10 Ways Worcester County Seniors Can Enjoy the Spring

Whether it’s arts and culture or fun in the sun, Worcester County has seasonal activities for everyone.

Why Activity Is So Important

As people age, isolation becomes a risk. Without physical, intellectual and social engagement, boredom can lead to health problems like depression.

So get out there, pursue your interests, or try something new. Include friends, your kids or grandkids. The rewards are greater than you may realize.

Keep reading to learn more about spring activities for seniors in Charlton and throughout our Central Massachusetts region.

Outdoor Activities for Seniors in Worcester County

Central Massachusetts is a big, beautiful part of the world. The outdoors beckons as the warm spring weather moves in.

Fill your lungs and feed your soul at these fresh-air attractions:

• Mass Audubon Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary in Princeton. With 12 miles of groomed, senior-friendly trails, the wildlife sanctuary surrounds you with 1,000 acres of spectacular scenery. Perfect for seniors and families.
• The Greater Good brewery and taproom in Worcester. This indoor-outdoor beer garden boasts a lineup of small-batch beers and homemade pub fare.
• New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston. This nonprofit attraction features 171 acres of carefully planned gardens, including ornamental, edible and native plants. There’s a robust calendar of fun activities and educational events, a Garden Shop carrying a carefully selected array of botanic-themed gifts, and the Farmer and the Fork Café.
• Worcester Red Sox at Polar Park. The Triple-A “Woosox” are the nearest Boston Redsox minor league affiliate. Grab a hot dog and a beer, and enjoy America’s pastime. It’s professional baseball at minor league prices. Parking and public transportation are convenient.
• Southwick’s Zoo in Mendon. Everyone loves a zoo! Southwick’s is New England’s largest zoological experience. You’ll see over 850 animals in naturalistic habitats, including lions, tigers, giraffes, chimpanzees, white rhinos and two-toed sloths. Stroll the paved paths, see exhibits from the Woodland Express Train, or get a bird’s-eye view from the Skyfari Ride.
• Local Farmers Markets. Browse the booths and support local growers. Outdoor markets are a great place to pick up fresh produce and cheeses, locally raised meats, and baked treats and jarred goods. Some vendors sell crafts. In the spring, look for homemade bird feeders, wind chimes, and other outdoorsy items.
• Hadwen Arboretum in Worcester. Part park, part forest, part natural education center, Hadwen Arboretum offers a network of trails and beautiful woodland green space in the heart of Worcester. It’s the perfect destination for light hiking, picnicking, dog walking, and quiet contemplation. Special feature: Heritage Trees are more than 100 years old.
• Old Sturbridge Village. Take a step back in time at the largest outdoor historical museum in the Northeast. This authentically restored 1830s village lets you explore original homes, a school, country store, bank and working farm. Costumed historians preserve New England’s heritage. It’s a fun and educational outing for seniors and families with kids.

For a list of outdoor hikes and adventures throughout Central Massachusetts, visit The Last Green Valley.