While it’s no secret that New Hampshire is full of spectacular natural beauty, the state is also full of small towns loaded with historical landmarks. The lesser-known town of Keene is New England’s best-kept secret and is rich in local history. Once an industrial railroad town filled with factories, locals and tourists alike flock here for its vibrant local arts scene. Escape the big New England cities and visit these must-see historic landmarks in Keene for an unforgettable experience.
First on the list of must-see attractions is the Colonial Theatre. Located in the heart of Keene, the theatre has long been an iconic landmark for performing arts fans for decades. This state-of-the-art facility first opened its doors in 1924 and hosted many live performances, theatre, film, and opera, attracting fans from all over! However, the theatre did experience some dark years and was close to permanently closing its doors. But with community support and some restoration, this landmark continues to be the focal point for theatre goers today. Attracting over 50,000 people annually, the thriving theatre continues to entertain audiences of all ages with its wide variety of performances. Visit the Colonial Theatre website and Facebook page for more information about upcoming shows and ticket purchases.
Next up is a visit to the oldest and only working dairy farm in all of Keene. Situated in the scenic New Hampshire Valley, Stonewall Farm has over 120 acres of breathtaking scenery. The farm offers many free family-friendly recreational activities and year-round educational events for all ages. From maple-sugaring to forestry, to ecology, to basic farming lessons, there's so much to learn! On the property, there are many well-marked trails that are used for biking, hiking, and even snowshoeing during the winter months. To conclude your farm visit, stop in the store to find a variety of fresh products and raw ingredients for sale, all harvested right on the farm. Whether you hike one of the family-friendly trails, visit the farm animals, or go on a hay ride, a day spent at Stonewall Farm is sure to be a memorable experience. Follow Stonewall Farm's Facebook page for information about upcoming events. Visit their website to learn more about the history of the farm and to register for upcoming educational programs.
Complete your trip to Keene and take a step back in time with a visit to the Horatio Colony House Museum. Located right on Main Street, this prominent historic house lets you experience what life was like for the early Keene residents. The "old-time" New England home was built in 1806 by a descendant of one of Keene’s historic families and is filled with displays of original collections and furnishings from around the world. Parking is at the rear of St. Bernard's Church, which is adjacent to the Horatio Colony House Museum. When planning your visit, follow Horatio Colony House Museum's Facebook page for up-to-date events. Visit their website to learn more about the Museum's fascinating history.
Full of classic New England charm, this New Hampshire town offers unique cultural experiences and interesting historical attractions perfect for the whole family. Have you visited any of these three historic landmarks before? Which were your favorites?
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