Monterey Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Monterey, Massachusetts with this comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to Monterey
- List of Places to Visit in Monterey
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Monterey
- Best Things to Do in Monterey: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Monterey
- Food and Drink Scene of Monterey
- Where to Stay in Monterey: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Monterey: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Monterey
- Best Time to Visit Monterey
- Do’s and Don’ts of Monterey
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Monterey: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Monterey
- Where to Go Next from Monterey: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Monterey
Monterey is a charming town located in the Berkshires, in Massachusetts, in New England, in the United States of America. It is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, foodie, or art lover, Monterey has something in store for you.
List of Places to Visit in Monterey
There are a plethora of places to explore in Monterey. Here are some of our favorites:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Bidwell House Museum: A historic house museum that provides a glimpse into the life of early settlers of the Berkshires.
- Ashley House: A historic home that was once a stop on the Underground Railroad.
- The Mount: Former home of acclaimed author Edith Wharton, now a National Historic Landmark.
Natural Attractions of Monterey: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Beartown State Park: A beautiful park with trails for hikes and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Lake Garfield: A pristine lake where you can swim, kayak or simply relax by the shore.
- Housatonic River: A scenic river that is perfect for fly fishing or a lazy canoe ride.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Monterey
Monterey is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes:
- Monument Mountain: A popular hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the Berkshires.
- Canterbury Farm Ski Touring Center: A great spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
- Mohawk Trail State Forest: A vast forest with trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Best Things to Do in Monterey: Activities and Tours
- Tanglewood Music Center: A summer music festival that hosts performances by world-renowned musicians.
- Guided Kayak Tours: Explore the Housatonic River and Lake Garfield with a guided kayak tour.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take in the breathtaking scenery of the Berkshires from up above on a hot air balloon ride.
Week-Long Itinerary for Monterey
If you’re planning a week-long trip to Monterey, here’s a sample itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Beartown State Park, Hike the Appalachian Trail |
| 2 | Ashley House, Bidwell House Museum |
| 3 | Tanglewood Music Center |
| 4 | Canoeing on the Housatonic River |
| 5 | The Mount, Guided Kayak Tour |
| 6 | Monument Mountain, Mohawk Trail State Forest |
| 7 | Hot Air Balloon Ride, Lake Garfield |
Food and Drink Scene of Monterey
Monterey has a diverse food scene that caters to all tastes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Traditional Corn Chowder: A creamy soup made with fresh local corn.
- Berkshire Pork Tenderloin: A delicious pork dish that is locally sourced from nearby farms.
- Old-fashioned Apple Pie: A classic dessert made with fresh apples from local orchards.
Local Beverages
- Barrington Coffee Roasting Company: A local coffee company that roasts its beans in-house.
- Berkshire Mountain Distillers: Local distillery that produces award-winning spirits and craft cocktails.
- Wandering Star Craft Brewery: A microbrewery that offers a variety of unique beers on tap.
Where to Stay in Monterey: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Monterey offers several accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are our top picks:
- Monterey Hotel: A historic hotel that offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
- Robinson House Bed and Breakfast: A cozy bed and breakfast with charming rooms and scenic views.
- Race Brook Lodge: A rustic retreat that offers a variety of accommodations including cozy cabins and luxurious suites.
What to Buy in Monterey: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Monterey offers an array of unique souvenirs and local products to take home. Here’s what we recommend:
- Berkshire-Grown Produce: Fresh produce from nearby farms that is locally sourced and sustainable.
- Handcrafted Pottery: Beautiful pottery that is made locally by artisans.
- Local Maple Syrup: Pure, natural maple syrup that is made in the Berkshires.
Local Culture and Customs of Monterey
Monterey prides itself on its rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, food, and festivals. The town has a laid-back, welcoming vibe that reflects the New England way of life.
Best Time to Visit Monterey
The best time to visit Monterey is during the fall when the leaves change colors and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities. The summer is also a great time to visit, especially if you’re interested in attending the Tanglewood Music Festival.
Do’s and Don’ts of Monterey
Do:
- Support Local Businesses: Monterey has a vibrant local economy with many small businesses that rely on tourism.
- Take in the Natural Scenery: The Berkshires offer some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
- Attend Festivals and Events: Monterey hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that are worth checking out.
Don’t:
- Litter: Keep the Berkshires beautiful by disposing of your trash responsibly.
- Disrespect Local Customs: Be mindful of the local culture and customs.
Safety and Health
Safety in Monterey
Monterey is generally safe, but it’s always wise to take precautions when traveling. Make sure to lock your car and hotel room doors, and be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night.
Health in Monterey
Monterey is a healthy place to visit, but it’s always smart to pack any necessary medication and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Getting to Monterey: Transportation Options and Logistics
Monterey is easily accessible and offers a variety of transportation options:
Airports Near Monterey
- Albany International Airport
- Bradley International Airport
- Boston Logan International Airport
Bus Stations Near Monterey
- Peter Pan Bus Lines
- Greyhound Bus Lines
Other Options
- Amtrak: The closest train station is in Pittsfield, which is a 20-minute drive from Monterey.
- Car Rental: Many car rental companies offer services in the Berkshires.
How to Get Around in Monterey
The best way to explore Monterey is by car, but there are also bike rentals and local transportation companies that offer tours and shuttle services.
Where to Go Next from Monterey: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Monterey is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out:
- Great Barrington: A nearby town that offers shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.
- Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival: A summer dance festival that showcases world-renowned dancers and choreographers.
- Stockbridge: A charming town that is home to the Norman Rockwell Museum and other cultural attractions.
Conclusion
Monterey is truly a gem in the Berkshires that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or simply a relaxing vacation, Monterey has it all. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to this beautiful town and enjoy all it has to offer.
