Route 56 is a north–south state highway running 20.1 miles (32.3 km) through central Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States.

It crosses the French River before meeting U.S. Route 20.

It continues north, passing under Interstate 90 (the Mass Pike) without access between the two.

Route 56 then crosses the French River again at the intersection of Mills Street and Commons Road before entering the town of Leicester.

Route 56 continues northward, passing several of the Kettle Brook Reservoirs as it enters Paxton.