The best deals on hotels near Hart Center ICE Rink in Worcester, MA.
Access unmatched hotel rates and frequent flash deals on rooms.
Save up to 70% when booking as a group. Select 9+ rooms to get started.
Top 24 Hotels Near Hart Center ICE Rink
1 College St Worcester, MA 1610
AC Hotel by Marriott Worcester
Hart Center ICE Rink is a simple drive from AC Hotel by Marriott Worcester, a perk that allows the hotel to serve as a time-saving base.
Reception zones at AC Hotels emphasize minimalist design and clear sightlines, ensuring arrivals feel intuitive, uncluttered, and immediately calm. Guest rooms include ergonomic chairs, strong Wi-Fi, and bright desks, supporting continuity for professionals who need reliable workspaces. Fitness centers provide treadmills, weights, and bright lighting, helping wellness-focused travelers maintain dependable routines on the road.
Travelers find AC Kitchen croissants, AC Lounge cocktails, complimentary Wi-Fi, and business spaces, giving them clarity and social connection.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Worcester
For guests in Worcester, Homewood Suites by Hilton Worcester is a short drive from Hart Center ICE Rink, a position that makes for a hassle-free start to the day.
Reception areas at Homewood Suites are visible from the lobby entrance, helping new arrivals orient themselves without confusion. Guest rooms provide streaming TVs, bedside USB outlets, and Wi-Fi, helping travelers unwind with entertainment or stay connected daily. Business centers containing computers, office supplies, and internet ensure professionals manage work seamlessly during travel.
With meeting spaces, Suite Shop®, evening socials, and fitness centers, travelers experience convenience in both work and leisure.
Hilton Garden Inn Worcester
This simple commute to Hart Center ICE Rink helps Hilton Garden Inn Worcester guests get acquainted with the local Worcester area without a long journey.
Lobby coffee and tea at Hilton Garden Inn highlight courtesy touches, allowing guests to refresh quickly before heading to their rooms. Each suite offers microwaves, coffee makers, and refrigerators, allowing guests to enjoy snacks, drinks, and light meals conveniently. Business corners with copy machines, computer access, and ergonomic seating give travelers practical setups to complete tasks reliably.
On-site dining, complimentary breakfast, EV charging, fitness facilities, and meeting spaces deliver dependable support every day.
Courtyard by Marriott Worcester
In Worcester, Courtyard by Marriott Worcester's well-connected location to Hart Center ICE Rink lets guests travel with a sense of freedom.
Guests at Courtyard experience seating clusters and open layouts in the lobby, details that highlight consistency and practical design. Suites supply sofa seating, entertainment systems, and hardwood finishes, flexible setups that balance leisure and productivity. Guests enjoying the indoor pool find loungers, calm lighting, and towel service, reliable cues that refresh routines consistently.
Guests enjoy breakfast service, fitness studios, pet-friendly spaces, and indoor pools, consistent features that support wellness.
Hampton Inn & Suites Worcester
From the moment you leave the lobby of Hampton Inn & Suites Worcester, Hart Center ICE Rink is a quick drive to avoid traffic, simplifying your visit.
Hydration stations in Hampton Inn lobbies reflect attentiveness, refreshing travelers while easing the transition from transit to rest. Each suite features closets, luggage benches, and drawer storage, offering practical organization that supports longer guest stays. Lobby lounges with sofa clusters, coffee service, and bright décor create social hubs where guests can relax and connect comfortably.
Complimentary breakfast, laundry facilities, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and Wi-Fi maintain dependable convenience for longer visits.
Comfort Inn Auburn - Worcester
From Comfort Inn Auburn - Worcester, the low-stress trip to Hart Center ICE Rink removes travel anxiety on any given day before the stay unfolds.
Comfort Inn entry zones often include seasonal floral or decor touches near the desk to give a subtle welcome without overwhelming flow. Every guest room places bedside USB ports, task lighting, and easy-access outlets so devices charge while you rest and morning routines stay smooth. Fitness centers operate across early and late hours, giving options to work out around meetings, flights, or game schedules as routines shift.
