Happy Groundhog Day! Today marks the day where Northeasterners hope that Punxsutawney Phil pops out of his hole and doesn't see his shadow. The glimmer of hope that spring is just around the corner is a sure cure for the winter blues. Thankfully, Punx predicted an early spring this year. Regardless of the outcome, we would like to share Clark University's favorite Worcester winter spots that will either make you embrace Father Winter or help you escape the chill.
1. Wachusett Mountain. With 25 trails of fresh snow there's something for everyone at every level to feel young at heart whether you ski, ride, or tube. If you prefer to enjoy the slopes from indoors, cozy up to one of their fireplaces with a cup of hot cocoa in their lodge.
2. Meet friends at Altea's for a French-inspired brunch. They will whisk you away to Paris with their sweet and savory crepes, beignets, and sinful pain perdu.
3. From Monet and Gauguin to Arms and Armor, the Worcester Art Museum collection comprises nearly 38,000 objects representing 51 centuries of cultural heritage. The best part is, they offer free admission to Clark University students.
4. Lace up your skates and head downtown to the Oval at Worcester Common's 12,000-square-foot rink for an affordable ice-skating experience.
5. On a mild day, stroll along Regatta Point at Quinsigamond State Park. Clark students believe it's one of Worcester's best kept secrets and a must-visit. If the lake is frozen over, you'll see people ice fishing, snowmobiling, and ice skating.
6. Spring back to summer with a trip to the weekly Canal District Farmers Market at Crompton Collective. Get fresh produce, flowers, and more every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
7. Feeling exotic? Grab a large bowl of hot pho soup from one of the area's many Vietnamese restaurants. We recommend Pho Dakao if you're close to campus, or Pho Sure in nearby Shrewsbury.
For more happenings in and around Worcester explore Discover Central Massachusetts.
Photo courtesy of the Worcester Chamber of Commerce.
