Discovering the Berkshires

First Congregational Church

Yes, the top of the steeple is missing. It's literally been chopped off and carried to a warehouse to be renovated, seeing as how the 150-year-old wood had some rotting issues. Upon its return, this structure will regain its status as the tallest wooden pegged post-and-beam structure in New England. If you're in town on a Saturday, take the $5 tour, where you'll see the interior's impressive trompe l'oeil design. The entire sanctuary is painted to look like marble.

Wheatleigh

We had Sunday brunch at this AAA 5-diamond hotel and restaurant—the only somewhat affordable way to experience the property. The food was lovely (especially those flaky pastries), with exceptional service. And the all-windows dining room, which juts out into acres of pristine lawn, is quite possibly one of the most beautiful rooms I've ever dined within.

The Mount

History aside, this is an absolute must if you're in the area—a gorgeous home with immaculately manicured gardens. Definitely pay the $2 extra for the guided tour. For literary buffs, it becomes even more special. What I loved about Edith Wharton's estate most was the tasteful restoration, and how they allowed her literature to guide the design. Instead of adhering to typical historical renovations (adding only what was there before, using exact paint colors, etc.), the designers took the artistic liberty to design the rooms as they would have looked if she lived there today. Nothing was outlandish, and furniture was chosen to evoke that early 20th-century mood. But to keep her "essence," (rather than historical accuracy) they used her book, The Decoration of Houses, to guide their design—at times, incorporating modern touches.

Norman Rockwell Museum, Housatonic, MA 01236

I wasn't that eager to see this museum, but was really impressed with Rockwell's work, up close. He was super famous for a reason—i.e. there's a lot more going on in his paintings than what first meets the eye. They've transported his Stockbridge studio to this plot of land in Housatonic; admission to the museum gets you into his art studio as well as the museum. Don't miss the basement, where you'll see every cover he did for the Saturday Evening Post.

Xicohtencatl Mexican Restaurants

We hadn't read a thing about this Mexican joint, but were fascinated by the crowds spilling over its porch—"Must be good!" Prices are high for what you get (peak-o-the-season!), but the food was great. Best dishes were the super-sized burritos ($12) and the homemade mole poblano ($18).

Salmon Run Fish House

For simply prepared fresh fish, this is your ticket. Ambiance is nil (think top-of-the-line Denny's, with green booths) and service can be spotty. BUT, you come for the food. Each entree comes with the standard (but quite nice) dinner salad, warm bread, and a baked potato. Our favorite dish is the baked scrod, but you really can't go wrong here. We ate here TWICE (with a party of 4, then 6), and never ordered a bad item.

Sterling & Francine Clark Art

Yes, the 34 Renoir's will pique your interest—as will the airy room that houses them—but my favorite feature of the museum was its thorough collection of lesser known artists. You could literally spend hours here discovering new favorites. And loving the classics... There are two stunning Bouguereau's and an impressive Turner, and a zillion other famous paintings as well. Be sure to visit the new Tadao Ando-designed Stone Hill Center, located on the hill behind the museum.

MASS MoCA

Located in a gigantic old factory, Mass MoCA reminds me of the Tate Modern in London: huge spaces filled with huge art. I could spend a whole day here, but I love weird art. (Monet-lovers aren't quite as enthralled). I was blown away by the Anselm Kiefer paintings, and loved the 3-floor Sol Lewitt retrospective, on view through 2033. (Hurry up!)