North Adams is truely a great place to start but just down the road is Williamstown. Depending on the time of the year the Theather Festavil and the Movie Festival are great takes. The Clark Museum with it's collection of Renoir's ( Largest in U.S.) is a must see. Off the road is Cricket Creak Farm where children and adults can get a glimsk of farm life , the store sells the farm's produce. ( oblong Road Williamstown)  If you drive out of town on Waterstreet , look for a beautiful stone wall on the left with a turn into a park ( over a bridge) great picnic spot with swimming in the Green river. The best treat of all is reserved for last. Dine at Mezze on Rt 2 west of town. Gourmet dining in a country setting. Watch for cast members from the Theather Festival. For a place to stay the Orchards in Williamstown is a touch of old world luxury.For the Budget minded try the Cozy Corner on Rt. 7 headed toward Pownall VT.