Excited to Explore: Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Exeter, New Hampshire

Fall is when this town makes its case. The foliage along the Hillzilla Trail at Swasey Parkway is the reason people climb it at all. July brings the American Independence Festival and Labor Day weekend brings the UFO Fest. The Farmers’ Market runs Thursdays from May through October, which covers most of the good weather. Winter pushes everything indoors, to the museums, the bookstore and the chocolate.

Are you planning a trip to Exeter, New Hampshire? This charming town covers a lot of ground, from historical landmarks and outdoor activities to art and culture. Local or first-time visitor, you will find plenty of fun things to do and places to visit in Exeter.

If you are interested in history, work through Exeter’s past by visiting the American Independence Museum or the Exeter Historical Society. Downtown Exeter is also a strong place to walk, with its one-off shops, art galleries and restaurants. You can even take a walking tour of the town to learn more about its long history and its architecture.

For anyone who loves the outdoors, Exeter has plenty of parks and trails. From Brickyard Pond Park to Gilman Park, there is hiking, biking and fishing on offer. And if you take food seriously, the dining in Exeter will not disappoint, from farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes and bakeries.

Key Takeaways

Exeter, New Hampshire offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages.
History buffs can explore the town’s rich past by visiting museums and taking walking tours.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy parks and trails, while foodies can indulge in a variety of dining options.

Historical Journey Through Exeter

If you are interested in history, Exeter is where you want to be. This town carried real weight in the Revolutionary War and holds several historical sites you can visit. Here are the places to see for a historical day in Exeter:

American Independence Museum

The American Independence Museum is a straight recommendation for anyone interested in the history of the Revolutionary War. The museum sits in the Ladd-Gilman House, a National Historic Landmark, and the 1775 home of a New Hampshire state treasurer. You can look at an original copy of the Declaration of Independence and stand in the room where the Declaration was read aloud to the public for the first time in New Hampshire. Visiting this museum shows you the hardships and the victories of the past, and what they still mean now.

Gilman Garrison House

The Gilman Garrison House is a historical site that dates back to the 1700s. It was built by Rev. John Wheelwright, one of the founding families of Exeter, and was used as a garrison during the Revolutionary War. You can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the history of the Massachusetts Bay Colony and the Revolutionary War.

Ladd-Gilman House

The Ladd-Gilman House is a National Historic Landmark built in 1718. It was the home of Nicholas Gilman, a signer of the U.S. Constitution, and his family. The house was also used as the state treasury during the Revolutionary War. You can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the history of the Gilman family and the Revolutionary War.

Revolutionary War Capital

Exeter is often called the Revolutionary War Capital of New Hampshire because it carried real weight in the war. The town was home to several patriots, including Nicholas Gilman, who signed the U.S. Constitution, and John Taylor Gilman, who served as Governor of New Hampshire during the war. Exeter was also the site of the signing of the Exeter Resolves, a document that declared the town’s opposition to British rule.

By visiting these historical sites, you can work through the long history of Exeter and its role in the Revolutionary War. Do not forget the American Independence Festival, which takes place every year in July and celebrates the town’s history and heritage.

Exploring Downtown Exeter

If you want a good day out in Exeter, New Hampshire, then Downtown Exeter is where to spend it. With its charming streets and historic architecture, Downtown Exeter suits a day with friends or family.

Water Street

One of the areas people head for first in Downtown Exeter is Water Street. This street holds a range of shops, restaurants and cafes, which makes it where you go to grab a bite or do some shopping. Some of the shops people name on Water Street include Serendipity Boutique, The Willow and The Chocolatier.

If you want a bite to eat, Water Street runs plenty of options. For breakfast or brunch, head to Laney & Lu Cafe or The Green Bean. For lunch or dinner, try Otis Restaurant, Epoch Restaurant & Bar, or The Tavern at River’s Edge.

High Street

Another area worth walking in Downtown Exeter is High Street. This street holds a range of historic buildings and landmarks, including the Exeter Town Hall and the Exeter Historical Society. High Street also holds a range of shops and restaurants, which makes it a strong place to spend an afternoon.

