Downtown Worcester - Worcester, MA Area Guide

Worcester's history dates back to 1673, when the area was originally settled under the Native American name, Quinsigamond. The first settlement was discarded in 1675 when King Philip's War began and re-settled and abandoned between 1701 and 1702. In 1713, Worcester was settled for the third time, followed by its official incorporation in 1722. In July of 1776, the Declaration of Independence was recited in public for the first time in Worcester by Isaiah Thomas. By 2010, Worcester's population had reached 181,045 and continues to grow today.

The Worcester Historical Museum features exhibits that depict the city's history, as well as art pieces by local and renowned artists. The museum also hosts the Annual Harvey Ball, an event honoring the original Worcester "yellow smiley face," designed by Worcester resident Harvey Ball.

When it comes to enjoying a fun evening out on the town or a tasty meal any time of the day or night, residents of the Central Business District neighborhood enjoy living near a wide selection of eateries and bars, with several popular options located on and around Commercial Street, Front Street and Franklin Street.

For a tasty breakfast or light lunch, stop by Talyta's Cafe on Front Street. This friendly, locally owned establishment features a vast menu of Mexican-Salvadorian cuisine, as well as classic breakfast items such as omelettes and egg sandwiches. Regular patrons rave over the restaurant's impeccable customer service and welcoming dining room, as well as menu favorites such as the chicken tacos with salsa fresca and the fresh veggie burrito with rice and beans.

When locals have a craving for fresh sushi, they head over to Oishi Japanese Restaurant on Franklin Street. With a reputation for fast, friendly service and some of the best sushi in all of Worcester, Oishi definitely has its share of loyal customers. If you're looking to expand your sushi palate, insiders suggest the DJ Maki, a melt-in-your-mouth combination of rice and seaweed filled with crab stick, scallions and cream cheese, topped off with fried onions and hot spicy mayo.

If you're looking to spend a relaxing evening sipping wine and nibbling on yummy cheese and tapas, pay a visit to The Citizen Wine Bar on 1 Exchange Street. The Citizen Wine Bar features an intimate bar room with the perfect atmosphere for date night or a casual evening with friends, as well as an extensive wine list and ample food menu with everything from artisanal cheese plates to filet mignon, as well as exquisite truffles and chocolate squares that pair up perfectly with your favorite glass of vino.

In addition to driving, residents of the Central Business District neighborhood ride bikes, walk and utilize public transportation. The streets and sidewalks are safe for walking and biking, as long as individuals adhere to the city's traffic rules, especially when traveling downtown. Cyclists also have access to over 1,288 bike trails and 2.5 miles of off-road bike lanes in Worcester.

Residents can park for free on certain residential neighborhood streets for up to 72 hours at a time but must always adhere to the specific time limits posted on the neighborhood's parking enforcement signs. Drivers also have access to multiple paid parking garages and parking meters in the downtown area. Residents do not hail cabs in the residential neighborhoods or on the downtown streets, however, anyone in need of transportation can reserve rides with Red Cab of Worcester or Yellow Cab of Worcester, as well as application-based car services such as Lyft and Uber.

Commuters who travel out of Worcester can access the Interstate 290 freeway via Summer Street, as well as board Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority commuter trains out of Worcester Union Station. Individuals who utilize Worcester Regional Transit Authority bus system have convenient access to multiple stop locations within the immediate vicinity, including Main Street and Major Taylor Boulevard.

Residents of the Central Business District community enjoy living in close proximity to several parks and recreational facilities, hosted by the Worcester Parks, Recreation and Cemetery Division.

Winslow Park on Winslow Street features a walking path and playground equipment, making it a great spot for families with children. Fitness enthusiasts enjoy spending time at Elm Park on Highland Street, as this 60-acre park features basketball courts and tennis courts, as well as a pond for winter ice skating. Elm park also allows on-leash dogs, so be sure to bring your furry friend along

The City of Worcester hosts a variety of annual events that help bring the community residents together and celebrate the history and culture of the city. Popular favorites include the stART on the Street art, music and performance festival on Green Street, a yearly celebration featuring over 150 local artists and craft designers, as well as the annual Independence Day celebration in Cristoforo Columbo Park on Shrewsbury Street.

Local renters in the Central Business District of Worcester pay an average of $807 per month for one-bedroom apartments, condos and duplexes. Local bus fares range between $1.50 and $3.50, with discounted rates for seniors, disabled individuals and children between 5 and 13 years of age. Children aged 5 and under ride for free when accompanied by an adult. Local residents typically pay between $3 and $5 for domestic and imported beers at local bars and restaurants, however prices may vary at establishments that feature drink specials. When compared to the national average, Worcester gas prices are approximately 1 percent higher than gas prices throughout the rest of the country.

When it comes to shopping for groceries, specialty items, home goods and apparel, residents of the Central Business District savor living within close proximity to multiple shopping options, conveniently located on and around Main Street and Cambridge Street.

For groceries, local shoppers often visit Price Chopper on Cambridge Street and Big Y Foods on Mayfield Street. For fresh fruits and vegetables, the closest farmers market is the Worcester/Canal District Farmers Market on Harding Street, open every Saturday between May and September.

While there aren't any high-end retailers in the immediate area, local residents can find affordable merchandise such as clothing and home decor items at several popular retailers along Main Street and Stafford Street, including Marshalls, Rainbow Fashions and Payless ShoeSource.

If you're in the market for affordable hair care products and beauty supplies, check out Queen Beauty Supply on Stafford Street. Queen Beauty Supply specializes in salon-quality styling products, skin care products and makeup for all skin types.

For unique gifts or the perfect piece of art to dress up your space, stop by Funky Stuff on Park Avenue. This popular, locally owned shop features one-of-a-kind art pieces, jewelry and holistic clothing, as well as gemstones and minerals for hand-made jewelry.