Cornish New HampshireATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cornish, New Hampshire.
1. Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site
RENOWNED SCULPTOR'S ESTATE
Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site preserves the home, gardens, and studios of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America's foremost sculptors. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds that showcase Saint-Gaudens' artistic legacy and the vibrant history of the Cornish Art Colony that existed between 1885 and 1930. The site offers a rich historical experience with sculptures, architecture, and natural beauty that reflects the cultural significance of this National Historic Landmark.
2. Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge is the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States and the longest two-span covered bridge in the world. This historic bridge connects Vermont and New Hampshire by spanning the entire Connecticut River while still carrying daily automobile traffic. The bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and represents an important piece of New England's architectural heritage.
3. Blow-Me-Down Bridge
PICTURESQUE COVERED CROSSING
Blow-Me-Down Bridge is one of the four historic covered bridges in Cornish that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its traditional New England covered bridge construction and charming aesthetics. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, it's a popular spot for photography and experiencing Cornish's rich historical landscape.
4. Mastlands
HISTORIC CORNISH ESTATE
Mastlands is a significant historical site in Cornish that reflects the town's rich heritage and connection to the Cornish Art Colony. Visitors can appreciate the architectural beauty and cultural significance of this estate that contributed to Cornish's reputation as a summer resort for artists and writers. The property showcases the picturesque landscape that has attracted creative minds to the area for generations.
5. Blacksmith Shop Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN SPAN
Blacksmith Shop Bridge is another of Cornish's four covered bridges that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge represents an important part of the town's transportation history and architectural heritage. Its rustic charm and historical significance make it a notable attraction for those exploring Cornish's collection of covered bridges.
6. Trinity Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Trinity Church stands as an important historic attraction in Cornish with its distinctive architecture and religious significance. The church has been a spiritual center for the community and represents an important aspect of Cornish's cultural heritage. Its historical presence contributes to the town's rich collection of significant buildings and sites that tell the story of this New Hampshire community.
7. Cornish Fair
ANNUAL SUMMER CELEBRATION
The Cornish Fair is a popular annual summer celebration that brings together residents and visitors for traditional fair activities and entertainment. This event highlights the community spirit and agricultural heritage of the region with various exhibitions, competitions, and family-friendly attractions. The fair represents an important cultural tradition that has been bringing joy to the Cornish community for generations.
8. Cider Hill
LOCAL NATURAL ATTRACTION
Cider Hill offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty that makes Cornish a desirable destination. The location provides scenic views of the rolling landscape that characterizes this part of western New Hampshire. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquility and picturesque setting that exemplifies Cornish's appeal as a place of privacy and relaxation.
9. Connecticut River Recreation
RIVERSIDE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
The Connecticut River provides numerous recreational opportunities for visitors to Cornish, with canoeing being particularly popular along this scenic waterway. The river forms a natural boundary between New Hampshire and Vermont, offering beautiful views and a peaceful setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities like rafting, swimming, and fishing while appreciating the natural beauty that surrounds Cornish.
10. Old Home Day
COMMUNITY HERITAGE CELEBRATION
Old Home Day is a cherished annual summer event in Cornish that celebrates the town's heritage and community spirit. The celebration typically features various activities, performances, and gatherings that highlight Cornish's history and cultural identity. This traditional New England event provides residents and visitors alike with an opportunity to connect with the town's past while creating new memories in this historic community.
11. Northcote
HISTORIC CORNISH PROPERTY
Northcote is a historical property that adds to Cornish's impressive collection of significant sites and buildings. The property reflects the town's status as a former art colony and summer resort for creative individuals. Visitors interested in architecture and local history will appreciate the cultural significance of this location within Cornish's heritage landscape.
12. Canterbury Shaker Village
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Canterbury Shaker Village is a National Historic Landmark and museum located a drive away from Cornish among the rolling hills of wooded central New Hampshire. The village preserves the legacy of the Shaker religious community through original buildings, exhibits, and educational programs. Visitors can experience the simple yet innovative lifestyle of the Shakers and learn about their considerable contributions to American crafts, agriculture, and social history.
13. Harpoon Brewery
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Harpoon Brewery in Windsor, Vermont is just across the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge and offers a popular dining and beer tasting destination near Cornish. The brewery features tours, tastings, and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy craft beers paired with fresh, locally-sourced food. Its riverside location provides a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation after exploring the historic attractions of Cornish.
14. Billings Farm & Museum
LIVING AGRICULTURAL HISTORY
Billings Farm & Museum in nearby Woodstock, Vermont is a working dairy farm and museum that showcases rural Vermont life and agricultural practices. Visitors can explore the restored 1890 farm house, interact with various farm animals, and learn about sustainable farming through engaging exhibits and demonstrations. The combination of historical education and active farm operations makes this a unique attraction within driving distance of Cornish.
15. Simon Pearce Restaurant
FINE DINING EXPERIENCE
Simon Pearce Restaurant in Quechee, Vermont offers an exceptional dining experience in a restored mill overlooking the Ottauquechee River and waterfall. The restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, complemented by views of glassblowers creating Simon Pearce's renowned handcrafted glassware in the adjacent workshop. Visitors from Cornish can enjoy both fine dining and shopping for artisanal glass and pottery in this destination that combines culinary excellence with Vermont craftsmanship.