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Overflowing With Views, This Historic Site In New Hampshire Is A Great Day Trip Destination

Visit the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site in Portsmouth, New Hampshire for a mix of history, architecture, and scenic views.

Published Sep 4, 2020

Written by 

Michelle Starin

New Hampshire is big on views and big on history! We probably all remember visiting museums and historic homes on field trips when we were younger, but these destinations have an even bigger impact now that we're older. We can appreciate how much of the Granite State is filled with stories and tales that have made us what we are today. If you love this as much as us, head to Portsmouth to check out this historic site that mixes history with views.

The Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site was the home of Benning Wentworth, New Hampshire's first royal governor.

Aerial view of a coastal property with a red-roofed house, grassy areas, and boats on the water nearby.
Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site / Facebook

Wentworth was in office from 1741 to 1767 and today his mansion is one of the best examples of a colonial era home that still stands.

A yellow historic mansion with a sign, surrounded by green grass and trees under a cloudy sky.
636jeff / TripAdvisor

The mansion, which visitors can tour, has 40 different rooms.

A bright yellow house with a red roof, surrounded by greenery and a view of the water under a blue sky.
David Nguyen / Google

The entire house features architecture that spans 5 different periods.

A spacious dining room featuring a wooden table, chairs, and a brick fireplace with decorative molding.
nhstateparks.org

Before you worry that the tour might be dull, remember that so much of New Hampshire today exists as a result of those that came before. The docents here are enthusiastic and knowledgeable making a visit fun for people of all ages.

Lilac flowers in full bloom, with a yellow house and windows in the background.
Maurene_K / TripAdvisor

The mansion overlooks Little Harbor which means this site also offers beautiful views.

A colorful house on a lush green shoreline, reflected in calm water under a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Kevin Mejia / Google

And a visit isn't complete without walking along the Little Harbor Loop Trail.

A serene waterfront scene with boats, a sculpture, and lush greenery under a clear blue sky.
Marrio P / Google

The route is about 1.5 miles along the water connecting the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site, Creek Farm and Portsmouth Conservation Land.

A large anchor sits on a stone pier by a calm waterway, with a bench and trees in the background under a cloudy sky.
Vonnie Sheadel / Google

Leave it to New Hampshire to offer history, views and a little bit of fresh air all at once!

The grounds of the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion is open daily from dawn to dusk. You can take a tour of the mansion from May through October on Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The last tour is at 3 p.m. You can learn more about it here. They can be reached on 603-436-6607.

Interested in more state history? Here are 9 historic landmarks you absolutely must visit in New Hampshire.

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