The very best 12 nightlife spots in Worcester, United States

Venture into the charming town of Worcester, where you can plow through the night with a smile on your face and an icy drink in hand. Swing by "The Laughing Tavern" for a riotous time, as you belly-laugh your way through the evening amidst their lively comedy shows. For those seeking a touch of sophistication, head to "The Velvet Olive" where you can sip on their exquisite cocktails and pretend you're auditioning for a James Bond movie. And if you're feeling bold enough to conquer the dance floor with all your might, make sure to visit "Electric Groove," where the pulsating beats will have you gyrating like a jellyfish on the dance floor.

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1. Deadhorse Hill

4.6 (663)

281 Main St, Worcester, MA 01608, USA

Welcome to Deadhorse Hill, the quirky culinary gem nestled in the heart of Worcester! This unique eatery offers much more than just your average dining experience. Prepare to be swept off your feet by their mouthwatering dishes crafted with utmost precision and love, making you question the very existence of any other food joints in town - sorry, mediocre competitors! As you step into Deadhorse Hill, be prepared to be greeted by a delightful mix of whimsy and sophistication. With a decor that screams modern-chic-meets-Bigfoot's-lair, this place knows how to make a statement. And, oh boy, do they deliver the goods! From delectable small plates that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance, to an extensive wine collection that'll make you feel like a connoisseur (even if you can't pronounce "merlot" correctly). But that's not all! Deadhorse Hill doesn't just cater to your culinary cravings; it's also a place where you can revel in the joy of eavesdropping on the city's hippest conversations. You'll be so engrossed in your plate of perfection that you won't even notice the effortlessly cool crowd surrounding you, engaging in conversations that somehow effortlessly transition from discussing art-house films to debating the merits of wearing socks with sandals. So grab a fork, sip a glass of wine, and let Deadhorse Hill take you on a whimsical gastro-adventure you won't forget!

www.deadhorsehill.com

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2. Armsby Abbey

4.6 (1595)

144 Main St, Worcester, MA 01608, USA

Welcome to Armsby Abbey, a beer lover's paradise tucked away in Worcester! Prepare to have your taste buds tickled and your belly filled with their delectable farm-to-table fare. As you step into this cozy joint, you'll be greeted by their extensive selection of craft brews that has more options than your aunt's closet on sale day. Don't forget to sample their mouthwatering, locally sourced dishes, because hey, why let your taste buds have all the fun when your stomach deserves some love too?

armsbyabbey.com

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3. The Dive Bar

4.5 (292)

34 Green St, Worcester, MA 01604, USA

Welcome to The Dive Bar in Worcester, a charming establishment that some may argue is an acquired taste, much like the infamous pickled herring you'll find on its eclectic menu. Nestled on a street where time seems to have taken a wrong turn, this dimly lit watering hole proudly boasts an assortment of mismatched furniture, ensuring you never have the same chair twice, unless it's permanently affixed to your derriere due to unseen ancient glue. Enjoy the live music provided by a band whose talent can best be described as the distant cousin of mediocrity, and if you're lucky, you may even witness the deeply philosophical debates between patrons about whether socks with sandals count as an acceptable fashion statement.

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4. Whiskey on Water

3.8 (423)

97 Water St, Worcester, MA 01604, USA

If you are seeking solace in the land of Worcester, Whiskey on Water awaits your arrival with open arms (or rather, open bottles). This charismatic watering hole, nestled snugly among the bustling streets, offers libations that could turn even the most mundane of evenings into an exhilarating adventure. With an impressive selection of whiskeys that would make even the most distinguished connoisseur weak at the knees, this spirited establishment will transport you straight into a realm of liquid gold, leaving you both dazed and delighted.

www.whiskeyonwater.com

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5. Beatnik's

4.2 (32)

433 Park Ave, Worcester, MA 01610, USA

Hidden amidst the delightful chaos of Worcester, lies Beatnik's, a haven for free-spirited souls seeking caffeinated wonder. Adorned with mismatched chairs and an eccentric mishmash of artwork, this quirky establishment invites you to satisfy your cravings for both strong coffee and artistic expression. Unfazed by the judgments of society, Beatnik's proudly celebrates the '60s counterculture, offering a delightful escape from the mundane and an opportunity to embrace your inner bohemian.

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6. Vinny C's

4.6 (67)

63 Shrewsbury St, Boylston, MA 01505, USA

Nestled within the heart of Worcester is Vinny C's, a delightful culinary oasis that promises to charm food enthusiasts with its Italian-inspired dishes. As you step inside this hidden gem, you're immediately greeted by the warm atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy Italian grandma's kitchen, minus the questionable mustache. Prepare yourself for a mouthwatering adventure, where flavors collide like the battles of the gladiators, leaving your taste buds in awe and your belt begging for mercy.

