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.