Photo by Madison Busick

In college, much of a student’s life takes place on campus. But when going to school in Worcester, there are lots of reasons to leave campus. From restaurants to art to concerts and more, students will most likely be venturing off their campus and into Worcester. If you don’t have a car, you still have plenty of options. Here is a student’s guide to getting around Worcester:

Public Transportation
Many college students come from small towns that may not have many options in terms of public transportation. So, hopping on a bus or a train may seem like a daunting task, but Worcester holds many options to get from place to place. The Worcester Regional Transit Authority (WRTA) has buses that service the city and 36 communities in the Central Massachusetts area. Visit therta.com for schedules and routes. The Transit Stop: WRTA Bus Tracker app is also very helpful. Union Station offers Amtrak service, and the commuter rail can get you to Boston in no time. There are also many other forms of transportation in addition to public buses.

  • Amtrak Station
    Union Station
    2 Washington Square, Worcester
    (800) 872-7245
  • Commuter Rail
    Union Station
    2 Washington Square, Worcester
    (617) 222-3200
  • Worcester Regional Airport
    375 Airport Drive, Worcester
    (508) 791-WRTA (9782)
  • Worcester Regional Transit Authority
    60 Foster St., Worcester
    (508) 791-9782

Uber
It’s no secret that college students everywhere are using Uber. But the fares can very quickly add up to the entirety of a student’s budget. One way to decrease Uber fares is by using UberPool, where your driver also picks up other Uber passengers along the way. Fares are much cheaper this way. Another way to save on Uber is by referring friends. If you invite a friend to try Uber, they can use your Invite Code found in the app. The person you invite will get their first ride free, and you will get a $5 credit for inviting them.

Taxis
Don’t forget about Worcester’s taxis! With late-night service and wheelchair-accessible vehicles available, Worcester’s cab companies offer another way to get a ride for a competitive price. Drivers generally have training and five years of driving experience. Plus, they often have apps for a use-friendly experience. Worcester is home to three taxi companies:

  • Worcester Yellow Cab
    508-754-3211
    App: Worcester Yellow Cab
  • Red Cab of Worcester
    508-792-9999
    App: Ryde Taxi
  • Worcester Green Cab
    508-459-1611

Amazon Prime Student
Some basic commodities can be a pain to get for students who do not have cars. Amazon Prime offers a student membership that includes a six-month trial, as well as free two-day shipping on eligible products. Instead of finding a way to get to the store to buy things a college student may need, such as snacks, toiletries, dorm room necessities, etc., students can order them to be delivered on campus in two days.

Not having a car or not being familiar with the transportation in the area can seem overwhelming, but students will figure out what works for them. Many of the colleges in the area also offer transportation to some destinations, as well as guides and discounted rates, so be sure to check out your school’s website for more information.

Natalie Volo