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7. Brew City Grill & Brew House

4.4 (877)

104 Shrewsbury St, Worcester, MA 01604, USA

Welcome to Worcester, where the magical combination of delicious brews and mouthwatering bites awaits you at Brew City Grill & Brew House! Situated in the heart of the city, this lively joint boasts an impressive selection of craft beers that will make any hop-head jump with excitement. Whether you're a gastronomic adventurer or just really, really hungry, prepare to indulge in their delectable dishes that can turn even the pickiest of eaters into satisfied foodies.

www.brew-city.com

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8. CraftRoots Brewing

4.5 (237)

4 Industrial Rd, Milford, MA 01757, USA

Nestled amidst the charming streets of Worcester, CraftRoots Brewing is a frothy oasis for the discerning beer enthusiast. This craft brewery will transport you to a realm where hops and dreams mingle, taking your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure. The whimsical ambiance, with its assortment of mismatched beer glasses and bearded brewing wizards, adds a sprinkle of quirkiness to your pint, ensuring that each sip is accompanied by a chuckle.

craftrootsbrewing.com

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9. Perfect Game Sports Grill and Lounge

3.4 (19)

64 Water St, Worcester, MA 01604, USA

Nestled in the heart of Worcester, Perfect Game Sports Grill and Lounge is an absolute paradise for sports enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike. With a pulsating atmosphere that could rival a football stadium, this lively establishment ensures that every moment is filled with excitement and cheering. As you immerse yourself in the chaos of passionately debated plays and the aroma of sizzling burgers, be prepared to unleash your inner sports beast and discover the true definition of a thrilling dining experience.

www.perfectgameworcester.com

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10. Nick's Bar and Restaurant

4.6 (246)

124 Millbury St, Worcester, MA 01610, USA

Welcome to Nick's Bar and Restaurant, where the charming eccentricity meets mouthwatering flavors in the heart of Worcester. This quirky establishment boasts an atmosphere that can only be described as "your cool aunt's living room meets a biker gang's hideout." But fear not, for this unique fusion somehow works, creating a cozy haven filled with mismatched furniture, vintage signs, and the constant buzz of lively conversations and clinking glasses. Dive into Nick's culinary wonderland where gastronomic delights await. The menu is a playful mishmash of comfort food favorites and daring culinary experiments, carefully crafted by some sort of mad genius in the kitchen. Whether you're craving a juicy burger crowned with a colossal onion ring or seeking an unforgettable seafood extravaganza, prepare to have your taste buds shaken, stirred, and forever grateful for this delightful and slightly unpredictable culinary adventure. But what sets Nick's apart from the rest is not just the food; it's the cast of characters who frequent the joint. From the boisterous bartenders with encyclopedic knowledge of craft beers to the locals who can spin a yarn that will leave you in stitches, you'll find yourself surrounded by an eclectic bunch. So, grab a pint, strike up a conversation, and let Nick's Bar and Restaurant become your home away from home in Worcester—because where else can you savor unforgettable dishes while listening to stories that could easily rival a stand-up comedy routine?

www.nicksworcester.com

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11. The Raven

4.2 (120)

258 Pleasant St, Worcester, MA 01609, USA

Nestled in the heart of Worcester lies The Raven, a charming haunt that will bewitch you with its eerie ambiance and devilishly delicious food. With dim lighting and gothic decor, it's the perfect spot to unleash your inner Poe and indulge in delectable dishes that are to die for (but trust us, you won't want to!). From their tantalizingly tasty mac and cheese to their sinisterly satisfying blackened shrimp, The Raven is a feather in Worcester's cap, offering a dining experience that's as hauntingly good as it is unforgettable.

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12. Dirty Martini

3.8 (147)

102 Green St, Worcester, MA 01604, USA

Welcome to Dirty Martini in Worcester, where the drinks are as scandalous as the name suggests! This lively cocktail spot is known for its energetic atmosphere, where the music is always loud enough to drown out awkward conversations. The bartenders here are masters of their craft, mixing up concoctions so potent, you'll be dancing on tables before you realize you've even paid your tab!

www.blackstone-worcester.com

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Worcester by plane is to fly into Worcester Regional Airport (ORH) from major cities such as New York or Philadelphia, or connecting flights through Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), followed by a 15-minute drive to downtown Worcester

Car

The best way to get to Worcester by car is to take the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) or I-290, which run through the city and connect it to major cities such as Boston or Springfield

Train

There is a daily Amtrak train service from major cities such as New York or Boston to Worcester Union Station, which is located in the heart of downtown Worcester

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Worcester by boat, as it is a landlocked city located in central Massachusetts

Bus

The best way to get to Worcester by bus is to take a Greyhound or Peter Pan bus from major cities such as New York or Boston to the Worcester Bus Terminal, which is located in downtown Worcester

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