EXPLORE CENTRAL MASSACHUETTS A Guide by Realty Solutions
Central MA by the #s Town | City Guide
A Weekend Itinerary info@realtysolutionsma.com 508-495-4400
a note from Realty Solutions MA Welcome to the Central Massachusetts Realty Solutions MA Guidebook, your go-to resource for this vibrant and dynamic region! Central Massachusetts, with its diverse landscapes, is a place of opportunity and promise, and our team at Realty Solutions MA is deeply rooted in this community, ready to share our knowledge and expertise with you as you explore the local real estate market and communities. We are dedicated to providing guidance, support, and valuable insights to ensure you have a seamless and successful real estate experience. We're here to foster a sense of belonging within our community and to be your trusted partner as you unlock the potential Central Massachusetts has to offer. Thank you for choosing Realty Solutions MA as your guide on this exciting journey. Best Regards,
Dave Eldredge Owner | Broker Realty Solutions MA
table of CONTENTS
1-2 CENTRAL MA IN NUMBERS Central Massachusetts has everything you need. Don’t take out work for it, the numbers tell it all.
3-4 CENTRAL MA COMMUNITIES Get to know the towns and cities that make up Central Massachusetts. Find the perfect place for you.
5 GROWING COMMUNITIES Check out the fastest growing communities in the area over the past decade.
6 FUN FACTS Test our your trivia knowledge of all things Central Massachusetts.
7-8 WEEKEND ITINERARY A Realty Solutions MA sample itinerary for spending a weekend in Central Massachusetts.
CENTRAL MA IN NUMBERS
1,298,149
POPulation
*
*2020 Census
18 hotels
26 museums
84 cities + towns
100+ dining
18+ farmers markets
Worcester ranks as the 2ndlargest city IN New England.
22 state parks
CENTRAL MA IN NUMBERS 10+ colleges and universities including:
Assumption university college of the holy cross clark university fitchburg state university nichols college worcester state university Worcester polytechnic university
15+ breweries & vineyards including:
nashoba valley winery (bolton) hardwick winery & vineyard (hardwick) greater good imperial brewing (worcester) wormtown brewery (worcester)
transportation includes:
union station: 22 daily trains additional 8 trains on weekends well connected bus system worcester regional airport
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get to know CENTRAL MA COMMUNITIES 395 corridor Auburn: A vibrant community with New England charm, Auburn boasts an excellent transportation network and a thriving commercial and industrial base.
BLACKSTONE valley Douglas: With over 5,000 acres of recreational land, including a 300-acre lake, Douglas is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Dudley: Located between the French and Quinebaug Rivers just north of the Connecticut border, Dudley is home to attractions like Nichols College and the Quinebaug River Valley Rail Trail.
Grafton: Grafton, with its rich Native American history, is home to the Hassanamisco Indian Museum and Reservation.
Oxford: Oxford offers ample opportunities to immerse in New England's natural beauty, from hiking and biking to horseback riding and crosscountry skiing along the French River and Hodges Village Dam. Webster: Webster's gem is Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagu ngamaugg, which you can explore aboard the Indian Princess.
wachusett Berlin: This small northeastern town is renowned for hosting equestrian events at local farms. Boylston: With approximately 4,000 residents, Boylston is home to attractions like the Tower Hill Botanic Garden. Holden: Once a rural farming community, Holden has transformed into a highly sought-after, family-friendly town with attractions such as the Farm at SummitWynds. Oakham: Rich in wildlife, ponds, streams, and conservation land, Oakham's natural beauty is a short drive from Worcester. Paxton: Known for the historic and scenic Moore State Park, Paxton is a popular destination for both visitors and locals. Rutland: Rutland is home to an extensive State Park, including Whitehall Pond, perfect for outdoor exploration. West Boylston: West Boylston, a northern Worcester suburb, is known for the Old Stone Church and nearby antique shops, making it a compelling destination.
Mendon: Mendon boasts Lake Nipmuc, lakeside dining, the largest zoo in New England, and the nostalgic Mendon Twin Drive-In. Millbury: The Blackstone River flows through Millbury, a historic town featuring the iconic Asa Waters Mansion. Millville: Located on the Rhode Island border, Millville offers scenic* spots and deep historical roots. Northbridge: Northbridge combines an active agricultural landscape with historic mills, connecting to America's industrialization journey. Sutton: Sutton, with its picturesque town common, is dedicated to preserving nature and history, including the geologic preserve, Purgatory Chasm State Reservation. Upton: Upton, a residential community with a history of farming and straw hat manufacturing. Uxbridge: Uxbridge, home to the Nation's first woman voter, offers antiques, the Blackstone River, and farm-to-table excellence at UxLocale. Whitinsville: Just southeast of Purgatory Chasm, Whitinsville is an unincorporated village within Northbridge, with a charming small business scene on Church St.
get to know CENTRAL MA COMMUNITIES sturbridge townships
Brookfield: From rural farmlands to a hub of industries, Brookfield still preserves its natural beauty at hidden gems. Charlton: One of Massachusetts' safest towns, Charlton offers rural landscapes perfect for offroading at 508 International. East Brookfield: Follow Route 9, and you'll discover East Brookfield, home to attractions like Lake Lashaway and Timberyard Brewing Company. Hardwick: Rooted in agriculture and located in the Quabbin-Swift River Valley, Hardwick is known for the popular Hardwick Vineyard and Winery. North Brookfield: Proud of its historical ties, North Brookfield sent 150 Minutemen to the Battle of Lexington & Concord and is home to family-friendly Brookfield Orchards. New Braintree: Known for its farms and bountiful harvests, New Braintree is a Right to Farm Community with eight working dairy farms, a commercial orchard, and prosperous produce farms. Southbridge: Often called "The Eye of the Commonwealth" for its optical manufacturing history, Southbridge is rich in history, architecture, and culture.
