Last Updated on December 30, 2024
Golden hues and pops of flaming red leaves dotted the winding road into North Adams, Massachusetts. This trip was my first visit to the northern Berkshires community, and I couldn’t wait to discover its unique charm.
Hotel Downstreet was my home in the Berkshires. I discovered that the 90-room hotel, re-opened after construction in 2023, is more than a place to lay your head. Hotel Downstreet was part of the area’s revitalization efforts and believes in a sense of community.
A grand mural behind the front desk welcomes guests. The artwork by Eric Forstmann feels like a window looking into North Adams. I immediately felt the beauty this region has to offer.
Beyond the scenery, I also noted that North Adams is evolving as a community, and Hotel Downstreet helps anchor that change.
“We’re a part of a big community,” Hotel Downstreet’s General Manager Janine Vellucci said. “We try our very best to help bridge that gap between tourists and locals and still be here for our local people.”
Vellucci highlighted that the hotel’s 22 local employees also focus on community events. This year, Hotel Downstreet participated in the annual fall foliage parade. The parade’s theme was Berk Soleil. The hotel chose butterflies as their concept and costumes. During the event, they released live butterflies.
Hotel Downstreet utilizes its indoor pool for swimming lessons for toddlers. It handed out candy to over 600 children who came to North Adams’ trick-or-treat event. The hotel also makes an effort to befriend its neighbors, such as the firehouse across the street.
A Place to Gather
Vellucci’s favorite space at Hotel Downstreet is the lobby. Three studios fill the space with local art, which guests and the community are welcome to explore. Two studios feature permanent collections from fine artist Jane Eckert and the son of Norman Rockwell, Jarvis Rockwell. The Rockwell exhibit features his childhood toy collection.
Studio B hosts rotating exhibits. Hotel Downstreet works with Future Labs, a local art studio, to identify featured artists and the studio also provides a meeting space for events and workshops.
The lobby also provides a generous space to relax and grab a piece of fresh fruit and a beverage. I particularly loved the lime-flavored water and locally sourced coffee. Hotel Downstreet buys its java from Tunnel City Coffee in nearby Williamstown.
Art Filled Rooms
The impressive art collection continues into the hallways and generously sized hotel rooms. My workspace included a fun collection of pop art and a coffee maker. I loved the old-school pencil and notepad on the nightstand.
My room overlooked a leafy hillside presenting a quintessential New England vibe. I would sit on the couch and watch the morning light bring the hillside to life. The neutral colors in the room were also peaceful.
While my room was very comfortable, I recommend bringing slippers for warmth against the ash-colored hardwood floors.
Must See Mass MoCA
North Adams was once a booming mill town. When the industry left, the city fell into a downturn. Leaders sought to repurpose empty industrial spaces, leading to the birth of the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (Mass MoCA).
Mass MoCA, one the most prominent contemporary art museums in the US, revitalized the town. The vast space allows for larger-than-life pieces like Sol LeWitt: A Wall Drawing Retrospective exhibition unitint color, pattern, and texture.
Located two blocks from Hotel Downstreet, Mass MoCA is a must-see experience.
Around the Area
North Adams is conveniently located near numerous Berkshire highlights, such as Mount Greylock. No matter the time of year, you can explore the highest peak in Massachusetts. The visitors center has educational exhibits and can direct you to the right hiking trails.
Be sure to visit the fascinating Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield. I enjoyed learning about the intersection of Shaker’s religious beliefs and the philosophy of Shaker furniture. If you have time, enjoy a craft brew at Hot Plate Brewing in downtown Pittsfield.
I also enjoyed strolling the charismatic streets of Stockbridge. Take some time and explore the historic Red Lion Inn. I could sit on the Inn’s front porch rocking chairs for hours.
Where to Eat in North Adams
While Hotel Downstreet doesn’t have an in-house restaurant, North Adams has plenty of great options. For dinner, Vellucci recommends PUBLIC and Grazie, both within walking distance of the hotel. My favorite meal, a hearty maple-glazed chicken, was at The Trail House.
You can’t beat the muffins at Bailey’s Bakery for a quick breakfast. The recently opened Eagle Street Café also serves breakfast.
