In this guide, we compare Worcester vs Springfield to help you decide which location you want to visit on a weekend trip.
We will examine what makes each city unique and essential considerations like the nearest airports, restaurants, hotels, and top tourist attractions.
At the end of this guide, we will provide you with Your Weekend Travel’s official decision on whether you should go visit Worcester or Springfield.
Worcester vs Springfield Background
Essential Information You Need to Know About Worcester
Located in central Massachusetts, Worcester is the second-largest city in the state.
It is known for its history, particularly for its role in the Industrial Revolution. Worcester is home to several colleges and universities, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Clark University.
State: Massachusetts
Country: Worcester
Region: New England
Date First Settled: 1673
City Size: 38 sq miles
Population: 206000
Largest Area Airport: Worcester Regional Airport
Top 3 Airlines: JetBlue Airways, Delta Connection, American Eagle
Essential Information You Need to Know About Springfield
Springfield is the largest city in western Massachusetts and the third-largest city in the state.
It is known as the birthplace of basketball and is home to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Springfield is also known for its rich history, including its connection to President Abraham Lincoln.
State: Massachusetts
County: Hampden
Region: New England
Date First Settled: 1636
City Size: 33 sq miles
Population: 156000
Largest Area Airport: Bradley International Airport
Top 3 Airlines: American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines
Worcester vs Springfield Hotels
We analyzed the various hotels that are located within a 5-mile driving radius of Worcester and Springfield.
Using TripAdvisor’s hotel search, we took a look at the best traveler-recommended hotels in each location.
We advise you to check out your various hotel booking sites to get a good price estimate that meets your trip’s needs.
Worcester Traveler-Recommended Hotels
Homewood Suites by Hilton Worcester
Homewood Suites by Hilton Worcester is a comfortable hotel located in the heart of Worcester, Massachusetts. It offers spacious suites equipped with kitchens and living areas, making it an ideal choice for families and extended stays.
Guests can enjoy amenities such as a complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and indoor pool.
Hampton Inn & Suites Worcester
The Hampton Inn & Suites Worcester offers comfortable accommodations for business and leisure travelers.
The hotel features a fitness center, indoor pool, and free hot breakfast, as well as modern amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and a business center.
Beechwood Hotel
The Beechwood Hotel offers a luxurious stay in a beautiful setting. This boutique hotel boasts elegant rooms and suites, a fine-dining restaurant, a spa, and a fitness center.
The property is surrounded by lush gardens and has an outdoor pool and tennis court.
Springfield Traveler-Recommended Hotels
Hampton Inn & Suites Springfield/Downtown
Hampton Inn & Suites Springfield/Downtown is a modern hotel located in downtown Springfield, Massachusetts. It offers comfortable guest rooms and suites, free breakfast, and a fitness center.
The hotel is close to many local attractions, including the Basketball Hall of Fame, the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden.
Naomi’s Inn Bed and Breakfast
A charming bed and breakfast located in the historic district of Springfield, Massachusetts, Naomi’s Inn offers guests a unique and comfortable stay.
The inn features beautifully appointed rooms, a delicious breakfast, and easy access to local attractions like the Springfield Armory and the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Hilton Garden Inn Springfield
The Hilton Garden Inn Springfield is a modern hotel located in downtown Springfield, Massachusetts. The hotel features comfortable rooms and suites, a restaurant, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
It is conveniently located near local attractions such as the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Dr. Seuss Museum.
Worcester vs Springfield Restaurants
We analyzed the various hotels that are located nearby Worcester and Springfield.
Using Yelp, we narrowed down the restaurants that have the most reviews which will give you the best shot to draw your own conclusions about whether to go there or not.
Worcester Traveler-Recommended Restaurants
The average cost of dinner for two in Worcester will cost you $57.70.
Armsby Abbey
Armsby Abbey is a popular restaurant and bar located in Worcester, Massachusetts.
This establishment is known for its extensive selection of craft beers, as well as its farm-to-table menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with rustic decor and a welcoming vibe.
The Boynton Restaurant & Spirits
The Boynton Restaurant & Spirits is a popular hangout spot for college students and locals alike, located in downtown Worcester, Massachusetts.
