Visit These 6 Little-Known New Hampshire Museums This Summer
Summer is the perfect time to get out and explore the Granite State – whether you’re traveling or just planning some staycations, you can surely find an afternoon here or there to check out a new-to-you attraction that’s close to home. And what’s better on a hot summer day than a trip to a nice cool museum? Yes, we have some great larger spots in New Hampshire, but when those feel a bit too well-trodden, try these smaller museums off the beaten path. You may not have heard of them before, but visit and you’ll be charmed (all while learning something new).
The Old Man of the Mountain fell 15 years ago this April, but New Hampshirites are still mourning his loss. You can pay your respects at the small seasonal museum and gift in Franconia Notch State Park, at the Base of Cannon Mountain. Walk just a little ways from the mountain and you'll reach the Old Man of the Mountain Profiler Plaza, where some incredible outdoor art installations allow you to see what his profile looked like. Visit at Exit 34B from I-93, and learn more here.
History buffs will absolutely adore this museum – and even if you don't identify as one now, you're sure to after a visit to this fantastic museum. You can visit year-round, but definitely keep an eye out for their amazing reenactments! Visit at 1 Governors Ln, Exeter, NH 03833, and learn more here.
This neat little museum is housed in what was once an airport terminal (it's since been moved). Anyone who's ever set foot in a plane will be fascinated by the history presented here through hands-on exhibits. It's just open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so plan a weekend visit! Find the museum at 27 Navigator Rd., Londonderry, NH 03053 or learn more here.
Mills have played a fundamental role in the history and architecture of the Granite State, but it's a safe bet that most of us don't know too much about their history. This great little museum, run by the Manchester Historical Society and located in the same renovated mill as the SEE Science Center, will give you a fascinating peek into the past. Visit at 200 Bedford St, Manchester, NH 03101, and learn more here.
This stunning museum dives deep into the history and culture of Native Americans in the Granite State and across the United States. There's an arboretum and a walking trail in addition to the indoor exhibits, and all of it is absolutely fascinating. Visit at 18 Highlawn Rd, Warner, NH 03278, or learn more here.
We know, it sounds totally weird, but this telephone museum is actually fascinating! Visit and you'll learn all about how the invention of this device changed the world forever, and see how it evolved through the ages. Check it out at 22 East Main St., Warner, NH or learn more adventure park!
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