Ski resorts and towns

Question

We are a couple who is planning a ski weekend with another couple where only the husbands are skiing and the wives would like to spend the days in the surrounding area with a nice town, not too far. We will have a car. Suggestions?

Answer

For a ski weekend in Massachusetts, there are several resorts within driving distance of charming towns that provide activities for non-skiers. Since you will have a car, you can enjoy both skiing and exploring nearby villages, shopping districts, and scenic areas.

Ski Resorts and Nearby Towns:

Berkshire East Mountain Resort (Charlemont, MA): A family-friendly resort with a variety of trails. Nearby towns like North Adams and Greenfield offer art galleries, boutique shopping, and cozy cafes. North Adams also hosts MASS MoCA, a large contemporary art museum ideal for a day trip.
Jiminy Peak (Hancock, MA): One of the larger resorts in western Massachusetts. Nearby Williamstown is a picturesque college town with charming Main Street shops, restaurants, and the Clark Art Institute, perfect for non-skiers looking for culture and walking-friendly streets.
Otis Ridge (Otis, MA): Smaller and less crowded, suitable for beginner and intermediate skiers. The nearby towns of Great Barrington and Stockbridge offer classic New England charm, shopping, and dining. Stockbridge is home to the Norman Rockwell Museum, which is a highlight for art and culture lovers.
Brodie Mountain / Ski Butternut (Great Barrington, MA): Ski Butternut offers diverse terrain for skiers. Great Barrington itself has a lively downtown with independent shops, cafes, and art galleries, making it ideal for a non-skiing day.

Activities for Non-Skiers:

Art museums and galleries (MASS MoCA in North Adams, Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge)
Shopping and dining along historic Main Streets, offering boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants
Scenic winter walks in town centers or along nearby nature trails
Local wineries or breweries for tastings (many in the Berkshires area)

Tips:

Consider staying in a central town like Great Barrington or Williamstown so non-skiers can easily explore while skiers head to the mountains.
Check resort shuttle options; some offer rides from nearby towns, which can be convenient if you prefer not to drive every day.
Winter traffic and weather can impact travel times; plan extra time for road conditions in the Berkshires.

Overall, the western Massachusetts ski resorts combined with picturesque towns such as Williamstown, Stockbridge, North Adams, and Great Barrington provide a great balance for a mixed ski and leisure weekend, offering both outdoor adventure and cultural, shopping, and dining experiences.

Ski resorts and towns

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