If you’re doing the college thing in Worcester, it’s great to get off campus and explore. But what should you do? Where are the best places to go? We checked in with some students and former students and asked them what they wish they had known when they were freshmen experiencing Worcester college life for the first time.

“BirchTree Bread opened during my sophomore year of college in Worcester, and it remains one of my all-time favorite food places. The live music on the weekends makes for a fun and relaxing atmosphere, and their breakfast specials/unique coffee or tea drinks always put me in a great mood. Bring your books for a calm study spot during finals or a group of friends on the weekend. Also, be sure to check out the farmers market that is right below the bakery on Saturdays!”
– Katie Love, Holy Cross (2017)

“I wish I had known how good the Coney Island hot dogs were. I would have eaten them every day.  And Regatta Point beach on Lake Quinsigamond – it’s a great place to spend a sunny afternoon.”
– Kyle Sullivan, Clark University (2015)

“I wish I had found the gem that is BirchTree earlier! I didn’t go until the end of my senior year, and it was so good.”
– Caroline DiNicola, Holy Cross (2016)

“I wish I had known about all of the great restaurants Worcester has to offer. There are really so many that my friends and I have come to love: NU Café (highly suggest the Honey Goat Avocado sandwich), Flying Rhino (buffalo chicken wontons are a must), Volturno (check out 2-for-1 pizzas on Mondays and Tuesdays), Corner Grille, Miss Woo’s, Peppercorns and too many more to keep listing. Also, discount bowling on Tuesdays and Thursdays at AMF. Yes, your favorite childhood birthday activity is still just as fun in college.”
– Carly O’Brien, Holy Cross (2017)

“I wish I had known about BirchTree, Madulka’s and its great view, and Boulevard Diner’s French Toast.”
– Katrina Morris, Holy Cross (2017)

“Get off campus. There is a great community in Worcester of young people that are always working on something. Definitely be a part of it. Each college has a great community, but the city has plenty to offer, as well as the other colleges. There are tons of events, several artist collectives and great places to hang out and meet people.”
– Alex Theisen, Clark University (2015)

“I wish I had discovered Purgatory Chasm during my freshman year. Not only is it a great place to explore with your friends, but there’s also an ice cream stand nearby.”
– Shealagh Clark,Holy Cross (2017)