Explore the Treasures of the American Antiquarian Society
Discover the rich tapestry of American history at the American Antiquarian Society, a treasure trove of rare artifacts and documents in Worcester, MA.
Nestled in Worcester, Massachusetts, the American Antiquarian Society is a must-visit for history buffs and bibliophiles alike. This remarkable institution houses an extensive collection of American historical artifacts, books, and manuscripts, allowing visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of the nation's past. With its stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings, it's a perfect spot for those seeking both knowledge and inspiration.
A brief summary to American Antiquarian Society
- 185 Salisbury St, Worcester, Salisbury Street, Massachusetts, 01609, US
- +1508-755-5221
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the schedule for special events or lectures that may coincide with your visit for a richer experience.
- Bring a notebook or digital device for taking notes, as you’ll find plenty of intriguing information to jot down.
- Plan to spend a few hours here to fully appreciate the extensive collections and exhibits.
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can attract more visitors.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are in downtown Worcester, head northeast on Main Street toward Park Avenue. Continue walking for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Park Avenue. Turn left onto Park Avenue and walk for approximately 0.7 miles. You will then arrive at Salisbury Street. Turn right onto Salisbury Street and continue for about 0.3 miles. The American Antiquarian Society will be on your left at 185 Salisbury Street.
-
Public Transit - Bus
From downtown Worcester, head to the nearest bus stop for the WRTA. Take bus number 26 towards the Greendale Mall. Get off at the stop on Salisbury Street. From there, walk approximately 0.2 miles north on Salisbury Street, and you will find the American Antiquarian Society at 185 Salisbury Street.
-
Biking
If you prefer to bike, you can rent a bike from one of the local bike-share programs available in Worcester. Start by heading north on Main Street, then turn left onto Park Avenue. Continue on Park Avenue until you reach Salisbury Street. Turn right on Salisbury Street and bike for about 0.3 miles. The American Antiquarian Society will be on your left at 185 Salisbury Street.
Discover more about American Antiquarian Society
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Palladium
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Palladium, Worcester's premier auditorium and live music venue, showcasing diverse performances all year round.
Discover Central Massachusetts
1.5 km
Uncover the wonders of Central Massachusetts at the Discover Central Massachusetts visitor center, your key to exploring this vibrant region.
George Washington Plaque
1.5 km
Explore the George Washington Plaque in Worcester, MA, and immerse yourself in a pivotal moment of American history at this remarkable historical landmark.
Slater Building
1.6 km
Explore the Slater Building, a historical landmark in Worcester, MA, showcasing stunning architecture and rich local history, perfect for history buffs and tourists.
Far Shot Worcester - Axe Throwing / Knife / Archery
1.7 km
Discover the excitement of axe throwing, knife throwing, and archery at Far Shot Worcester – the ultimate adventure venue in Massachusetts.
WWII Memorial
1.8 km
Explore Worcester's WWII Memorial, a solemn tribute to heroes and a serene spot for reflection amidst the city's rich history.
Worcester Common Burial Ground
1.9 km
Explore the historic Worcester Common Burial Ground, a serene cemetery rich in local history and tranquil beauty, nestled in the heart of Worcester, Massachusetts.
Washington Square
2.1 km
Discover the historical richness of Washington Square in Worcester, a serene landmark surrounded by vibrant culture and beautiful architecture.
Polar Park
2.4 km
Discover the excitement of live baseball at Polar Park, Worcester's premier stadium for sports, entertainment, and community events.
Crompton Collective
2.5 km
Explore Crompton Collective in Worcester, MA – your ultimate destination for unique home goods, antiques, and vintage treasures.
Woodland Street Historic District
2.8 km
Discover the charm and rich history of the Woodland Street Historic District in Worcester, MA, where stunning architecture meets timeless stories.
Perry Avenue Historic District
3.4 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Perry Avenue Historic District in Worcester, Massachusetts, a serene escape for history enthusiasts.
Washburn Square–Leicester Common Historic District
8.4 km
Discover the historical beauty and vibrant culture of Washburn Square–Leicester Common Historic District, a hidden gem in Massachusetts.
Mass Audubon's Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary
21.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Mass Audubon's Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary, a serene nature preserve in Princeton, MA.
Wachusett Mt. Summit
24.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Wachusett Mountain Summit, a premier hiking destination in Massachusetts offering stunning views and year-round outdoor activities.
