Activities
The Arts:
The Colonial Performing Arts Center (Keene, NH 16min drive)
Established in 1924, the Colonial Theatre is a nonprofit located downtown Keene that hosts independent films and diverse live performances; Amelia Earhart once lectured on the possibility of cross-Atlantic air travel at the Colonial! The Colonial provides a stage for singers that inspire, physical performances that make jaws drop, engrossing plays, or the sly wit of a comedian.
The Latchis Theatre (Brattleboro, VT 16min drive)
A Greco-Deco themed theatre established in the downtown of Brattleboro, VT in 1938 and is bedecked with Greek murals by the Hungarian-American painter Louis Jambor, swaddled in velvet curtains, and accented with a panoramic view of the Zodiac on the ceiling. Catch some current cinema or a variety of live events such as singers, circus arts, or live music while enjoying eclectic Brattleboro, VT.
The Hot Glass Art Center (Marlborough, NH 20min drive)
Take private glass blowing lessons and choose from a variety of items to make in Marlborough, NH.
Tilting at Windmills Gallery (Manchester, VT 1hr 12 min drive)
Tilting at Windmills Gallery is one of New England’s largest fine art galleries. Featuring a broad selection of works by important national, regional and international artists. Visitors will appreciate their large selection of stone sculpture from Zimbabwe, Africa and original semi-precious gem sculptures from Canada.
Green Mountain Bluegrass and Roots Festival (Manchester, VT 1hr 13min drive)
GMBR is a four-day music festival featuring a variety of bluegrass, roots and Americana music from both icons of the industry and innovative up-and-coming artists. Featuring a main stage, dance tent, late night acoustic stage, camping, kids’ activities, local food trucks, Vermont craft beer and wine, in the magical mountain setting of Manchester Vermont.
Manchester Music Festival (Manchester, VT 1hr 20min drive)
Manchester Music Festival is a non-profit that welcomes award-winning artists from around the world for five weeks of concerts and events during the summer season. MMF provides classical music experiences at a number of complimentary events which are presented in addition to its premier festival concerts.
Southern Vermont Arts Center (Manchester, VT 1hr 20min drive)
Since opening its doors in 1922, the Southern Vermont Arts Center has been enriching the community with first-class cultural, educational, and creative opportunities on their 100+ acres. The center offers a rotating calendar of member and visiting exhibitions, the largest sculpture park in Vermont, and a busy schedule of dynamic classes for all ages.
Downtown:
It’s worth a visit to both downtowns. Spofford is right between both cities, which are very different in terms of feel, although each has great restaurants, bars, and stores.
Keene, NH Downtown (16min drive)
Keene’s beautiful downtown area is quaint, quintessential New England, and vibrant. A throwback in time and at the same time progressive. The chamber of commerce declared it to be the “widest paved main street in the world” in 1921 measuring 172 ft. The wide main street provides space for lush greenery and events and is a crucial aspect of Keene’s aesthetic. At the head of Main Street is the iconic UCC Church with roots as far back as 1737. Its grand white steeple anchors the head of Main Street and Central Square where Main Street divides into spokes. Central Square with its gazebo and rotary, speaks to the centuries of activity and hub of history.
Downtown Keene is a mix of old-time shops, small retailers, local restaurants and more. Downtown Keene often hosts events such as the Art Walk or live music. Be sure to check out art left behind from the filming of Jumanji and murals from the Walldogs Magical History Tour. A trip to Cheshire County is not complete without a visit to Keene’s Main Street.
Brattleboro, VT Downtown (16min drive)
Brattleboro Downtown is best described as eclectic. Enjoy locally owned shops, breweries, artisans & art galleries, restaurants and the historic the Latchis Theatre with beautiful views of the Connecticut River. Downtown Brattleboro plays host to the Strolling of the Heifers parade, the Women’s Film Festival, the Brattleboro Film Festival, the New England Youth Theatre, Hooker-Dunham Theater and Gallery, the Brattleboro Literary Festival, the Southern Vermont Dance Festival and the monthly Gallery Walk.
Educational/Museums:
Chesterfield Historic Sites
Visit the link above for information on historic buildings and locations in Chesterfield, NH including Chesterfield Town Hall, Chesterfield Historical Society, Chesterfield Library, and more.
Horatio Colony House Museum (Keene, NH 18min drive)
Visit this old-time fully furnished New England Home for free while you enjoy scenic downtown Keene, located 199 Main Street.
Magic Wings (South Deerfield, MA 39min drive)
A beautiful butterfly conservatory in South Deerfield, MA, this green house museum is filled with gardens, butterflies and other creatures hidden among the gardens making it fun for the whole family.
Historic Deerfield (Deerfield, MA 40min drive)
Take a walk back in time, to the heart of an authentic 18th century colonial New England village. Historic Deerfield Inc., founded in 1952, is an outdoor museum that interprets the history and culture of early New England and the Connecticut River Valley. Visitors can tour twelve carefully preserved antique houses dating from 1730 to 1850. Explore world-class collections of regional furniture, silver, textiles, and other decorative arts on display in the authentic period houses and in the Flynt Center of Early New England Life, a state-of-the-art museum facility featuring exhibitions and a visible storage area. The research library, the Henry N. Flynt Library, includes more than 21,000 volumes (reference works, microfilm and newspapers) on the history and material culture of the region.
Green Mountain Academy for Lifelong Learning (Manchester, VT 1+hr drive)
Green Mountain Academy for Lifelong Learning is a nonprofit offering diverse and hands-on courses and workshops at multiple locations in and around Manchester, VT.
McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center (Concord, NH 1hr 13min drive)
The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center has an amazing collection of innovative, interactive exhibits to explore. Delve into the worlds of astronomy, aviation, Earth and space sciences and become immersed in this entertaining learning environment. From the planetarium theater to the high-tech observatory to workshops for Little Explorers and educators alike, there is something for everyone at your Discovery Center.
Pastime Pinball Museum Arcade (Manchester, VT 1hr 14min drive)
Located in the heart of beautiful Manchester Center Vermont the pinball museum offers 60 pinball games from the 1950s to today – all set to free play. The museum offers a snack bar and a variety of local drinks.
Hildene, The Lincoln House (Manchester, VT 1hr 22min drive)
Located on 400-acres in Manchester Village, the historic Lincoln estate is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike. Hildene offers amazing grounds and gardens, informative tours, historical exhibits, and activities including tours of the farm’s cheesemaking facility, strolls through the Dene via the floating boardwalk, the “Celebration of the Peonies” from late-May through mid-June (thousands of flamboyant blooms in the formal garden) and a Victorian Christmas, when the entire estate is bedecked in holiday finery. Hildene offers snowshoe rentals to explore the grounds in winter.
Farmer’s Markets
Chesterfield Farmer’s Market
A summer farmers market open Saturdays 9am-12pm in the Center of Chesterfield, just down Rt 63. Enjoy the views of the Green Mountains as you select fresh produce from Chesterfield, settled in colonial times. The market opens June 9 and typically runs until early/mid October.
Keene Farmers’ market (Keene, NH 16min drive)
You will often get to enjoy live music as you peruse through a multitude of varied vendor’s stands. Between the last Saturday in April through the end of October the market is open Saturdays 9am-1pm and Tuesdays 3pm-6pm. It is located in the Commercial Street parking lot off Gilbo Avenue, across from Lindy’s Diner. The Keene Farmer’s Market is an all-growers market; all products are grown, produced, or created by the vendors. View the current vendors here. The market is also open in the winter some years; location and hours are variable so check in at the link above.
Brattleboro Summer Farmers Market (Brattleboro, VT 16min drive)
Saturday Market: The market is open Saturdays 10am-2pm May 2nd – October 31st at Brattleboro Area Farmer’s Market, 570 Western Ave (Route 9), Brattleboro, VT 05301. The Saturday market is slightly larger than the Tuesday market and has a larger variety of vendors.
Tuesday Market: Between May 26th-October 6th, the market is open on Tuesdays, downtown at the New England Youth Theater, 100 Flat Street, Brattleboro, VT 05301. Be sure to pick up a loaf of bread from Bread from the Earth! You will be highly impressed by their local sourdough.
Brattleboro Winter Farmers Market (Brattleboro, VT 16min drive)
The winter market is open November through mark. Order for curbside pickup here. Order cycles open at 8am Tuesday and close 8pm Thursday evening. Pick up is Saturday between 10:30am-1pm. Pick up and the market, when open to the public, is located at the CF Church Building, 80 Flat Street, Brattleboro, VT, a short walk from Main Street. On-site parking is available. A list of vendors is available here.
Food Co-ops
Monadnock Food Co-op
Located at 34 Cypress Street in downtown Keene, NH.
Brattleboro Food Co-op
Located 2 Main Street downtown Brattleboro, VT.
Golfing
Pine Grove Springs Est. 1900 (Spofford, NH 3min drive)
A 9-hole course just down the street, known for its very good greens. It’s an old-fashioned New England course, dating back to the early 1900’s. Very convenient for a quick round. New owner, a master Greenskeeper, keeps improving the conditions. Don’t let the score card fool you. Although it’s short, don’t expect a great score—hole # 3 is the toughest par 5 you’ll ever play and it’s not due to length!
Bretwood Golf (Keene, NH 23min drive)
A 36-hole course located in Keene, NH, Bretwood has aptly been described as: “One of the country’s great public golf courses. Big, bold, beautiful, in-your-face challenging, and fair.” Owned by the Barrett family since the 1960’s, this one-time farm, with wooden bridges, is a treat for golfers of all abilities with 4 sets of tees. Excellent snack bar to grab a beer, hot dog, burger, fries or their famous Bretwood milk shakes. The only down-side is that Bretwood can get crowded, so call for a tee time and you should be all set.
Brattleboro Country Club (Brattleboro, VT 15min drive)
Brattleboro Golf Course is about 15 minutes from the house, is a hidden gem. Usually in very good condition, with great views and pro shop, it makes for a solid golfing experience. There’s an excellent Italian restaurant at the course for lunch or dinner.
Hooper Golf Course (Walpole, NH 20min drive)
A 20-minute drive from the house, and, according to Golf Magazine (2020), is one of the best stand-alone, 9-hole golf courses in the world.
Crump-in Fox (Bernardston, MA 27min drive)
Less than a half hour away, easy to get to from here off Rt 91, is a top-notch golf course. It been hosted many professional and amateur Mass golf tournaments. You might be familiar with its sister course in Connecticut, Fox Hopyard. If you are looking for something special, treat yourself to a round of golf at this course.
Shattuck Golf Course (Jaffrey, NH 1hr drive)
Located at the base of Mt Monadnock, about an hour drive.
Spectacular views along the way and on the course! Very challenging, it was rated the most difficult course in all New England. Bring extra golf balls. When you’re finished, be sure to visit Kimball Farms for homemade ice cream, with very large portions.
