Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DON'T MISS
WORCESTER DINERS
Worcester nurtured a great American icon: the diner. Here, in this rust-belt city,
you'll find a dozen of them tucked behind warehouses, underneath old train
trestles, or steps from dicey bars.
Miss Worcester Diner
( 508-753-5600; 300 South-
bridge St; meals $5-9; 6am-2pm Mon-Sat, 7am-2pm Sun)
is a classic of the genre. Built in
1948, it was a showroom diner of the Worcester Lunch Car Company, which pro-
duced 650 diners at its factory right across the street. Harleys parked on the side-
walk and Red Sox paraphernalia on the walls set the tone. Enticing selections such
as banana-bread French toast compete with the usual greasy-spoon menu of chili
dogs and biscuits with gravy. It's one tasty slice of Americana.
Springfield
Workaday Springfield's top claim to fame is as the birthplace of the all-American game
W Columbus Ave; adult/child $19/14;
)
celebrates the sport with exhibits
10am-5pm;
and memorabilia from all the big hoop stars.
It's also the hometown of Theodor Seuss Geisel, aka children's author Dr Seuss.
You'll find life-size bronze sculptures of the Cat in the Hat and other wonky characters at
Chestnut Sts;
)
.
Northampton
The region's best dining, hottest nightlife and most interesting street scenes all await in
this uber-hip burg known for its liberal politics and outspoken lesbian community. Easy
to explore on foot, the eclectic town center is chockablock with cafes, funky shops and
art galleries.
Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce
(
413-584-1900;
www.explorenorthampton.com
; 99 Pleasant St;
9am-5pm Mon-Fri; 10am-2pm Sat & Sun)
is in-
formation central.
Sights
Smith College
COLLEGE CAMPUS
