For the first time since we bought the house, we made what used to be our annual trek to Tanglewood. Armed with eggs (boiled) and cheese from Goat Rising and bread and muffins from the Country Store, we headed southwest to the music camp. Arriving around 10:30, we found a shady spot for the car and spread out our brunch under the trees in the parking lot. The gates opened at noon, and soon after we went in and toured the lovely grounds outside the Koussevitsky Shed. The program was, uncharacteristically, a Pops concert, featuring Alec Baldwin and Arlo Guthrie. We, uncharacteristically, had seats inside so that we could see them both. Baldwin read excerpts from Kennedy brothers’ speeches, and Arlo was, characteristically, Arlo.
I have never encouraged people with Tanglewood on their mind to stay with us, and if that is the only destination, there are closer places for rent. But for anyone staying with us a week or two, Tanglewood should make the short list of day trips. The ride, alongside lakes and streams through pleasant countryside and forests, takes about an hour.
From Charlemont, take Route 2 through town to 8A South. Turn left and travel for about 10 miles. Turn right when 8A joins 116 and left when 8A leaves 116 to continue south. When 8A ends at Route 9, turn right and follow 9 into and through Pittsfield until it joins Route 7. Follow 7 south to 7A in Lenox and turn right on 183. You’ll see signs for Tanglewood.
If you’re traveling with a dog, seek out the wooded section at the far end of the East Parking Lot. Arrive before 11:30 and tell the parking lot attendant you want to park in the shade. At that hour, you’ll have your choice of spots. Pick out the most densely covered, and your dog will be fine throughout the concert. We always check on ours during intermission, and this time found her so fast asleep she didn’t know we’d come and gone.
For tickets and box office hours, go to tanglewood.org.
(photos courtesy Steven Sternbach)