Pittsfield
Cultural offerings in the area include the Berkshire Artisans, a municipal center for the visual arts. The center features a gallery and performance area, workshops and artists' studios; phone (413) 499-9348. The Albany Berkshire Ballet performs classical and contemporary works year-round. Many of their productions are geared toward young children and their families. For information about performances and venues phone (413) 445-5382.
Recreational opportunities include hiking and camping in Pittsfield State Forest and at Onota and Pontoosuc lakes. Of interest is Canoe Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary, 3 miles south on US 7 and 2 miles northeast on Holmes Road, where hiking trails traverse woodlands, fields and marshes.
Pittsfield is credited with the creation of the first agricultural fair. Held on the village green in 1810, the fair was the brainchild of Elkanah Watson, a tireless promoter of agricultural progress and a friend of George Washington.
Visitor Centers
Berkshire Visitors Bureau 66 Allen St. Pittsfield, MA 01201. Phone:(413)743-4500
Self-guiding Tours
Maps outlining historic sites, hiking and bicycling routes and tours of the Berkshire region are available from the visitors bureau.