Worcester

The second largest city in Massachussetts. Historically a mill town and source of industry, Worcester is trying to re-invent itself and attract culture. It will be interesting if it manages to do so before Boston co-opts it as a 'bedroom community'. There are many great restaurants here, a good music scene, the Worcester Art Museum, the Higgins Armory Museum, nine colleges (UMass, WPI, Assumption, for example), several nice parks, some industry and biotech, etc. Like Boston, there are places you don't want to go after dark alone. (esp. Main South) Unlike Boston, you're not living on ramen and ketchup to make rent, and you have to work a little at finding something fun to do. You decide. I've never seen a garbage storm. Also historically known as Wormtown, known to friends as Woosta!