This is our third year at Mechanics Hall and we are still excited about this lovely venue. Here are some observations on what you can expect, with photos of the hall that we’ve pulled together from various places on the internet.
Parking
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Parking in Worcester is a bit of an adventure. There is no free parking associated with the hall. Worcester has a lot of on-the-street parking if you are willing to be determined about it. The nearest parking meters seem to run until 8 pm, so $2 in quarters at 6 pm will get you through the evening. We’ve seen parking meters at a greater distance from the hall that are free on Saturdays.
There are plenty of parking lots near the hall, and the price might vary depending on whether there are other events at the DCU arena or other neighborhood venues. $10 to $20 will mean that you can park close to the hall and not worry about hunting for street parking .
If you are mobility impaired, you should go straight to the Waldo Street parking lot because that is closest to the accessible entrance.
The Front of Mechanics Hall
Mechanics Hall was built in 1857, by the elite manufacturers of Worcester, MA. This is the entrance on Main Street.
The Waldo Street Entrance
You can also enter through the back entrance on Waldo Street.
This entrance is best if you have mobility issues. The elevator is located here, and can get you to the first and second floors and up to the Ballroom on the third floor.
The glass entrance encloses the original back wall of the building, and is another charming spot for photographs. From here you can walk up the stairs, or take the elevator up.
The Box Office
We are not using the Box Office this year. There will be someone to check you off the ticket list on the second floor.
Grand Staircases
Mechanics hall has grand staircases that lead from the first floor to the second, third and balcony floors.
This is the view down toward the entrance from the second floor.
This is a view of the second floor and more grand staircases leading to the ballroom on the third floor. The coat room is located on this floor.
Changing space and Bathrooms
We do not have changing rooms, and the bathrooms are not large enough for multiple people to be changing, so please plan to arrive dressed, needing only a few finishing touches to your outfit.
Into the Ballroom
The Ballroom Floor
The ballroom has a sprung wood floor. It will be truly amazing to dance on!
Stage and Pipe Organ
Our band, Spare Parts, will be on the stage in front of the pipe organ. Spare Parts always impresses us with their historically accurate music played with verve and style to inspire dancers. The hall has legendary acoustics and the music will be amplified through the hall’s sound system.
Dickens Room
We’re planning a lovely spread of punch, cookies, and light refreshments and will serve them in the Dickens Room. There will be room for guests to make two lines (one on either side of the table). You will be able to take your refreshments to small tables around the ballroom.
The Balcony
The balcony has a wonderful view of the dancing below. The balcony is only accessible by stairs – the elevator does not go to the balcony floor.
Hotels in the area:
We do not have room blocks at area hotels, but these are some hotels where folks have stayed in the past:
AC Hotel Worcester
125 Front Street
Worcester, MA 01608
Hilton Garden Inn
35 Major Taylor Blvd
Worcester, MA 01608
Holiday Inn Express
110 Summer St
Worcester, MA 01608