Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Belmont, NH to Keene, NH
Are you looking for a fun and exciting road trip to enjoy on the weekend? Look no further! Starting from Belmont, NH, a road trip to Keene, NH is an excellent option for anyone interested in sighting museums, parks, and landmarks in the beautiful state of New Hampshire.
Fun Fact: Did you know that New Hampshire is the only state in the US with no mandatory seat belt law for adults? However, it's still a great idea to buckle up for safety!
Halfway point: Henniker, NH, is a well-preserved small town that's perfect for a quick stop to stretch out and grab a bite to eat.
Length of trip: The trip from Belmont to Keene is about 77 miles and should take around 1 hour and 30 minutes without traffic.
Here are five amazing places you should visit on your road trip:
- Canterbury Shaker Village – Located in Canterbury, NH, the Canterbury Shaker Village is a museum that showcases a collection of 25 historic buildings that reflect the way of life of the Shakers, a religious sect that settled in New Hampshire in the late 18th century. The village gives visitors a chance to tour gardens, fields, pastures, and forests that surround the village and learn about the unique history of the area.
Recommendation: Make sure to stop by The Shaker Shop on your way out to grab some homemade jams and soap.
- Mount Kearsarge – Located in Wilmot, NH, Mount Kearsarge is a popular hiking spot in the region. You can take a shorter hike that's a little more relaxed or push yourself to climb the entire mountain and earn incredible views of the surrounding towns and cities.
Recommendation: Be sure to bring water and snacks for the hike and take lots of breathtaking photos.
- The Fells – Located in Newbury, NH, The Fells is a historic country estate surrounded by stunning gardens. Tour the house, pottery studio, and barn to learn more about the history of the estate or stroll through the surrounding gardens.
Recommendation: Take some time to sit and enjoy the beautiful gardens by bringing a picnic lunch.
- Madame Sherri's Forest – Located in Chesterfield, NH, Madame Sherri's Forest is a 513-acre site that features a heavily forested area and a beautiful stone staircase that leads visitors down to a small brook. This site is famous for being the location of Madame Sherri's once-impressive summer home.
Recommendation: Be sure to take some time to go off-trail and explore the surrounding wilderness.
- Cushing Academy Observatory – Located in Ashburnham, MA, the Cushing Academy Observatory features a 12.5″ reflector telescope housed in a rotating observatory dome. The observatory is open for the public for scheduled events and star parties.
Recommendation: Bring a sweater because it gets chilly and be sure to listen to the expert guides to expand your knowledge of astronomy.
In conclusion, a road trip from Belmont, NH to Keene, NH offers plenty of opportunities to explore some of the best museums, parks, and landmarks in the state. With only 77 miles and around 1 hour and 30 minutes of driving time, there's a lot of leisure time to enjoy the many attractions the region has to offer. We hope you enjoy your road trip and make priceless memories!