About Worcester
Worcester, nicknamed the “Heart of the Commonwealth,” is a vibrant city pulsating with history and innovation. Nestled in central Massachusetts, roughly 40 miles west of Boston, it boasts a rich industrial past, evident in its 19th-century architecture.
Worcester’s transformation journey is impressive, transitioning from a manufacturing powerhouse to a hub for education, healthcare, and technology. Today, the city offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, top-notch colleges, and a thriving arts scene, making it an exciting place to live, work, and explore.
Things to Do
- Explore the Worcester Art Museum: This world-class museum houses an impressive collection of over 50,000 works of art, spanning from ancient Egypt to the present day.
- Take a walk through Worcester Historical Society Museum: Learn about Worcester’s fascinating history at this museum, which features exhibits on everything from the city’s industrial past to its vibrant arts scene.
- See a performance at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts: This historic theater hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and dance recitals.
- Spend a day at EcoTarium: This science museum is a great place to learn about the natural world, with exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to outer space. There’s also a planetarium and a narrow-gauge railway.
Notable Residents
- Isiah Jennings: Inventor of the first friction match (though disputed by some)
- Esther Howland: Considered the “Mother of Valentine’s Day cards” for starting the first commercial production of valentines in the US.
- John Adams: Renowned minimalist composer.
- Joe DiReda: Actor known for roles in classic TV shows and films.
Nearby Suburbs
- Shrewsbury: Known for its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities like parks and recreation centers.
- Westborough: Offers a strong sense of community, good public schools, and plenty of green space for outdoor activities.
- Southborough: A more rural setting with a strong focus on education and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Grafton: A historic town with a revitalized downtown area, offering trendy restaurants, shops, and a vibrant nightlife.
Interesting/Fun Facts
- The birthplace of the American Valentine’s Day card: Esther Howland, a resourceful young woman, is credited with starting the first commercial production of valentines in the US in the mid-1800s. Worcester can claim the title of “Cupid’s Factory”!
- Rocket science took flight (almost) in Worcester: Robert Goddard, considered the “Father of Modern Rocketry,” conducted his groundbreaking experiments with liquid-fueled rockets while teaching at Clark University in Worcester.
- The city with a heart: Worcester’s official symbol is a heart! This reflects the city’s welcoming spirit and its role as a regional medical center.
- A nickname with a twist: Worcester’s nickname in the 1970s was “Wormtown.” However, it wasn’t meant as a compliment – a local DJ supposedly coined it due to the lack of a prominent punk rock scene at the time. mieszkańcy ( mieszkańcy is the Polish word for “residents”) of Worcester have since embraced the nickname with a touch of humor.
Public Transportation
- Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA): Main public transport provider with buses covering most of the city and nearby areas.
- MBTA Commuter Rail: Connects Worcester and Boston for day trips or commuting.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Traditional taxis like Yellow Cab available on the street or by call. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft also operate in the city.


Worcester’s climate is blessed with solar energy. The city has enough sunlight throughout the year, making it an ideal location for using solar power. Despite New England’s reputation for variable weather, Worcester’s average sunlight hours support efficient solar system operation. This ensures that even during colder months, properties can benefit from solar heating solutions.
They will also consider your energy needs and recommend the size of the system that matches your usage.