North Adams is situated in the valleys created by the confluence of the north and south branches of the Hoosac River. It is an industrial community with narrow twisting streets that climb steep hills. The river valleys were known to be subject to flooding, so no large farming community was developed in the area, but the water power of the rivers was available for industry. It was a mill town. One of the old Mills was converted to house MASS MoCA, the largest Museum of Modern Art in the country. North Adam is located in northwestern Massachusetts, bordered by Clarksburg on the north, Adams on the south, Florida on the east, and Williamstown on the west. North Adams is 22 miles north of Pittsfield.
DINING
Gramercy Bistro
A wonderful, friendly, reasonable little restaurant with only30 seats. The food is excellent and creatively prepared with Asian and French influences and eclectic flavor combinations depending on available ingredients and time of year.
The chef-owner supports local farmers using organic, farm-raised meats and locally grown produce and changes his menu seasonally. There is a full bar.
and an exceptional wine list with more than 100 excellent wines from around the world, including several offered by the glass. A bottle of Shooting Star Syrah is a strong recommendation.
On Marshall Street, across from Mass MoCa
Dinner nightly, brunch on Sunday. Closed Tuesdays
Tel: 413- 663-5300
LODGING
Porches at Mass MoCa
Beautiful, comfortable boutique inn in a late 19th Century home.
Across from MassMoCa. http://www.porches.com
ARTS
MASS MoCA
MASS MoCA is one of the world's premier centers for making and showing the best art of our time. It is one of the most visited institutions in the United States dedicated to new art. MASS MoCA exhibits work by many of the most important artists of today—both well known, and emerging—focusing on large-scale and complex installations that are impossible to realize in conventional museums. There are also musical performances, dance parties, outdoor silent films with live music, documentaries, and avant-garde theater. There is also Kidspace, where elementary students come to study and create art.
The North Adams Historical Society, Inc. Over 25 exhibits on 3 floors portray a microcosm of America as told through the history of North Adams and the environment of the Berkshires.
HISTORIC SITES
Western Gateway Heritage State Park
This former railroad yard offers exhibits and programs explaining the building of 19th c. marvel the Hoosac Railroad Tunnel.
There is a geologic wonder at this 48 acre park , the only naturally formed white marble arch and man-made white marble dam in North America.. The natural bridge is , according to geologists, 550 million year old bedrock marble, carved into an arch by the force of glacial melt water over 13,000 years ago. This is one of the best places in New England to demonstrate the effects of glaciation. The bridge spans rushing Hudson Brook as it twists and tumbles through a steep 60-foot deep gorge.
McCauley Road, off Rte. 8
Open Memorial Day - Columbus Day
$2.00 parking fee
Tel: 413- 663-6392
