How to Get the Most Out of a Visit to MASS MoCA

Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

There are world-class museums of all kinds scattered throughout Massachusetts. In North Adams, the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (better known as MASS MoCA) is a perfect encapsulation of our state – where old and new converge in a cutting-edge experience where you can have fun, experience some beautiful scenery, and learn something too.

History

The museum sits within a converted factory complex originally built between 1870 and 1900, giving the exhibit space a unique industrial feel. In the early 1900s, the area was one of the leading producers of printed textiles. Eventually the space was taken over by an electric company, who operated there until finally shutting down their factory in the 1980s.

After years of planning, MASS MoCA opened its doors in 1999 with over 100,000 square feet of museum space. Over time, their exhibition space has more than doubled.

The Art and the Campus

MASS MoCA is a place where one can experience and admire many mediums of art through exhibits and public programs. The campus has over 200,000 square feet of open, naturally lit gallery space over three floors, making it an ideal spot to showcase a variety of different works. The size and openness of this former factory space is unique, offering opportunities for larger-scale and more immersive installations than you’ll typically find in more traditional museum spaces.

The museum strives to be a space where one can not only see art but also make it. The space works as both indoor and outdoor galleries, a performance venue, and a working studio for upcoming and well-known artists. Since 2015, MASS MoCA has hosted over 900 artists and writers as part of its residency program, which allows makers to apply for studio space and housing for up to 4 weeks. The program also offers the opportunity to connect and network with fellow creatives, and online workshops for career development.

The museum offers daily public guided tours at specific times for admission-holders. These interactive tours are a great way to learn more about the museum and its galleries.

Outside of the galleries, the space hosts over 25 restaurants and shopping options on campus, including a gift shop, breweries, coffee, and galleries.

Events

MASS MoCA stages live events year-round. From dance exhibitions, to film and documentary screenings, to popular music and other festivals, MASS MoCA puts on live events on most weekends throughout the year. In 2025, MASS MoCA will welcome Fran Lebowitz, Ani DiFranco, the FreshGrass Bluegrass festival, and more.

Every other summer, the venue hosts Wilco’s famous outdoor Solid Sound Festival , which features the band, their side projects, and other artists. In 2024, the festival featured Jason Isbell and the 400 unite, Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets, Sylvan Esso, Song Exploder, John Hodgeman, and more. The festival will return to North Adams in 2026.

Getting There

MASS MoCA is located in North Adams, along the Hoosic River in the Northwestern-most corner of the state. With moderate traffic, its about 3 hours away from Boston, 2 hours from Worcester, and 90 minutes from Springfield. It is most convenient to get around this area by car.

If you’re coming from the east or the west, travel along Route 2 – the Mohawk Trail . It’s not just convenient – it’s one of the prettiest routes in the country. From the north or south, take Route 8.

The museum is open most days. Find specific times and admission rates here.

Nearby in North Adams

North Adams is a lovely place to visit throughout the year. Mount Greylock, in Adams – the highest point in Massachusetts – offers amazing views and some of the best hiking in the state. Close by between May and October, don’t miss Natural Bridge State Park – home to one of the only natural white marble arches in North America.

If you’re looking to stay overnight, the Porches Inn at Mass MoCA is a renowned, historic inn nearby. It is known for its stunning views, one-of-a-kind performance spaces, and its proximity to Mass MoCA. Nearby along Route 2, TOURISTS Welcome is an upscale lodge by the Hoosic River, known for its art, design, and views.

If you’re in town to visit MASS MoCA for the art or an event, don’t miss the area’s other renowned art museums – The Berkshire Art Museum (reopening in July of 2024), and the Clark Art Institute and the Williams College Museum of Art in Williamstown next door. Additionally, there are a number of local galleries around town where you can support local artists.

Outside of the MASS MoCA campus, downtown North Adams is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or a weekend. Since it opened in 1938, the iconic Mohawk Theater has been THE place to catch a flick. Hungry? Grab a bite at Jack’s Hot Dog Stand, which has been serving the area since 1917, or at the Golden Eagle Restaurant at the hairpin turn of the Mohawk Trail, where you’ll see one of the best vistas in Massachusetts. Get some locally-roasted coffee at Tunnel City Coffee, located near the entrance to MASS MoCA.

You can get a sense of what is currently on display at MASS MoCA by looking at their list of current exhibits, and what is going on around town by checking out our friends at 1Berkshire and Discover North Adams. There is always plenty to see and do in North Adams at any time of year – history, scenery, a unique creative culture, and so much more. At MASS MoCA, you can experience it all.

TOPICS: Berkshires, Mass MoCA, Mohawk Trail, Museums, North Adams