Are you finding out about Keene’s best fun activities? We have gathered much information to make your trip enjoyable. A beautiful and hearty town is in New Hampshire’s Monadnock region. It has been a tourist attraction for many decades, and people cherish the place for its inner beauty.
Keene is known as a college town due to the well-known State College and Antioch University. During a study session, 25% or one-fourth of the city’s population are students of the famous college. It has a long history with many entertainment places, boutiques, cafés, restaurants, scenic views, and shops.
A small New England town is also famous for the filming site as Jumanji movie scenes were shot there. If you are a lake and pond lover, there are many trails, mountains, and amazing areas.
The town has a Keene pumpkin festival every year, where you can find the world’s giant pumpkins. Tourists love the destination due to several fun activities, and it is considered one of the most visited Cheshire County towns.
Travel to Keene, New Hampshire
What are the fun things to do in Keene, NH?
It includes many things, but the most top-rated activities are exploring the historic downtown, visiting Colonial Theatre to see different shows, and enjoying Keene’s excellent breweries.
How much time do you need in Keene?
A single day is enough to explore many attractions, but if you have more days, you can visit the surrounding Jaffrey and Peterborough towns to make your trip memorable.
How do you get to Keene?
There are many convenient communication mediums to travel to the city. The city bus service connects all New York and New England cities. If you come from Boston, it is a two-hour drive away. You can also use a means of public transport.
What are some top things to do in Keene, NH, with kids?
The city has many amusement attractions for kids, like Cheshire Children’s Museum, Stonewall Farm, etc.
Things to Do in Keene, New Hampshire
The following section features many places and activities for your enjoyment. It is good for everyone, whether you come with kids, families, or loved ones and visit breweries, go outside, or explore nearby towns.
Enjoy Downtown Keene:
This NH’s small city is a famous tourist destination along with Portsmouth and Littleton. Keene is home to many historic buildings, like an old movie theater and the church in Central Square. Many brick buildings were converted into antique shops, restaurants, thrift stores, and candy stores.
Secondly, the Parrish Shoes Mural is a famous Keene landmark. It was made on a brick wall in the Jumanji movie to give homage to the fictitious shoe company. After the end of the movie, it was removed. The residents of Keene again repainted the landmark, loving Robin Williams’s role. After the death of Robin Williams, it became a memorial.
In addition, find many local artisan-made products at Hannah Grimes Marketplace. It is a famous gift shop that offers everything. Downtown Keene and the main street is the best place for window shopping, eating a meal, taking a sip of coffee, and enjoying walking around.
Lindy’s Diner:
Lindy’s Diner is one of the best NH diners. The breakfast is delicious, and we love their southern dish. Firstly, it was manufactured in New Jersey and Haledon. After that, in 1961, Lindy’s Diner was transferred into a Keene through a flatbed truck.
Secondly, Lindy’s has a major role during the presidential election because every candidate must visit the Granite State for an electoral campaign. Many United States presidents, from Obama to George H.W., stopped at Lindy’s Diner for breakfast and coffee.
It is said that “the run to the White House runs through Lindy’s Diner.” If you are in Keene, you must visit Lindy’s Diner because there are chances that you may meet the United States’ next president.
Urban Exchange:
Urban Exchange is located in the center of downtown Keene. On Main Street, it is the best consignment store, offering a large collection of top women’s brands products. Visit Urban Exchange for jewelry, handbags, brand-new outfits, shoes, and high-quality accessories.
The store’s environment is pleasant because many racks are separated by product design, color, and condition. Clothes are available in all sizes, from extra small to extra large. You can easily find your desired item without any effort.
Moe Momentum is best if you are looking for new clothes. Their stylish women’s clothes and accessories are very pricey.
Keene Axe House:
In recent years, axe throwing has become a popular sport worldwide. Now, it is available in Keene, and everyone wants to spend an afternoon playing it. People have played it for 1000’s of years. Keene Axe House is the best place to play the sport or get energy out. The House was opened in September 2021.
First, you must book a lane and throw the full-power axe to hit the target. Initially, it takes a few tries, but you’ll be hooked after hitting the target. The Axe House is wonderful for celebrating your bachelorettes, birthdays, and other special occasions.
Rail Trails:
The New England region is home to many tranquil rail trails. These trails pass through several towns, offering scenic views of New Hampshire. Former railroad tracks have been converted into walking, bike, and other useable trails.
