Photo by Joe Santa Maria
Downtown Worcester is full of breathtaking views and Instagrammable destinations. Explore the unique sights with a phone or camera in hand and see for yourself what makes the neighborhood such a picturesque community.
Visit the Postcard-Worthy Common
The Worcester Common Oval is activity-packed at all hours of the day. Relax on the benches, enjoy the “Out to Lunch” concert series and the Farmers Market, or meet up with friends to ice skate in the winter months. With something in store for every season, the Oval remains a lively backdrop for making new memories throughout the year. During the holidays, the Oval is transformed by shining lights draped over the trees and the park surroundings. At night, the lights contribute to a postcard-worthy New England scene.
Climb the Grand Staircases of City Hall
Towering over the Worcester Common Oval is Worcester City Hall—an architectural gem, inside and out. Opened in 1898, City Hall exemplifies Renaissance Revival architecture with grand columns, high ceilings, and intricate designs. City Hall has become one of Worcester’s quintessential cinematographic landmarks as it increasingly appears as a backdrop for a number of feature films.
Modern Backdrops and Sprawling Views
Mercantile Center, located at 100 and 120 Front Street, is a premier mixed-use property Downtown. The sleek and stylish plaza is a popular central meeting place for Downtown’s workforce during lunchtime hours. While the chic, modern architecture is perfect for a selfie, the real views can be found on the building’s 19th floor. On this level, you can take in the breathtaking sights of Downtown Worcester. This terrific vantage point will allow you to explore the cityscape in a way like no other.
Keep it Classic
Worcester’s Union Station embodies Old-World class and style. Constructed in the Neoclassical Beaux-Arts style, Union Station remains a stunning piece of local history and the perfect location for special events, elaborate gatherings, or one-of-a-kind engagement pictures. Stage your own photoshoot at any time of day and discover why this historic landmark continues to wow residents and visitors alike.
Interact with Public Art
Downtown Worcester is quickly becoming a hotbed for three-dimensional public art. Strike a pose with your loved one on the Esther Howland Bench in front of City Hall, designed by Gianna Steward in honor of the mother of the commercial valentine. Or, escort your kids up to the fourth floor of the Worcester Public Library, where they’ll encounter a monumental rocket ship with reading nooks to explore. The interactive sculpture is a nod to Worcester’s own Robert Goddard, known worldwide as the father of modern rocketry.
Foliage, Fireworks, and More
During the autumn months, cars park along the top of Downtown parking garages just to enjoy the foliage. In the summer, fireworks and vivid sunsets also come to life from the top of these enormous structures, providing new perspectives of the city’s scenery from various unobstructed angles. Allow yourself an extra ten minutes on your next trip Downtown and take the time to soak in the beauty of Worcester. Check out our Downtown parking map for more details.