Sturbridge: With colonial roots and modern amenities, Sturbridge offers grassy commons, antique shops, boutiques, orchards, trails, and quaint bed and breakfasts. West Brookfield: Nestled among the Quaboag hills, West Brookfield is a quintessential New England town located between Springfield and Worcester. Warren: One of the six towns first settled in 1660, known as the Quaboag Plantation. worcester
Worcester: New England's second-largest city, Worcester, nestled in the Heart of the * Commonwealth, seamlessly blends historic charm with urban allure. Leicester: Located west of Worcester Airport, Leicester is a quaint, historic town featuring unique attractions like a drive-in theatre and a hidden Quaker cemetery. Shrewsbury: To the east of the city, Lake Quinsigamond serves as a premier rowing venue, while the shopping convenience of Route 9 adds to its allure.
Spencer: Spencer, a coveted destination, is home to the Spencer Fairgrounds and St. Joseph's Abbey, where Trappist monks make jams and brews.
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fastest growing large CENTRAL MA COMMUNITIES These populations grew the fastest over the last decade (of communities in Central MA with over 10k populations.)
fun facts about CENTRAL MA
BASKETBALL BIRTHPLACE: Central Massachusetts, particularly Springfield, is the birthplace of basketball, with Dr. James Naismith inventing the game there in 1891. (Visit the Basketball HOF in Springfield)
"HEART OF THE COMMONWEALTH" Worcester is often called the "Heart of the Commonwealth" due to its central location, rich history dating back to colonial times, and the fact that it's the state's secondlargest city.
HAUNTED HISTORY: Central Massachusetts, including the historic town of Salem, has its share of ghost stories and haunted sites, tied to events like the Salem witch trials.
HISTORIC CANALS: The Blackstone Canal in Central Massachusetts played a crucial role in the area's industrial history, serving as a vital transportation route in the 19th century.
ANTIQUE HAVEN: The region is known for charming towns with renowned antique shops and markets. Notably, Brimfield hosts some of the largest antique shows in the U.S.
OLDEST US FAIR: The Topsfield Fair, located in Central Massachusetts, is the oldest agricultural fair in the U.S., dating back to 1818.
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a weekend getaway to CENTRAL MAITINERARY Friday: Arrival and Exploring Downtown Worcester
4:00 PM - Check-In: Start your weekend getaway by checking into a charming bed and breakfast in downtown Worcester. Consider staying at The Beechwood Hotel for a cozy experience. 6:00 PM - Dinner at Lock 50: Begin your culinary journey with dinner at Lock 50, known for its seasonal, locally-sourced menu and craft cocktails. Winter time? Book an outdoor igloo! 8:00 PM - Explore Worcester Common: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through Worcester Common, where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the city and perhaps catch an outdoor event or concert. Saturday: Culture, Nature, and Dining
9:00 AM - Breakfast at BirchTree Bread Company: Fuel up for the day with a delicious breakfast at BirchTree Bread Company, known for its artisanal bread and pastries. 10:30 AM - Worcester Art Museum: Explore the Worcester Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of art from different eras and cultures. 12:30 PM - Lunch at Armsby Abbey: Enjoy a farmto-table lunch at Armsby Abbey, a Worcester gastropub famous for its craft beer selection and delicious cuisine. 2:00 PM - Wachusett Reservoir: Head to the Wachusett Reservoir for an afternoon of nature and relaxation. You can take a scenic hike, go fishing, or simply enjoy the stunning views. 5:30 PM - Dinner at Sonoma Restaurant: Dine at Sonoma Restaurant, a Worcester favorite known for its contemporary American cuisine and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
a weekend getaway to CENTRAL MAITINERARY SUNDAY: History, Shopping, and Farewell
9:00 AM - Breakfast at Miss Worcester Diner: Start your day with a classic breakfast at Miss Worcester Diner, an iconic dining car that's been serving up delicious meals for generations. 10:30 AM - Worcester Historical Museum: Explore the Worcester Historical Museum to learn more about the history and heritage of the city. 1:00 PM - Lunch at The Flying Rhino Café: Enjoy lunch at The Flying Rhino Café, a popular spot for creative cuisine and unique cocktails. 3:00 PM - Shopping in Worcester: Spend your afternoon shopping at Worcester's Shrewsbury Street, home to a variety of boutiques and specialty shops. 6:00 PM - Dinner at Ceres Bistro: Conclude your weekend with a delightful dinner at Ceres Bistro, where you can savor New England-inspired dishes and an extensive wine selection. 8:00 PM - Departure: Bid farewell to Worcester and Central Massachusetts, taking with you wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for the region's culture and beauty.
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