Tanglewood

Incredible acoustic experience. Not a bad seat or spot in the place. Jackson Browne rocked it so that you could feel the kick and bass. Or on a quieter piece, you could sense every nuance of an acoustic guitar. Awesome place to hear and see any concert.  The lawn has complete sound coverage with permanent outdoor arrays to give you great sound no matter where you are on the grounds.

You're not truly Berkshire-bred unless you've spent ONE summer day of your life here.

Granted, I have yet to sadly see THE quintessential Tanglewood show: James Taylor on the 4th of the July, an almost annual tradition. *sigh* ONE day...one day...

However, for a great afternoon or evening in bucolic Leonx, look no further. Associated with the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Tanglewood provides vast lawns for picnicking and music listening. (Trust me. The acoustics are phenomenal, even all the way at the entrance of the East Lot at Route 183!) For a bit more formality, there is either the Seiji Ozawa Hall or the Koussevitzky Shed. I've had the pleasure of seeing Norah Jones at the former and Jackson Browne with Sara Watkins at the latter, and both were magnificent experiences.

Expect to be crowded when seated on the lawn, but don't be afraid to bring the whole kitchen with you: yes, alcohol is allowed, and what's better than sitting on the lawn, listening to some Americana or an orchestra while sipping chilled white wine, eating grapes, brie, and a baguette? Not much!

Tanglewood is an experience in itself. You can go to other outdoor venues, but you'll be hard pressed to find something as outstanding as this place, a staple of life in the Berkshires.

Didn't catch a show, but it's a beautiful venue.