There's always a warm welcome within the Heart of the Commonwealth.
1. Size: It's New England's Second Largest City
A downtown global food scene and historic cultural attractions are just the beginning of Worcester’s allure. Locals and visitors alike can find options here to fulfill every need, from stunning art to a hearty appetite. The region's sheer size offers inherently personalized experiences in neighborhoods of varying energies—whether its city bustle or countryside charm.
2. Ease of Transportation & Travel
Planes, trains and automobiles are all seamlessly accessible commodities in Central Massachusetts. From Worcester Regional Airport to the MBTA, there’s no excuse not to travel from far and wide. Twenty two trains run through Union Station each week day (+eight on weekends) in addition to dozens of buses. Worcester Regional Airport offers direct flights and several major highways provide routes through the region. For extended intel on regional transport, read about your options here.
3. Rooms in the Region (3k+)
Central Massachusetts boasts modern hotels, quaint bed & breakfasts and nature-filled campgrounds—and for every place to stay, there's a nearby place to play. Rest your head at any of the 3,000+ rooms in the area, from charming New England inns to sleek, cityside stays.
4. Premiere Event Venues
A focal point for Worcester's Innovation Corridor, the DCU Center has made its mark as a top attraction and business center for three decades—hosting conventions, competitions and concerts for global visitors as a 14,000 seat hub. Beyond the DCU Center, the region is home to an impressive list of venues, from the elegant Mechanics Hall to the iconic Hanover Theatre. Polar Park stands as one of Worcester’s newest venue additions specializing in athletics, but that offers so much more, from wine tastings to dog festivals.
5. Entertainment Aplenty
Live music, sports, parks and breweries give Worcester an undeniable edge, offering meeting attendees the perfect places to connect with the community and revel in the local culture. Here are a few guides to dive deeper:
- Ultimate Guide to Polar Park Day Trips
- Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Experiences
- Central MA Craft Beer Scene
The city is just the start. Central Massachusetts has so much to offer visitors, with endless stellar attractions within 30 minutes of Worcester. Destinations like Tower Hill Botanic Gardens, Old Sturbridge Village, Southwick’s Zoo, Worcester Art Museum, EcoTarium and Wachusett Mountain will immerse you in New England charm and bring every season to life.
