Get a New Perspective

Optical Heritage Museum, 12 Crane Street, Southbridge

photo credit: Optical Heritage Museum

Fascinated by the history of eyewear? The Optical Heritage Museum has been in operation for over 35 years and offers one of the largest collections of spectacle frames and ophthalmic optical items in the world. There are thousands of items within their collections and displays including microscopes, Lensometers, multifocal and antique spectacles and more.

A Slice of Nostalgia

Mendon Twin Drive-In, 35 Milford Street, Mendon

Dubbed “America’s Most Beloved Drive-In”, the Mendon Twin Drive-In has been in operation for over 65 years. With two screens and a fully stocked snack bar sitting on nearly 16 acres of land, the family-friendly location is a great place to make happy movie-watching memories together.

Eclectic Music for All

John Henry's Hammer Coffeehouse, 90 Main Street, Worcester

Run by a small group of dedicated volunteers, John Henry’s Hammer Coffeehouse is a premier folk venue featuring local and national performing artists. With a monthly concert series and open mic nights held bi-weekly, there is no shortage of live music events to patronize. Providing excellent acoustics, the venue is considered one of the best ‘listening rooms” in the area.

Hands-On Weaving

SAORI Worcester, 18 Winslow Street, Worcester

The art of freehand Japanese SAORI weaving is said to encourage free expression and self-development for all, regardless of ability or artistic aptitude. The SAORI Worcester space is multi-use, with weaving classes, demonstrations and community events regularly on the calendar. Students can craft things like clothing, bags, tapestries and other utilitarian items.

A Peaceful View

Lookout Rock, Quaker Street, Northbridge

Central Massachusetts certainly has no shortage of beautiful scenery, but Lookout Rock is truly special. This hiking spot has stunning 360 views of Blackstone Valley that are picturesque no matter the season. You can choose between an easy or more difficult trail, depending on the time you have to explore. Don’t forget to bring a picnic to enjoy at the summit!

Supporting Diversity and Creativity

The Center at Eagle Hill, 242 Old Petersham Road, Hardwick

The Center at Eagle Hill is a place to celebrate artists and musicians of all backgrounds. The facility has two theaters, art galleries, visual art and graphics classrooms and studios, music classroom and recording studio, woodshop and function hall. Community members are invited to participate in workshops and expanded arts classes offered through Eagle Hill School’s ongoing adult education program.

A Blend of History, Artwork and Culture

Museum of Russian Icons, 203 Union Street, Clinton

This museum offers a fascinating peek into Russian culture through the curation of a variety of exhibits and contains the largest collection of orthodox icons outside Russia. You can view an array of priceless objects ranging in size, including painted wood, mosaic, fresco, embroidery, and metal. Stop by the tea room decorated with Russian tea urns and decorative objects, when you visit.

Where Sights and Sounds Collide

Worcester County Light Opera, 21 Grandview Avenue, Worcester

Worcester’s oldest active theatre company has a storied history dating back to the early 1930s. Today, performances range from comedy to tragedy, classical to contemporary and musical to non-musical. Recent works have been produced by local playwrights, allowing residents to showcase their work.