Unmissable attractions to see
Massachusetts Avenue Historic District
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of the Massachusetts Avenue Historic District in Worcester, a must-visit for history lovers and casual explorers.
Bancroft Tower
0.5 km
Explore Bancroft Tower, a historical landmark in Worcester, MA that combines stunning views with rich local heritage for an unforgettable experience.
Worcester Center For Crafts
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant Worcester Center for Crafts, where artistry meets community in a celebration of handmade creativity.
Escape Games Worcester
0.7 km
Experience the thrill of teamwork and adventure at Escape Games Worcester, where every puzzle brings excitement and challenges to conquer.
Worcester Art Museum
0.8 km
Explore the Worcester Art Museum, a cultural treasure in Massachusetts featuring diverse art collections and engaging community programs.
Salisbury Mansion
0.9 km
Explore the historical elegance of Salisbury Mansion in Worcester, MA, where colonial charm meets captivating history.
Whitcomb Mansion
1.0 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Whitcomb Mansion, a historical landmark in Worcester, Massachusetts, perfect for history lovers and curious explorers.
Iron Bridge
1.0 km
Discover the Iron Bridge in Worcester, a beautiful historical landmark showcasing stunning architecture and rich industrial heritage.
Elm Park
1.0 km
Explore Elm Park, a historic oasis in Worcester, MA, where nature, history, and community come together in a stunning landscape.
Smiley Face Mural
1.4 km
Experience the joy of Worcester at the iconic Smiley Face Mural, a vibrant tourist attraction that embodies creativity and community spirit.
Worcester Historical Museum
1.4 km
Discover the rich tapestry of Worcester's history at the Worcester Historical Museum, where artifacts and stories come to life.
Mechanics Hall
1.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and rich history of Mechanics Hall, Worcester's premier concert hall and cultural landmark.
The Pavillion at the Blackhole
1.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and exceptional live entertainment at The Pavilion at the Blackhole, Worcester's ultimate destination for unforgettable evenings.
Live Action Escapes
1.7 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at Live Action Escapes in Worcester, MA, where teamwork and excitement come together in immersive escape rooms.
Oxford-Crown Historic District
1.7 km
Explore the Oxford-Crown Historic District, where history meets charm in Worcester, Massachusetts, offering a delightful journey through time.
Essential places to dine
Oak Barrel Tavern
0.6 km
Experience delightful dining at Oak Barrel Tavern in Worcester - savor locally sourced cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Sole Proprietor
0.7 km
Experience the freshest seafood in Worcester at The Sole Proprietor - where exceptional taste meets inviting ambiance.
The Boynton Restaurant & Spirits
0.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The Boynton Restaurant & Spirits in Worcester - where great food meets great company.
The Fix Burger Bar
0.8 km
Discover Worcester's culinary gem at The Fix Burger Bar, where gourmet burgers meet a vibrant atmosphere perfect for any foodie.
Ralph's Diner
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ralph's Diner in Worcester—where delicious American cuisine meets live rock 'n' roll music.
Armsby Abbey
1.2 km
Discover Armsby Abbey: A unique blend of local flavors and craft drinks in Worcester's vibrant culinary scene.
deadhorse hill
1.4 km
Experience the culinary artistry of Deadhorse Hill in Worcester—where seasonal ingredients meet innovative American cuisine.
Fatima's Cafe
1.5 km
Experience authentic East African cuisine at Fatima's Cafe in Worcester—where flavors meet tradition in every dish.
Mezcal Tequila Cantina
1.5 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine and an extensive mezcal selection at Mezcal Tequila Cantina in Worcester – where every meal is a celebration.
Altea's Eatery
1.6 km
Discover Worcester's finest brunch experience at Altea's Eatery, where unique flavors meet inviting atmosphere.
Havana Nights Restaurant and Lounge
1.6 km
Savor authentic Cuban cuisine at Havana Nights Restaurant and Lounge in Worcester - where vibrant flavors meet lively entertainment.
Westside Steak & BBQ
1.7 km
Experience authentic American barbecue at Westside Steak & BBQ in Worcester - where flavor meets family-friendly dining!
The Mercantile
1.8 km
Discover the culinary excellence at The Mercantile in Worcester – where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine in a vibrant setting.