The menu features classic American fares like burgers and wings, as well as a selection of craft beers and cocktails. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff make this a great spot for a casual night out with friends.
The Sole Proprietor
The Sole Proprietor is a popular seafood restaurant located in Worcester, Massachusetts. With a lively atmosphere and an extensive menu, they offer a range of fresh seafood options, as well as a selection of meat and vegetarian dishes.
The restaurant has been in business for over 40 years, and its commitment to quality and customer service is evident in every dish they serve.
Springfield Traveler-Recommended Restaurants
The average cost of dinner for two in Springfield will cost you $65.00.
Theodores Booze Blues & BBQ
Theodores Booze Blues & BBQ is a classic Southern-style barbecue joint located in Springfield, Massachusetts.
This restaurant is famous for its live blues music, hearty portions of slow-smoked meats, and an impressive selection of bourbons and craft beers. Theodores is a great place to relax and enjoy a laid-back evening with friends.
Plan B Burger Bar
Plan B Burger Bar is a chain of restaurants located throughout New England and New York that specialize in gourmet burgers and craft beers.
The menu features a variety of unique burger options, like the “Wagyu and Black Truffle” burger and the “Mac Attack” burger, as well as salads and other entrees. The modern, industrial decor and extensive beer list make this a great spot for a fun night out with friends.
Worcester vs Springfield Tourist Attractions & Activities
We review the top tourist attractions & activities that are located nearby Worcester and Springfield.
We discovered the top traveler-recommended activities in each city.
Worcester Traveler-Recommended Tourist Attractions & Activities
Worcester Canal Food Tours
Experience the culinary delights of Worcester, Massachusetts, on a canal food tour. The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history while sampling some of its best local cuisines.
You’ll walk along the canal, learn about the history of the city, and visit several restaurants to try their signature dishes.
Escape Games Worcester
Escape Games Worcester is an immersive, interactive entertainment experience that challenges players to use their problem-solving skills to escape a themed room within a set time limit.
Participants are locked in a room and must use clues, puzzles, and their wits to find a way out. It’s a fun activity for groups of friends or family who are looking for a unique and exciting adventure.
The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory of Performing Arts
The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory of Performing Arts is a wonderful destination for lovers of live performances. The historic theater boasts a stunning interior and hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, including Broadway productions, concerts, comedy shows, and more.
In addition to its performances, the conservatory also offers a range of classes and programs for aspiring performers of all ages and levels.
Springfield Traveler-Recommended Tourist Attractions & Activities
Springfield Museums
The Springfield Museums offer an array of exhibits and attractions that cater to all interests. The five museums include the Springfield Science Museum, the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, the Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts, the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History, and the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden.
The Amazing World of Dr.Seuss Museum
The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum is a whimsical and colorful museum dedicated to the life and work of the beloved children’s author. Located in Springfield, Massachusetts, the museum features interactive exhibits, original artwork, and artifacts from Dr. Seuss’s personal collection.
Visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in the world of Dr. Seuss and his iconic characters like The Cat in the Hat and The Lorax.
Basketball Hall of Fame
The Basketball Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for basketball fans of all ages. The museum features exhibits on the history of basketball, including the evolution of the game, the greatest players of all time, and memorable moments in basketball history.
Visitors can also shoot hoops in the interactive exhibits, see the actual basketballs used in famous games, and even test their skills on a regulation-sized court.
The Final Verdict: Should You Visit Worcester or Springfield?
In this section, Your Weekend Travel will give you its final verdict as to which city you should visit.
Our criteria access each city’s travel appeal, ease of getting there, their food and restaurants, hotels, and finally the top tourist attractions.
| Category | Winner |
| Appeal | Draw |
| Ease of Getting There | Springfield |
| Food | Worcester |
| Hotels | Draw |
| Tourists Attractions | Springfield |
Our final conclusion is that both cities are very similar but Springfield will probably serve as a better weekend getaway due to the better flight options and the more attractive tourist attractions.
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Worcester%2C_Massachusetts
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Springfield,_Massachusetts
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g41952-Worcester_Massachusetts-Vacations.html
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g60968-Springfield_Massachusetts-Vacations.html
https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=United+States
