Where inspiration meets elevation! At MCLA in the heart of the Berkshires.
At MCLA we offer more than just a venue – we provide a vibrant, scenic, and intellectually rich environment where ideas flourish. Nestled in the culturally dynamic Berkshires, our campus has modern amenities with small-town charm, making it the ideal setting for conferences, retreats, and events that aim to inspire, connect, and grow. A creative crossroads located between Boston, New York City, and Albany makes it the ideal meeting point. Home to MASS MoCA (Largest Contemporary Arts Museum in the US), North Adams is a hidden gem in the picturesque Berkshire Mountains.
Yes! North Adams is the perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city energy where galleries, cafes, trails, and community events are just steps away. Conveniently located within driving distance of major Northeast cities, North Adams provides a refreshing change of pace without sacrificing accessibility. Whether you're planning a retreat, conference, or group outing, you'll find an inspiring and welcoming environment here.
Helpful North Adams Links:
https://www.discovernorthadams.com/
https://www.northadams-ma.gov/
Yes! Here are a few North Adams favorites:
Bigg Daddy’s Philly Steak House: Head over to MASS MoCA for the best cheesesteaks and BBQ in town!
Casita: Located at MASS MoCA- an authentic Mexican cuisine that is open for lunch and dinner.
Eagle Street Cafe: This quaint cafe on Eagle Street offers a great breakfast and lunch menu!
Freight Yard Pub: This local fixture of 30 years serves great pub food, tons of specials and appetizers served inside a cozy, historic location.
Golden Bamboo: Located in Downtown North Adams, this Asian restaurant has a fusion of Chinese, Thai,
and Japanese dishes with fresh sushi
and boba tea.
Grazie: North Adams’ go-to for the best Italian cooking: Gourmet appetizers, flatbreads, and family style entrees.
Jack’s Hot Dogs: (Cash Only) This classic lunch counter has been serving North Adams burgers and dogs for over 100 years!
Lickety Split: Located at MASS MoCA- a must stop of breakfast, lunch, and gourmet ice cream for museumgoers and those just passing hrough.
Nara Sushi: Close to campus! This is a great spot for lunch specials, noodle bowls, and specialty sushi.
Public Eat + Drink: Great dining, with a variety of small and large plates, burgers, flatbreads, and a hip atmosphere.
Ramunto’s Brick Oven Pizza: Delicious brick oven pizza with tons of variety. Also try their calzones, salads, burgers, sandwiches, and pasta!
State Food & Drink: Try out this west coast inspired restaurant with local ingredients. Stop in on Tu’sdays with local chef Tu Le!
Tres Niños: Hot and fresh tacos, burritos, and bowls. Located in downtown North Adams, and close to MASS MoCA
Tunnel City Coffee: Another great stop on the MASS MoCA campus- try a fresh brew of the Berkshire’s best locally roasted coffee and take some beans to go!
Wigwam Western Summit: Located just around the hairpin turn, this gift shop and coffeehouse has a bakery with a view!
Yes, the following are all within walking distance of the MCLA campus:
Make the most of your time in North Adams and the Berkshires with these can’t-miss activities!
Gallery 51: MCLA’s own student operated gallery is located on Main Street in North Adams. Gallery 51 features a rotating program of established and emerging artist exhibitions along with student produced shows.
MASS MoCA: One of the nation’s largest contemporary art museums has so much to offer! Alongside stunning galleries and rotating exhibitions, visit MASS MoCA for live shows, fun events, and big-name music festivals. (Stop by the Admissions table to get a free pass!)
The Clark Art Institute: A renowned collection of European and American art. Be sure to walk (or snowshoe) the trails that cross the grounds and take in spectacular views of the Berkshires.
Williams College Museum of Art (WCMA): The art museum of Williams College. WCMA works to create and inspire transformative experiences, lifelong learning, and human connection. Located right in the middle of Williamstown on the Williams College campus, this museum is a perfect stop for art lovers in the Berkshires.
Mount Greylock State Reservation: Hike or drive to the tallest peak in Massachusetts for a 90-mile view into four states! Check out the trails and historic sites at the top, or settle in for a meal at the rustic Bascom Lodge, located right at the summit. (Facilities & road close for season on 10/30, trails accessible year-round)
The Cascades: A leisurely nature walk at the foot of the Greylock Mountain Reserve ends in a breathtaking waterfall, with a trailhead only two miles from campus.
Greylock Glen: The Greylock Glen in Adams provides a great variety of trails around meadows, marshes, ponds, and passes. Options for hikers of all abilities, and even skiers and mountain bikers.
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort: Year-round destination for outdoor fun, whether it’s wintertime skiing and snowboarding, or warm weather hikes and rides on the alpine slides.
Natural Bridge State Park: Located in Clarksburg Ma off Rt 8, this beautiful quarry hosts amazing rock formations and great spots for hiking, picnics, and pictures.
For more information, please contact:
Kiara Burgos-Santiago
Conferences and Events Coordinator
kiara.burgos-santiago@mcla.edu
413-652-5224
Brendan Kelly
Director of Conferences and Campus Events
brendan.kelly@mcla.edu
413-652-7569
