Lenox is a small, seasonal town in the Berkshire mountains of western Massachusetts. The official population is about 5,000 but it swells to many times that in the summer. Over the years many famous wealthy people made this their summer home; it also became known for its many cultural activities. The biggest thing going on here is Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), in a huge outdoor setting. The BSO puts on major concerts every Saturday night in season, with lesser programs going throughout the week. Music fans come here from all over the world to breathe in the music and the mountain air. James Taylor usually kicks off the season. Other attractions include The Mount (pictured at bottom right), the beautiful mansion built by early 20th Century novelist Edith Wharton (who wrote The House of Mirth, Ethan Fromme, and many other best-sellers).
The downtown is quite attractive New England with outdoor seating at cafes and restaurants. Ventfort Hall is another mansion with a museum of the "Gilded Age" that is open to the public - it was the former home of one of JP Morgan's sisters. Nearby Pittsfield has better shopping, while Stockbridge and Williamstown provide additional culture. |