How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Worcester, Massachusetts

The state's second-largest city after Boston, Worcester-rhymes with "rooster"-is a mid-sized metropolis known for its history, higher education presence and notable cultural scene. Its location in mid-eastern Mass, resting on several hills along the Blackstone River, makes it a quick and convenient getaway for many New Englanders.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Set aside an hour or two for the Higgins Armory Museum, a gigantic collection of arms and armor spanning hundreds of years and several continents. Located on Barber Avenue, the museum's 4 floors showcase everything from Samurai swords to early Russian firearms to a medieval war hammer.

2. Take a stroll in enchanting Elm Park, where the expected picnicking areas and hiking trails are embellished with wonderful statues, ancient bridges, fountains and more; in warm weather it's not uncommon to come across weddings and receptions taking place.

3. From Gauguin to El Greco, you'll find a wealth of masters on display at the Worcester Art Museum on Salisbury Street. Lovers of American art will savor the sight of works by such legends as Thomas Cole, Winslow Homer and John Singer Sargent.

4. For an upscale, unforgettable evening out, visit Block 5 Bistro on Green Street. A hip and trendy interior, superb signature drinks and excellent eats await.

5. A grand return to Worcester's days of yore is available by stopping by Union Station at Washington Square, refurbished beautifully in 2000 and now hosting a stunning high-ceilinged Grand Hall, Franklin D. Roosevelt Heritage Center Museum and excellent concert hall.

6. Savor some incredible New England nature-and much more-at the EcoTarium on Harrington Way, nestled on about 60 acres of eclectic countryside. You'll also find plenty of animal life on hand at this museum/nature center, from polar bears to boa constrictors to wood turtles.

7. Enjoy a Worcester institution-and some excellent Greek and Continental fare-at the Webster House on Webster Street. A casual but charming dining environment serves up all the Greek standbys, but the delivered-daily fresh seafood will be difficult for most visitors to resist.

Tips & Warnings

• While Worcester has a small municipal airport nearby, most air travelers to the region arrive through Logan International on the outskirts of Boston, about an hour east and served by numerous major airlines.
• Make sure to check weather and road conditions before driving to Worcester in the winter.

[ZachC]

on 4/29/2008 I've actually been numerous times--and have never heard the place called 'Wistah' once in my life. I stand by the accuracy of my story and am a bit perplexed by your negativity.

[Mummu]

on 4/8/2008 First, it's pronounced "Wistah" not rhyming with "rooster." Elm Park is populated by winos. Webster House is not THE place to eat. Check out Shrewsbury Street. The EcoTarium is nothing to write home about. Union Station, although beautiful, is an empty white elephant. Worcester Airport has grass growing on the runways. Worcester is located in CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS, not mid-eastern Mass. Higgins Armory is interesting. Worcester Art Museum is okay if you like art. The places to go are Foothills Theatre, dining on Shrewsbury Street, The Hanover Theater for the performing arts. Forget that stuff you mentioned. BTW, I have been a Worcester resident for more than 50 years. I know whereof I speak. You obviously have never visited the city. It's no great shakes, but we call it home.