With valet stands, bell support, meeting suites, and dependable Wi-Fi, transitions from arrival to sessions stay efficient and seamless.
La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Auburn Worcester
For a visit that balances a key destination with broader travel, La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Auburn Worcester keeps Hart Center ICE Rink an uncomplicated drive.
Reception counters at La Quinta remain brightly lit and staffed, ensuring arrivals are handled smoothly at all hours of the day. Each guest room highlights plush bedding, blackout shades, and HVAC systems, making restful sleep dependable across properties. Business centers containing Wi-Fi, desktop computers, and printers ensure practical support for guests needing work efficiency.
Pet-friendly stays, Wi-Fi, and breakfast counters pair with laundry and parking, reinforcing convenience for families consistently.
Beechwood Hotel
The benefit of having Hart Center ICE Rink within easy reach renders Beechwood Hotel into a great starting point for any visit.
At Beechwood Hotel, arrivals often showcase elegant lobby details, professional staff, and complimentary coffee or tea for a polished introduction. Accommodations may provide refined décor, premium bedding, and bathrooms with polished finishes for a sophisticated guest experience. Amenities typically present spa services, upscale dining options, and stylish public areas that create a polished luxury impression.
Guests may encounter premium bedding, cocktail bars, spa lounges, and Wi-Fi, providing indulgent relaxation alongside digital ease.
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Auburn by IHG
Within Worcester, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Auburn by IHG keeps Hart Center ICE Rink within easy reach, a fact that lets the hotel to serve as a convenient hub.
Bright lighting and modern finishes across Holiday Inn Express lobbies create dependable arrival impressions and reinforce consistency. Each guest room offers sofa seating, flat-screen HDTVs, and USB ports, giving guests convenient setups for downtime and connection. Lobby seating areas arranged with tables, lounge chairs, and natural light give travelers orientation clarity upon arrival.
Pet-friendly rooms, complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi align with laundry and parking, offering clarity and convenience for families.
Residence Inn by Marriott Worcester
Guests at Residence Inn by Marriott Worcester can enjoy Hart Center ICE Rink being an easy drive as a defining feature of a well-located stay.
Hydration stations near seating areas at Residence Inn provide quick refreshment, softening arrival fatigue with thoughtful detail. Each suite provides sofa beds, televisions, and lounge chairs, creating flexible living spaces where families can relax comfortably together. Atrium lounges with natural light, sofa seating, and decorative accents produce welcoming hubs that encourage relaxed guest interaction.
Outdoor pools, concierge services, EV charging, free Wi-Fi, and breakfast buffets ensure flexibility that supports varied travel purposes.
Hampton Inn Auburn
The value of having Hart Center ICE Rink an uncomplicated drive makes Hampton Inn Auburn a practical base of operations before the experience.
Digital check-in services at Hampton Inn provide loyalty recognition, enabling frequent travelers to begin their stays without delay. Every guest room provides blackout drapes, plush linens, and thermostats, creating personalized comfort that supports restorative rest. Indoor pools with spa tubs, towel service, and lounge chairs offer restorative spaces, helping guests recharge during busy travel days.
Valet parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot breakfast bags, Pavilion Pantry counters, and fitness studios keep travel straightforward daily.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Worcester Auburn
Hart Center ICE Rink is a simple cross-town drive from Fairfield Inn & Suites Worcester Auburn, a plan that ensures the trip there is a pleasant part of the experience.
At check-in, Fairfield Inn positions luggage benches, accessible routes, and staff guidance to help guests unload and orient without delay. All suites deliver plush bedding, blackout curtains, and climate systems, creating restorative sleep environments for dependable rest nightly. Within business centers guests access computers, reliable printers, and Wi-Fi, providing dependable continuity for professionals traveling.
Amenities such as self-parking, hot breakfast with fruit, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi connectivity support dependable daily rhythms for travelers.
