When the temperatures dip, it can be tempting to stay indoors and forgo adventures awaiting elsewhere. Central Mass, however, has several spots that specialize in unique experiences to cure any lingering cabin fever. Read on to discover wintertime activities just around the corner. 

Outdoor Adventures

If you can bear the cold, be sure to check out the local mountains. Whether you’re an expert skier or a lodge-loving snow bunny, Wachusett Mountain and Ski Ward are two spots you’ll want to explore. 

Wachusett Mountain

Wachusett Mountain ski area boasts 27 trails over 125 acres with terrains for all skill levels. The lodge is nothing to scoff at, either. Cited for excellence in architectural design, this 38,000 square foot structure includes a fireplace, sun decks, and exposed beam construction for a cozy, comfortable feel.

People enjoying a day on the slopes at Ski Ward. Photo courtesy: Discover Central MA.

Ski Ward

Ski Ward is another local gem located just minutes from Worcester. Ski Ward offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, with the Slopeside Bar & Grill serving up treats from lunch through dinner. Nine trails, four lifts and eight tubing lanes cover the mountain, as well as a rental shop and snow school for complete convenience.

Indoor Fun

The School Yahd

“Let’s play hahd at School Yahd!” That’s the motto at West Boylston’s ultimate entertainment space for kiddos and kids at heart. This 20,000 square foot action center will bring you back to your days on the school yard, but with a completely amped up experience. A full-size whiffle ball field, pickle ball and badminton courts, basketball, dodgeball, and life-size Connect Four and Battleship games are just a few of the draws here. For gaming fuel, the full-service bar and kitchen have you covered whenever you need to re-up. 

Worcester Art Museum

Boasting 37,500 pieces across 51 centuries, Worcester Art Museum is internationally known for its collection of European and American art. What’s also enticing is that students, faculty, and staff from any of the universities in the Worcester area can visit the museum free of charge.

Old Sturbridge Village

If your 2022 resolution is to learn a new skill, consider registering for a historic craft class at Old Sturbridge Village! From blacksmithing and bookbinding, to tin lanterns, furniture fundamentals and more, you’ll leave these immersive experiences with your own masterpiece. Additionally, mark your calendars for Maple Days in March. This annual tradition brings aromas of wood smoke and maple syrup—there’s no sweeter way to welcome spring.

Us Them We exhibit at Worcester Art Museum. Photo courtesy: Discover Central MA

Far Shot Recreation

Worcester’s Far Shot Recreation is an indoor adventure for the ages, offering archery, as well as knife and axe throwing parties with coaching and games. Whether you’re on the hunt for an alternative date night or a competitive team building opportunity, the crew at Far Shot has you covered.  

Free Play Bar Arcade

Wednesday through Sunday, you can power up with games and fuel up with food and beverages at Worcester’s Free Play Bar Arcade, the epitome of a classic arcade without all the kids. What’s more? One flat fee at the door gets you access to the 120-plus games they have to offer—no tokens or tickets needed. Play for as long as you want and beat your own high score. For parents eager to entertain, visit during the specially-designated Free Play Family Days. 

Live Action Escape Rooms & Escape the Pike

Escape the Pike and Live Action Escape Rooms are perfect for lovers of mystery. At either location, your curiosity and wit will be put to the test as you race against the clock to find a way out of whatever room you’re in. Choose from a variety of storylines and scenarios to experience with family, friends, and workmates alike!

SmashIt2

At Worcester County’s only smash room, breaking stuff is no accident. SmashIt2 is the ideal indoor spot to blow off steam whilst curing cabin fever. 

 

Discover Central MA is the official Regional Tourism Council of Worcester and Central MA. Interested in becoming a member of Discover Central MA? Email Kristin Esper, Membership & Sales Manager at kesper@discovercentralma.org.

This story was originally published in the February 2022 edition of Chamber Exchange: The Newspaper, a quarterly publication of the Chamber. All newspaper editions are archived here.