The Ashuelot Rail Trail stretches 21 miles from Keene to Winchester. It offers you convenience, a scenic view, and a lot of history simultaneously. Because of its stone surface, the trail is a popular area for bicyclists and walkers.
An entire 42-mile stretch of former railroad track has been repurposed to become the Cheshire Rail Trail. An ideal swimming spot called Rockwood Pond is located along the route. You can hike and snowmobile here.
The trails remain open throughout the year. There is always a chance to get there and enjoy the scenery. The Cheshire Railroad stone arch bridge was built around 1847 to make transportation into the city easier. The bridge crosses the Branch River, which is quite a cool view.
Thorne Sagendorph Art Gallery:
This art gallery is situated at Keene’s famous State College. For over 50 years, the outstanding gallery has introduced the public to arts and culture.
The Museum has a variety of interesting art exhibits and beautiful pieces on display. Exhibitions will represent a wide range of art, including work by local and international artists. Even Students from Keene State have also contributed work to this exhibition.
Thorne Sagendorph Art Gallery supports the school tour program and carries out a planned program of educating children about the importance of art. It is also important to develop the students into future-generation artists.
Cheshire Children’s Museum:
Start your trip with a visit to the Cheshire Children’s Museum, where you’ll find a treasure of exhibits that help kids learn many new things. There is much information about the Monadnock region and New Hampshire.
The Cheshire Children’s Museum is an amazing place where your children can become passionate about learning through exploration and hands-on activities. Children are encouraged to stroll the exhibits and produce their own artwork.
They can participate in interactive activities and reach the world through the arts, sciences, mathematics, and literature. It was opened on 25 August 2012. The admission cost for all the visitors is $8.
Madame Sherri Forest:
The 513-acre wilderness area in Chesterfield is situated on Wantastiquet Mountain’s slope. A wealthy older woman named Madame Antoinette Sherri built a house in the 1920s. She usually threw extravagant parties for elite-class people. But after some time, she ran out of money and fled from the country. Her house collapsed, and she could never repair it in the future.
The only thing left of the house is the staircase, but most of its parts collapsed in 2021. The thing here to see is the Anne Stokes loop, Indian Pond, and the mountain’s top trail. You can explore the beauty and hike because it has many excellent hiking trails. It is the best spot for photography.
Stonewall Farm:
In NH’s southwest, it is the most famous silhouette. Stonewall Farm is a fun activity for kids because it is the oldest dairy farm. The farm covers 120 acres of land and is used for different purposes.
A non-profit working farm has many animals, including goats, horses, rabbits, chickens, and 30 cows. There are hiking trails, a maple sugar operating area, crops, a garden, and an education center.
Enjoy a lot with the natural landscape or animals. Visitors can also spend quality time with family. At Stonewall Farm, you can do many things, including a farm tour, a hayride tour, pasture walks, visits to the dairy farm, etc.
Idyllic Jaffrey Center:
Jeffrey Center is located at a 25-minute drive. A small town gives a lovely century-ago experience. You can enjoy a lot of Mount Monadnock’s iconic views. There is a gorgeous 1700s meeting house, an 18th-century burial ground, a 19th-century church, and a schoolhouse perfect for photography.
Kimball’s Farm in Jaffrey is a better ice cream spot. If you’re in the ice cream mood, get their smallest size because it gives more satisfaction.
Cathedral of the Pines in Rindge:
Cathedral of the Pines is located a 30-minute drive from Keene. It is a must-visit destination because it has historical monuments, 236 acres of grounds, and WWI and WW2 artifacts. The historical and natural site is good for relaxing, meditating, and exercising because it has many trails. You can enjoy a lot with the stunning Mount Monadnock views.
Peterborough:
One of the oldest established towns in New Hampshire is Peterborough, which is a short drive from Keene. There has been a settlement in Peterborough for over 250 years. Depot Square is an area filled with 14 unique shops and several eateries.
It is located about 30 minutes outside of Keene. Peterborough is a small town of about 4,000 people. The Contoocook River flows right through the center of the town and offers some astounding views.
The Peterborough Diner serves classic American meals in a striking 1950s emerald green dining car. Many famous basket shops are in the United States, but Peterborough Basket Company is among the most popular. Baskets are used for various purposes, including storing, washing, enjoying a picnic, etc.
