The Smithsonian called Great Barrington the best small town in America, and we’re inclined to agree. There’s something indescribably comfortable yet energetic about this small mountain town. Great Barrington is a quirky, beautiful and exciting place to visit. You’ll leave with more memories than you can carry home, and a newfound appreciation for the charms of Western Massachusetts.
Read on to learn why Great Barrington just might be one of the most unique places in the world.
Great Barrington is so unique because it combines the excitement and variety of the big city with the slow-paced charm and natural setting of a classic New England small town.
Just how unique is this place? Well, for starters, it has its own currency. BerkShares bills are accepted at over 400 local businesses, ranging from grocery stores to clothing shops.
Entertainment is definitely not lacking here. Tanglewood, Shakespeare & Company, the Norman Rockwell Museum and Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival are all amazing nearby productions and attractions.
This town is also unique due to its stunning location in the Taconic Mountains. It's an official Appalachian Trail community, making it ideal for hikers and explorers.
Great Barrington is devoted to its fresh and local food scene. There are almost daily farmers markets, and plenty of local family farms and co-ops to choose from.
The restaurant was later turned into a cafe, which has since closed.
Great Barrington is also home to one of the country’s few grand castles. Searles Castle was built as a Gilded Age mansion in the style of a French Chateau.
