Learn The Local Lingo Of North Adams

Visiting or new to North Adams? Here’s some lingo you can learn to understand what the locals are talking about or sound like one!

Downstreet: Refers to the movement down Main Street from west to east.

The Trail: The Mohawk Trail or Route 2.

Hairpin Turn: Super sharp turn on Route 2 West leaving North Adams on the Clarksburg border. In under four miles, the elevation change between downtown North Adams and the hairpin turn is 1,000 feet!

Curran Highway: Route 8 or State Road.

The T: The nickname of North Adam’s beloved State Street Tavern on Route 8.

North County: The unofficial name of the northern part of Berkshire County from Pittsfield to the Vermont border.

South County: The unofficial name of the southern part of Berkshire County from Pittsfield to the Connecticut border.

Fish Pond: The old name of what is now referred to as “Windsor Lake,” a popular swimming spot.

Hill Towns: The collection of towns along Route 2 West leaving North including, Florida, Monroe, Rowe and Charlemont

Package Store (or Packie): In case you aren’t from New England, this is where you buy alcohol.