A little of Vermont, a bit of Massachusetts, and a touch of New York state…
As the train departed the Albany station and headed home to Penn Station, I watched the painter work his masterpiece by splashing red, orange and yellow against the green backdrop along the Hudson River. He had tired a little north of Yonkers, as green remained the primary color as we traveled those last few miles. The ride provided me the time to reflect on my “must stops” from this journey.
A “must stop” is self explanatory, but just to make sure we’re on the same page…my definition is when you’re in an area, you MUST STOP and experience the locals, the culture, the land, the sounds, the smells, the events…
A thriving family farm business with more than 100 acres in production and three produce-packed stores where you can buy local or pick your own. Regardless of the season, this place has it going on seven days a week, year round. A must stop while traveling through Manchester, Newfane or West Brattleboro, Vermont.
Simply the best bookstore I’ve ever experienced. Family owned and operated since 1976, there are so many nooks and crannies in this refurbished inn. All brimming with love and care whether it’s books, music, cards, magazines, or gifts. Their restaurant, The Spiral Press Cafe, is a must for lunch or an afternoon coffee. So wonderful to see a bookstore actually thriving in our electronic world. To me there’s nothing like being curled up and turning the pages of a Sunday paper or a good novel or autobiography. A must stop while traveling through Manchester, Vermont.
At 125 feet, one of Vermont’s tallest waterfalls. Only locals really know about this deep gorge with wading pools below the formation. Ten people have died here. Need I say more? I see a hiking adventure in the future for better photos of the entire formation. A must stop in Jamaica, Vermont.
Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the largest centers for contemporary visual and performing arts in the country. This complex of interconnected, 19th century mill buildings just blew me away before I could even get to the exhibits. The galleries offer thousands of square feet of open space and the industrial character is a inspiration to both artists and visitors. The exhibits focus on large-scale and complex installations that would be impossible to create or view in a conventional museum. And take if from someone who is NOT a museum person. This place is incredible!! A must stop in North Adams, Mass. And trust me, you won’t miss it driving through town!
One installation, by Tobias Putrih, stretches fishing line across a dark gallery. Lines start high on one wall, ending low on the opposite one. A single light source illuminates the strands and when followed you slowly descend below head height to waist level in a tunnel-like space. This little boy was totally infatuated as was I.
Besides the most breathtaking views the Bershires has to offer, it’s a must stop in Williamstown, Mass just to experience the petting farm. Loved this beautiful, groomed, but very arrogant llama…
But the highlight was meeting Bella, this adorable little pot-bellied pig that had enough charisma and spirit for all of us! “Look at me, look at me!”
Only 36 hours and one barely touches the surface of this beautiful area. I’ll leave you with one of my favorite quinessential Vermont fall scenes. Until another trip…
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