To be a "spa" you had to have a soda fountain. Even in the Worcester area where I grew up they were frequently called the spa. read more
Even in the Worcester area where I grew up they were frequently called the spa. "A Massachusetts-specific term (found most often in the Boston area) for a small convenience store is "spa," referring to the once "healthy" bubbly soda-fountain drinks first served around the turn of the 20th century.". read more