New England is full of beautiful and charming places to explore year round. This winter, why not pay Exeter, New Hampshire a visit? Located in Rockingham County where the Exeter River meets the Squamscott River, Exeter has a quaint small town feeling the makes it a wonderful place to plan your next getaway. The town is full of history and home to many historical landmarks as well as the well-known Phillips Exeter Academy. The abundance trails and wooded areas also create plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. While this New Hampshire gem is the ideal destination for a trip all year-round, winter brings its own charms and special activities. If you’re planning a winter excursion to this area of New England, then make sure to check out these things to in Exeter, NH this winter!
Cross-Country Skiing
One of the best things to do in Exeter if there’s snow on the ground is to go cross-country skiing. There are several great areas for this popular winter sport, including the Phillips Exeter Trail. This trail system is maintained by the Phillips Exeter Academy and winds through 300 acres of forest. The trails you can choose from range from a short jaunt of less than half a mile to nearly two and a half miles. You can also choose to combine these trails to create longer loops. Other places to enjoy cross-country skiing near Exeter include Seacoast NH Nordic XC Ski Center and Merrimack Valley NH Nordic XC Ski Center.
Snow Tubing
Another one of the popular things to do in Exeter when there is snow, is to go tubing. Ames Amesbury Sports Park has groomed snow tubing runs for riders of all ages to race down the tubing hill. The hill at Amesbury is one of the fastest and steepest in New England, so you know you’ll get your fill of thrills there!
Museums and Historical Sites
When you visit Exeter, you’ll have several opportunities to get up close and personal with American History and perhaps even learn a little while you’re entertained. The Exeter Historical Society offers regular programs and special events educating the public about local history and they maintain a research library that helps preserve that history. The American Independence Museum is a great way to come to a deeper understanding about the history of our country’s independence and the brave women and men who fought for that freedom. Other historical sites in Exeter include the Gilman Garrison House, Exeter Congregational Church, and Christ Episcopal Church. Nearby Portsmouth is also a treasure trove of historical sites.
Spas and Shopping
If you’re in need of some pampering or retail therapy, then there are plenty things to do in Exeter that will provide you with those opportunities. The options for establishments offering spa treatments in town include Aura Day Spa and Tranquility Salon & Skin Care. For shopping, downtown Exeter has unique locally owned shops offering apparel, art, decor, gifts, books and more. Outlet shopping as well as large mall are just a short distance away in Newington, NH and Kittery, ME.
Stay at Inn By the Bandstand
No winter getaway to Exeter, NH is complete without a stay at the local Select Registry property. The Inn By the Bandstand is a beautiful Federal House built back in 1809 set in the heart of downtown Exeter. The Inn features English inspired decor and exudes charm. Each of their nine gorgeous rooms and suites are furnished with antiques, yet have all the modern amenities and comforts a traveler could want. The private bathrooms feature fluffy robes and towels for the utmost in pampering and seven of the rooms feature working fireplaces for an added cozy feeling. Each morning you will enjoy a gourmet breakfast and throughout the day you can take advantage of the the 24 coffee and tea. There is truly no better place to come and unwind after a day experiencing all of the things to do in Exeter than the Inn By the Bandstand! And you can be sure you’ll experience the Select Registry difference during your stay.
