This Tiny Massachusetts Town Pairs Mountain Views With World-Class Art

Sitting pretty in the northwest corner of the state, Williamstown is one of my favorite little remote towns in Massachusetts. With a population that hovers around 7,500 residents and a view of mountains in every direction, Williamstown is a fantastic option for anyone who wants to run away to the Berkshires for a few days.

I know there are endless charming small towns in Massachusetts, but Williamstown holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Massachusetts for five years, and Williamstown was my gateway to living in New England. It was my first time living out of state, it was my first time living in a place where I didn’t know anyone, and it was my first time experiencing mountains. 

You wouldn’t think it by looking at it, but Williamstown is a college town! This is where you’ll find Williams College, a private liberal arts college whose alumni include notable figures like James A. Garfield (20th president of the United States) and Stephen Sondheim (Tony Award-winning composer and lyricist). 

Speaking of Tony Awards, the Williamstown Theatre Festival takes over Williams College every summer. This was my first introduction to Williamston—I did two tours at WTF, working in the box office. If you’re visiting Williamstown in the summer, go see a show! And while you’re immersed in the arts, be sure to swing by the Clark Art Institute. Known by locals as The Clark, it’s one of the best museums in Massachusetts (in my opinion, of course!). 

Where to Eat in Williamstown

Water Street Grill is a culinary landmark in Williamstown. It’s a great, casual restaurant with a wide range of menu items, so everyone can find something they like. Over on Spring Street, the town’s main drag, Spice Root is a go-to spot for delicious Indian fare. 

A slight drive from the heart of town, Mezze Bistro is a wonderful option for a Mediterranean-inspired evening. You can even stay in the Mezze Guesthouse!

Where to Stay in Williamstown

The Williams Inn is a great place to stay in Williamstown. It’s located in town, where you can walk just about anywhere. Another popular option is The Porches Inn at Mass MoCA. The Porches Inn is located in the neighboring town (North Adams), but I’m recommending it because it’s iconic. 

Of course, if you really want to embrace life like a local, consider something like this adorable vacation rental in Williamstown. It’s centrally located and was built in the 1940s, offering that perfect blend of history and modern amenities.

Things to do in Williamstown

While the museums and the theatre festival are certainly top-ranking, I love Williamstown because it’s easy to find yourself immersed in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains. Mount Greylock, the tallest point in Massachusetts, is nearby, and you can easily drive (or hike) to the top. The views are sensational! There are dozens of hiking trails here, including part of the Appalachian Trail! I’d start with the Mount Greylock Overlook Trail.

If scenic road trips are your style, you’ll love driving all around this region. You can head north and explore Vermont, west and explore New York, or head east and drive through the Savoy Mountain State Forest. The iconic hairpin turn on Route 2  in North Adams is one of my favorite areas to watch the sunset. The views from the windshield in any direction you drive will be rewarding, I promise. If you think this area is beautiful in the summer…come back in the fall. It’s a leaf peeper's paradise!

Fun fact: the photo above was taken on Route 7, not far from the Store at Five Corners. It was the moment I fell in love with mountains and travel in general. It has remained the lock screen on my phone for 17 years. It’s not often one has photographic evidence of a pivotal moment in their life, but I’m one of the lucky few. Every time I visit Williamstown, I update the photo. I think I’m due for an updated picture. Who wants to join me?

Share this article with someone you want to visit Williamstown with and start making plans to visit this remote town in Massachusetts this summer!