Misc. Activities
Stonewall Farm (Keene, NH 9min drive)
Stonewall farm is a non-profit working farm and educational center that offers a wide variety of activities; specialized tours, recreation trails, visiting farm animals, shopping at their farm store, hay and sleigh rides and other seasonal events posted on their website. Just a short drive from Spofford, located at 242 Chesterfield Rd, Keene, NH, 03431.
Stuart and John’s (Westmoreland, NH 10min drive):
This family-owned restaurant and ice cream parlor is a casual 15-minute drive on RT 63, a country road meandering along Spofford Lake (great views!) and through the quiet town of Westmoreland established 40 years before the Revolutionary War.
During summer they have “cruise night” where you can see lots of old-fashioned cars and visit the calf barn. There’s a play area for kids, and outdoor dining.
If you have a small airplane join other flying enthusiasts who land in the field across the road.
Stewart & John’s is a certified organic sugar house. They can package and ship half pints to gallons of amber, dark robust or very dark grades of pure NH maple syrup anywhere in the world. Maple syrup makes perfect gifts!
College Wooden Bat Baseball (Keene, NH 13 min drive)
This is Americana at its best. A throw back to a simpler time. It’s just good, clean fun for everyone. Keene families host players from colleges all over the country and volunteer their time working the games. It is a first-class operation, done for the love of the game and the community. Baseball enthusiasts will love the crack of the wooden bats. The Keene Swamp Bats play in one of the premiere collegiate, summer, wooden bat leagues- the NECBL. Many major leaguers got their start here. Family oriented. Inexpensive tickets. Delicious, reasonably priced food. Autographs galore. Every seat’s a good one. The kids will love Ribby, the mascot.
A trip to Keene’s Alumni Field on Arch Street is a good way to spend a summer night.
Alyson’s Orchard (Walpole, NH 15min drive)
Go apple, blueberry, or peach picking in Walpole, NH at this you-pick orchard that
frequently hold events for some family fun. The orchard has beautiful views of the
surrounding hills, a small pond, and cows roaming its fields.
Keene Ice (Keene, NH 18min drive)
This new indoor ice rink is clean, and state of the art. Skate rentals are good quality and public skate is inexpensive. A hidden jewel. Located at 380 Marlboro St. Keene, NH 03431 next to the Keene Police Station.
The Friendly Farm (Dublin, NH 29min drive)
Enjoy feeding and interacting with animals in Dublin, NH
The Harris Center (Hancock, NH 39min drive)
The Harris Center for Conservation Education in Hancock, NH offers a variety of different educational programs and events or to enjoy their beautiful hiking trails.
Berkshire East Mountain Ski Resort (Charlemont, MA 55min drive)
Berkshire East is fun all year long. In the summer enjoy their bike park, white water rafting and zipline canopy tours. In the winter Berkshire East offers downhill skiing, tubing and equipment rentals.
Bromley Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Resort (Peru, VT 1hr 6min drive)
Visit Bromley Mountain in Peru, VT for a wide variety of activities including mini golf,
alpine slide, ziplining, Disc Golf, winter sports and more.
Land Rover Experience (Manchester, VT 1hr 15min drive)
Rent or bring your Land Rover and learn how to drive off road. Roam the stunning Green Mountains, and hone your skills on icy hill climbs, side tilts, and rocky terrain.
New England Stores
Stuart and John’s Sugar House Restaurant (Westmoreland, NH 10min drive):
This family-owned restaurant and ice cream parlor is a casual 15-minute drive on RT 63, a country road meandering along Spofford Lake (great views!) and through the quiet town of Westmoreland established 40 years before the Revolutionary War.
During summer they have “cruise night” where you can see lots of old-fashioned cars and visit the calf barn. There’s a play area for kids, and outdoor dining.
If you have a small airplane join other flying enthusiasts who land in the field across the road.
Stewart & John’s is a certified organic sugar house. They can package and ship half pints to gallons of amber, dark robust or very dark grades of pure NH maple syrup anywhere in the world. Maple syrup makes perfect gifts!
Vermont Country Store (Rockingham, VT 33min drive)
The Orton family has been maintaining this classic Vermont store in Weston, VT and Rockingham, VT since 1946. Their store is inspired by simpler times when neighbors gathered in country stores and offers a wide range of quality products sourced locally and globally.
Yankee Candle (South Deerfield, MA 38min drive)
Visit the home of Yankee Candle, America’s most popular candle company, in South Deerfield, MA at the Village Store to enjoy their magical Christmas displays year-round, food, and gift shops. The Yankee Candle Village stores offers a wide variety of activities such as candle making, wax mold making, and visiting Santa.
Ben & Jerry’s Factory (Waterbury, VT 2hr drive)
Take a factory tour, stroll through the flavor graveyard, stop by the gift shop and get an ice cream cone while visiting the original Ben & Jerry’s factory built in 1985. Ben & Jerry fanatics can sign up for the “Flavor Fanatic Experience” for some private flavor making with a “Flavor Guru”.
Cabot Cheese Village Store (Cabot, VT 2hr drive)
The famous Cabot Cheese is a farmer owned co-op and certified B-corp. While they no longer offer tours of their cheese making facility you can peruse Vermont specialty products, their range of products and limited-edition cheddars at their village store.
Hiking/Walking/Cycling
Pierce Island State Park (Lake Spofford, Spofford, NH)
A beautiful 5-acre wooded island right in the middle of Spofford Lake. Swim, kayak or boat there to hang out or hike. And what a history! Many Native American relics have been found on the island, as it was a refuge for earlier inhabitants. It was also home to paleo-Indians over 10,000 years ago.
