Living in Worcester
Worcester is the country's most vibrant and livable mid-sized city! With a population of more than 200,000 and more than 35,000 college students, Worcester is the second-largest city in New England. Centrally located, the City is under an hour from Boston, Providence, and Hartford.
Known as the “Heart of the Commonwealth” due to its location in central Massachusetts, Worcester offers visitors historical and recreational experiences that are well worth the visit. Far from simply a sleepy suburb 40 miles east of Boston, Worcester was host to political landmark events such as the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence in the state (1776), Shays’ Rebellion (1786-7), and the first women’s rights convention (1850).
An industrial leader in household goods like textiles and envelopes, Worcester also boasts Elm Park, the first public park in the country, and idyllic Lake Quinsigamond, where local colleges assemble to compete in rowing. Worcester was the birthplace of the “smiley face” and the birth control pill, and is now home to major biotechnology, research, healthcare, and higher education, including 9 separate colleges and universities.
Worcester, Mass., Is The New 'It' Town!
Learn more about the 'Heart of the Commonwealth'
Quick Facts Arts + Culture Outdoor Recreation
Shopping Nightlife Transportation
Local Attractions
- Blackstone Canal District
- Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary
- Heifer Farm
- Hyland Orchard and Brewery
- Ecotarium
- Marino Lookout Farm
- Nashoba Valley Winery
- Old Stone Church (pictured above)
- Purgatory Chasm
- Salisbury Park & Bancroft Tower
- Tower Hill Botanic Garden
- Union Station
- Wachusett Brewing Company
- West End Creamery
- Worcester Art Museum
- Green Hill Park
- Worcester Restaurants (comprehensive list)
For more about the history of Worcester, click here.