Perched in the centre of Massachusetts, Worcester dates back to the 1700s and cradles a thriving art scene that includes collections from the world’s most famous painters and a performing arts venue listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Worcester also has open green spaces, war memorials and craft breweries.

Things to do

Learn about the region’s past at Worcester Historical Museum, which includes artefacts, early ceramics, colonial-era weaponry and textiles. The museum also operates Salisbury Mansion, a Georgian-style home from the 1700s. Worcester Art Museum showcases about 35,000 art pieces from the likes of Monet, Cassatt, Whistler and Gauguin.

Get hands-on with art, nature and science at the family-friendly EcoTarium, an indoor-outdoor complex housing local wildlife in the Animal Corner. The on-site Alden Digital Planetarium unveils interactive depictions of the galaxy and planets, while a narrow-gauge railway highlights the early days of rail in America.

Dining in Worcester showcases locally-sourced food and recipes. Try the New England Fisherman’s Pie at Shannon Bar, made with salmon, shrimp, haddock and bay scallops. Wormtown Brewery on Shrewsbury Street pours local ales and stouts with names like Blizzard of 78 and Norm Chocolate Coconut Stout.

In the evening, enjoy theatrical performances at Mechanics Hall, a pre-Civil War building on the National Register of Historic Places. You can also enjoy plays, musicals and comedy at Hanover Theatre. The upper floor of Hanover houses art exhibits at Franklin Square Salon Gallery.

Getting around

Logan International Airport in Boston lies just 65 kilometres from Worcester, offering rental cars and shuttles. Union Station trains run between Worcester and Boston, while inter-city buses, taxis, ride-shares and bike-shares offer convenient transportation.