Hunters Grille and Tap at the Grafton Inn
In Worcester, Hunters Grille and Tap at the Grafton Inn provides a sensible base, keeping Hart Center ICE Rink within driving reach for guests.
Hunters Grille and Tap at the Grafton Inn typically features straightforward check-in, compact lobby areas, and nearby parking aligned with budget convenience. Rooms often provide climate control, curated décor, and plush bedding, maintaining a reliable foundation for overnight guest comfort. Shared spaces typically provide breakfast counters, vending access, and guest laundries that create straightforward travel support.
Accommodations may present Wi-Fi, modest breakfast, vending access, and laundry facilities, reinforcing simple daily consistency.
Red Roof Inn Sutton
For those making an easy regional drive, Red Roof Inn Sutton is a convenient base for accessing Hart Center ICE Rink and the surrounding area.
The efficient and welcoming check-in at Red Roof Inn helps set a practical, no-fuss tone that defines the rest of the guest experience. Every guest room includes high-speed Wi-Fi at no extra charge, delivering the connectivity modern travelers need for work, social, or fun. The 24-hour coffee bar in the lobby is a signature touch, offering a reliable source of warmth and caffeine for early risers and late arrivals.
The essentials are always covered with free Wi-Fi, free coffee, guest laundry, and the brand's signature no-cost policy for one pet.
Spark by Hilton Northborough
The benefit of using Spark by Hilton Northborough as a convenient base turns it into a starting point for a day of easy transitions.
Guests arriving at Hilton encounter infused water stations, a refreshing courtesy that highlights care and consistency across locations. Suites feature marble bathrooms, soaking tubs, and stocked toiletries, providing spa-like experiences that refresh guests reliably. At the meeting facilities, flexible layouts, conference tables, and audiovisual equipment provide practical convenience for groups.
With business hubs, complimentary breakfast, EV chargers, and outdoor seating, Hilton ensures travel stays productive and sustainable.
Westborough Inn
Guests at Westborough Inn can appreciate it as a practical base for visiting Hart Center ICE Rink and the wider region.
Arrivals at Westborough Inn may include efficient desk service, self-serve beverages, and on-site parking to simplify travel routines. Each guest room may include hardwood finishes, compact seating, and rainfall showers, creating a practical yet stylish stay setting. Public areas may include modest lobbies, vending machines, and laundry access, reflecting the functional focus of budget properties.
A visit may feature Wi-Fi, guest laundry, vending machines, and compact breakfast service, sustaining clarity across travel routines.
Extended Stay America Suites Boston Westborough East Main St
When travel in the Worcester area is a factor, Extended Stay America Suites Boston Westborough East Main St's position as a sensible base is a true benefit.
A complimentary breakfast bar and hot coffee from Extended Stay America provide a quick and convenient fuel-up for the day ahead. By providing a full kitchen, the suites offer a practical solution for families at the hotel, making it easy to prepare kid-friendly meals. A simple fitness room allows health-conscious guests to get in a morning workout, a valuable perk for maintaining their normal schedule.
The hotel's complete amenity package—kitchen, laundry, pool, fitness, and pet-friendly policy—ensures a comfortable and convenient stay.
Hampton Inn Boston - Westborough
For a trip to the area, Hampton Inn Boston - Westborough's location as a sensible base is an essential aspect of its appeal.
Hampton Inn receptions combine seating clusters and community spaces, offering guests versatile hubs for regrouping and interaction. Suites include microwaves, refrigerators, and Keurig coffee makers, giving guests easy access to meals, snacks, and hot beverages. Lobby markets with snacks, beverages, and travel essentials reduce small stresses, ensuring travelers can handle daily needs easily.
Business centers, complimentary internet, indoor pools, breakfast service, and laundry access deliver practical support for every guest.
Extended Stay America Suites Boston Westborough Connector Rd
For guests in the Worcester area, Extended Stay America Suites Boston Westborough Connector Rd is a convenient base, a location that supports a relaxed and easy schedule.
