Lenox was originally inhabited by the Mahicans. The tensions of the French and Indian War delayed European settlement until 1750, then Hartford's Jonathan and Sarah Hinsdale set up a small local inn and general store.
The town was supposed to be called Lennox, likely after Duke Charles Lennox, but a clerk misspelled the name at its 1767 incorporation. It's been spelled Lenox ever since. The town was built on its textile mills, sawmills, farms, glassworks, and quarries. In the 1800s, many prominent members of the arts community, including writers Catharine Sedgwick and Nathaniel Hawthorne and actress Fanny Kemble moved to Lenox. In 1902, Edith Wharton built her estate, The Mount, in Lenox. It remains one of the most visited sites in the town today.
Tourists began discovering Lenox with the extension of the Housatonic Railroad in 1838, and they've been visiting since that time. Modern-day Lenox offers fine restaurants, historic landmarks, eclectic downtown shopping opportunities, the trails of the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, and much more. Discover all that Lenox offers on your next vacation.
When are the best times to visit Lenox, MA?
Lenox is most popular during summer, when tourists from around the country visit the city to escape their everyday lives. You'll find plenty to see and do here during the summer months, including performances from the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood and the screenings of the Berkshire Jewish Film Festival. While the weather is pleasantly warm and entertainment options varied during this season, hotel rates surge in line with the increased demand.
You'll get a better hotel rate and still enjoy wonderful weather and events if you visit Lenox during September, before fall temperatures dip. Lenox's social calendar is full this month, with The Tub Parade and the Lenox Apple Squeeze bringing townsfolk and visitors together.
When it's cold in Lenox, it's very cold, especially in January and February when average temps hover around the early 20s. Lenox makes a convenient home base for travelers planning to hit the slopes in Pittsfield's Bousquet Ski Area, but if you're a not a snow bunny, you may want to steer clear.
Rain is also common in Lenox, especially during spring and early summer, so consider postponing your trip until the wet season passes.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Lenox, MA:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average rate trends by star rating class in Lenox, MA. Analyze these line graphs to calculate the most cost effective dates to stay in Lenox for upcoming travels.
Where are the luxury hotels near Lenox, MA?
4 Star Average Prices: £162.54
Allow yourself to be pampered at the following luxury accommodation options. Satisfied guests insist these boutique bed-and-breakfasts are worth the splurge.
The Rookwood Inn is a lovingly restored Victorian manor where guests come first. The beautiful rooms are decorated with antique wooden furniture and traditional artworks. Air-conditioning, premium bedding, and radios provide modern touches. You won't find TV sets, but the hotel does have Wi-Fi access. You'll also find a stereo with records in the parlor, books in the library, and board games in the living room to pass the time. Home-cooked breakfasts and afternoon refreshments are included in the room rate. The first-floor spa room offers singles and couples massage treatments.
Garden Gables Inn is another first-rate local bed-and-breakfast, ideally located within walking distance of Tanglewood and Lenox Village. While this inn is a traditional English country house, contemporary touches like air conditioning and high-definition TVs with DVD players delight modern visitors. Guests rave about the breakfast options, including eggs cooked to order, apple strudel French toast, buttermilk pancakes, and a continental buffet. For a real treat, book the Private Chef's Table experience. Relaxing is easy at Garden Gables Inn, but if you need more pampering, get a facial, massage, or another soothing treatment in the dedicated spa rooms.
What affordable hotel options are around Lenox, MA?
3 Star Average Prices: £153.22
Frugal travelers will find Lenox has a host of affordable accommodation options. Local budget chain hotels provide some of the lowest rates in Lenox.
The Knights Inn Lenox's rooms aren't flashy, but it makes up for that lack of flash with its affordable rates and Berkshire Mountains location. They also offer everything you need, like flat-screen TVs, microwaves, fridges, and a comfortable bed or two for the night. Let the kids expend energy in the children's play area while you make use of the Wi-Fi, which is free throughout the hotel. Pet-friendly rooms are available on request.
Days Inn – Lenox MA is another modest but comfortable chain option on Pittsfield Road. It has a few more guest perks than Knights Inn, such as an outdoor swimming pool and the free continental Daybreak breakfast. The rooms are also more modern, with bold feature walls and chic comforters, although they feature similar electronics and fixtures. Guest laundry facilities and an outdoor picnic area with tables will help you feel at home at Days Inn.
2 Star Average Prices: £101.97
What are the best hotels in the Lenox, MA for group discounts?
If you're a member of selected groups, you could qualify for big discounts on your Lenox accommodations. Renowned chain hotels such as the following typically offer the town's best special rates.
Howard Johnson Express Inn – Lenox extends discounts to AAA auto club members, seniors and AARP members, federal and state government employees, and large traveling groups. Its rooms are spacious with comfy armchairs for watching the flat-screen TVs and microwave ovens for heating convenience meals and restaurant leftovers. Swim laps in the outdoor pool when the weather is warm or fight the chill in the hotel's sauna. The free Rise & Dine continental breakfast will fill you up each morning.
Hampton Inn & Suites Berkshires-Lenox discounts its standard room rate for AAA auto club members, AARP and CARP members, travel agents, government workers, and military personnel. Its rooms are enormous, from the standard guest rooms to the larger suites. All that space means you can make use of the work desk, chest of drawers, and plush beds without feeling cramped. Start the day right with your free breakfast, whether you want to linger over the buffet or grab-and-go with a breakfast bag, offered on weekdays. Burn off your morning indulges in the indoor pool or fitness center.
