Bradford New HampshireATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bradford, New Hampshire.
1. Bradford Center Meetinghouse
HISTORIC NEW ENGLAND LANDMARK
Bradford Center Meetinghouse is a beautifully maintained historic site that offers visitors a glimpse into New England's past. The site includes not only the meetinghouse itself but also a school and town pound, showcasing the community's heritage. Nearby, visitors can explore an old colonial cemetery with ancient gravestones that tell stories of Bradford's earliest residents.
2. Bradford Pines Natural Area
PRISTINE FOREST SANCTUARY
Bradford Pines Natural Area offers a tranquil escape into nature with its preserved forest landscape. Visitors can enjoy walking trails that wind through stands of mature pine trees, some of which are centuries old. The natural area provides opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and peaceful contemplation of New England's natural beauty.
3. Brown Shattuck Memorial Field
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Brown Shattuck Memorial Field serves as Bradford's primary recreational facility for community gatherings and sporting events. The well-maintained field hosts local baseball and softball games, as well as various town celebrations throughout the year. Families often gather here during summer evenings to enjoy picnics and watch local sporting competitions.
4. Books by the Lake
CHARMING INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
Books by the Lake is a beloved local bookshop that offers a carefully curated selection of titles in a cozy atmosphere. The store frequently hosts author readings, book clubs, and literary events that bring together book lovers from across the region. Its lakeside location provides a peaceful backdrop for browsing the shelves or enjoying a newly purchased book on nearby benches.
5. Sweet Beet Market
FARM-FRESH LOCAL GOODS
Sweet Beet Market is Bradford's premier destination for locally grown produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items. The market supports numerous local farmers and craftspeople, creating a hub for sustainable commerce in the region. Visitors can find seasonal vegetables, baked goods, preserves, and unique gifts that represent the best of New Hampshire's agricultural traditions.
6. The121shop
UNIQUE GIFTS AND CRAFTS
The121shop offers a diverse array of locally crafted items, vintage finds, and unique gifts in a charming retail space. Shoppers can discover everything from handmade jewelry and pottery to repurposed furniture and regional specialties. The shop has become a destination for those seeking one-of-a-kind items and supporting local artisans.
7. Whitman Park
SERENE OUTDOOR RETREAT
Whitman Park provides residents and visitors with a peaceful green space in the heart of Bradford. The park features walking paths, benches, and picnic areas where people can relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Throughout the seasons, the park hosts community events including summer concerts, fall festivals, and winter celebrations.
8. French's Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
French's Park offers a scenic beach area on Lake Massasecum with swimming facilities that are particularly popular during summer months. The park provides picnic tables, grilling areas, and boat access for visitors looking to enjoy a day on the water. Its sandy beach and beautiful lake views make it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists seeking outdoor recreation.
9. Lake Sunapee
CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS
Lake Sunapee is a pristine glacial lake located just a short drive from Bradford, offering year-round recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and water sports during summer months, while winter brings ice fishing and nearby skiing opportunities. The lake is surrounded by charming towns, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints that showcase New Hampshire's natural beauty.
10. Mount Sunapee State Park
FOUR-SEASON MOUNTAIN RECREATION
Mount Sunapee State Park is a popular recreational area featuring a ski resort in winter and extensive hiking trails during warmer months. The park's summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Sunapee and the surrounding mountains of New Hampshire. Adventure seekers can enjoy activities ranging from downhill skiing and snowboarding to mountain biking, zip-lining, and guided nature walks depending on the season.
11. Whaleback Mountain
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SKI AREA
Whaleback Mountain is a community-focused ski area that offers affordable winter recreation for families within a short drive from Bradford. The mountain features varied terrain suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers, along with a welcoming lodge where visitors can warm up between runs. During non-winter months, the mountain hosts various events and activities including mountain biking and hiking opportunities.
12. Mount Washington Auto Road
HISTORIC SCENIC DRIVE
The Mount Washington Auto Road is a historic attraction that allows visitors to drive to the summit of the Northeast's highest peak. The 7.6-mile journey provides spectacular views of the Presidential Range and the surrounding White Mountains. At the summit, travelers can visit the Mount Washington Observatory, learn about the extreme weather conditions, and on clear days see visibility extending to Maine, Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, and even Canada.
13. Colby-Sawyer College
HISTORIC LIBERAL ARTS CAMPUS
Colby-Sawyer College is a picturesque liberal arts institution located near Bradford that welcomes visitors to explore its beautiful campus. The college features historic architecture, art galleries, and cultural events that are often open to the public. Its Susan Colgate Cleveland Library/Learning Center houses special collections and exhibits that showcase regional history and art.
14. Loon Mountain Resort
ADVENTURE IN ALL SEASONS
Loon Mountain Resort is a premier destination offering activities throughout the year, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to gondola rides and adventure courses in summer. The resort's Adventure Center features ziplines, climbing walls, and a scenic gondola skyride that transports visitors to the summit for panoramic mountain views. Visitors can also enjoy the unique glacial caves, wildlife encounters, and numerous seasonal festivals that make this a must-visit attraction in the White Mountains region.
15. Prescott Park Arts Festival
OUTDOOR CULTURAL CELEBRATION
The Prescott Park Arts Festival presents a summer-long series of outdoor concerts, theatrical performances, and movie screenings in a beautiful waterfront setting. Visitors can bring blankets or chairs to enjoy world-class entertainment while picnicking on the lush lawns overlooking the Piscataqua River. The festival's commitment to accessible arts means that all performances are offered without fixed admission fees, instead operating on a suggested donation basis that makes cultural experiences available to everyone.