The courteous staff at Extended Stay America are a key part of the positive arrival experience, ensuring every guest feels welcome. All guest rooms are designed with durable surfaces, creating a clean and low-maintenance environment for any length of hotel stay. Outdoor picnic areas with tables and grills at some hotels provide a wonderful space for guests to enjoy a home-cooked meal outside.
With full in-room kitchens, on-site guest laundry, free Wi-Fi, and a grab-and-go breakfast, guests can live independently and affordably.
Extended Stay America Suites Boston Westborough Computer Dr
Hart Center ICE Rink is an easy regional drive from Extended Stay America Suites Boston Westborough Computer Dr, a setup that ensures travel logistics are always straightforward.
For pet owners, Extended Stay America provides a consistently easy arrival process, removing the stress of finding pet-friendly lodging. The combination of a stovetop and a full refrigerator gives hotel guests the freedom to pursue their own culinary routines while away. The grab-and-go breakfast station is conveniently located in the lobby, allowing for a swift collection of coffee and a morning snack.
From a fitness center and a swimming pool to pet-friendly rooms and a full kitchen, the hotel supports a balanced, home-like lifestyle.
Residences at Solomon Pond
The guest's regional journey from Residences at Solomon Pond in Worcester to Hart Center ICE Rink is an uncomplicated drive, enhancing the feeling of a well-chosen base.
Residences at Solomon Pond often features keypad entry, modest foyers, and garage access that create straightforward support for long-term arrivals. Residences may include full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and seating zones, maintaining clear and practical balance for guests. Communal areas may feature study zones, resident lounges, and fitness centers, creating straightforward balance for residential routines.
Guests may encounter Wi-Fi, rooftop seating, in-unit laundry, and parking, sustaining straightforward balance for extended apartment visits.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Marlborough
Hart Center ICE Rink is within driving reach from Homewood Suites by Hilton Marlborough, a feature that makes the hotel a practical and well-positioned base.
Soft lighting and residential furnishings define Homewood Suites lobbies, producing a calm tone that softens the move from travel. Suites include large fridges, microwaves, and dishwashers, supporting long-stay guests with resources for simple meal preparation. Lobby seating furnished with sofas, tables, and chairs encourages relaxed conversation and coordination among traveling groups.
Complimentary Wi-Fi, pet-friendly rooms, hot breakfast, and outdoor grills provide flexibility that eases stays for all travelers.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston - Westborough
For guests in the Worcester region, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston - Westborough is a sensible base, a location that makes for a graceful start to any day.
Introducing allergy-friendly cookie options, DoubleTree expands the warm-welcome ritual while respecting modern dietary needs. Guest rooms offer blackout curtains with climate control systems, ensuring tailored rest regardless of daylight or external noise. Breakfast areas add chef stations for made-to-order items, providing clarity and flexible options that elevate morning routines.
Meeting rooms, boardroom seating, business center access, Wi-Fi, and AV support create productive spaces that keep agendas moving smoothly.
Courtyard by Marriott Boston Westborough
For a stay that requires a straightforward drive, Courtyard by Marriott Boston Westborough is a sensible base for reaching Hart Center ICE Rink without hassle.
Courtyard emphasizes comfort through beverage rituals and modular furniture, touches that ease arrivals and signal brand dependability. Each guest room contains ergonomic desks, coffee makers, and Wi-Fi, reliable features that support business or leisure daily. At the fitness center, ellipticals, treadmills, and mats give travelers dependable setups to sustain exercise habits daily.
With 24/7 markets, indoor pools, self-parking, and Wi-Fi, Courtyard provides practical amenities that sustain reliable routines.
Book as a group & pay separately.
Lowest Group Rate Guaranteed.
Hart Center ICE Rink Local Area Guide
Welcome to the Hart Center ICE Rink, a premier destination for ice sports enthusiasts and families in Worcester, Massachusetts. This guide is designed to help athletes, coaches, families, and visitors navigate their visit smoothly, from arrival to departure. Discover essential information about the surrounding area, dining options, local attractions, and practical tips to enhance your experience at the Hart Center and in Worcester. We cover everything you need to know to plan your schedule and make the most of your time around the rink and beyond.