What hotels in Lenox, MA have the best value?
The following Lenox hotels balance affordability with the little touches that make your stay special. You'll always witness value when you book rooms at these Lenox accommodations.
Apple Tree Inn is a charming inn with rates a little more affordable than many other local bed-and-breakfasts. Built as a private residence in 1885, it's operated as an inn since 1937. Although wireless internet exists, you won't find too many modern gadgets in these rooms. There's something refreshing about disconnecting and appreciating simpler pleasures such as swimming laps in the pool, relaxing by the fire, or exploring the picturesque grounds. Directly across from Tanglewoods, it makes the ideal choice for travelers wanting to see the Boston Symphony Orchestra in summer.
Cranwell Resort Spa & Golf Resort doesn't have low-priced rooms, but they're reasonable considering all the resort offers. The rooms and suites are well-appointed with CD players, coffee makers, premium bedding, and make-up mirrors to make sure you always look your best. The golf course, praised by leading publications such as Golf Digest and the New England Golf Guide, is a draw for keen putters. Unwind with a spa treatment, then enjoy a beer at Sloane's, a light meal at The Spa Soup & Snack Cafe, or more substantial seasonal fare at Wyndhurst at the Mansion.
Why you should include farm-fresh food tasting when in Lenox, MA?
Lenox is ideally situated at the heart of the Berkshire community's locally grown food movement, so it's a must-visit destination for many American foodies. You can taste farm-fresh local food at the following local restaurants that put sustainability and seasonality first.
Table Six restaurant at Kemble Inn prides itself on serving high-quality meals made from only the finest and freshest local ingredients. Savor the rosemary-roasted Cornish hen, petit beef tenderloin, or vegetarian black garlic risotto with burgundy truffle. The artisan cheese and charcuterie board, featuring local farm treasures, can be shared for a light meal or enjoyed as an after-dinner treat. Table Six's creative cocktail list is also legendary throughout the county.
Creating meals inspired by seasonal produce is a time-honored Mediterranean tradition. The Italian-themed Alta Restaurant & Wine Bar continues the legacy. The puttanesca bucatini pasta, Misty Knoll Farm Chicken Statler, and beef tenderloin served with seasonal vegetables are all something special. An extensive list of cocktails, beers, and wines, including 24 wines by the glass, lets you find the ideal pairing for your meal.
Church Street Cafe, Cafe Lucia, Firefly Restaurant, and Haven Cafe and Bakery are also proud to create meals using the best meats, fruits, vegetables, and other foods from local Berkshire County farms and artisans.
For a vacation destination that allows you to do as much or as little as you want, choose Lenox. The town has top facilities without the frantic pace of larger tourist areas. Book early to secure the best rates on Lenox accommodations, especially during summer and festival periods.
FAQs about hotels in Lenox
Recent traveler guest reviews of Lenox, MA
Below are reviews of the city of Lenox, MA from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Great restaurants and architecture and gardens of estates"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great restaurants and architecture and gardens of estates
Barbara S., from 03-Nov-2024
"Great Restaurants & Lovely Gardens"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great restaurants and architecture and estate gardens.
Barbara S., from 03-Nov-2024
"So much to offer!"
Score
5.0 / 5
I lived in the area for many years so I am familiar with all
It has to offer! We had dinner at Mazzeos.
Mary Y., from 20-Sep-2024
"Everything!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Everything!
James O., from 06-Aug-2024
"Near Tanglewood"
Score
5.0 / 5
Visited Tanglewood.
Elissa W., from 14-Jul-2024
"Restaurants & Stores!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The restaurants and stores.
John B., from 11-Nov-2023
"Restaurants & Stores"
Score
5.0 / 5
The restaurants and stores.
John B., from 10-Nov-2023
"Nice shops, eateries and taverns!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Nice shops, eateries and taverns!
Elizabeth R., from 13-Oct-2023
"Many cultural, dining and shopping options!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Many cultural, dining and shopping options in Lenox or nearby.
Patricia G., from 30-Sep-2023
"Friendly employees liking what they're doing!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Friendly employees liking what they're doing!
George H., from 25-Sep-2023
"Tanglewood!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Tanglewood!
Susan F., from 30-Jul-2023
"very central to many cultural & hiking sites."
Score
5.0 / 5
Lenox is the epicenter of the Berkshires which means its very central to many cultural and hiking sites.
Paul R., from 25-Jul-2023
"Canyon Ranch and the Norman Rockwell Museum"
Score
4.0 / 5
Loved the city and enjoyed Canyon Ranch, The Mount and the Norman Rockwell Museum.
Donna U., from 30-Sep-2022
"Rockwell Museum"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lenox offers easy sightseeing along with Melville, Rockwell Museum. Tanglewood especially and Wharton House with cafe provided a fine weekend getaway.
Jean V., from 06-Jul-2022
"Quaint!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Quaint with lots to do!
Ann L., from 19-Jun-2022
"Quaint!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Quaint place with a nice selection of restaurants and shops!
Edward R., from 30-Apr-2022
The average traveler rating of the city of Lenox, MA shown above is
4.4 out of 5 based on 16 reviews