Chesterfield Gorge (Chesterfield, NH 5min drive)
A geologic park with a quick and picturesque hike in the neighborhood. A must-do while you’re staying in Spofford. Located on the North side of Rt. 9, across from Wellington Dr. on the way into Keene, NH.
Cheshire Rail Trail (Keene, NH 10min drive)
This 42-mile trail runs through Fitzwilliam, Troy, Keene, Westmoreland, and North Walpole along rail beds from the 1700’s. This trail is popular for dog-walking, running, cycling, snowmobiling and even horseback riding. The closest access point is off Rt 9 on Whitcombs Mill Road on your way into Keene from the house. This trail also connects with trails maintained by Stone Wall Farm. Enjoy a video tour here.
Madame Sherri Forest (West Chesterfield, NH 10min drive)
Walk the “staircase to nowhere” and see the remnants of Madame Sherri’s castle in nearby West Chesterfield. Madame Sherri was one of NH’s most eccentric residents, known for her lavish parties in the roaring twenties. Learn more about Madame Sherri here and here. Enjoy Madame Sherri’s pond on your way to the Anne Stoke’s Loop which boasts great views for a moderate hike. If you’re looking for a longer journey, this preserve connects to both Mt. Wantastiquet and Pisgah State Park, but beware; these paths are much less travelled and can be difficult to navigate.
The Madame Sherri Forest is located on the Gulf Road. Coming from the east on Rt. 9 take Rt. 63 south through Chesterfield Village past the town hall. At approx. 1.6 miles from Rt. 9 take a right on Stage Rd. and then shortly after bear left onto Castle Rd. Castle Rd will join Gulf Rd and continues to the Madame Sherri Forest approx. 2.6 miles from Rt. 63. The entrance on the left is notable for a red steel gate.
Horatio Colony Walking Trails (Keene, NH 10min drive)
The Horatio Colony Nature Preserve offers moderate trails, the preserved Colony home, and the original foundation. The parking lot and trailhead are located on Daniels Hill Road in Keene. From Spofford, take Route 9 East toward Keene and turn right on Daniels Hill Road (approximately 1 mile outside of Keene). The parking lot is 1/8 of a mile ahead on the left.
Pisgah State Park (Hinsdale, NH 10min drive)
Pisgah State Park is a beautiful forest to visit in any season whether you’re going for a swim at Kilburn pond or snowshoeing the Pisgah Ridge for sunrise or sunset on Pisgah Mountain. Pisgah State Park offers trails suitable for those looking for a leisurely walk or a day full of hiking.
The closest access point is the Kilburn Parking lot located on Rt. 63, just south of the Chesterfield line in the town of Hinsdale.
Wantastiquet Mountain Trail (West Chesterfield, NH 20min drive)
A short drive from the house, this trail has beautiful views of the Connecticut River Valley and Brattleboro. A trail connects Mt. Watastiquet with Madame Sherri Forest.
Putney Mountain (Putney, VT 30min drive)
Visit Putney Mountain and enjoy a multitude of trails that allows you to adjust for desired length and difficulty. This trail has beautiful views of Mt. Monadnock and the Green Mountains. Linked above you will find maps.
Harris Center Trails (Hancock, NH 40min drive)
The Harris Center maintains trails at their headquarters and around Cheshire County. See the link above for trail maps and descriptions.
Mt. Monadnock (Jaffrey, NH 40min drive)
Come see the most frequently hiked mountain in the world during your stay in New Hampshire. Directions can be found and day passes can be scheduled here.
Green Mountains (45+ min drive)
Linked above is a list of some of the best hikes in the Green Mountains. Hike along the oldest long distance hiking trail in the U.S., running the vertical length of Vermont, the Long Trail. The long trail coincides with the Appalachian Trail for the first 100 miles. If you plan to do some hiking out there be well prepared as the trails are remote and difficult. This is best for experienced hikers.
Haystack Mountain (Wilmington, VT 46min drive)
A 2-3-hour intermediate hike. From the partially wooded summit some views include Haystack Pond and Mt. Pisgah (Mt. Snow) to the north, Harriman Reservoir to the south, and large windmills to the southwest. Be sure to look out for wildflowers in the spring and summer.
Quechee Gorge State Park (Quechee, VT 1hr 7min drive)
Enjoy a hike along the Quechee Gorge trail, “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon”, fishing, nature programs, and camping at this state park. The state park was once the location of a wool mill in 1836 and remnants of the mill and dam can still be seen at the head of the gorge.
White Mountains (2+ hour drive)
If you are willing to take a longer drive, the White Mountains, contain innumerable trails. Linked above is a list of the top-rated trails in the White Mountains. The Appalachian Trail, running the entire East Coast of the U.S. also passes through the White Mountains. While most are suited for experienced hikers, the Kancamagus Scenic Byway has many trail options that all levels of hikers can enjoy. The byway also hosts scenic lookouts, spots to swim in the Swift River, and campgrounds. If you go to the White Mountain region be sure to stop by the Basin and Flume. There is plenty to do other than just hiking if you take the drive out to the White Mountains, check out a list of attractions here.
Winter Sports
Skating on Spofford Lake
Bring your ice skates to enjoy skating right on Spofford Lake and stay warm with the fire pit.
Living Memorial Park Snow Sports (Brattleboro, VT 14min drive)
The Brattleboro ski hill is operated entirely by volunteers, a small and affordable family friendly option with a minimal snack bar.
Granite Gorge (Roxbury, NH 20min drive)
A small mountain that hosts tubing, cross country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding. Equipment rentals and food at a snack shack are available.