Area contextNeighborhood Overview – Hart Center ICE Rink (Worcester, MA)
The Hart Center ICE Rink is situated within the dynamic campus environment of Holy Cross College, contributing to a vibrant academic and athletic atmosphere. Nestled in the western part of Worcester, Massachusetts, the rink is easily accessible via major roadways. Route 9 provides a direct link, while Interstate 290 and the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) are within a short drive, offering convenient access from greater Boston and beyond. Parking is primarily available within the college's designated lots, which can see increased traffic during peak event times. Worcester Regional Airport (ORH) is the closest airport, approximately a 15-20 minute drive away, with Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) being a larger alternative about an hour's drive east. For those utilizing public transport, the Worcester commuter rail station offers connections to Boston, and local bus routes serve the area, though direct service to the rink might require a short walk or additional ride-share. Smart arrival strategies involve checking the college's event calendar for potential parking impacts and aiming to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before scheduled ice times to allow ample time for parking and walking to the facility.
Lodging contextWhere to Stay Near Hart Center ICE Rink
Hotel accommodations are clustered primarily in downtown Worcester, about a 10-15 minute drive from the Hart Center, offering a range of options from budget-friendly to mid-tier business hotels. Another cluster can be found along the I-290 corridor, providing convenience for travelers arriving by car. While the immediate vicinity of the Hart Center is largely academic, the adjacent areas offer limited casual dining and no major hotel developments. Most visiting teams and families opt for hotels that offer easier access to both the rink and downtown amenities. Demand for hotels in Worcester typically spikes around major collegiate sporting events, local tournaments hosted at the Hart Center, and when other large-scale events are happening in the city. Booking accommodations well in advance, especially during fall and winter months which are peak seasons for ice sports, is highly recommended. Utilizing hotel booking sites with map filters can help identify properties closest to the college or along convenient transit routes.
Quick Plan EssentialsQuick-Plan Overview
- Worcester Regional Airport (ORH) is 15 minutes away, offering convenient access.
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early to secure parking and reach the rink efficiently.
- The College Green offers a pleasant spot for pre- or post-game relaxation.
- Indoor dining and entertainment options in downtown Worcester serve as good rainy-day alternatives.
- Campus coffee shops and nearby casual eateries are great for team regrouping.
Game Day Flow
Check-In & Warm-Up
Plan to arrive at the Hart Center at least 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled ice time. This window allows ample time for locating parking within the Holy Cross College lots and walking to the rink facility. Once inside, team registration or check-in procedures are typically straightforward at the main desk. Utilize the designated warm-up areas to get your players ready for the ice, ensuring they have adequate space to stretch and prepare. Familiarize yourself with the rink layout to quickly locate locker rooms and essential facilities, setting a calm and organized tone for the session ahead.
Mid-Day Regroup
If your schedule includes significant time between games or practice sessions, consider the campus grounds for a break. The area around the Hart Center offers some outdoor spaces for stretching or a quick meal. For more substantial breaks, nearby casual dining options on College Road or a short drive into downtown Worcester provide varied menus. Team families often find these periods ideal for sharing snacks or reviewing game footage in a relaxed setting. Ensure all team gear is secured when leaving the rink area for extended breaks.
Wrap-Up & Departure
Things to Do Near Hart Center ICE Rink
Walkable
College of the Holy Cross
Explore the historic campus of the College of the Holy Cross, located immediately adjacent to the Hart Center. Wander through the well-maintained grounds, admire the collegiate Gothic architecture, and perhaps visit the beautiful Mary Chapel or the integrated science complex. The campus offers a peaceful environment for a stroll before or after your ice time, providing a moment of quiet reflection amidst academic surroundings. It’s a convenient way to stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh air without straying far from the rink, making it perfect for a quick break or family exploration during a tournament day.
