Are you searching for the perfect date night destination? Look no further than Downtown Worcester. From live theater to art galleries and fine dining, we have everything you need to plan an evening to remember for that special someone.

Take a Romantic Stroll

Start your date off with a romantic stroll around the Worcester Common Oval. This beautiful public space is perfect for a picnic on a warm afternoon. The Oval is decorated with lights during the holiday season and transformed into a romantic winter wonderland that has functioned as a Lifetime Christmas movie set in previous years. Help your date lace up a pair of skates and take a lap around the ice rink, arm-in-arm.

A couple handing hands as they stroll through the Worcester Common Oval
Photo by Joe Santa Maria
A bright gallery of fascinating art housed at ArtsWorcester
Photo by Nathan Fiske

Admire Murals and Galleries

Take a walk through the streets of Downtown and admire dozens of public art installations, including the “Esther Howland Bench” in front of City Hall, designed by Gianna Steward in honor of Esther Howland, the mother of the commercial valentine. Head over to the Printers Building at the corner of Portland and Myrtle Streets and peruse the latest showing at ArtsWorcester’s galleries. If it’s open, head upstairs to the third floor to check out the intimate Davis Art Gallery space. From murals to galleries and interactive art projects, Downtown Worcester is sure to spark your imagination and creativity.

Unique Date Night Fun

Eager for an activity? Axe throwing, knife throwing, and archery are afoot inside Far Shot Worcester on Front Street. Couples might also enjoy the variety of fun and educational classes offered at the Worcester PopUp at the JMAC on Franklin Street. The PopUp’s art classes, yoga sessions, and cooking events would be perfect for an adventurous couple who loves to try new things. The JMAC’s BrickBox Theater also has plenty of ambiance if your idea of a date night includes dinner and a show. Ballets, comedies, musicals, bands, and famous celebrity events, can be found at both the BrickBox and The Hanover Theatre

Crowd sitting in an auditorium watching a show at the Hanover Theatre
Photo by Erb Photography
VanGoghImmersiveExperienceWorcester

Step into the World of Van Gogh in Worcester

Explore vibrant colors and timeless art together with Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience at Mercantile Center! This breathtaking exhibit, which brings the work of Vincent Van Gogh to life in a whole new way and has captivated audiences in major cities around the globe, is now in Worcester for a limited time – don’t miss out! Tickets are affordable, and with periodic special events like yoga sessions, meditation, and sound baths, there’s something for every couple to enjoy. You can also celebrate special occasions and holidays like Valentine’s Day at the exhibit. No matter when you visit, you can also unwind at Vincent’s Café by Notch Biergarten, where you can enjoy Van Gogh-themed spirits, craft beer, or wine. Make it a date night to remember! Get tickets.

Romantic and Delicious Spots

After the show, reserve your spots at the Theatre Cafe and enjoy the neighborhood’s finest gourmet bistro. Or, order a nourishing bowl of steamy ramen from Chashu Ramen and a sumptuous fried chicken bao bao. Enjoy the rooftop deck bar and restaurant at The Mercantile, a 500-seat, two-story restaurant. Looking for an after-dinner drink? Wander down Main Street to deadhorse hill and check out their innovative cocktail program. 

Downtown Worcester has everything you need to make your date night count from start to finish!

Ramen bowl cooked by Chashu Ramen consisting of a delectable mix of vegetables and meats
Photo by Ken Rivard