Eastern Newt
ParkMassachusetts, US
Field Farm
Field Farm is a fusion of nature, art, and iconic mid-century modern design.
About
Field Farm is a fusion of nature, art, and iconic mid-century modern design. This 300-plus-acre property in Williamstown, Massachusetts, invites visitors to explore pristine natural landscapes alongside architectural marvels and an impressive art collection. Owned and managed by The Trustees of Reservations, it offers a distinct blend of cultural and outdoor experiences in the scenic Berkshires.
The property boasts two significant modernist homes: The Guest House, an International Style residence built in 1948 by Edwin Goodell Jr., and The Folly, a whimsical guest cottage designed in 1965 by Ulrich Franzen. Inside the Guest House, you'll find original furnishings by design legends like George Nelson, Isamu Noguchi, and Charles and Ray Eames, alongside paintings from the Bloedel Collection by artists such as Wolf Kahn and Loren MacIver. Outdoors, a sculpture garden features 13 permanent works, including pieces by Richard M. Miller, George Rickey, and Herbert Ferber, harmonizing with the natural surroundings. Beyond the curated art and architecture, four miles of trails wind through fields, woods, and wetlands, revealing limestone cave formations, a beaver dam, and diverse flora, while providing panoramic views of Mount Greylock and the Berkshire mountains.
Visiting Field Farm offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in both natural beauty and a significant slice of American design history. Whether you're hiking the trails, seeking out the various sculptures, admiring the meticulously preserved mid-century modern interiors, or simply enjoying a picnic with stunning mountain backdrops, Field Farm provides a memorable and enriching escape. Its commitment to conservation and its role as a living museum make it a standout destination for art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility and inspiration in the heart of the Berkshires. Take the ultimate field guide with you: use the Snappit app to identify birds, plants, and animals on your trip.
Field Farm's history dates back to the mid-18th century as agricultural land, originally inhabited by Mohican and Mohawk tribes. After returning from World War II, Lawrence Bloedel, a librarian at Williams College and an avid art collector, purchased the former Nathan Field farm. Bloedel commissioned two distinctive mid-century modern homes on the property: the main residence, designed by Edwin Goodell Jr. in 1948, which became known as The Guest House, and a unique guest cottage called The Folly, designed by Ulrich Franzen in 1965. These homes housed Bloedel's extensive collection of contemporary art and designer furnishings. Upon the death of Eleanor Bloedel, Lawrence Bloedel's widow, the property and part of their art collection were bequeathed to The Trustees of Reservations in 1984, ensuring its preservation and public access. While much of the Bloedel collection was donated to the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Williams College Museum of Art, some significant pieces remain on loan and are displayed at Field Farm, contributing to its identity as a living museum of modern art and design. The Trustees continue to manage the 300+ acres, maintaining a blend of natural conservation and cultural heritage.
What to do here
Hike, picnic (tables available), birdwatch, photograph art and architecture, relax on the lawns, or book a stay at the Guest House for a full immersion.
Seasonal info
Fall: Expect vibrant orange and yellow hues across the mountains.
Winter: Ideal for quiet retreats and snowshoeing, often with fewer crowds.
Spring/Summer: Observe blooming wildflowers and active insect and amphibian life in the wetlands.
Accessibility
Field Farm offers a large, packed dirt parking lot. Many flat, dirt, and grass trails are generally accessible, being wider than 4 feet and having stones smaller than 2 inches in diameter. However, The Guest House itself is not wheelchair accessible due to an 8-inch step at the entrance and stairs to the second floor; there is no elevator. The first-floor Gallery Room is recommended for guests with limited mobility, offering a step-up into the bathroom with grab bars and a step-in shower.
Don't miss
1
The Guest House
Explore this 1948 International Style home with its original mid-century modern furnishings and art collection.
2
The Folly
Take a tour of this unique, pinwheel-shaped modernist guest cottage (tours typically available June-October).
3
Sculpture Garden
Discover 13 permanent outdoor sculptures integrated into the landscape.
4
Hiking Trails
Traverse 4-4.5 miles of easy-to-moderate trails, including the North Trail, Oak Loop, Caves Trail (featuring limestone formations), Pond Trail, and South Trail.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
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Good to know before you go
Wear appropriate footwear
** The trails are a mix of dirt and grass, so comfortable hiking shoes are recommended.
Bring binoculars
With over 80 species of birds, binoculars will enhance your birdwatching experience, especially near the pond and wetlands.
Plan for a picnic
Picnic tables are available, offering a lovely spot to enjoy a meal amidst the scenic views.
Check tour schedules for The Folly
The Folly is typically open for guided tours from June through October; confirm availability on The Trustees website.
Consider seasonal activities
Fall is spectacular for foliage, while winter provides snowshoeing opportunities (snowshoes for inn guests).
Leashed dogs welcome on trails
If bringing a canine companion, remember they are permitted on the trails but not inside the accommodations.
Frequently asked questions
- While many of Field Farm's outdoor trails are considered accessible due to their flat, wide, packed dirt and grass surfaces, the historic Guest House itself is not wheelchair accessible. It features an 8-inch step at the entrance and no elevator for its upper floors. However, a first-floor guest room (the Gallery Room) is available for those with limited mobility, offering specific bathroom aids.
- Field Farm showcases significant mid-century modern architecture, including the 1948 Guest House by Edwin Goodell Jr. and The Folly by Ulrich Franzen (1965). Inside the Guest House, visitors can admire original designer furnishings by icons like Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson, and paintings from the Bloedel Collection. Outdoors, 13 permanent sculptures are integrated into the landscape, with works by artists such as Richard M. Miller and George Rickey.
- Yes, Field Farm operates The Guest House as a bed & breakfast, offering six en-suite rooms with original features and mountain views. Staying overnight provides an authentic mid-century modern experience and allows guests exclusive access to amenities like farm-fresh breakfasts and snowshoes in winter.
Recent snaps at this place
May 19, 2026
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Photo attribution
(c) Destynnie K. Berard, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Jun 4, 2026
Jun 2, 2026
Jun 2, 2026
Jun 2, 2026
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