Worcester, MA · On siteMount Saint James Park
Nestled within the Holy Cross College campus, Mount Saint James Park offers a serene natural retreat. This well-kept green space features walking paths, benches, and mature trees, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation. It's an ideal spot for athletes to do some light stretching or for families to enjoy a picnic lunch between games. The park’s quiet ambiance makes it a perfect escape from the bustling arena, offering a chance to reconnect with nature and recharge in a peaceful environment just a short walk from the rink.
Worcester, MA · 0.3 mi5–15 Minutes Away
Worcester Art Museum
The Worcester Art Museum is a distinguished cultural institution housing a diverse collection spanning 51 centuries of art. From ancient Roman mosaics and Egyptian sculpture to European paintings and contemporary works, the museum offers something for every art enthusiast. Its notable holdings include a comprehensive collection of Japanese prints and a significant range of American art. The museum also features stunning period rooms, transporting visitors through different historical eras. Plan for at least two to three hours to explore its extensive galleries and special exhibitions, making it a rewarding outing for those seeking cultural enrichment.[/h4t_attraction] [h4t_card_attraction title="EcoTarium" link="https://www.ecotarium.org/" note="Worcester, MA · 3.5 mi"]The EcoTarium is New England’s premier indoor/outdoor science and nature museum, offering an engaging experience for all ages. It features interactive exhibits that explore the natural world, a planetarium for stargazing adventures, and a wildlife sanctuary home to native New England animals. Visitors can explore the Tree Canopy Walk, discover ecological concepts through hands-on displays, and learn about space and astronomy in the state-of-the-art planetarium. It’s an ideal destination for families and groups looking for an educational and entertaining outing that combines science, nature, and discovery.
Worcester, MA · 3.0 miBeyond the Event: Beyond the immediate campus and nearby museums, Worcester boasts a growing downtown area with various entertainment venues and historical sites. Consider exploring the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts for a show, or delve into the city's industrial past at the American Antiquarian Society. The city offers a mix of historical charm and modern revitalization, providing diverse options for exploration after your sporting commitments conclude.
Dining & nightlifeFood & Drink Near Hart Center ICE Rink
Inside & Adjacent
Crossroads Cafe (Holy Cross)
Located conveniently within the College of the Holy Cross campus, Crossroads Cafe offers a casual and accessible dining option for students, staff, and visitors. It provides a variety of standard cafe fare, including sandwiches, salads, soups, and beverages, perfect for a quick bite between activities or a relaxed meal. The cafe's proximity to the Hart Center makes it an ideal stop for team families or athletes seeking convenient refreshments without needing to leave the college grounds, ensuring minimal disruption to your schedule.
Worcester, MA · On siteBannister's (Holy Cross)
Also situated on the Holy Cross campus, Bannister's offers another dining venue within easy reach of the Hart Center. This spot typically provides a more substantial menu than a standard cafe, often featuring grill items, diverse entrees, and comfortable seating. It serves as a good option for groups or families looking for a sit-down meal in a convenient, on-campus location. Check the college’s visitor information for current operating hours and menu details, as these can vary depending on the academic calendar.
Worcester, MA · On siteNearby Gathering Spots
Peppercorn's Grille & Tavern
Peppercorn's Grille & Tavern is a popular local establishment known for its lively atmosphere and diverse menu. They offer a range of American pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, steaks, and seafood, complemented by a selection of beers on tap. It's a great spot for teams and families to gather after a game, offering a relaxed setting for celebrating victories or discussing performances. The tavern also features a spacious dining area suitable for groups, making it a convenient choice for post-event meals in Worcester.
Worcester, MA · 2.0 miRalph's Tavern
Ralph's Tavern is a long-standing Worcester favorite, celebrated for its classic diner-style food and friendly, unpretentious atmosphere. Serving up hearty breakfast dishes, burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food classics, Ralph's is a reliable choice for a satisfying meal. It’s particularly well-suited for families and groups looking for casual dining that won’t break the bank. The diner’s enduring popularity speaks to its consistent quality and welcoming environment, making it a go-to spot for many locals and visitors.
