As the second largest city in New Hampshire, Nashua offers the perfect blend of big city conveniences and rural New England charm, and it offers plenty of things for visitors to see and do. The expansive Mine Falls Park right in the city center is my favorite spot in the spring. The local breweries and distilleries make some excellent beverages, and when you get hungry, there are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from.
Nashua, NH Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike or bike the Nashua River Rail Trail
- For History Buffs: Explore the Abbot-Spalding House Museum
- For Shoppers: Enjoy tax-free shopping at Pheasant Lane Mall
- For Couples: Stroll Downtown Nashua’s historic district
- For Families: Visit Mine Falls Park
When I like to visit Nashua, NH
The best time to visit Nashua is spring through fall (May through October)
Tips for getting to Nashua, NH
- If you are traveling by car: Nashua is located off U.S. Route 3, about 1 hour from Boston and 30 minutes from Manchester.
- By Air: Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) is just 25 minutes away, with car rentals and rideshares available.
- By Bus: Boston Express and other services connect Nashua to Boston, Logan Airport, and southern New Hampshire cities.
Where I like to stay in Nashua, NH
- DoubleTree by Hilton Nashua – Upscale option with an indoor pool
- Hampton Inn Nashua – Near shopping and dining.
- Residences at Daniel Webster – Extended stay suites with kitchens .
For Outdoor Fans
1. Mine Falls Park
Right in the middle of downtown Nashua, Mine Falls Park is a quiet escape from the city buzz. Spanning about 325 acres, the park is crisscrossed by the Nashua River and canal, with nearly ten miles of peaceful trails perfect for a walk, jog, or bike ride.
Highlights:
- 325 acres of green space in the heart of Nashua
- Nearly 10 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails
- Trails run along the Nashua River and canal
- Shoreline fishing allowed in designated areas
- Water access for canoeing and kayaking
Pro Tip:
Bring a bike or walking shoes and follow the trail along the river—it’s one of the most peaceful routes. If you have a kayak or canoe, launch early to enjoy calm waters and beautiful morning light.
Nashua, NH
Phone: 603-589-3370
nashuanh.gov
2. Greeley Park
Just a short stroll from downtown, Greeley Park stretches from Manchester Street to the Merrimack River and offers 125 acres of easygoing green space. While smaller than Mine Falls, it’s packed with charm, community vibes, and plenty to do year-round.
Highlights:
- Beautiful walking and hiking trails throughout the park
- Tennis courts, horseshoe pits, and a community garden
- Popular bandstand for live music and local performances
- Family-friendly events like Halloween Fright Night and the Fairy Tale Festival
- Great spot for picnics, casual strolls, and local happenings
Pro Tip:
Planning a visit in spring or summer? Check the city events calendar—you might catch a free concert or local festival at the bandstand. It’s also a perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon picnic under the trees.
100 Concord St, Nashua, NH 03064
Phone: 603-589-3370
nashuanh.gov
Attractions for Couples
3. Holman Stadium
A local landmark since 1937, Holman Stadium has a long history rooted in America’s favorite pastime. Originally built as a multi-purpose venue, it’s mostly known today for baseball and is home to the collegiate-level Nashua Silver Knights.
Highlights:
- Historic stadium with roots going back to the Nashua Dodgers
- Current home of the Nashua Silver Knights
- Classic baseball snacks and seasonal food truck events
- Beer festivals and other community events held throughout the year
- Annual Fourth of July fireworks display
Pro Tip:
Catching a Silver Knights game is a fun, affordable night out—especially with the family. Check the schedule for food truck nights or fireworks shows to make it extra special!
67 Amherst St, Nashua, NH 03064
nashuasilverknights.com
4. Pheasant Lane Mall
With around 140 shops and kiosks, Pheasant Lane Mall is one of the largest malls in New Hampshire—and a great place to score deals thanks to the state’s no sales tax policy. From fashion to tech to home goods, there’s a little something for everyone across nearly a million square feet of retail space.
Highlights:
- 140+ stores and kiosks, including Macy’s and Target
- Tax-free shopping throughout the entire mall
- Kids' play area and family-friendly amenities
- Special events like Mother-Daughter Days and Princess Parties
- Wide variety of dining options for a mid-shopping bite
Pro Tip:
Take advantage of tax-free shopping for big purchases like electronics or shoes. If you’re shopping with little ones, plan around one of the mall’s kid-friendly events—they’re a hit and help break up the day!
310 Daniel Webster Hwy, Nashua, NH 03060
Phone: 603-888-0005
simon.com
Recommended Activities for Families
5. The Reflection Garden & Labyrinth
Tucked into downtown’s Rotary Common Park, the Reflection Garden & Labyrinth offers a peaceful space for meditation, quiet thought, or just a moment of stillness. Designed by local artist Marty Kermeen, the labyrinth is modeled after the famous one in Chartres Cathedral, France, and invites you to take a mindful walk along its circular path.
Highlights:
- Labyrinth patterned after Chartres Cathedral’s historic design
- Serene, meditative walk meant for reflection and inner peace
- Four benches for quiet sitting or journaling
- Informative plaques sharing Nashua’s history from pre-colonial times
- Located in Rotary Common Park in the heart of downtown
Pro Tip:
Visit early in the morning or just before sunset for the most peaceful experience. It’s a great spot to unwind with a journal or take a mindful break during a busy day of exploring Nashua.
14 Bridle Path, Nashua, NH 03060
nashuanh.gov
6. Nashua Historical Society
Dedicated to preserving the city’s vibrant past, the Nashua Historical Society offers a look into local history through two thoughtfully curated museums: the Florence H. Speare Memorial Museum and the Abbot-Spalding House Museum. Run entirely by volunteers, both locations are open year-round by appointment.
Highlights:
- Two museum sites showcasing Nashua’s historical treasures
- Florence H. Speare Memorial Museum & Abbot-Spalding House Museum
- Guided group tours available by appointment
- Gift shop with historical books, prints, mugs, and souvenirs
- Volunteer-run, community-supported local institution
Pro Tip:
Call ahead to schedule a tour—you’ll get more insight with a guide, especially at the Abbot-Spalding House. Don’t skip the gift shop if you love quirky, meaningful souvenirs!
5 Abbott St, Nashua, NH 03064
Phone: 603-883-0015
nashuahistoricalsociety.org
Where I Like to Eat in Nashua, NH
- Surf Restaurant – Fresh seafood with creative twists, including sushi, oysters, and coastal-inspired dishes.
- MT’s Local Kitchen & Wine Bar – Farm-to-table fare and upscale comfort food in a downtown bistro setting.
- Giant of Siam – Long-standing Thai restaurant serving authentic curries, noodles, and flavorful dishes.
My favorite local events:
- Downtown Nashua Winter Holiday Stroll (November) – Family-friendly street festival with music, food, and festive lights.
- Nashua International Sculpture Symposium (Spring) – Artists from around the world create public art in real time.
- Gate City Brewfest (Summer) – Craft beer, food trucks, and live music in Holman Stadium.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Nashua, New Hampshire:
- Manchester (25–30 min) – Visit the Currier Museum of Art, catch a Fisher Cats game, or stroll the Millyard.
- Lowell, MA (25 min) – Explore the Lowell National Historical Park and walk the canals of this former mill town.
- Hollis, NH (15–20 min) – Visit a pick-your-own farm, explore orchards, or tour historic barns and country roads.
- Milford, NH (20 min) – Quaint downtown square with antique shops, cafés, and scenic riverfront walks.
- Merrimack (15–20 min) – Tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and see the famous Clydesdale horses.
Plan Your Trip