Curator’s statement
Although it is often eclipsed by its swankier neighbor to the east, Worcester is the second largest city in New England, and has many cultural attractions, historical sites and fabulous eateries to make it a destination well worth visiting. You can hike in the summer and ice-skate in the winter, sample local beers and global cuisine and wonder at an Andy Warhol and wander in a used bookstore, all while being in a hub of higher education. Worcester is a college town at heart, and it boasts several top-notch universities, including College of the Holy Cross, Clark University and the UMass Chan Medical School.
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Where to stay in Worcester, Massachusetts
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Things to do in Worcester, Massachusetts
Old Masters on display at the Worcester Art Museum
Shopping
Haberdash: In need of a new outfit or two for your trip to Central Mass? Look no further than this trendy and well-appointed boutique.
Seed to Stem: This nursery/homegoods shop doubles as a crystal/rock/incense purveyor, channeling the spirit of the Southwest and all manner of good vibes.
Bedlam Book Cafe: Independent bookstore with a substantial poetry section and a small cafe that serves smoothies and coffees. What else does one need?
Cultural
Worcester Art Museum: Not to be overlooked, consider this gem for a rainy day activity; it holds the second largest collection of arms and armor in the country.
Mechanics Hall: Built before the Civil War as a gathering spot for the city’s industrial workforce, this landmark now regularly holds musical performances.
Outdoors
Polar Park: Watch Worcester’s own WooSox play minor league baseball while enjoying some local eats and a cold brew or a can of Polar Ice.
Worcester Common Oval: Seasonally maintained and family-friendly ice-skating rink
Quinsigamond State Park: Swimming, fishing, sailing and more!
Places to eat & drink in Worcester, Massachusetts
It doesn’t get more authentic than this classic diner!
Old-school
George’s Coney Island: Nothing fancy here, but you can’t beat the classic dogs and the retro prices; the bottled chocolate milk is not to be missed!
Miss Worcester Cafe: Come early enough to beat the crowds and enjoy a classic diner breakfast or lunch; one of the few original diners left in the city.
Out with friends
Bay State Brewing: Grab a hyper-local beer and settle in at this Worcester Ice Center-adjacent brewery.
El Patron: A favorite and authentic Mexican restaurant, with super-friendly staff
Worcester Public Market: Having trouble deciding? Options like Jamaican patties and Indian fare abound at this eclectic and charming food hall.
Parents’ Weekend
Via Italian Table: Come for the wine list and pasta, but stay for the crepe cake.
Volturno: Upscale yet casual pizza joint
Piccolo: Classic and intimate traditional Italian eatery; a Parents’ Weekend must!
Need to know
Worcester’s weather tends to be more dramatic than Boston’s, so plan accordingly.
Travel Advisor
Belen Gallarza-Wilson
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