Northfield Mountain Cross Country Ski Area (Northfield, MA 34min drive)
Cross country ski on 25 miles of scenic trails just down Rt 63. 6 miles are maintained for snowshoe trails. Rentals and food available at their base area yurt.
Dublin School Nordic Center (Jaffrey, NH 38min)
Free to the public for Nordic skiing only. There are no equipment rentals on these trails that range from the Dublin General Store where you can get a quick snack to the summit of Beech hill where you can enjoy the view.
Timber Creek Cross Country Ski Center (West Dover, VT 48 min)
Enjoy cross country skiing or snowshoeing in the green mountains. Rentals and lessons available.
Mount Snow (West Dover, VT 50min drive)
Mount Snow offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Terrain parks are available for the more adventurous. Mount Snow offers a spa, childcare, and several dining options.
Berkshire East Mountain Ski Resort (Charlemont, MA 54 min drive)
Berkshire East offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and equipment rentals.
Prospect Mountain Ski Area (Woodford, VT 56min drive)
A nonprofit that maintains 30 km of cross-country skiing trails suitable for both classic and skating styles.
Pats Peak (Henniker, NH 56min drive)
Pats Peak boasts the largest snowmaking system in NH. Trails of all levels and terrain parks available. Downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and tubing; rentals are available. Stop by their onsite pub for food.
Magic Mountain (Londonderry, VT 59min drive)
The trails cut for Magic are inspired by the Swiss Alps; naturally narrow and twisting and descend 1,500 heart-pumping vertical feet to our two Summit lifts—true vertical skiing. Combined with tree-skiing from boundary-to-boundary, Magic’s terrain is what separates this ski area from all others in southern Vermont and the East Coast—virtually unchanged since the 1960s. Magic Mountain offers rentals, a tavern, and clinics to hone your skills.
Stratton Viking Nordic Center (Londonderry, VT 1hr drive)
A 30 km trail for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. Enjoy beautiful trails running through woods, past beaver ponds, through classic Vermont scenery, and next to the West River. Kids will enjoy the ‘Great Cookie Search’, skiing their trails looking for enough hidden snowflake signs so they are rewarded with a cookie for their day of skiing. On special nights, 3 km of the trail will be lit by lanterns. The center also offers rentals and a café.
Crotched Mountain (Bennington, NH 1hr drive)
Downhill skiing and snowboarding supported by 100% snowmaking. Food available at their pub and cafeteria.
Stratton (Stratton Mountain, VT 1hr drive)
Stratton Mountain is the highest peak in Southern Vermont and has 99 trails to choose from including terrain parks. Downhill skiing, Nordic skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, fat bike rentals, tubing and snowboarding are all offered. Multiple dining options available on site and at the nearby Stratton Village.
Mount Sunapee (Newbury, NH 1hr 3min drive)
Sunapee Mountain Resort offers downhill skiing and snowboarding and rentals. Multiple dining options.
Okemo Mountain Resort (Ludlow, VT 1hr 3min drive)
Go Nordic skiing, downhill skiing or snowboarding in Ludlow. Rentals available. Enjoy multiple dining options, spa services and their indoor golf training center.
Bromley (Peru, VT 1hr 5min drive)
Bromley offers gear rentals for skiing and snowboarding and has food onsite.
McIntyre Ski Area (Manchester, NH 1hr 23min drive)
This ski area offers downhill skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Rentals and classes are available. Food available at their bar & grille. Private tubing events can be booked.
Killington Ski Area (Killington, VT 1 hr 30 min drive)
Killington resort offers equipment rentals, downhill skiing, snowboard, and several dining options.
Food & Beverage – Chesterfield Area
Distilleries:
Copper Cannon
Visit this local distillery for a tour and tasting. Their seasonal rum and vodka specials or maple syrup aged in rum barrels make great gifts.
Ice cream:
Stuart and John’s Sugar House Restaurant (Westmoreland, NH)
Scoop shack right around the corner in nearby Westmoreland. Their restaurant and scoop shack are typically closed December & January.
Restaurants:
Chesterfield Inn (Chesterfield, NH)
Enjoy a romantic dinner Monday-Saturday from 5:30 – 8:30 right in Chesterfield, NH. Reservations are suggested. Chesterfield Inn is known for fresh, imaginative, delicious food with unique flavor combinations. Chef Carl Warner’s cuisine uses the freshest regional ingredients. Bread is made fresh every day.
Stuart and John’s Sugar House Restaurant (Westmoreland, NH)
This family-owned restaurant and ice cream parlor is a 15-minute drive on RT 63, a country road meandering along Spofford Lake (great views!) and through the quiet town of Westmoreland established 40 years before the Revolutionary War.
During summer they have “cruise night” where you can see lots of old-fashioned cars and visit the calf barn. There’s a play area for kids, and outdoor dining.
If you have a small airplane join other flying enthusiasts who land in the field across the road.
Stewart & John’s is a certified organic sugar house. They can package and ship half pints to gallons of amber, dark robust or very dark grades of pure NH maple syrup anywhere in the world. Maple syrup makes perfect gifts!
Wineries:
Poocham Hill Winery (Westmoreland, NH)
Poocham Hill Winery has a seasonal tasting room and hosts events. Poocham Hill Farm maintains over 1,600 vines and produces 9 varietals described as fruit forward, approachable wines. The owners of this family run winery have 40 years of organic farming and winemaking experience.
The Summit Winery (Westmoreland, NH)
By sourcing grapes onsite, locally and globally, the Summit Winery is able to offer a diverse wine selection. Taste their 8 varieties right at their Winery and farm in nearby Westmoreland, NH.
