The Center for the Arts in Natick, affectionately called TCAN, is a local music venue in a historic building that was once Natick's central fire station. The venue is cozy with only 290 seats, so audience members feel at home here. Artists are typically in the folk, jazz, and rock genres but include comedians, Beatles cover bands, and more. TCAN also features family shows, classes, and open mic nights for local folk musicians. Additionally, the lobby functions as a gallery for local artists. TCAN plays a large role in Natick's community.

Parking and public transportation at TCAN
There are several options for parking at TCAN. The closest is a public lot on Middlesex Ave. with an entrance on Summer Street. There is another nearby lot on West Central Street and some spots on this and other streets as well. These are metered but free evenings and weekends. Note that parking in other business's lots might result in being towed. Conveniently, you can also take the Commuter Rail's Framingham/Worcester Line to the Natick stop and walk a block to TCAN.

Getting tickets at TCAN
You can buy tickets in person or by calling 508-647-0097 during box office hours or online any time. The box office is open from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, and one hour prior to showtimes. There is a "no refund" policy except on the rare occasion that a show is cancelled. Discounts are available for most shows for children, seniors, and students with college I.D.'s. A $1 Restoration Fee applies to headline events and goes towards maintaining the historic building. Another $1 fee applies to tickets ordered by phone, and online purchases may incur nominal fees as well.

Types of Concerts at TCAN
TCAN features acts from nationally renowned artists to local musicians and is devoted to bringing the arts to the Natick community. Typically, main stage shows bring folk and acoustic artists, singer-songwriters, rock or pop groups, classic rock cover bands, jazz bands, and classical ensembles. Additionally, you'll find comedians, special guests lecturers, local musicians performing at Folk Open Mic nights, and TCAN's own TCAN Players, performing old and new favorites. There are also many great family shows to choose from.

Other places to visit near TCAN
TCAN is located right in Natick Center, which is a charming area to walk around and has a lovely town common. There are many restaurants to try, so grabbing a bite before or after a show is a must. Walk to The Dolphin for some delicious seafood and cocktails, or drive to Culinary Delights for authentic Chicago dogs, Italian roast beef, and home-cooked Russian treats. For a more gourmet yet still approachable dining experience, try Maxwell's 148, a very short drive or ten minute walk. History buffs will also love Natick's Museum of WWII (by appointment only, Tuesdays through Saturdays but well worth a visit).

Where to stay near TCAN
There are many hotels located in and around Natick. The Crowne Plaza Natick is TCAN's sponsored hotel, but the Hampton Inn in Natick offers TCAN patrons a discount as well. For longer stays, try the Residence Inn in Framingham, and for affordable family stays, there is a Red Roof Inn right off of the Mass Pike in Framingham.

Insider tip for visitors to TCAN
Casey's Diner, Natick's famous and historic ten-stool diner was originally a horse-drawn wagon and offers delicious burgers, hot dogs and a unique ambiance. The place is tiny and also has a pick-up window, but it's worth eating inside if you can get a seat.

Author's bio: Deborah Jarvis is a freelance writer who is from and currently lives in the Greater Boston Area. She never pahks her cah in Hahvahd Yahd and tries not to drive like she's from Boston if she can help it.