The Berkshires is known for its inspired cuisine, from farm-to-table fare to menus inspired by world-traveling chefs, with options for indoor and outdoor dining. Call ahead to see if you can make a reservation, confirm open hours, and see if it’s pet-friendly. If you can’t, have a little patience in being seated and waiting for service. Many restaurants cannot provide their usual menu substitutions or have marked up their prices in order to pay a living wage. So bring your understanding and generosity as well as your appetite! Hankering for takeout from your fave Berkshire bistro? Check menus ahead of time to speed up the ordering process. Call in takeout orders before you’re in the parking lot.

The beloved Berkshire cultural sites and attractions are thrilled to be open again, and to welcome you! To ensure a wonderful visit, plan ahead for timed-entry and limited capacities. Follow our unified safety guidelines. Many locations are also a bit short-staffed and going the extra-mile to give you a safe experience. Your patience is greatly appreciated.

If you can afford to tip, a little extra cash can really make a hard-working Berkshire employee’s day. But don’t worry if you’re on a budget. Kind words and compliments are valuable too. If you enjoyed your meal, had a nice time at an exhibit, loved walking around a shop – let them know! Consider putting away your own cart at the grocery store, or restock an item if you change your mind. Every kind action, no matter how small, is a big help.

Unfortunately, some experiences just don’t go according to plan. If you are unhappy with a meal, service, or other experience, consider speaking directly to management before writing an unfavorable review. The business may be able to address your concern right away, and the feedback – when given kindly – may be helpful in addressing future challenges. A bad review is always hard on business, but during these tough times it can be even more detrimental.

Speed limits change frequenting on Berkshire roads as they wind through our 30 towns and 2 cities. Follow the speed limit and watch for pedestrians and bikes. You may find ample parking in some places, or have a harder time securing a spot in others. Give yourself time to get where you’re going and find a spot, and still make your reservation, timed-entry, or show. The extra time will you you extra peace of mind and keep our roads and parking lots safe.

Wondering if you can dine in or outdoors at a particular restaurant? Hankering for takeout from your fave Berkshire bistro? Is your pup traveling with you? Save yourself unexpected disappointment by calling ahead of your arrival to ask questions. Confirm days and hours to make sure a business is open when you want to go. Check menus ahead of time to speed up the ordering process. Call in takeout orders before you’re in the parking lot. Leave your pup in your pet-friendly hotel if the establishment has a no-pet rule. A little planning helps a lot!

Remember, we are all in this together. So before you react, take a moment to just breathe and choose words with positive intention. Everyone will benefit. Including you!

Enjoyed a show, loved an art exhibit? Consider making a donation to a Berkshire non-profit so they can continue their great work. You can find other organizations who tirelessly work to better our community here. Thank you in advance for making a donation. No amount is too small!