thePULSELocal college senior shares info on some hot-spots for a good time
Editor’s Note: This guide (written by an a local college student who is a senior) describes a couple of popular places including clubs, bars, and pool halls for all those newcomers to the college community who need a broad view of the activities Worcester has to offer for a fun night out.
October 2003
Red 1888
41 Pleasant St., Worcester – (508) 795-7775
Club Red is a surprise on Pleasant Street in downtown Worcester. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside is a whole new world. Red is a small, intimate venue with a fully stocked bar and mirrors around the whole room, making it appear larger than it is. Tables and booths line the walls so if you get there early and want to sit and chill, you can comfortably — under red lights, of course. The dance floor is just the right size so that when people start dancing, the party is jumping. Since it opened a little over a year ago, Red has been a popular hangout for all types of music lovers with a different theme almost nightly. Ladies free before eleven so make sure to get there early!
On the Rocks
258 Park Ave. Worcester – (508) 754-2523
On the Rocks looks small on the outside, but inside it stretches down a dance floor lined with tables for two, ending in a small lounge area decked out with a couple of arcade games, a couch and armchairs. The club’s vibrant décor includes hand-painted murals along the walls, colorful lights, and palm trees. With top forty hits playing every night, except DJ Wednesdays and Fridays, On the Rocks entertains guests as diverse as the music.
Make sure to try one of the special martinis – the Bikini Martini is delicious. If you like to hang out with the girls or the guys and grab a drink for the sake of conversation, this is the place for you. The party starts jumping between 11:30 and midnight with no cover. If you stop in before you head out somewhere else, you just may end up staying.
Leitrims
265 Park Ave., Worcester – (508) 752-0502
When you are not in the mood to dance or suffer through people trying to dance and you just want to hang out with your friends or listen to some music, head down to Leitrims, one of the city’s original college bars. Grab a few dollar drafts, which are easy on the pockets, or chip in for a pitcher. A fully stocked bar has everything you need to wet your whistle, and has two sides, to serve you better. Whether you want to stand around and watch the latest sports game, check out the scenery, or play a game of pool, this pub has what you’re looking for. Even with the extra space to move around in, the bar gets very crowded very quickly. If you are a non-smoker and cannot stand second hand smoke, this may not be the place for you. Otherwise, “Get the party started!”
Jillian’s Billiard Club
315 Grove St., Worcester – (508) 793-0900
Jillian’s offers an all around good time. This venue houses a huge projection screen, which normally has a sporting event on it, a stage for live entertainment, a bar and lounge area in the middle of the building, and about nine or so pool tables on either side. In the back, are arcade games, skeeball, basketball hoops, and more. The wait staff takes appetizer and drink orders from the dining area or the pool area, your choice. The jukebox plays today’s hottest music as well as some good oldies.
Boston Billiard Club
454 Grove St., Worcester – (508) 852-2121
Less than a mile down the road from Jillian’s is another pool hall, which is more upscale. The set up is quite different. The bar is above the pool floor, so you can watch and wait while you sip on something. Waitresses walk around offering $2 shots that are hard to resist. The wait is a little longer here since the building has less tables, but in the meantime, make your self comfortable at the bar or on some cozy couches, and listen to some music. Boston Billiards also brings in some big names from the billiards world for special events if you want to pick up some cues for your shooting technique.
Worcester has a lot to offer students who need a break from campus life. It is always important to call ahead to verify if proper dress and ID are required. Cover charges can change nightly and for special events. As always drink responsibly, designate a driver, and have a good time!
