Worcester’s Salisbury Cultural District (WSCD) takes its name from the historical Salisbury family. Dating back to 1767, this family made their mark on the city of Worcester as merchants, entrepreneurs, and gentlemen-farmers. They were the primary founders and benefactors of the arts, cultural, and civic institutions in Worcester.
Home to some of the region’s most beloved cultural, historical, educational, and religious organizations, Worcester’s Salisbury Cultural District has a thriving restaurant, retail, and art community. With sidewalks, crosswalks, bicycle paths, lighting, ample shade trees, historic buildings, and an attractive natural and built environment, the district is safely and pleasantly walkable. Around every corner Worcester’s vibrant past and visions for its creative future are revealed.
What can you do here?
Discover. Explore. Experience. Thousands of visitors to the district each year enjoy over 50 centuries of art, including one of the finest arms and armor collections in the nation, at the Worcester Art Museum. The largest collection of books and materials printed through 1876 in the United States can be found at the American Antiquarian Society; the classical sounds of the Massachusetts Symphony Orchestra are heard in the beautiful Tuckerman Hall; and a look at life in 18th century Worcester can be discovered at the Worcester Historical Museum’s restored Salisbury Mansion.
The district also includes the cutting-edge Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI); picturesque Institute Park (with the Levenson Concert Stage and Gazebo and Salisbury Pond); six Houses of Worship (including the oldest Armenian congregation in America); six restaurants; six specialty galleries/gift shops; and 10+ National Historic Register buildings. Over 1000 community events are hosted in the district every year.
Where are we located?
Conveniently reached from Interstates I-190 and I-290, Worcester’s Salisbury Cultural District is located just north of the city’s Main Street and adjacent to historic Lincoln Square.