Some of the shops people name on High Street include The Exeter Fine Crafts, which carries handmade work from over 200 artists, and The Blue Moon Evolution, a farm-to-table restaurant serving organic meals.

Overall, Downtown Exeter is a strong place to walk and spend a day. With its charming streets, its historic architecture and its range of shops and restaurants, everyone gets something out of it. So grab your friends or family and head down to Downtown Exeter for a day out.

Art and Culture in Exeter

Exeter, New Hampshire is a town that runs a deep bench of cultural and artistic experiences. Paintings, sculptures or other forms of art, you will find plenty to see and do in Exeter. Here are the places to visit that will settle any artistic craving.

Art Up Front Street Studios and Gallery

Art Up Front Street Studios and Gallery is a straight recommendation for art lovers in Exeter. This gallery shows the work of local artists in a charming and welcoming space. You can work through the gallery’s collection of paintings, sculptures and other work, or attend one of the many events and workshops held here.

The gallery sits in the heart of Exeter, a short walk from the town center. You can easily spend an afternoon here, looking at the work and talking with the friendly staff. If you want a cultural afternoon that stays with you, check out Art Up Front Street Studios and Gallery.

The Chocolatier

The Chocolatier is another strong destination for art and culture in Exeter. This artisanal chocolate shop is known for its carefully made chocolates, which are produced on-site using serious ingredients.

Along with its chocolates, The Chocolatier also runs a small gallery space where local artists can show their work. That makes for a room that suits art lovers and serious eaters alike.

A sweet treat or a piece of art, The Chocolatier covers both in Exeter. So why not stop by and work through some chocolate while looking at what the local artists have made?

Outdoor Activities in Exeter

If you love being outdoors, Exeter has plenty to keep you busy. From hiking to scenic trails, you can take in the country around here while getting some exercise. Here are the outdoor activities in Exeter worth your morning:

Hiking at Swasey Parkway

Swasey Parkway is a park that looks out over the Exeter River. The park has a paved walking path that suits a slow stroll, but if you want a harder hike, you can take the Hillzilla Trail. This trail is a steep climb that takes you to the top of a hill where the park and the country around it open right up. The fall foliage makes this hike better still.

Henderson-Swasey Town Forest

Henderson-Swasey Town Forest is a 600-acre forest that runs a range of hiking trails. The Red Loop is the trail people take, and it moves through the forest with long views along the way. The trail has an elevation gain of about 300 feet, so it is a moderate hike. The forest is also strong ground for birdwatching or a picnic.

Exeter River Trail

Exeter River Trail is a 2.3-mile trail that follows the Exeter River. The trail is mostly flat and suits a slow walk or a bike ride. Along the way, the river and the country around it open up. The trail is also strong ground for fishing or a picnic.

No matter which outdoor activity you choose, you are going to have a good day in Exeter. So put on your hiking boots and work through the country around here.

Architectural Marvels in Exeter

If you follow architecture, Exeter has a few buildings you simply cannot miss. From Phillips Exeter Academy to the historic Congregation Church, you will find a range of architectural styles that will stop you.

Phillips Exeter Academy

Phillips Exeter Academy is a serious example of Federal architecture, with its fanlight windows, moldings and columns. Founded in 1781, this prestigious secondary school carries a long history and a substantial campus. Check out the Academy Museum, which sits in the old Academy building and runs exhibits on the school’s history, art and culture. You should also visit the Phillips Exeter Academy Library, which is the largest secondary school library in the world. With its architecture and its collection of books, this library is worth the walk for anyone visiting Exeter.

Congregation Church

The Congregation Church is another architectural piece worth your time in Exeter. Built in 1798, this historic church runs Gothic Revival architecture, with its pointed arches, ornate carvings and stained glass windows. Take a guided tour of the church to learn more about its history and its architecture.

