We're so excited for you all to experience the beauty and charm of the Monadnock region, a corner of New England that is near and dear to us! To inspire your exploration during your time here, we have assembled this list of a few favorite spots and activities.
The highest point in Cheshire County, Mt. Monadnock is said to be the second most frequently climbed mountain in the world. Summiting the 3,165-foot mountain will take you three to four hours. Those who make it to the top enjoy spectacular rock formations and gorgeous views--on a clear day, all the way to Boston.
A short hike (0.8 miles out-and-back) with a satisfying payoff: the panoramic views extend into Vermont. Possible berry picking!
A learning farm “where people and animals mingle comfortably.” Great for kids and adult animal lovers (Bryce!).
Monadnock Berries boasts 12 acres of cultivated blueberry varieties, including Earliblue, Blue Crop, Blue Ray, Collins, Berkeley, Elliot, Coville, Nelson, and Brigitta.
This rail trail runs for 21 miles southwest from downtown Keene.
This 1.9-mile loop trail near Peterborough winds through 128-acres of protected woodland, open wetland, and the shoreline of Nubanusit Brook.
Formerly Peterborough's folk art museum, the Mariposa Museum now bills itself as "a museum of human understanding." Culture!
Miles of trails to explore at this remarkable center for nature education and programming. Check out the calendar on their website for an updated list of goings on, or write to them to schedule time with a naturalist for groups of ten or more! (I'm looking at you, Hill Family!)
Stonewall is an educational farm in Keene with an emphasis on sustainability and community engagement. Not open to visitors daily, but schedule a Pasture Walk for groups of 6 or more!
For a rejuvenating freshwater plunge, check out the Silver Lake Boat Ramp! NB: This is not a beach and there is no lifeguard on duty, so be ready to swim!!
For a hike of moderate difficulty and length, and to avoid the Mt. Monadnock crowds, give Pack Monadnock a try! Head to Miller State Park and enjoy a 2.9-mi out-and-back trail -- about 1hr 50min of trail time -- and a gorgeous view of its big sister mountain, Mt. Monadnock.
For more hikes and recreational walks in the area, check out nhstateparks.org.
Downtown Peterborough holds many surprises and delights! Bop around Depot Square, scope out any or all of several splendid antique stores (Grove and Main!), or stop in for a brewski at Harlow's Pub or the new Post and Beam Brewery on Grove St!
Need lunch ideas? Check out Nature's Green Grocer (not actually in downtown Peterborough: drive up Rt. 101 and sit out on the patio by the babbling brook.)
In operation since 1883, the Harrisville General Store is owned and run by Historic Harrisville, a local nonprofit whose mission is to preserve and maintain the incredible local buildings and heritage of this once-thriving mill town.
Sarah owes one of the happiest years of her life to the charming village of Harrisville and her time working at the Store. Pay them a visit and try some of their amazing prepared foods (breakfast burritos!!) or buy a souvenir or a book from their cool new curated selection!
Craft-inclined? Go across the street to Harrisville Designs and peruse an amazing selection of yarns, patterns, and looms! https://harrisville.com/
With locations in both downtown Keene and downtown Peterborough, Toadstool Books is the region's best bookstore. Maybe you'll find your summer's last beach read!
We hope you'll join us at Brewbakers Café in Keene on Friday night--to raise a few glasses, laugh some laughs, and kick off the wedding weekend. Also an excellent choice for a delicious Saturday morning latte and breakfast sandwich!
If you're in the mood to wander a little farther north, check out Burdick's handmade chocolates in Walpole. Don't miss the Signature Chocolate Mice!
Make reservations to dine at the adjoining restaurant for some delicious French fare (and possible sighting of Ken Burns, who co-owns the place!) or stock up on cheese for a gourmet midnight snack from the fantastic selection at Walpole Grocery.
The Walpole Creamery makes their delicious ice cream with fresh milk from majestic creatures at Crescent Farm located just 3 miles down the road from their Walpole facility. Check it out!