Food & Beverage – Keene Area
Bakeries/Dessert:
Fire Dog Breads Bread, pastries, and lunch options near Downtown Keene.
Keene Confections Pastry Shoppe Bakery located Downtown Keene offering a variety of confections.
Kristin’s Bistro & Bakery Enjoy fresh baked goods rotating daily or hearty breakfast and lunch options while visiting Downtown Keene.
Life is Sweet Life is Sweet is located at the head of the square of Downtown Keene and offers a wide variety of all types of candy, old-fashioned sweets, and home-made chocolates.
Ye Goodie Shoppe Confectionery shop located Downtown Keene that has been open since 1931. Ye Goodie Shoppe creates a wide variety of candies and chocolates in house; watch them bake through their window into their kitchen.
BBQ:
CC & D’s Kitchen Market Award winning BBQ and farm-to-table sides available for pickup Tuesday-Thursday.
Hot Hogs BBQ Hot Hogs is located on Emerald Street close to downtown and won a multitude of NH awards for their BBQ.
Pit Stop BBQ Food Truck A very popular BBQ option parked on Park Ave just off Main Street.
Tempesta’s, formerly Jim Eddie’s Tempesta’s is the “Cheers” of Keene offering family style comfort food, owned and operated by Jimmy Tempesta. They are known for their great BBQ, seafood and Italian. Very reasonably priced and relaxed.
Breweries:
Branch and Blade Brewing Visit their bar to try a wide variety of craft beers and enjoy their kitchen with a rotating menu.
Elm City Brewing Co Enjoy their full-service restaurant with a view of the brewing equipment while enjoying cozy booths or their sunroom.
Frogg Brewing (Marlborough, NH) Tasting room at their brewery location. Limited rotating food menu over the weekends.
Modestman Brewing Visit their tasting room downtown Keene to enjoy their variety of IPAs. Modestman brews New England style IPA’s (NEIPA), and as a downtown-local drinkery, dabbles in making all styles of beer. Check out their Guru Food Truck after your tasting tour.
West LA Beer Co (Swanzey, NH) West LA is located in West Swanzey aka Lower Ashuelot and develops unique craft beers. Enjoy unique wall art in their taproom. Food trucks occasionally park onsite and you can bring in your own food as well.
Distilleries:
New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery (Winchester, NH) Their tasting room is located at the distillery and has exclusive products for purchase and tasting that are unavailable in stores. Tours are given Saturday afternoons and you can sample their products while you learn the distilling process. Some of their ingredients (apples, grapes, blueberries, and juniper berries) are grown locally on their farm on 50 acres of land on Old Chesterfield Road heading to the Mt. Pisgah State Park.
Food Trucks:
Doug’s Dogs (Marlborough, NH) Very popular hot dogs and Italian sausages.
Hot Hogs BBQ Hot Hogs is located on Emerald Street close to downtown and wont a multitude of NH awards for their BBQ.
Modestman’s Guru Truck Unique American fusion selections with specials every week. The Guru Truck is permanently parked behind ModestMan brewing in downtown Keene. Enjoy outdoor seating on their back patio.
Pit Stop BBQ Food Truck A very popular BBQ option parked on Park Ave just off Main Street.
Salt & Lime Salt & Lime offers handcrafted sausages and unique street food and use organic and local ingredients when possible. Located on Emerald Street right by Downtown Keene.
Street & Savory Kitchen Parked behind ModestMan Brewing Downtown Keene. Street & Savory offers street food from a wide array of different cultural influences made with local products. All packaging and cutlery are compostable.
Ice cream:
Cowlick’s (Summer Only) Scoop shop on Park Ave that is open seasonally.
Kimball Farm (Jaffrey, NH) Delicious homemade ice cream and American grilled/fried foods. About a half hour drive where you will see spectacular views of Mt. Monadnock. The most generous portions you will every receive. Open summers only.
Rick’s Gourmet Ice Cream Located in the Apple Bee’s plaza on Key Road in Keene, excellent ice cream and open year-round.
Twinkle Town Miniature Golf (Summer Only, Swanzey, NH) Ice cream and snack shack open in the summer. Twinkle Town also has a mini golf course and batting cages.
Yolo A dessert café located Downtown Keene offering frozen yogurt, ice cream, crepes, hot drinks and seasonal options.
Pizza:
Amici’s Thin Italian style pizza in downtown Keene. Online ordering available and be sure to take a picture in front of their pizza wings when you go to pick up.
Athens Pizza Athens Pizza & Family Restaurant located downtown Keene has been open and family operated for 42 years. Athens makes everything by hand, grinds their cheese, creates their pizza sauce, and makes their dough daily. You can also request a heart shaped pizza, and their gluten free crust is great.
Brickhouse Pizza & Wings Sports bar offering pizza and wings located right next to Keene Cinemas.
Cheshire Village Pizza Enjoy Greek style pizza made with house made pizza sauce and dough. The perfect pizza place for those who enjoy lots of cheese.
Domino’s Pizza Downtown Keene, 7 Davis Street, across from Cumberland Farms
Little Zoe’s Pizza Pick up a brick oven pizza or a take and bake pizza at the Center of Keene.
Main Crust Co. (Marlborough, NH) Main Crust offers cooked or take and bake pizzas, appetizers, salads, and sandwiches.
Ramunto’s (Keene, NH & Brattleboro, VT) Ramunto’s is known for their brick oven pizza and offers many other lunch and dinner options. They have a sizeable selection of specialty pizzas and offer Sunday brunch at both locations.
Pizza Down Under Enjoy house made sauce and dough and rotating vegan and vegetarian options.