Overall, Exeter is a strong destination for anyone who follows architecture. With its mix of Federal and Gothic Revival, you will find plenty of buildings worth the walk. Phillips Exeter Academy or the Congregation Church, both of them will hold you with the craftsmanship.

If the two of you have a whole day, an argument for starting on Water Street is that the cafes open early. Should the weather hold, the Exeter River Trail runs flat for 2.3 miles. That is the kind of walking where the talking does itself. If the afternoon needs filling, the bookstore and the chocolatier sit a few doors apart. And if the evening matters, Otis keeps its room elegant without making a performance of it.

Food and Dining in Exeter

When it comes to dining in Exeter, you will find a range of options to settle your taste buds. From casual cafes to upscale restaurants, the town covers it. Here are a few places you should check out:

Green Bean

If you want a cozy spot to grab a cup of coffee and a quick bite, Green Bean is where to go. This cafe runs a range of sandwiches, salads and soups, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. They also carry a strong selection of baked goods and desserts, which will settle any sweet tooth.

Otis Restaurant

For a more upscale dining experience, head to Otis Restaurant. This restaurant runs a seasonal menu built on locally-sourced ingredients, as well as an extensive wine list. Some of the standout dishes include the pan-seared scallops and the roasted chicken. The room is elegant but relaxed, which suits a special occasion.

Lunch at The Inn

If you want a classic New England dining experience, try The Inn at Exeter. Their lunch menu runs a range of sandwiches, salads and soups, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Try their famous lobster roll, served on a buttery brioche bun.

Along with these restaurants, Exeter also runs a range of pizza places. A classic cheese pizza or something more adventurous, like a fig and prosciutto pizza, you will find it here.

No matter what your dining preferences are, you are going to find something you want in Exeter. So why not grab a table and work through a good meal today?

Shopping in Exeter

If you want a fun shopping day, Exeter has you covered. From chic boutiques to stylish independents and big-name stores, the town is a shopaholic’s destination.

Whirlygigs Toy Shop

Are you looking for a toy store that will make you feel about nine again? Then try Whirlygigs Toy Shop. This store runs a deep bench of toys that will hold kids of all ages. From classic board games to the latest action figures, Whirlygigs carries it. Plus, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, which makes the whole trip easier.

Water Street Bookstore

For book lovers, Water Street Bookstore is a straight recommendation. This independent bookstore runs a wide selection of books, from bestsellers to the quieter titles. The store also hosts author events and book clubs, which makes it a strong place to meet other readers. A new novel or a gift nobody else will have, Water Street Bookstore covers both.

So toys or books, Exeter has plenty of shopping to choose from. Get ready to work the street.

Festivals and Events in Exeter

Exeter, New Hampshire holds a range of festivals and events through the year that will keep you busy. From music festivals to farmers’ markets, this charming town covers a lot.

UFO Fest

One of the odder festivals in Exeter is the annual UFO Fest, held over Labor Day weekend. This festival celebrates the town’s famous UFO sighting in 1965, which has become part of Exeter’s lore. The festival runs speakers, live music and kid-friendly events downtown. With this much on, the festival is worth planning around for anyone interested in UFOs or the paranormal.

Exeter Farmers’ Market

If you want fresh, local produce and handmade goods, try the Exeter Farmers’ Market. Held every Thursday from May through October, this market runs a range of vendors selling everything from fruit and vegetables to baked goods and crafts. With live music and a friendly atmosphere, the Exeter Farmers’ Market is a strong way to support local businesses and see what the town actually makes.

UFOs or fresh produce, Exeter’s festivals and events will keep you busy. Check out the UFO Fest and the Farmers’ Market during your visit to this charming New Hampshire town.

Exploring Surrounding Areas

If you want to get outside of Exeter, there are plenty of places to work through nearby. Here are the destinations close by that you will not want to miss:

Hampton Beach

Hampton Beach is a busy coastal town sitting just 20 minutes east of Exeter. With its long stretch of sandy beach, its lively boardwalk and its restaurants and shops, Hampton Beach covers a lot of ground.

