Located in central Massachusetts, Worcester was named after a central English city in the U.K. Although the pronunciations of these two great cities are quite different, Worcester, M.A. is a unique, friendly city with plenty of personality. There are many things to do here whether you’re a weathered local, a visitor wondering what it’s like living in Worcester, or actively looking to buy a home in Worcester, M.A., here are 15 things locals love to do in their hometown.

1. Spend the day in Canal District

One of the city’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, the Canal District has so many fun things to offer its visitors you might just want to spend the whole day there. From bars and restaurants, to big social events, clubs, and homegrown businesses, there’s something for everyone here. Canal District is a burgeoning neighborhood in Worcester. Community leaders are developing a diverse community where locals will want to play, work, live and invest for the long term in the area.

Resident and Vice President of Canal District Alliance, Amy Chase, recommends starting your day by “visiting BirchTree Bread Company for brunch and then shopping for plants and crystals at Seed to Stem. Then, head over to the independent bookstore Bedlam for a good read. For lunch, you can stop for flatbread at District Woodfire Kitchen and hop across the street to The Queen’s Cup for a blueberry pancake cupcake for dessert.”

2. Take a house tour in Salisbury Mansion

Salisbury Mansion celebrated its 250th anniversary in the year 2022, considering it to be one of the oldest documented historic houses in New England. “Step back in time, into the lives of three generations of the Salisbury family, as we share their stories of our city Worcester, the stories of the Worcester Historical Museum of our history, and our future,” says Eleanor Hourbre, Director of Membership and Special Events at Worcester Historical Museum. The mansion is the biggest artifact owned by the Worcester Historical Museum. Enjoy a self-guided stroll through every room, parlor, library, and more as you listen to volunteers who share folktales with you.

Courtesy of Worcester Historical Museum

3. Eat at one of Worcester’s authentic diners

Eleanor also recommends getting a bite to eat at one of Worcester’s historical diners, the Boulevard Diner, for an authentic Worcester experience. “Early diners served meals to factory workers during their late night shifts. So, in recognition of this…