Colonial Theatre:
Firstly, it was opened in 1924 for live performances. But in the 1950s, it was converted into a movie theater by installing a screen. Approximately more than 50,000 people visit the theatre. Many people attend the festival yearly for the performing arts and film festivals.
It is a great place to see various delightful acts, like musical performances, dramas, and comedies. The theater offers a variety of community events and sovereign films at an affordable price. Colonial Theatre provides an enjoyable entertainment experience for all ages.
Various performances have taken place there, such as silent films, variety shows during the 1930s, and lively community gatherings today. In downtown Keene, a landmark theatre has become one of the city’s iconic landmarks.
It is distinctly reminiscent of the theater’s heyday in the 1920s, with its sumptuous details bringing back the feel of those days, yet its performance offerings are both fresh and innovative.
Mount Monadnock:
Every person should visit Mount Monadnock at least once in their life. “Monadnock” is a term used for a mountain that stands well beyond all the others in the region referred to as peaks. Mountain Monadnock is positioned 3,165 feet above sea level.
Secondly, it is truly one of the most magnificent scenes ever. Per vehicle park costs are $15. Reserving a parking slot in advance is necessary because parking space is limited and filled early, especially on weekends.
Monadnock Mountain is a geological giant of the New England region. With the number of hikers climbing it each year, it has also been credited as the second most hiked mountain ever. The summit of the mountain provides access to several hiking trails. Along with hiking, it is best for snowshoeing, camping, and cross-country skiing.
Granite Gorge:
It is near Roxbury, just 15 minutes away from the city. Granite Gorge is a popular ski resort on Pinnacle Mountain’s side. This area used to be called Pinnacle Peak Ski Area, but it is now called Granite Gorge again in 2003 after it had reopened.
It is a place where you can enjoy a hayride during the autumn, a haunted house during the summer, and a summer camp for children. There has been a blackout at Granite Gorge for a few years because of the COVID-19 outbreak, but now the resort has reopened for the 2023-2024 season.
Horatio Colony House Museum:
This Museum marks the historic Colony House, which has stood for over two centuries. Abel Blake built the house in 1806 and remained with the family. As you explore the city of Keene, you should stop by this lovely place whenever you can.
It is located right on Main St. The little yellow historic home is open from Wednesday to Sunday and from May mid to October’s mid. The opening time is 11:00 AM, and the Museum closes at 4:00 PM.
The Museum holds many events throughout the year. A five-mile hiking trail in the woods makes this an ideal place to enjoy a relaxing hike. The Museum is open to everyone during daylight hours. The total area is about 645 acres of natural land.
You will discover many things about the well-known colony family that once occupied these grounds. The Museum is only for some; those interested in architecture and history will certainly find it a mesmerizing experience.
Prime Roast Coffee Co:
Prime Roast Coffee Co is the best option for coffee lovers in downtown Keene. They have been offering high-quality fresh coffee since 1993. Prime Roast Coffee Co offers many baked goods items, including cookies, muffins, and croissants. You can also choose hot, specialty, iced, and frozen drinks. We love their maple latte coffee.
Red Ferns Arts Center:
Keene State College’s Red Fern Arts Center is a multi-theater regional performing arts center. It offers a variety of shows. Finding the Red Fern at the end of Main Street in Keene is easy. Wonderful interior decor and an artistic environment enhance the level of elegance in this art center.
Moreover, it is one of the best means for finding a variety of college-related festivals and events that can be enjoyed with your friends. It is an artfully designed theater in the heart of Keene, where you can see many great shows produced by students and visiting performers.
Anyone with a taste for music or Shakespeare would find this place because it is ideal for them. The center has been a valuable asset in 39 years of serving as arts in the community and is still going strong.
Pisgah State Park:
Pisgah State Park is the ideal place to spend valuable time. The park covers 13,300 acres of forested land. Enjoying the outdoors is a good option if you prefer less curated parks.
A large part of the park covers a watershed with several ponds, hilltop ranges, and swampland. You may also bring your pet for a long hike or run in the park. A wide range of outdoor adventure activities is available in the park.
A variety of trailheads are accessible throughout the year. It also allows you to walk across the backcountry, bike, or even on a snowmobile. We encourage you to take advantage of everything that Pisgah State Park offers.
Hannah Grimes:
Keene’s Hannah Grimes has been considered one of the unique attractions in the state for a long time. There has been a Hannah Grimes Marketplace in Keene for over 246 years.
