Central Massachusetts visitors flock to the major attractions in every corner of the region. This is your guide to exploring beyond the first destination - check out the small businesses, the hidden gems, and the family-owned and operated hot spots that will keep you coming back again and again. While this list doesn't include everywhere you need to know, it's a great shortlist to start with!
 

Worcester Attractions

About the EcoTarium EcoTarium is New England’s leading museum of science and nature, an indoor-outdoor experience dedicated to inspiring a passion for science and…

dining nearby

Worcester's Shrewsbury Street, known as "Restaurant Row," is a short drive from the EcoTarium, offering dozens of great options for families looking for a sit down lunch or dinner.

Via Italian Table

  • 89 Shrewsbury St.
  • (508) 754-4842

VIA Italian Table is a restaurant that is both urban and rural, sophisticated and casual, old world and remarkably new. It is a place where singles mingle with…

Basil N' Spice

  • 299 Shrewsbury St.
  • (774) 317-9986

Born and raised in the Sukhothai province of Thailand, the owner of this family run restaurant immigrated to the United States in 2001 with the rest of her…

Volturno

  • 72 SHREWSBURY St.
  • (508) 756-8658

Volturno is the only local source of this traditional art of pizza making and is certified by the Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana. Our pizza is charred…

dining nearby

Worcester's Canal District offers new and established dining with a wide range of atmospheres. Boston Magazine recently called the Worcester Public Market a "United Nations of flavor" and American Flatbread recently brought candlepin bowling back to the city where it was born, along with their amazing brick oven pizzas! 

dining nearby

Adjacent to the Salisbury Cultural District you'll find walkable options on Highland Street, including the city's best seafood! Head a little further to Main Street or Park Ave for even more options.

deadhorse hill

  • 281 Main St.
  • (774) 420-7107

deadhorse hill is a seasonal American restaurant located on main street in downtown Worcester. A restaurant inspired by the New England landscape. We rely on the…

Altea's Eatery

  • 259 Park Ave
  • (508) 767-1639

Altea's Eatery serves thoughtfully sourced, honest American food with a French twist in a modern and comfortable space. Altea's is the second location for owners…

dining nearby

Nearby Fitton Field where the Bravehearts play home games, are hidden gems you should explore when you're in the area!

Wooden Bakery

  • 4 Knowlton Ave
  • (774) 312-6319

Wooden Bakery is a new bakery on the Worcester scene! We offer an extensive selection of baked goods (sweet & savory) and breads with a menu that changes every 2/3…

Discover Sutton

With a town common seemingly out of a Norman Rockwell painting, Sutton has maintained commitment to conserving both nature and history. You won’t want to miss a hike through the geologic preserve, Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, and celebrate your hike with an ice cream nearby afterwards.

West End Creamery

  • 481 Purgatory Rd.
  • (508) 234-2022

West End Creamery is open for Ice Cream, Mini Golf, and The Barnyard Jump (ages 3+). Enjoy a cone of delicious ice cream or try a round of golf on our beautiful 18 hole miniature golf course…

Discover Sturbridge

With colonial roots and peppered with modern amenities, Sturbridge dawns grassy commons, antique shops and boutiques, orchards, wooded trails and quaint bed and breakfasts.

The Duck

  • 502 Main St.
  • (508) 347-2321

For more than 30 years, the Greek revival–style building with the prominent columns and the attached Barn, on Main Street, has housed one of Sturbridge’s…

Discover Mendon

The pristine waters of Lake Nipmuc run through Mendon, along with the largest zoo in New England and a vineyard you won't want to miss.   

Southwick's Zoo

  • 2 Southwick St.
  • (508) 883-9182

Located in the heart of the Blackstone River Valley, just minutes away from Routes 495 and 146, Southwick’s Zoo offers a full day of adventure for guests of all ages! Spanning over 200 acres…

Discover Webster

Webster’s richest asset is the freshwater Lake Chaubunagungamaug, which you can enjoy while riding the Indian Princess. Nearby you'll find charming cafes, restaurants, historic attractions and a concert venue.

Indian Ranch

  • 200 Gore Rd.
  • (508) 943-3871

Since 1946 Indian Ranch has been a resort and entertainment venue situated along the shores of historic Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg in…

Discover Boylston

Boylston is a small, scenic town with a couple attractions, like New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. Cyprian Keyes is a popular nearby golf course that also offers excellent dining, especially if you're looking for a beautiful outdoor patio.

Discover Princetown & the Surrounding Towns

The Wachusett region is best known for Wachusett Mountain and its many summer and fall season festivals (and the obvious, winter skiing and snowboarding!) Nearby the mountain there are also visit-worthy gems in all directions.

More Ideas for your Central MA Adventures