Because it is near the geographic center of Massachusetts, Worcester is known as the "Heart of the Commonwealth"; a heart is the official symbol of the city. Worcester is the historical seat of Worcester County. Explore 25 things to do in Worcester, Massachusetts, from museums and parks to food, sports, theaters, colleges, and local culture.

Understanding the Context

Worcester (/ ˈwʊstər / ⓘ WUUST-ər) is a cathedral city in Worcestershire, England, of which it is the county town. It is 30 mi (48 km) south-west of Birmingham, 27 mi (43 km) north of Gloucester and 23 mi (37 km) north-east of Hereford. The population was 103,872 in the 2021 census. [3] The City of Worcester has officially launched its Rental Registration Program, which requires owners of all rental properties to register each property within the City.

Key Insights

Worcester is one of the oldest cities in the country, with evidence of settlements here dating back to 700BC. The city was fortified in Saxon times and our history can still be seen in the landscape today, from cobbled Tudor streets to elegant Queen Anne architecture. Worcester is a beautiful Cathedral and University City with a fascinating history, located in the heart of the West Midlands on the banks of the River Severn. Get the latest breaking news, sports, entertainment and obituaries in Worcester, MA from Worcester Telegram . See what other travelers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings.

Final Thoughts

Book these experiences for a closer look at the region. These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveler reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location. 1. Worcester Art Museum.