Green Hill Park, Worcester, MA

High Up in the City is Green Hill Park

Drive to Green Hill Park with 480 acres and parking is plenty.  You can stroll along the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial or look out on the big pond from the small viewing platform.  Across the way, spot the golf course or enjoy lunch you bring under the big shelter with numerous picnic tables.  A few hundred feet is Green Hill Farm with free admission and sheep, goats, llamas and more.  Past the farm is a playground, baseball field and on the other side of the park is a skateboard park.

• City Information -- Green Hill Park
• Massachusetts Veterans Memorial
• Golf Course at Green Hill
• Park Spirit Family Programs
• Directions / Google Maps

Wachusett Resevoir, North Dike

Breathtaking Clouds and Vistas as the Wachusett Resevoir

Off Route 110 in Clinton is the North Dike of the Wachusett Reservoir.  Pull off the side of the road and enjoy amazing clouds, the view of pristine water and a wonderful walking loop.  On a breezy day, the wind can be cold and the sun hot so don't forget layers and your favorite sunglasses. 

• Wikipedia -- Wachusett Dam
• Directions / Google Map

Moore State Park

Visit Pristine Moore State Park

Just north of Worcester in Paxton is Moore State Park.  On the trail that is mostly stroller friendly, you'll pass waterfalls and can photograph the old saw mill.  Along the way, you'll enjoy rhododendrons, azaleas and beautiful views of the pond.  Bring a book to read as plenty of shady spots in the park.

• Information on Moore State Park
• Trail Map
• Directions / Google Map

Institute Park, Worcester, MA

Spot Swans at Institute Park

Near WPI, Institute Park is the perfect spot for a picnic.  Plenty of space to hang out and parking on Humboldt Street, this is the ideal park to lounge and read a book.  Walk along the pond and you'll spot frogs, ducks, geese and beautiful swans. 

In the summer, Institute Park is home to many city festivals, offers canoe days courtsey of Mass Audubon and free concerts at night.  In winter, it's a great place for snowshoeing and usually there's a free day sponsored by Mass Audubon to do just that.  Anytime of year, you can walk to the nearby Northworks for lunch or the Worcester Art Museum for an exhibit. 

• Friends of Institute Park
• Open Road Music and Arts Festival
• Directions / Google Map

Broad Meadow Brook, Worcester, MA

Visit Mass Audubon's Broad Meadow Brook

Within the city of Worcester is Broad Meadow Brook Park.  Operated by the Mass Audubon, there's often programs and experiences for bird watchers, families and those looking to volunteer.  Plenty of parking and a handful of trails allow for quarter, half and mile long jaunts in the woods.  Great location to teach a youngster to follow trail markers.

• Mass Audubon Information
• Directions / Google Maps

Purgatory Chasm

Climb Rocks at Purgatory Chasm

Plenty of picnic tables and shade for the whole family to enjoy. For those with good balance, climb through the 1/4 mile chasm and enjoy fun in the rocks.  Purgatory Chasm State Reservation in Sutton, MA is a unique place to see and enjoy.  Parking can sometimes be a challenge so be sure to arrive early or plan to circle once or twice to find a space.  Going into the Chasm is not advised in winter or when any ice.  It can be a challenge in good weather.

• Information on Purgatory Chasm State Reservation
• Wikipedia -- Purgatory Chasm
• Photos and Trail Information
• Directions / Google Map

Elm Park, Worcester, MA

Elm Park is a treasure in Worcester, MA

At the corners of Park Ave and Highland Street, you'll find Elm Park ready to enjoy no matter the season -- ice skating in winter, ducks in spring, art in the park over the summer and beautiful trees come fall.  Walk the outer sidewalk for exercise or enjoy the playground with your kids, this park offers much.

• City Information -- Elm Park
• Wikipedia -- Elm Park
• Art In The Park Exhibition
• Directions / Google Maps