural Attractions of Becket: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

October Mountain State Forest

Covering over 16,000 acres, October Mountain State Forest is one of the largest state forests in Massachusetts. The forest offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, and camping. With its stunning views, tranquil streams, and lush forests, October Mountain is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Buckley Dunton Lake

A hidden gem in the Berkshires, Buckley Dunton Lake is a picturesque lake surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and picnicking in the charming setting of the lake.

Becket Land Trust

The Becket Land Trust is a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving open space and natural resources in Becket. The trust offers a variety of hiking trails and outdoor activities, including bird watching, snowshoeing, and nature photography.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Becket

Becket is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with a range of scenic trails and routes to explore. Some of the most popular hiking and biking trails in Becket include:

  • The Appalachian Trail, which runs through Becket and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • The Becket Quarry Trail, which leads to an old granite quarry and offers a unique look at the town’s history.
  • The Kennedy Park Trail, a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, with over 15 miles of trails to explore.

Best Things to Do in Becket: Activities and Tours

Becket Land Trust Guided Tours

The Becket Land Trust offers guided tours of some of the town’s most beautiful landscapes and natural areas. Visitors can join a tour and learn about the history and ecology of the area while enjoying the stunning views and fresh air.

White Water Rafting on the Deerfield River

Located just a short drive from Becket, the Deerfield River offers a thrilling white water rafting adventure for visitors of all ages. With its challenging rapids and magnificent scenery, the river is a popular destination for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Tanglewood Music Festival

Located in nearby Lenox, Tanglewood Music Festival is one of the most famous music festivals in the world. The festival features performances by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, as well as world-renowned guest performers. Visitors can enjoy a picnic on the lawn while listening to beautiful music in the stunning setting of the Tanglewood landscape.

Week-Long Itinerary for Becket

Day 1: Explore the Becket Land Trust hiking trails Day 2: Visit the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival Day 3: Go white water rafting on the Deerfield River Day 4: Take a guided tour of the Chesterwood Museum Day 5: Enjoy the natural beauty of Buckley Dunton Lake Day 6: Attend a concert at Tanglewood Music Festival Day 7: Go on a scenic drive through the Berkshires

Food and Drink Scene of Becket

Must-Try Dishes

Becket is known for its hearty New England cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and traditional recipes. Some of the must-try dishes in Becket include:

  • Lobster Roll: a classic New England sandwich made with fresh lobster meat, served on a buttered roll.
  • Clam Chowder: a creamy soup made with fresh clams, potatoes, and onions.
  • Apple Pie: a classic dessert made with locally sourced apples and a flaky crust.

Local Beverages

Becket is home to a range of local breweries and wineries, offering visitors a taste of the town’s unique flavors. Some of the must-try beverages in Becket include:

  • Wandering Star Craft Brewery: a small brewery that produces a range of locally brewed beers.
  • Hilltop Orchards Winery: a winery that produces a range of fruit wines, including apple and peach.

Where to Stay in Becket: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Becket offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Some of the most popular places to stay in Becket include:

  • The Becket Motel: a cozy motel located in the heart of town, offering comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
  • The Inn at Kimball Farm: a charming inn located on a picturesque farm, offering beautiful views and comfortable accommodations.
  • Becket Chalet: a luxurious mountain retreat with stunning views and a range of modern amenities.

What to Buy in Becket: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Becket can take home a piece of the town’s unique culture by shopping for locally made souvenirs and products. Some of the best places to shop for souvenirs in Becket include:

  • Becket Arts Center Gallery Shop: a gift shop located inside the Becket Arts Center, offering a range of handmade items by local artisans.
  • The Country Store at Jiminy Peak: a charming store located at the base of Jiminy Peak, offering a range of locally made products, including maple syrup, honey, and handcrafted gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Becket

Becket is a friendly and welcoming town, with a strong sense of community and tradition. Visitors to Becket should be respectful of the town’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, and follow the local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Becket

Becket is a beautiful destination to visit all year round, with each season offering its unique charm and attractions. The best time to visit depends on the visitor’s interests and preferences. Spring and fall are a great time to visit for hiking and exploring the nature trails, while summer is the best time to attend outdoor concerts and festivals. Winter is a great time to enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Becket

Do:

  • Respect the natural beauty and tranquility of Becket’s outdoor spaces.
  • Explore the local culture and traditions by attending festivals and events.
  • Support local businesses and artisans by shopping for locally made products and souvenirs.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Obstruct traffic or cause disturbances in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Becket

Becket is a safe and friendly town, with low crime rates and a strong sense of community. Visitors should take standard precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking car doors and securing valuables.

Health in Becket

Becket is home to a range of medical facilities and services, including urgent care centers and hospitals. Visitors should carry appropriate health insurance coverage and take any necessary precautions to avoid illness or injury.

Getting to Becket: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Becket

The closest airports to Becket are Bradley International Airport in Hartford, Connecticut, and Albany International Airport in Albany, New York. Both airports are approximately 1.5 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Becket

Greyhound and Peter Pan Bus Lines both operate bus services to nearby Lenox, Massachusetts. From Lenox, visitors can take a taxi or rental car to Becket.

Other Options

Visitors to Becket can also choose to drive or take a train to nearby cities and towns, such as Boston or New York City, and then rent a car or take a bus to Becket.

How to Get Around in Becket

Becket is a small town, and most attractions and activities are located within a short drive from each other. Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the area. Biking and hiking are also popular ways to get around and explore the natural beauty and scenery of the town.

Where to Go Next from Becket: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Becket is a great base for exploring the Berkshires and the wider New England region. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Lenox: a charming town located just a short drive from Becket, known for its historic landmarks and cultural attractions.
  • Berkshire Botanical Garden: a beautiful garden located in nearby Stockbridge, featuring a range of rare and native plants.
  • Mount Greylock: the highest peak in Massachusetts, located in nearby Lanesborough, offering stunning views and hiking trails.

Conclusion

As you can see, Becket is a charming and picturesque town full of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and unique experiences. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, seeking adventure, or exploring the local culture and traditions, you’ll find something to suit your taste in Becket. So pack your bags and head to this vibrant town to discover all that it has to offer!

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