New Hampshire is home to plenty of history — undoubtedly you spent a lot of your school years learning about it. But we have to admit that sometimes, sitting in a stuffy classroom, we may not have absorbed all of the facts. And going to a regular museum, with things tucked away in cases, doesn’t necessarily inspire much wonder either. That’s why living history museums are so special – for a few hours, you’re able to step back in time and experience what people who came before you saw, touched, ate, and heard. Here in New Hampshire, we have some great ones — and you’re never too old to learn from them.
Strawberry Banke is so much more than a museum — it's an entire historic village covering 10 acres in Portsmouth. You can explore 37 buildings and numerous beautiful gardens, and watch reenactors go about everything from animal care to yarn spinning. There's so much to see and do here, and they frequently host demonstrations and special events. Learn more at their website and visit at 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth NH, 03801.
The Canterbury Shaker Village, founded in 1792, was home to generations of Shakers until the last of the celibate villagers died in 1992. Today, you can tour the buildings and gardens of the village and see demonstrations of the crafts that they made their livelihoods with. Learn more here and visit at 288 Shaker Rd., Canterbury, NH 03224.
Once the northwesternmost settlement in the British colonies, this historic spot is now an incredible open-air museum. Keep an eye on the events calendar — they have amazing reenactments that you won't want to miss! Learn more on their website and visit at 267 Springfield Rd.,
Charlestown, NH.
4. Remick Country Doctor Museum and Farm, Tamworth
This history museum and working farm hosts educational (and fun) activities year-round, from ice harvesting to maple sugaring and more. The animals are always a huge attraction! Learn more at their website and visit at 58 Cleveland Hill Rd.,
Tamworth, NH.
Looking to step back in time a different way? Buy your own piece of history at this incredible antique center.
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