Worcester, MA · 2.5 miLocal & Elevated Picks
The Sole Proprietor
The Sole Proprietor is renowned as one of Worcester's premier seafood restaurants, offering an upscale dining experience. Specializing in fresh, high-quality seafood, including oysters, lobster, and daily catches, the menu also features well-prepared steaks and other contemporary American dishes. The restaurant boasts an extensive wine list and a sophisticated ambiance, making it an excellent choice for a celebratory meal or for those seeking a refined dining experience. Reservations are often recommended, especially on weekends.
Worcester, MA · 2.8 miVia Italian Market
Via Italian Market provides an authentic taste of Italy with its selection of traditional Italian dishes, including fresh pasta, pizzas, and classic entrees. This family-owned establishment prides itself on using quality ingredients and time-honored recipes. The market also offers a retail section where patrons can purchase specialty Italian goods. It’s a fantastic spot for groups or families looking for a delicious and hearty meal in a warm, inviting atmosphere, offering a genuine Italian culinary experience in the heart of Worcester.
Worcester, MA · 3.2 miLocal Tips & Year-Round Info
- Campus traffic around Holy Cross can increase significantly during college events; check schedules to avoid delays.
- Worcester's downtown is undergoing revitalization; explore new shops and restaurants when time permits.
- Weekends, especially during hockey and figure skating seasons, see peak demand for local dining and hotels.
- Public transportation within Worcester is less frequent than in larger cities; plan rideshare or driving accordingly.
- Be aware of typical New England weather patterns; dress in layers for comfort both indoors and outdoors.
Weather & Seasons at Hart Center ICE Rink
- Winter: Winter in Worcester is typically cold, with average temperatures often hovering around or below freezing. Visitors should pack heavy coats, insulated pants, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots for navigating snowy or icy conditions. Indoor venues like the Hart Center offer a warm respite, but getting to and from requires preparation for the elements. Expect shorter daylight hours, impacting travel and outdoor activities.
- Spring & early summer: Spring brings milder temperatures, gradually warming from chilly to pleasant. Layers are key, with potential for both cool mornings and warmer afternoons. Light jackets or sweaters are advisable. Rain is common during this period, so packing a waterproof outer layer and umbrella is practical. Outdoor activities become more enjoyable as the season progresses, though it remains wise to check forecasts before planning.
- Mid-summer: Mid-summer in Worcester is usually warm to hot, with July and August often bringing the highest temperatures and humidity. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential for any outdoor time. While the Hart Center remains temperature-controlled, traveling between locations might involve dealing with heat, so staying hydrated is important. Evenings can cool slightly, making a light layer useful.
- Fall season: The fall season offers crisp, cool air and is often considered one of the most pleasant times to visit, with vibrant foliage. Temperatures are moderate, making it comfortable for exploring, but mornings and evenings can be cool. Packing layers, including sweaters and a light jacket, is advisable. This is a busy time for sports, and the weather is generally conducive to travel and outdoor activities before the winter chill sets in.
- Rain & snow: Rain can occur year-round in New England, but it is particularly prevalent in spring and fall. Snow is a significant factor during winter, with accumulations that can affect travel routes and outdoor plans. Always check local weather forecasts and road conditions before departing for the Hart Center or any other destination. Having rain gear or snow-appropriate footwear and outerwear can greatly enhance comfort and safety during inclement weather.
Venue Facts & Trip Essentials
Venue facts
- Primary team: College of the Holy Cross Athletics
- Neighborhood: Southbridge Street Area / College Hill
- Nearest airport: Worcester Regional Airport (ORH)
- Parking: College campus lots, may have fees or restrictions
- Walkable district: Holy Cross College campus and adjacent park
Trip essentials
- Groceries & supplies: Market Basket or Price Chopper within a 10-minute drive
- Pharmacy: CVS or Walgreens nearby on major roads
- Urgent care: UMass Memorial Health - Immediate Care on Lake Avenue
- Downtime: Campus grounds, local coffee shops, downtown Worcester cafes
- Pro tip: Confirm parking availability and any event-specific rules with the college in advance.

