Washington New HampshireATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Washington, New Hampshire.
1. Pillsbury State Park
WILDERNESS CAMPING AND HIKING
Pillsbury State Park offers visitors pristine wilderness experiences with excellent hiking trails and camping opportunities. The park features multiple ponds for fishing and boating, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature while exploring the diverse ecosystems within the park's boundaries.
2. Gibson Pewter
TRADITIONAL PEWTER CRAFTSMANSHIP
Gibson Pewter showcases the timeless art of traditional pewter craftsmanship in Washington. Visitors can observe artisans creating handcrafted pewter items using techniques passed down through generations. The shop offers unique, locally-made souvenirs and gifts that represent New Hampshire's rich crafting heritage.
3. Bethel Farm Yoga
PEACEFUL RURAL RETREAT
Bethel Farm Yoga provides a serene rural setting for yoga practice and mindfulness in Washington. The farm combines yoga instruction with the natural beauty of New Hampshire's countryside for a rejuvenating experience. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere that allows for deep relaxation and connection with nature.
4. Franklin Pierce Homestead
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORICAL SITE
The Franklin Pierce Homestead preserves the history of America's 14th president who hailed from New Hampshire. This historic site offers guided tours that provide insights into 19th-century life and presidential history. Visitors can explore original artifacts and period furnishings that tell the story of Franklin Pierce's life and legacy.
5. Washington Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Washington Historical Society Museum houses a fascinating collection of artifacts documenting the town's rich history. Exhibits showcase everything from early settlement tools to photographs and documents that tell the story of Washington's development. The museum provides visitors with a comprehensive understanding of this historic New Hampshire town through carefully preserved local heritage items.
6. Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway
SCENIC LONG-DISTANCE TRAIL
The Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway offers hikers a challenging 48-mile trail connecting Mount Monadnock and Mount Sunapee. The trail passes through Washington and provides spectacular views of New Hampshire's diverse landscapes and wilderness areas. Outdoor enthusiasts can experience everything from mountain summits to peaceful forest paths on this renowned hiking route.
7. Washington Farmers' Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Washington Farmers' Market brings together local farmers and artisans on Saturday mornings during the summer season. Visitors can browse fresh produce, homemade foods, and handcrafted items while enjoying the community atmosphere on the Town Common. The market showcases the agricultural bounty and creative talents of Washington and surrounding New Hampshire communities.
8. Mt. Washington Cog Railway
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN TRAIN
The Mt. Washington Cog Railway provides a unique rail journey to the summit of New England's highest peak. Dating back to 1869, this historic attraction combines engineering marvel with breathtaking mountain views. Passengers experience dramatic elevation changes while learning about the mountain's history and ecology during the unforgettable trip.
9. Mt. Washington Auto Road
SCENIC MOUNTAIN DRIVE
The Mt. Washington Auto Road offers drivers the chance to navigate America's oldest man-made attraction to the summit of Mount Washington. The 7.6-mile drive features spectacular panoramic views and dramatic changes in vegetation zones. Visitors can earn the famous 'This Car Climbed Mt. Washington' bumper sticker while experiencing one of New England's most thrilling scenic drives.
10. Clark's Bears
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT PARK
Clark's Bears entertains families with its famous trained bear shows and numerous attractions in the White Mountains region. The park features water rides, a climbing wall, segway tours, and the Merlin's Mansion blaster house for all-ages fun. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic train ride through the property and the impressive collection of Americana at the attached museum.
11. Ice Castles
WINTER WONDERLAND EXPERIENCE
Ice Castles transforms winter into a magical experience with hand-crafted ice formations creating a frozen wonderland. Visitors can explore ice tunnels, slides, fountains, and thrones illuminated with colorful LED lights after dark. This seasonal attraction offers a unique photography opportunity and unforgettable winter memories for the whole family.
12. Polar Caves
GRANITE BOULDER FORMATIONS
Polar Caves invites visitors to explore fascinating granite boulder caves formed during the last Ice Age. The attraction features a series of caves and passages connected by boardwalks through a scenic park setting. Adventurers of all ages can squeeze through tight spaces and discover the geological wonders while learning about the natural history of the region.
13. Alpine Adventures
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PARK
Alpine Adventures offers thrilling outdoor activities including some of New England's largest zipline courses. Visitors can soar through the forest canopy, navigate aerial challenge courses, or take off-road tours in specially equipped vehicles. The adventure park provides adrenaline-pumping experiences with spectacular White Mountain views throughout the year.
14. Canterbury Shaker Village
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Canterbury Shaker Village preserves the legacy of the Shakers through 25 original and restored buildings on a historic 694-acre property. Visitors can explore exhibits displaying Shaker furniture, crafts, and innovations while learning about this unique religious community's way of life. Guided tours, demonstrations, and special events bring the simplicity and ingenuity of Shaker culture to life throughout the year.
15. Strawbery Banke Museum
HISTORIC WATERFRONT NEIGHBORHOOD
Strawbery Banke Museum encompasses an entire neighborhood of historic buildings dating from the 17th to 19th centuries along Portsmouth's waterfront. The living history museum features costumed interpreters, traditional craft demonstrations, and period gardens that immerse visitors in New Hampshire's past. Seasonal events like the Winter Candlelight Stroll and summer garden tours highlight different aspects of the region's rich cultural heritage throughout the year.