Central Massachusetts

Central Massachusetts is the geographically central region of Massachusetts. Though definitions vary, most include all of Worcester County and the northwest corner of Middlesex County. Worcester, the largest city in the area and the seat of Worcester County, is often considered the cultural capital of the region. Other populous cities include Fitchburg, Gardner, Leominster, and arguably Marlborough.

Although residents of eastern Massachusetts don't use the term, residents of central Massachusetts strongly identify with the term central Massachusetts and do not identify with western Massachusetts. Likewise, residents of western Massachusetts do not consider Worcester county (central Massachusetts) to be part of western Massachusetts. Residents of central and western Massachusetts understand the differences in their communities and prefer the distinction. However, it is common for people in eastern Massachusetts to lump the communities together, in a sense, using the term western Massachusetts to describe the locations to the west of Greater Boston.

Transportation

The Massachusetts Turnpike (Interstate 90) runs through the southern part of Worcester County. Other interstate highways in the area are I-190, I-290, I-395, and I-495 on the eastern edge. Route 2 is another major east-west highway that spans the northern part of Worcester County. Other significant thoroughfares include Route 9, Route 146, and U.S. Route 20.

See also

• Montachusett-North County
• South County

External links

• Central Massachusetts travel guide from Wikivoyage
• Discover Central Massachusetts - the region's official tourism bureau