Chester New HampshireATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Chester, New Hampshire.
1. Hazelton Orchards
FAMILY-FRIENDLY APPLE PICKING
Hazelton Orchards is a cherished family farm in Chester where visitors can enjoy seasonal apple picking and fresh farm produce. The orchard offers a quintessential New England fall experience with panoramic views of the countryside and various apple varieties to choose from. Visitors can also purchase homemade baked goods, cider, and other farm products from their country store.
2. Martin Family Ranch
SCENIC HORSEBACK RIDING
Martin Family Ranch offers guided horseback riding tours through the picturesque landscapes of Chester. The ranch caters to riders of all experience levels with well-trained horses and knowledgeable guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Visitors can choose from various trail options that showcase the natural beauty of New Hampshire's countryside.
3. A & A Balloon Rides
BREATHTAKING AERIAL ADVENTURES
A & A Balloon Rides provides unforgettable hot air balloon experiences above the scenic Chester landscape. Passengers enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the New Hampshire countryside, forests, and neighboring towns during the peaceful flight. Each adventure concludes with a traditional champagne toast celebrating the centuries-old ballooning tradition.
4. Chester Town Hall
HISTORIC CIVIC LANDMARK
Chester Town Hall stands as an iconic historic landmark in the center of town, showcasing classic New England architecture. The building serves as both a functioning municipal center and a window into Chester's rich history. Visitors can appreciate the well-preserved exterior and occasionally tour the interior during special town events.
5. Chester Public Library
LITERARY COMMUNITY HUB
Chester Public Library offers a welcoming environment for readers and researchers in a charming historic building. The library houses an extensive collection of books, digital resources, and regularly hosts community events and reading programs. Visitors appreciate the helpful staff, comfortable reading areas, and connection to Chester's literary heritage.
6. Chester Village Cemetery
PEACEFUL HISTORICAL GROUNDS
Chester Village Cemetery provides a serene setting where visitors can explore the town's history through its oldest gravestones and monuments. The well-maintained grounds feature the final resting places of Chester's founding families and notable historical figures. History enthusiasts and genealogists find the cemetery particularly valuable for understanding the community's development over centuries.
7. Canterbury Shaker Village
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Canterbury Shaker Village is a National Historic Landmark and museum nestled among the rolling hills of central New Hampshire, a short drive from Chester. The village preserves 25 original Shaker buildings and 694 acres of forests, fields, and gardens where visitors can experience the Shakers' innovative and industrious way of life. Guided tours, craft demonstrations, and special events offer immersive opportunities to understand this unique religious community's contributions to American culture.
8. Canobie Lake Park
THRILLING FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Canobie Lake Park is a beloved amusement park located near Chester, offering over 85 rides, games, and attractions for visitors of all ages. The park combines modern thrill rides with nostalgic attractions, all set on the beautiful shores of Canobie Lake. Families particularly enjoy the water rides, roller coasters, and seasonal events like Halloween Screeemfest and Christmas festivities.
9. Merrimack Premium Outlets
DESIGNER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Merrimack Premium Outlets features an impressive collection of 100+ designer and name-brand outlet stores offering significant discounts on retail prices. The outdoor shopping center provides a pleasant atmosphere with landscaped courtyards and convenient amenities for a full day of shopping. Visitors from Chester and beyond appreciate the tax-free shopping experience that New Hampshire offers, making this a popular retail destination.
10. Swasey Parkway
RIVERSIDE RECREATIONAL HAVEN
Swasey Parkway offers a picturesque riverside setting along the Squamscott River in nearby Exeter, perfect for strolling, picnicking, or attending community events. The tree-lined promenade provides beautiful water views and connects to downtown Exeter's shops and restaurants. During summer months, the parkway hosts popular concerts, farmers markets, and festivals that attract visitors from surrounding towns including Chester.
11. American Independence Museum
REVOLUTIONARY WAR HERITAGE
The American Independence Museum showcases Exeter's pivotal role as New Hampshire's Revolutionary War capital through exhibits housed in two historic buildings: the Ladd-Gilman House and Folsom Tavern. Visitors can view an original Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence, handwritten letters from George Washington, and numerous Revolutionary War artifacts. The museum offers guided tours and hosts the popular annual American Independence Festival, drawing history enthusiasts from Chester and throughout the region.
12. Phillips Exeter Academy
PRESTIGIOUS HISTORIC CAMPUS
Phillips Exeter Academy features a stunning campus with notable architecture including the award-winning Class of 1945 Library designed by Louis Kahn. Founded in 1781, this prestigious preparatory school combines historic buildings with state-of-the-art facilities set among beautiful grounds. Visitors can enjoy self-guided walking tours of the campus, attend public events at the academy, and appreciate the school's contribution to educational excellence.
13. LaBelle Winery
VINEYARD AND CULINARY DESTINATION
LaBelle Winery offers an elegant wine tasting experience in a stunning facility surrounded by vineyards near Chester. Visitors can tour the production facilities, sample award-winning wines, and enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at The Bistro restaurant. The winery also hosts special events, cooking classes, and seasonal activities that make it a popular year-round destination for food and wine enthusiasts.
14. Zorvino Vineyards
RUSTIC WINE EXPERIENCE
Zorvino Vineyards welcomes visitors to their family-owned winery set on a picturesque 80-acre property close to Chester. The rustic tasting room offers samples of their handcrafted wines produced from both locally grown and imported grapes. Beyond wine tasting, guests can enjoy walking the beautiful grounds, attending seasonal events, and booking the venue for private celebrations.
15. Bear Brook State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Bear Brook State Park encompasses over 10,000 acres of forest, making it the largest developed state park in New Hampshire and an easy day trip from Chester. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore more than 40 miles of trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing depending on the season. The park also features camping facilities, swimming areas, fishing ponds, and two museums—the New Hampshire Antique Snowmobile Museum and the Old Allenstown Meeting House.