One of the things people do first at Hampton Beach is simply sit on the sand in the sun. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can rent a jet ski, take a parasailing excursion, or try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding.

The boardwalk at Hampton Beach is also worth the walk. Here, you will find shops selling everything from souvenirs to beach gear, as well as a range of restaurants serving fresh seafood and other local favorites. Check out the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, a historic venue that hosts concerts and other events through the year.

Portsmouth

Sitting just 15 minutes north of Exeter, Portsmouth is a charming coastal city with a long history and plenty of modern amenities. The downtown is filled with boutique shops, art galleries and restaurants serving good local cooking.

One of the attractions people head for first in Portsmouth is the Strawbery Banke Museum, a living history museum that shows life in Portsmouth from the 1600s to the 1950s. Here, you can work through dozens of historic homes and buildings, talk with costumed interpreters, and learn about the city’s past.

If you want outdoor activities, Portsmouth runs plenty as well. Take a stroll through Prescott Park, a waterfront park that hosts concerts and other events through the summer. Or head out on a whale watching tour from the nearby Isles of Shoals, where you can spot humpback whales, fin whales and more.

No matter where you choose to go outside of Exeter, you are going to come home with something worth telling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated restaurants in Exeter, NH?

If you want good food in Exeter, NH, you are in luck. There are plenty of strong restaurants to choose from. If you are in the mood for Italian food, check out Epoch Restaurant & Bar. If you are in the mood for American classics, try The Green Bean. If you want something a little more upscale, check out Blue Moon Evolution. Whatever your taste buds are after, there is a restaurant in Exeter that will settle it.

What are the must-visit attractions in Exeter, NH?

Exeter, NH is full of interesting and historic attractions. One to see is the American Independence Museum, where you can learn about the history of the American Revolution. Another is the Phillips Exeter Academy, a prestigious private school with a substantial campus. If you are interested in art, check out the Lamont Gallery, which runs work by local and national artists. And if you are interested in nature, visit the Exeter River, which carries a walking trail worth taking.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Exeter, NH?

If you love being outdoors, there are plenty of activities in Exeter, NH. You can go hiking on the Phillips Exeter Trail, which takes you through the woods and along the river. You can also go kayaking or canoeing on the Exeter River, which is a strong way to see the country around here. And if you want something harder, try rock climbing at the Seacoast Adventure Center.

What is the history behind Phillips Exeter Trail?

The Phillips Exeter Trail is a historic trail that was originally used by students at Phillips Exeter Academy for exercise and recreation. The trail was created in the early 1900s and has been used by generations of students and locals alike. The trail takes you through the woods and along the river, and it is a strong way to see the country around here. History reader or somebody who just likes being outdoors, the Phillips Exeter Trail is worth your morning in Exeter, NH.

Frequently asked questions about Exeter, New Hampshire

Which museum in Exeter should you start the day at?

The American Independence Museum. Go first thing, because it sits in the Ladd-Gilman House and the guided tour runs to a fixed length, so an early slot leaves the whole afternoon open. The Gilman Garrison House is a short walk away, which makes doing both in one morning straightforward. Downtown then sits within a short walk of both of them for lunch. The constraint is the tours: both houses run guided only, so the timing is not yours to set.

Which trail in Exeter works best in the afternoon?

The Exeter River Trail, after lunch. It runs 2.3 miles and stays mostly flat. Swasey Parkway sits closer to town and its paved path is short enough to do before dinner. The Hillzilla Trail climbs up from there if the legs still want more. Henderson-Swasey wants a full morning of its own, because 600 acres and 300 feet of gain will eat the day.

Which festival in Exeter should shape the weekend you pick?

The UFO Fest. It runs over Labor Day weekend, with speakers, live music and kid-friendly events downtown, so the whole town is on its feet. The American Independence Festival lands in July instead and covers the Revolutionary War side. Book a room early for either one, because Exeter is a small town. The Farmers’ Market on a Thursday is the low-effort version of the same thing.

Keep exploring Exeter, New Hampshire