Worcester Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich city of Worcester with our comprehensive travel guide, which includes a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


A Comprehensive Guide to Worcester

Welcome to Worcester, a culturally rich city in Central Massachusetts, known for its vibrant and dynamic community, and home to a diverse array of attractions and activities. With fantastic museums, hiking and biking routes, natural scenic views, and delicious food and drink options, Worcester is a must-visit stop on your New England itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Worcester

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Worcester:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Worcester Art Museum
  • EcoTarium
  • Old Sturbridge Village
  • Worcester Historical Museum

Natural Attractions of Worcester: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor
  • Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Green Hill Park
  • Cascading Waters

Hiking/Biking Routes of Worcester

Worcester is home to some of the best-hiking/biking routes in Central Massachusetts, with something for every level of expertise, such as the Mid-State Trail, Blackstone River Bikeway, and many more.

Best Things to Do in Worcester: Activities and Tours

Discover the best things to do in Worcester, including:

  • Experience a show at the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts.
  • Go on a Craft Brewery Tour.
  • Visit the Worcester Railers Hockey Team.
  • Explore the DCU Center.

Week-Long Itinerary for Worcester

Day 1: Worcester Art Museum, lunch at Wormtown Brewery.

Day 2: Old Sturbridge Village, dinner at Armsby Abbey.

Day 3: EcoTarium, Worcester Historical Museum, and dinner at Rovezzi’s Ristorante.

Day 4: Broad Meadow Brook Conservation Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, lunch at BirchTree Bread Company, and scenic views at Cascading Waters Park.

Day 5: Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor and dinner at Deadhorse Hill.

Day 6: Visit Green Hill Park and play around at the farmstead, grab lunch at The Citizen Wine Bar, and a cocktail at Railers Sports Tavern.

Day 7: Worcester County Horticultural Society, salivate at Table Talk Pies, and finish the day at the DCU Center.

Food and Drink Scene of Worcester

Worcester’s food and drink scene is a treasure trove of deliciousness, and for the foodie traveler, Worcester embodies the true spirit of the culinary scene of New England.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Worcester-style hot dog
  • Shrewsbury Street’s Italian cuisine
  • Grilled pizza at VIA Italian Table
  • Worcester famous lobster rolls

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer at Wormtown Brewery
  • Unique craft cocktails at The Citizen Wine Bar
  • Tailgate Seasons at Greater Good Imperial Brewing Company
  • Table Talk Pies milkshakes

Where to Stay in Worcester: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Worcester has some of the best hospitality offerings in Central Massachusetts, with some of the best accommodation options:

  • Beechwood Hotel
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Worcester
  • Courtyard by Marriott Worcester
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Worcester

What to Buy in Worcester: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Worcester is a hub of local products and souvenirs that you wouldn’t want to miss:

  • Table Talk Pies and Worcester Wares
  • Olive oil and wine from the Worcester County Horticultural Society.

Local Culture and Customs of Worcester

Worcester is a diverse and cultural hub, where its residents and visitors can experience the heritage and customs of the region.

Best Time to Visit Worcester

The best time to visit Worcester is in September when the temperatures cool down, and the fall foliage turns the city auburn and gold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Worcester

Do:

  • Visit the Worcester Art Museum.
  • Try Worcester-style hot dogs.
  • Go on a Craft Brewery Tour.
  • Visit Old Sturbridge Village.

Don’t:

  • Forget to tip waitstaff.
  • Misuse the bike lanes in Worcester.
  • Smoke in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Worcester

Worcester is a safe city, but as with any urban area, it’s essential to take precautions and remain aware of your surroundings.

Health in Worcester

Worcester offers excellent medical facilities, with several hospitals and private healthcare practices in the city.

Getting to Worcester: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Worcester

  • Worcester Regional Airport
  • Boston Logan International Airport

Bus Stations Near Worcester

  • Worcester Regional Transit Authority

Other Options

  • Worcester Taxis and Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Worcester

Getting around Worcester is easy with its many bike lanes, Worcester Regional Transit Authority, and taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Worcester: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Worcester is a great starting point for your Massachusetts adventure.

  • Massachusetts State House
  • Plymouth Rock
  • Cape Cod

Conclusion

Experience the dynamic cultural diversity of Worcester with its historic sites, natural beauty, food, and entertainment. Worcester is an excellent addition to any East Coast itinerary, you won’t be disappointed!