Pizza Pie Pizza pie makes their own dough daily and has gluten free and take and bake options.
Restaurants:
Brewbakers Café Coffee shop near Downtown Keene that also serves, baked goods, appetizers, breakfast and lunch options.
Cherry Garden American Chinese restaurant located Downtown.
Curry Pakistani & Indian Pakistani and Indian restaurant located in the Center of Keene.
Elm City Brewing Co Enjoy their classic hearty dishes with a view of the brewing equipment. A casual eatery with cozy booths, a sunroom and outdoor seating located in the Colony Mill.
Fire Dog Breads Bread, pastries, and lunch options near Downtown Keene.
Fritz Located Downtown Keene, famous for their fries and offers a wide selection of salads and sandwiches.
Granita Enoteca Granita is located just outside of Downtown on Emerald Street and offers a mix of Italian and Mediterranean inspired dishes using locally sourced ingredient. They offer simple, yet creative and refined cuisine.
Kristin’s Bistro & Bakery Enjoy fresh baked goods rotating daily or hearty breakfast and lunch options while visiting Downtown Keene.
Lindy’s Diner Lindy’s diner, established 1961, is right off Main Street of Downtown Keene and a great spot for breakfast. Many presidential candidates have dined here while campaigning.
Local Burger A burger joint located Downtown Keene with creative options such as Captain Crunch chicken tenders. This funky restaurant often has live music.
Luca’s Mediterranean Café Say hi to award winning chef, Luca Paris and enjoy very good Italian food with flavors from France and Spain. An intimate setting with a wooden bar. Luca’s can accommodate for gluten allergies and vegan/vegetarian dietary restrictions.
Machina Kitchen & Art Bar Machina is a funky fine dining option offering small plates and located Downtown Keene. They frequently host events and live music, display eclectic art, have a craft cocktail bar and use farm to table ingredients. Their small portions give you the opportunity to try multiple dishes and are great as appetizers as you sip one of their cocktails. Their menu is seasonal and often has gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options.
Odelay Taqueria Odelay is a hip taco joint featuring fusion tacos, burritos and rice bowls. A small establishment that is perfect for some grab and go lunch or dinner.
Papagallo’s (Swanzey, NH) Comforting Mediterranean-Italian cuisine in a casual atmosphere with diner-style booths and stone-walled bar. Everyone will enjoy their wood-fired pizzas.
Pho Keene Great A pho restaurant and bar with American Fusion options located Downtown Keene. Pho Keene Great offers unique cocktails and has vegan, gluten free, and vegetarian options.
Prime Roast Coffee shop located Downtown that also offers a rotating selection of pastries and snacks.
The Pub Restaurant A basic local restaurant popular for breakfast.
Stage The Stage is located right in the center of Keene at the head of the square (which is actually a circle) in downtown Keene. Their menu features contemporary American Cuisine in a relaxed setting with an artistic atmosphere making it a great option for date night. The Stage is known for their unique fine dining, rich desserts and cocktails and is where all the presidential candidates go to eat every 4 years.
Tempesta’s, formerly Jim Eddie’s Tempesta’s is the “Cheers” of Keene offering family style comfort food, owned and operated by Jimmy Tempesta. They are known for their great BBQ, seafood and Italian. Very reasonably priced and relaxed.
Thai Garden Thai Garden is known for its fabulous authentic Thai food. They offer a range of spice levels and provide vegetarian options that can be made vegan upon request. Their pad Thai is a must try.
Timolean’s A basic family operated restaurant located Downtown Keene that is a good breakfast option.
The Work’s Café (Keene, NH & Brattleboro, VT) A bakery café offering bagels, bread, baked goods, smoothies, grain bowls, and sandwiches. A great spot for a grab and go breakfast or lunch. Vegan/vegetarian options.
Yahso Jamaican Grille Enjoy authentic Jamaican food while visiting Downtown Keene.
Vegan/Vegetarian:
The Farm Café A Plant based Cafe located Downtown Keene in the Toad Stool Bookshop. The Farm Café
uses mostly Organic/Non-GMO ingredients and local ingredients when possible in their hearty dishes. They offer a wide selection of dishes ranging from versions of classic American selections to unique fusion options enjoyed by all whether you are plant based or not. They also offer rotating gluten free deserts.
Food & Beverage – Brattleboro Area
Bakeries:
Amy’s Bakery Arts Café Located Downtown and offering vast array of pastries, cakes, breads, coffee, salads and sandwiches.
BBQ:
Top of the Hill Grill Award winning BBQ served through a quick-serve window.
Breweries:
Hermit Thrush Brewery Fermented since 2014 with only wild Brattleboro mixed culture yeast in a wood fueled brewhouse.
Whetstone Brewery Whetstone Brewery offers craft beer, and pub fare in a fire lit dining room. Their restaurant is directly on top of the Vermont/ New Hampshire boundary line and has a beautiful view of the Connecticut River.
Distilleries:
Saxton’s River Distillery Saxton’s River Distillery offers tasting, cocktails, events, and hosts food trucks. Hours are subject to change seasonally so be sure to check their website or give them a call.
Putney Mountain Winery and Spirits (Putney, VT) Their tasting room offers their full range of wines and liquor and other local products. They produce unique fruit wines and decadent liquors
Food Trucks:
Andrzej’s Polish Food Located on Putney Road, Andrzej’s Polish Food offers authentic Polish dishes. Their four primary dishes are golbki, pierogi, kielbasa, and Placki. Andrzej Mikijaniec, Owner Chef of “Andrzej’s Polish Kitchen”, lived in Wroclaw, Poland, until he was 20 years old and is a graduate of New York Restaurant school. Andrzej worked as a chef in the Russian Tea Room in New York City, Garden City Hotel in Long Island and Veselka in the East Village.