Hannah Grime is the same as the local farmer lady, born in 1776. Grimes and William Stoddard Buckminster owned and operated the Buckminster farm, which produced, sold and checked all local goods.
As a part of their cool hodge-podge of locally made products, the store carries everything of necessity and even handcrafted products made by more than 250 artisans. The market is on the main street of Keene and gives you high-quality products that will amaze you.
Luca’s Mediterranean Café:
Stroll around Central Square and check out the wonderful Luca’s Mediterranean Cafe. In terms of its interior, it comes in the form of a stunning vintage restaurant accented with rustic elements. Its relaxed ambiance will make you feel at home with its welcoming environment.
The most famous dishes are coast shrimp, brie Mediterranean tacos, spinach and ricotta ravioli, Italian mussels, and duck confit.
Keene State College:
Keene is known for its college and university. The State College is a beauty with a fantastic building and arts college. It is a public liberal arts college and a Division III school. They organize different events throughout the year that is good for event lovers. Some of the most favorite events are concerts, American theatre performances, sports events, etc.
Where’s the best place to stay in Keene, NH?
There are a few accommodation places in the city, but they are a little expensive. However, if you are looking for budget-friendly accommodation, go outside the town because there are many lovely affordable beds and breakfasts.
Best High-End Hotel in Keene:
Fairfield Inn & Suites is located on Downtown Main Street and in a historic 100-year-old building. It is a luxurious accommodation with many cafes, shopping centers, restaurants, bars, and boutique-like guest rooms. Each hotel room has a television, a work desk, an iPod docking station, and a sofa to feel relaxed.
Keene’s Best Mid-Range Hotel:
Courtyard Keene Downtown is a top choice for a mid-range hotel. It is a LEED-certified hotel with a fitness center, a Starbucks, and a swimming pool. The hotel has many amenities.
Keene’s Best Budgeted Hotel:
Visit Days Inn, Wyndham Keene, if you don’t want to spend money on accommodation. The hotel room features a refrigerator, a cable television, and a microwave. They are well decorated with wood furnishings and light colors to feel pleasant.
How to Get to Keene NH
Geographically, it is very close to New England. It is 2.5 hours from CT, Boston, Providence, New Haven, and RI. However, it is a three-hour drive away if you come from VT, Portland, ME, and Burlington.
Keene is near Bradley Airport in Hartford, CT, and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in Manchester. Both airports are seventy-five minutes away from the city. At the same time, Boston’s Logan Airport is a much better selection for international travelers.
Greyhound buses are another transportation medium that connects the city with Hartford, Boston, Manchester, New York, Concord, and White River Junction, Vermont. Brattleboro’s Amtrak train station is 30 minutes away from the Keene.
You can also access the city through public transport. The City Express is the best option, “the bus for everyone.” It’s a very cheap option, and the ride costs only $1.
How Much Time to Spend in Keene NH
Keene has several full-day interesting spots and attractions to make your trip enjoyable. In a short time, do several interesting and entertaining things. However, coming for a weekend is good because you can easily explore the Monadnock region for more attractions and adventure.
The Keene surrounding towns like Fitzwilliam, Peterborough, Jaffrey Center, and Chesterfield also has several fun activities. If you plan a trip for a longer time, you have enough time to go south to Northampton or head west to Brattleboro by using Keene as a base.
Best Time to Visit Keene NH
Keene is an all-season vacation destination because each season has charm and specialty. You can do many fun activities throughout the year.
Summer is well-known for hiking. Enjoy a lot of snowshoeing, skiing, and all winter activities in winter. Ice and Snow Festival is also famous in February and is considered the NH’s best winter carnival.
The city held many festivals and events throughout the year. The Keene Music Festival attracts music lovers from across the country. The Keene Pumpkin Festival is also held in the fall. During the festival, people broke jack-o’-lanterns. Once, they created a world record by breaking more jack-o’-lanterns in one spot.
On the other hand, after complete research and experiences, fall is the best time to visit Keene. You can sit outside the cafes because the weather is warm during the fall months and offers a chance to spend quality time.
Is Keene Worth It?
Compared to Portsmouth or North Conway, it is not famous but is considered an excellent vacation destination. Keene is a fantastic weekend getaway in New England due to its many attractions. Don’t worry; it is worth the trip, and you will find a new vacation destination because it has many things for everyone.
More on Keene:
- Best Keene Hotels for a Relaxing Stay
