Peterborough, NH

Travel Guide

Peterborough showing autumn leaves and a house
Peterborough which includes autumn leaves
Peterborough showing autumn leaves and forest scenes
Peterborough showing a house
Peterborough showing signage

Home to an art colony and one of America’s oldest basket companies, this idyllic town in New Hampshire was also the inspiration for Thornton Wilder’s play Our Town.

Historic New England meets a thriving arts scene in Peterborough, New Hampshire. See its charming red-brick town center and gorgeous natural surroundings that have made the town a favorite among tourists.

Start your tour of downtown at the Peterborough Historical Society. Check out the 18th-century kitchen and learn about local history through its series of rotating exhibits.

The sprawling brick Peterborough Town Library, supported by soaring white columns, is an iconic building. Established in 1833, it also has the distinction of being the country’s oldest tax-supported public library. When you enter the library, look up. The veranda’s ceiling is adorned with a mural depicting a beautiful Contoocook River scene.

Peterborough was the inspiration for Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer-winning play about small-town America, Our Town. Look for Grove Street, very similar in name to Grover’s Corners, the fictional setting for the play.

Browse the shops and galleries of Depot Square, Peterborough’s retail hub. Have lunch in one of its restaurants. Peterborough Diner has hosted numerous presidential candidates on the campaign trail.

Continue your shopping at Peterboro Basket Company, which has been producing handcrafted wooden baskets since 1854. It is one of the oldest continuously operating basket companies in the United States.

Immerse yourself in New Hampshire’s scenic beauty at Miller State Park. Climb to the top of Pack Monadnock. To enjoy the mountain’s stunning views without the hike, drive along the paved road leading to its summit.

MacDowell Art Colony, just outside town, has been operating for over 100 years. Make an appointment to see works of MacDowell Fellows in the Eugene Coleman Savidge Library. The site also hosts events throughout the year.

Despite its small size, Peterborough has a large cultural scene, regularly hosting concerts, art festivals, plays and dance shows. Whether you come for a special event or just want to explore, you’re sure to leave this charming town wearing a smile.

Riverhouse by Weekender (Formerly Jack Daniels Inn)

Riverhouse by Weekender (Formerly Jack Daniels Inn)

2.5 out of 5
80 Concord Street, Peterborough, NH
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Peterborough. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
Riverhouse by Weekender (Formerly Jack Daniels Inn)
 Lemon Drop Cottage a private cottage getaway

Lemon Drop Cottage a private cottage getaway

Peterborough
The price is ¥30,876 per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
¥30,876
¥37,170 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this cottage in Peterborough. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Greenfield State Park and Picnickers Beach ...
Lemon Drop Cottage a private cottage getaway
Spacious Estate With Mtn Views! Private Setting, Great Family Home!!

Spacious Estate With Mtn Views! Private Setting, Great Family Home!!

Peterborough
Stay at this vacation home in Peterborough. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Sharon Arts Center and Ava Marie Handmade Chocolates ...
Spacious Estate With Mtn Views! Private Setting, Great Family Home!!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Spacious Estate With Mtn Views! Private Setting, Great Family Home!!

Spacious Estate With Mtn Views! Private Setting, Great Family Home!!

Peterborough
Stay at this vacation home in Peterborough. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Sharon Arts Center and Ava Marie Handmade Chocolates ...
Spacious Estate With Mtn Views! Private Setting, Great Family Home!!
Studio Apt with Full Kitchen. 1 minute stroll over picturesque bridge into town.

Studio Apt with Full Kitchen. 1 minute stroll over picturesque bridge into town.

Peterborough
Stay at this apartment in Peterborough. Enjoy free WiFi, an in-room coffeemaker, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Mariposa Museum and World Cultures ...
Studio Apt with Full Kitchen. 1 minute stroll over picturesque bridge into town.
 Lemon Drop Cottage a private cottage getaway

Lemon Drop Cottage a private cottage getaway

Peterborough
Stay at this cottage in Peterborough. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Greenfield State Park and Picnickers Beach ...
Lemon Drop Cottage a private cottage getaway
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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