Searching for peaceful countryside, historic charm, and artistic heritage? Head to Cornish, New Hampshire! Nestled along the Connecticut River, Cornish is a quiet town known for covered bridges, scenic beauty, and its connection to sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens. It’s the perfect rural escape with rich New England character.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cornish is in the spring through fall (May–October). Summer brings green landscapes and historic site access, while fall showcases vibrant foliage and scenic drives. Winter offers peaceful snow-covered charm but limited attractions.
How to Get There
- By Car: Cornish is located along NH Route 12A, about 30 minutes from Hanover, NH, and 2.5 hours from Boston.
- By Plane: The nearest airports are Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB, 30 min) and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT, 1.5 hrs).
- By Bus: Limited regional bus service is available to nearby Claremont or Lebanon; a car is recommended for exploring Cornish.
Where to Stay
- Squag City Bed & Breakfast – Peaceful countryside B&B with views of Mount Ascutney and local charm.
- The Chase House Inn (Nearby in Claremont) – Elegant and historic inn offering cozy accommodations and easy access to Cornish sites.
- Hanover Hotels – A variety of options are available in nearby Hanover for those seeking additional amenities.
Top Attractions
⮕ Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site
Walk through gardens and admire sculptures on a peaceful summer trip.
The Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site is made up of the garden, artwork, studio, and home of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, an American sculptor. The site also includes nature trails that help visitors explore the grounds. The galleries display more than one hundred works of art created by Saint-Gaudens, ranging expressive portrait reliefs to heroic public monuments. His work also changed the look of the coinage of America. In addition to viewing the numerous pieces of artwork, the beautiful garden, and the historic home, guests can also attend a number of different art workshops and concert during the summer months.
139 St Gaudens Rd, Cornish, NH 03745, Phone: 603-675-2175
⮕ Cornish-Windsor Bridge
Drive or stroll across this romantic and historic covered bridge.
The Cornish-Windsor Bridge spans across the Connecticut River, connecting the states of New Hampshire and Vermont. At approximately 449 feet in length, the bridge is the country’s longest wooden covered bridge, as well as the longest single-covered span carrying automobile traffic and the world’s longest two-span covered bridge. The current lattice truss bridge was constructed in 1866, but three previous bridges were once located on this site, with the earliest built back in 1796. These other bridges were destroyed by floods. Found on Bridge Street, the Cornish-Windsor Bridge connects the towns of Cornish, New Hampshire and Windsor in Vermont.
Bridge St, Cornish, NH 03745
For Photographers
⮕ Blow-Me-Down Bridge
Explore a charming covered bridge during an easy scenic outing.
The Blow-Me-Down Bridge is a historic wooden covered bridge in the charming town of Cornish that carries Lang Road over the Blow-me-down Brook near the border of Plainfield, New Hampshire. Built back in 1877, the bridge features a kingpost truss structure and is one of the few surviving nineteenth-century covered bridges in the state of New Hampshire, leading to the bridge being added in 1978 to the National Register of Historic Places. Originally built in 1877, the Blow-Me-Down Bridge was restored in 1980 and also in 2002. There is a single lane of the bridge open to automobile traffic.
Cornish, NH
If you are a first time visitor
- Blow-Me-Down Farm – Cultural site and performance space operated by the Saint-Gaudens Memorial and the National Park Service.
- Cornish Art Colony Historic Sites – Discover the remains and homes of the artists, writers, and thinkers who gathered here in the late 19th century.
- Connecticut River Byway – Enjoy scenic drives along the river with stops for hiking, photography, and picnicking.
Where to Eat
- Windsor Station Restaurant & Barroom (Windsor, VT) – Historic train station turned cozy restaurant with seasonal menus and live music.
- The Common Man Claremont – Popular New Hampshire chain serving hearty American dishes in a rustic mill setting.
- Harpoon Brewery Beer Hall (Windsor, VT) – Great for craft brews, pub fare, and a casual atmosphere across the bridge.
If you are interested in local events
- Saint-Gaudens Summer Concert Series (Sundays, June–August) – Free outdoor classical and jazz concerts at the national park.
- Old Home Day (August) – Traditional small-town celebration with parades, games, and community spirit.
- Windsor VT Farmers Market (Summer Saturdays) – A quick trip across the bridge for local produce, baked goods, and crafts.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Cornish, New Hampshire
- Hanover (30 min) – Visit Dartmouth College, walk the Green, and enjoy shops and museums downtown.
- Claremont (20 min) – Discover historic mills, local dining, and riverside trails in this revitalized industrial town.
- Windsor, Vermont (5–10 min) – Visit the American Precision Museum, Path of Life Garden, or the Harpoon Brewery.
- Ascutney Trails (30 min) – Hike or mountain bike in scenic woods on the Vermont side of Mount Ascutney.
- Plainfield (15 min) – Explore rural beauty, historic homes, and stop by Mac’s Maple for fresh syrup in season.
FAQ
- Why is Cornish a popular summer destination?
- The town of Cornish is a well-known summer destination for writers and artists who helped transform the area into New Hampshire’s Cornish Colony.
- What makes Cornish notable for covered bridges?
- Home to the most bridges of any town in the state, Cornish boasts four covered bridges and a picturesque, beautiful landscape.
- What is special about the Cornish-Windsor Bridge?
- Among the many bridges found throughout Cornish, New Hampshire, is the Cornish-Windsor Bridge, which is the world’s longest two-span covered bridge.
- What other attractions can visitors explore in Cornish?
- In addition to the bridges, the town also includes historic attractions, like the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site, and outdoor activities, such as canoeing on the Connecticut River.
At a Glance
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Pleasant weather, blooming countryside, and peaceful landscapes. | Snapdragon Inn (Windsor, VT) – Historic accommodations near Cornish with charming amenities. | Explore Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park – Discover beautiful gardens, art, and historic architecture. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm temperatures perfect for outdoor activities and exploring nature. | The Common Man Inn (Claremont, NH) – Comfortable lodging close to local attractions. | Visit the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge – Enjoy picturesque river views and historic charm. |
| Fall (September-November) – Cool weather, stunning foliage, and peaceful surroundings. | Snapdragon Inn (Windsor, VT) – Charming accommodations in nearby Windsor, close to Cornish. | Drive along Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge Road – Capture scenic fall colors along historic routes. |
| Winter (December-February) – Snowy, tranquil atmosphere ideal for cozy retreats. | Holiday Inn Express Springfield (Springfield, VT) – Comfortable lodging conveniently located nearby. | Explore local art galleries and museums – Enjoy indoor cultural experiences during colder months. |
Plan Your Trip
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