By Kate Abbott
Norman Rockwell Museum | Stockbridge
The 36-acre grounds along the Housatonic River are free for anyone to bring a blanket and a sandwich—and a sketchbook and paints for some plein air dreaming.
nrm.org
Taft Farms Market, a short trip south on Route 183, makes sandwiches to order and also sells fresh fruit from the farm and fresh-baked desserts.
taftfarmsgb.com
The Mount | Lenox
Edith Wharton’s historic grounds have lots of special spots for exploring and relaxing.
edithwharton.org
Guido’s Fresh Marketplace
You’ll find almost anything you’re craving at this grocery store on the Lenox/Pittsfield border with an excellent selection of prepared foods, creative sandwiches, and lots more.
guidosfreshmarketplace.com
Shakespeare & Company | Lenox
Soak up the theater scene—and enjoy some shade on a hot day. There’s tented space and tables with umbrellas.
shakespeare.org
Nejaime’s Wine
You’ll find more than wine at this shop with locations in Lenox and Stockbridge—pick up cheese, crackers, charcuterie, and chocolate, or order a day in advance for a perfectly prepared picnic.
nejaimeswine.com
Olana | Hudson, NY
The Hudson River estate of renowned landscape painter Frederic Church is now a State Historic Site—and the 250-acre property is free to explore.
olana.org
Mel the Bakery
This new spot—a recent transplant from Brooklyn—is getting major accolades (including a James Beard nomination). In addition to exceptional breads and baked goods both sweet and savory, sandwiches are on offer starting at 11 am.
melthebakery.com
Art Omi | Ghent, NY
The sculpture and architecture park features large-scale works from contemporary artists and architects as well as gallery exhibitions, music, and other performances. There’s no entry fee, but donations are welcome and registering in advance is appreciated.
artomi.org
benGABLEsavories
You’ll have to plan ahead a bit, but it’s worth it. An extensive and enticing menu of locally sourced, seasonal food for takeaway is posted every Tuesday; call (yes, call!) by Thursday and pick up on Saturday in Chatham.
bengablesavories.com
Clark Art Institute | Williamstown
The campus is made up of 140 acres of lawns, meadows, and walking paths—including trails up historic Stone Hill, whose summit offers a spectacular view of Williamstown and the Green Mountains of Vermont.
clarkart.edu
Provisions Williamstown
You’ll find a huge selection of tinned fish—not to mention local cheese, charcuterie, cider and wine, and other delicacies.
provisionswilliamstown.com