Anon’s Thai Cuisine Anon’s is located at 17 Fairground Road in Brattleboro and attends the Brattleboro Area Farmer’s Market and food truck events. Anon’s offers traditional Laos/Thai food
Dosa Kitchen Dosa Kitchen is located just outside of Downtown on Elliot Street and serves South Indian soul foods. A dosa is South India’s version of the crepe that has a tangy flavor and airy, crisp texture.
Taste of Thai Taste of Thai is located right across the VT/NH border at the Exon Mobil on the roundabout. They specialize in cooking a mixture of authentic Thai and Laos cuisine.
Tito’s Taqueria A popular taco and burrito food truck located on Putney Road, just a couple minutes after you cross the NH/VT border.
Ice cream:
Blueberry Haus House made ice cream and you-pick blueberries. Blueberry Haus also has gardens, a koi pond, and gift shop to peruse while you enjoy your ice cream.
Fast Eddie’s Restaurant, Bakery & Ice Cream Stand Ice cream stand that also offers classic diner food and baked goods.
Royal Diner – Royal Soft Serve Stand (April-October) Soft serve stand is open seasonally and the diner offers breakfast all day and American diner fare.
Pizza:
Brattleboro House of Pizza House of Pizza offers pizza, pasta, salads, and appetizers.
Domino’s Pizza 499 Canal Street, Price Chopper Plaza
Hazel Pizza joint located Downtown Brattleboro that also offers sides, salads and burgers.
Ramunto’s (Keene, NH & Brattleboro, VT) Ramunto’s is known for their brick oven pizza and offers many other lunch and dinner options. They have a sizeable selection of specialty pizzas and offer Sunday brunch at both locations.
Vermont Inn Pizza Pizza, appetizers, pasta, sandwiches and other entrees.
Village Pizza Village pizza is located right off the roundabout past the NH/VT border and offers standard pizza, grinder, salad, and spaghetti options.
West Brattleboro Pizza Standard pizza joint offering pizza, sandwiches, and appetizers.
Restaurants:
Blue Moose Bistro Blue Moose Bistro specializes in house-made Italian Pasta and has a rotating menu.
Delightfully Delicious Bakery & Café Bakery and café serving American fare.
Duo Restaurant A casual farm to table restaurant offering seasonal New American cuisine and weekend brunch.
Echo Restaurant & Lounge Bustling eatery serving brick-oven pizzas & creative Italian fare in stylish surrounds on Main Street.
Elliot Street Fish, Chips & More Elliot Street Fish offers humble food, primarily fish and chips, alongside an eclectic menu with something for everyone- kids, vegans, vegetarians, comfort food seekers.
The Farm Table at Kringle Candle (Bernardston, MA) Housed in a carefully restored and renovated farmhouse built in 1800, The Farm Table offers locally focused rustic fine dining. Within its rustic charm, you’ll enjoy one of the longest marble bar-tops in the region, open hearth oven, comforting fireplaces and outdoor decks for open-air dining. They also serve Sunday brunch.
Fast Eddie’s Restaurant, Bakery & Ice Cream Stand They offer classic diner foods, baked goods, and ice cream stand.
India Masala House Their menu features a variety of traditional dishes from all four regions of India.
Marina The Marina Restaurant in Brattleboro is a casual eatery that sits on the water and offers beautiful views and sunsets all year round. Their menu includes seafood, burgers and steaks, pasta, and house made desserts. Their Sunday brunch buffet is accompanied by Live Jazz guitar with Draa Hobbs.
Kayak and Canoe rentals are available.
New England House Casual, rustic American eatery featuring locally sourced steak, seafood & pasta, plus patio seating.
Panda North Chinese and Japanese Restaurant Casual eatery offering Chinese and Japanese fare, including sushi.
Peter Haven Dinner venue near Downtown that focuses on seafood.
Royal Diner Serves breakfast all day and offers standard American diner fare. Seasonal ice cream stand.
The Porch Too The Porch Too offers coffee, pastries, breakfast, lunch and salads.
Three Stones Three Stones is a family operated restaurant serving authentic Mexican and Mayan foods inspired by recipes passed down through generations.
T.J. Buckley’s Uptown Dining Enjoy dinner in a restored 1925 Worcester Dining Car. Their menu features local, organic ingredients and changes daily.
Tulip Bar and Restaurant Casual eatery offering Middle Eastern style fare.
The Work’s Café (Keene, NH & Brattleboro, VT) A bakery café offering bagels, bread, baked goods, smoothies, grain bowls, and sandwiches. A great spot for a grab and go breakfast or lunch. Vegan/vegetarian options.
Vegan/Vegetarian:
Superfresh! Organic Café Awarded “Best Vegetarian Cuisine” by Yankee Magazine in 2017, Superfresh! Organic Café is an organic plant-based restaurant based in downtown Brattleboro, Vermont. They provide seasonal, organic plant-based cuisine ranging from unique elixirs, coffee, juice, smoothies, snacks, raw and baked desserts, raw foods, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Yalla Vermont Yalla serves Middle Eastern foods including hummus, tahini, pita, skhug, and many salads. Rotating desserts and packaged to-go foods available.
Wineries:
Putney Mountain Winery and Spirits (Putney, VT) Their tasting room offers their full range of wines and liquor and other local products. They produce unique fruit wines and decadent liquors.