Hi everyone me and my wife and 2 kids age 3 and 5 are coming to lenox at the start of February were from england, could anyone give me any idea’s of things to do with the kids please , weve rented a car so even places to visit things to do etc… thanks
Welcome to Lenox! The Berkshires is a beautiful area, and even in the winter, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy. Since you’ll be visiting in February, here are some ideas that will be great for your kids and easy to access with a car:
1. Visit the Berkshire Museum
This museum is great for young kids, as it has interactive exhibits, a kids’ gallery, and a variety of animals in the aquarium section. The museum is very family-oriented and offers a mix of fun and educational experiences. It's also a good spot if the weather is cold, as it's indoors and warm.
2. Ice Skating at the Pittsfield Common
If your kids enjoy outdoor activities and the weather cooperates, you can check out the ice skating rink at Pittsfield Common. It’s an easy drive from Lenox and offers rental skates for families. Even if you don’t skate, it’s fun to watch others glide around the rink, and there's often a cozy spot to grab hot chocolate nearby.
3. Explore the Berkshire Scenic Railway
If your kids are into trains, the Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum offers family-friendly train rides. While it may not be operational for winter, it’s worth checking if there are any special events or train-themed activities during your visit.
4. The Mount – Edith Wharton’s Estate
The Mount is the former estate of famed author Edith Wharton, and while the house itself might be closed in the winter, the grounds are often open, and they are perfect for a winter stroll. There are beautiful views of the surrounding Berkshires, and the kids can enjoy the open space. Some winter events or programs might also be available, so it’s worth checking in advance.
5. Skiing at Jiminy Peak
If your kids are interested in skiing, Jiminy Peak is a great place for families. It offers a range of slopes and even has a snow tubing park, which is very popular with younger children. There are ski lessons available for kids, so even if they’ve never tried it before, they can have fun on the slopes!
6. Visit the Ice Castles in New Hampshire (a bit further away)
If you’re up for a little bit of a drive (about 2.5 to 3 hours), you might consider visiting the Ice Castles in New Hampshire, which are a magical winter wonderland with ice sculptures, tunnels, and slides. It’s a bit of a journey but could be a memorable experience for your family.
7. Winter Hiking or Sledding at Kennedy Park
If the weather allows, Kennedy Park in Lenox offers scenic trails perfect for a winter hike or a sledding adventure. There are gentle slopes where kids can enjoy sledding, and the park is very close to town, making it convenient for families with little ones.
8. Stop by the Norman Rockwell Museum
While it’s more art-focused, the Norman Rockwell Museum is a short drive away and offers a wonderful experience for families, particularly with its display of Rockwell’s iconic works. Some of his pieces resonate with children, particularly those that depict scenes from American life. It’s a chance to expose your children to art in a family-friendly environment.
9. Take a Visit to the Berkshire Botanical Garden
While this might not be ideal in winter due to cold temperatures, if it’s a milder winter day, it’s worth checking out the Berkshire Botanical Garden, which features some indoor exhibits. They also often have educational events or special programs for children, so it’s worth investigating ahead of time to see if anything special is happening during your visit.
10. Relaxing Family Time
Final Thoughts: The Berkshires in winter offer a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere with plenty to explore. Whether you’re enjoying outdoor activities like skiing or sledding, or indoor experiences like museums, there are many ways to have fun with your kids. Have a wonderful time in Lenox, and I’m sure your family will create lasting memories!