Central MA Communities

Central Massachusetts communities each possess their distinct allure, whether you're in search of a serene inland escape, dynamic cultural encounters, or convenient proximity to the region's natural splendor.

395 Corridor

  • Auburn: A vibrant community with New England charm, Auburn boasts an excellent transportation network and a thriving commercial and industrial base.

  • 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.

  • Oxford: Oxford offers ample opportunities to immerse in New England's natural beauty, from hiking and biking to horseback riding and cross-country skiing along the French River and Hodges Village Dam.

  • Webster: Webster's gem is Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg, which you can explore aboard the Indian Princess.

Blackstone Valley

  • Douglas: With over 5,000 acres of recreational land, including a 300-acre lake, Douglas is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Grafton: Grafton, with its rich Native American history, is home to the Hassanamisco Indian Museum and Reservation.

  • 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.

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.

  • Spencer: Spencer, a coveted destination, is home to the Spencer Fairgrounds and St. Joseph's Abbey, where Trappist monks make jams and brews.

  • 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.

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.