It can be so frustrating when out-of-staters think that Massachusetts is basically ONLY Boston and Eastern Mass. The fact is, some of this state’s best scenery, art, events and people live way out west. From the rolling hills of the Berkshires, the breathtaking beauty of the Mohawk Trail, and the special feeling of warmth and fun that pervades this region of the Commonwealth, there’s truly no place on earth like Western Mass.

1. Perfect early-autumn fall foliage. And the show is just getting started.
Flickr/MOTT
2. Western Mass. just wins at fall. Period.
Flickr/MOTT
3. Tanglewood is the best.
Flickr/Timothy Jarrett
Flickr/MOTT
If there's one thing everyone in Western Mass. seems to be able to agree on, it's that Tanglewood rules. Catch a concert by legendary artists like James Taylor, hang out with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, or even do a bit of yoga in the sunshine. Head to Lenox and Stockbridge to get a taste of this Western Mass. tradition.
4. The Connecticut River offers views like this.
Flickr/Shiran Pasternak
5. And this.
Flickr/CDR 'plores NYC&ROC
Running through a total of five states and home to New England's best farmland, we think the Massachusetts portion of the Connecticut River is the most stunning.
6. Small town life still exists, and people support their communities.
Flickr/MOTT
Pictured: Downtown Shelburne Falls
7. Real maple syrup is a thing. The Red Bucket Sugar Shack in Worthington knocks Mrs. Buttersworth out of the water.
Flickr/MOTT
8. So are farmers markets and farm stands. Getting to know the person who grew your produce is truly incredible.
Flickr/MOTT
9. And picking your own fresh, crisp apples.
Flickr/MOTT
10. Artists agree that Western Mass. is a source of endless inspiration.
Flickr/MOTT
Edith Wharton made her home at The Mount in Lenox, and plenty of other famous and aspiring writers, painters, musicians and creatives call Western Massachusetts home.

Related Stories

Enjoy Beautiful Views And Historic Charm With Us At The 1761 Old Mill Restaurant In Massachusetts

Enjoy Beautiful Views And Historic Charm With Us At The 1761 Old Mill Restaurant In Massachusetts

 With It's Own Private Backyard, This Incredible Restaurant In Massachusetts Is Perfect For Families

With It's Own Private Backyard, This Incredible Restaurant In Massachusetts Is Perfect For Families

 Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Massachusetts

Escape To The Countryside When You Stay At This Rural Airbnb In Massachusetts
11. And Mass MoCA proves it. Having the the largest center for contemporary visual and performing arts in the U.S. is no joke.
Flickr/MOTT
12. I mean, when a place inspires Norman Rockwell, you know it has to be pretty darn lovely.
Flickr/MOTT
13. Yankee Candle Company. Homes across New England owe their amazing scents to this South Deerfield institution.
Flickr/MOTT
14. The largest mountain in Massachusetts lives in Western Mass. Mount Greylock is pretty much the most stunning place ever.
Flickr/MOTT
15. And this region has some of the best lakes and ponds in the state.
Flickr/MOTT
Pictured: Pontoosuc Lake, Pittsfield.
16. Kids have space to actually get outside and run around.
Flickr/MOTT
17. And the opportunities for outdoor fun are pretty much endless.
Flickr/MOTT
Have an aerial or river adventure at Zoar, visit one of the countless amazing state parks and preserves in Western Mass., or just take a long walk through the woods.
18. Winter means sparkling forests, sleigh rides, and enchanting early morning sunrises reflecting on frosty lakes.
Flickr/MOTT
19. And the holidays are done right, with plenty of family, friends and cheer.
Flickr/MOTT
Pictured: Pittsfield
20. Western Mass. might get a bit quirky sometimes...
Flickr/MOTT
Check out the Fall Foliage Parade in North Adams.
21. ...but with friendly people, gorgeous scenery, and a real old-fashioned sense of community...
Flickr/MOTT
22. ...Western Massachusetts is simply one of the best places to live in the country.
Flickr/MOTT

What do you love best about Western Massachusetts? Let us know!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles