Picture, if you will, a landscape with a town at its center, sprawling nearly as far as the rolling hills that stretch into the distance. Streets are dotted with a blend of Victorian-era architecture and modernist buildings, offering pedestrians a glimpse into years past, while giving them a taste of the future. It is rich in both history and aesthetics, its cuisine a melting pot of cultures and it captivates visitors near and far who come to enjoy its many sights. For those who think this description fits a luxurious city from the world, such as Paris, Los Angeles or London, you would be incorrect. The city I am describing is that of Worcester, Massachusetts. Over spring break, I journeyed into the city known as the “Heart of the Commonwealth” to discover all that it has to offer.
Upon arrival, it was evident that there was a conflict present within the city – a clash between historic brick-lined walkways and sleek metal surfaces that line the streets of downtown Worcester. For a bite to eat, our group stopped at the Worcester Public Market, a new concept recently opened in the Canal District that contains a food hall brimming with international cuisine, ranging from Cuban delicacies to traditional Tibetan dumplings. Local businesses lined the aisles, each selling various artisan goodies. One that must be highlighted is the eccentric juice brand, Woo Juice, which sells cold-pressed juices from fruits and vegetables made fresh daily in their downtown Worcester location. I was able to sample the Kelley Splash (pineapple, cucumber and ginger) and the Hilltopper Heartbeat (beet, green apple, ginger, orange and pineapple), both of which were exquisite offerings that made the visit more than worthwhile.
After the market, we ventured over to Polar Park, the home of the Worcester Woo-Sox, for a tour of the facility. The Rhode Islander in me tells me to stay bitter after they relocated abruptly just four years ago, but it’s hard not to stare in awe at the shiny new facility that now sits at the northern point of the infamous Kelley Square rotary. The outfield was being maintained by workers when we arrived inside, its neatly manicured stripes a bright shade of green, bordering on emerald – a nod that spring is just around the corner, or perhaps a metaphor for greater things to come for the team with the humble smiley face as its mascot.
As the venture through the storied streets of Worcester came to an end, it was apparent that we had only experienced a small portion of what exists within the city limits. For a place known as the “Heart of the Commonwealth,” there is certainly a lot of heart to be found, from its thriving cultural scene to its natural beauty. If you ever find yourself traveling through central Massachusetts soon and wish to experience culinary delights in the form of Woo Juice, or to take in a baseball game on a warm summer evening, add Worcester to your plans. You will not be disappointed.