Shawarma Palace
1.9 km
Discover authentic Mediterranean flavors at Shawarma Palace in Worcester – where every bite tells a story of tradition and taste.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
1.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Ruth's Chris Steak House in Worcester – where sizzling steaks meet upscale ambiance for an unforgettable meal.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Handcrafted Shop (Formerly the Gallery Store)
0.5 km
Discover the artistry of Worcester at the Handcrafted Shop, where local creativity meets unique shopping in a charming atmosphere.
Prints and the Potter Gallery
0.7 km
Explore unique art and handcrafted gifts at Prints and the Potter Gallery, a must-visit destination for art lovers in Worcester, MA.
Modern Muse Consignment Shop
0.7 km
Explore Modern Muse Consignment Shop in Worcester for unique fashion finds and affordable treasures that tell a story.
Sweet Jane’s Designer Consignment
1.2 km
Explore Sweet Jane’s Designer Consignment for a unique shopping experience in Worcester, where fashion meets sustainability and style is always within reach.
Addison's Attic
1.4 km
Explore Addison's Attic in Worcester for an exquisite selection of costume jewelry that enhances your style and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.
That's Entertainment
1.5 km
Explore a vibrant world of comics, games, and collectibles at That's Entertainment in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Joe's Albums
1.5 km
Immerse yourself in Worcester's vibrant music scene at Joe's Albums, where vinyl dreams come alive and every record tells a story.
Demoiselle Accessories
1.5 km
Explore Demoiselle Accessories in Worcester for unique and stylish fashion pieces that elevate your wardrobe.
Worcester Wares
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Worcester Wares, a charming gift shop in the heart of Worcester, MA, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Lori's Gifts
1.6 km
Explore Lori's Gifts in Worcester for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
Pleasant Things
1.6 km
Discover Pleasant Things, the ultimate convenience store in Worcester for snacks, drinks, and local essentials during your visit.
Exclusives Music Meets Fashion
1.6 km
Explore the fusion of music and fashion at Exclusives Music Meets Fashion, Worcester's premier clothing store for trendy apparel.
C.C. Lowell Art Supply Co., Custom Picture Framing & Gift
1.6 km
Explore a creative oasis at C.C. Lowell Art Supply Co., offering art supplies, custom framing, and unique gifts in Worcester, MA.
Mid Town Mall
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Mid Town Mall in Worcester, offering diverse shops, dining, and entertainment for every visitor.
Concrete Collection
1.7 km
Explore the eclectic world of vintage fashion at Concrete Collection in Worcester, where every piece has a story waiting to be discovered.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Whiskey Lounge
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Lounge in Worcester, featuring an extensive whiskey selection and a relaxing atmosphere for leisure seekers.
Moynagh's Tavern Inc
1.5 km
Discover the charm of Moynagh's Tavern in Worcester, MA – a lively bar with a great selection of drinks and delicious food in a welcoming atmosphere.
Worcester Beer Garden & Taproom
1.9 km
Explore the Worcester Beer Garden & Taproom, a vibrant spot for craft beer lovers offering delicious food and a lively atmosphere in Worcester, MA.
The Pint
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Pint, Worcester's beloved bar known for its extensive drink selection and welcoming atmosphere.
The Sundown
2.2 km
Discover The Sundown in Worcester, where exceptional cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere combine for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Ralph's Tavern
2.3 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Ralph's Tavern in Worcester, MA, where great drinks and delicious food create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation.
Femme Bar
2.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at Femme Bar, Worcester's premier lesbian bar offering a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse drink selection.
The Banner Bar & Grille
2.4 km
Discover delicious grilled favorites and a lively atmosphere at The Banner Bar & Grille in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Boland's Bar and Patio
2.6 km
Discover the charm of Boland's Bar and Patio, a vibrant Irish pub in Worcester offering authentic fare and a lively atmosphere.
Whiskey On Water
2.6 km
Experience Worcester's nightlife at Whiskey On Water, where exceptional whiskey and vibrant entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.
107 Tap
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at 107 Tap in Worcester, MA, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere await.
Funky Murphys
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and atmosphere at Funky Murphys, Worcester's top grill destination for food and fun.
Vincent's
2.8 km
Discover Worcester's nightlife at Vincent's, a popular bar with great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for everyone.
Steel & Wire
2.9 km
Discover a cocktail paradise at Steel & Wire, Worcester's premier destination for artisanal drinks and a vibrant nightlife experience.
The Cosmopolitan Club
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Cosmopolitan Club, Worcester's favorite bar known for its lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
