• What makes Exeter a great place to visit?
    • Steeped in history and home to one of the country’s most prestigious schools, Exeter has something to offer all visitors.
  • What historical sites should visitors explore in Exeter?
  • What is special about Phillips Exeter Academy?
    • Visitors can also tour the campus of the Phillips Exeter Academy, a fine co-educational school which dates back to the 18th century.
  • Where can visitors enjoy great food and coffee in Exeter?
    • When hunger strikes, you can enjoy great food and coffee at Me and Ollie’s Café or excellent farm-to-fork cuisine at Otis Restaurant.

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1. American Independence Museum

American Independence Museum

© American Independence Museum

  • What is the American Independence Museum?
    • Essential viewing for anyone interested in US history, Exeter’s American Independence Museum was established in 1991 after an electrician fortuitously discovered a priceless original copy of the Declaration of Independence under the attic floorboards of the historic Ladd-Gilman House.
  • What is the historical significance of the Ladd-Gilman House?
    • The Ladd-Gilman House, which now houses the museum, was built in 1721 and was home to the prominent Gilman family, who played an important role in the establishment of the United States.
  • What can visitors see at the museum?
    • Visitors to the museum can see the original Declaration of Independence as well as other historic documents and artifacts that focus on Revolutionary history.
  • What other historic building is part of the museum?
    • The museum includes another historic building, the Folsom Tavern (1775), which was moved to the museum site and is included in your guided tour.
  • Where is the American Independence Museum located?
    • American Independence Museum, 1 Governors Lane, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-772-2622

2. Phillips Exeter Academy

Phillips Exeter Academy

© Phillips Exeter Academy

  • What is Phillips Exeter Academy?
  • What architectural styles can visitors see on campus?
    • A visit to the beautiful campus will unveil the impressive Georgian architecture of the original buildings, which is complemented by the modern design of the Class of 45 Library.
  • What historic building is part of the campus?
    • There is also a beautiful school chapel, which was built in 1895.
  • Are visitors allowed to tour the campus?
    • Visitors are welcome to join a walking tour of the campus led by one of the students.
  • What art exhibits are available at Phillips Exeter Academy?
    • Art lovers should not miss the chance to visit the on-site Lamont Gallery, which showcases art produced by local and national artists as well as students of the academy.
  • Where is Phillips Exeter Academy located?
    • Phillips Exeter Academy, 20 Main Street, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-772-4311

3. Gilman-Garrison House

Gilman-Garrison House

© Historic New England

  • What is the Gilman Garrison House Museum?
  • Where is the Gilman Garrison House located?
    • You will find the house in the Waterfront Commercial District, which is where the original settlers set up camp back in 1638.
  • When was the Gilman Garrison House built?
    • The house was built around 1709 and is especially interesting due to its defense-related features.
  • What defense features did the house originally have?
    • The house originally included massive wooden beams, a portcullis, and firing portholes built into the floor of the second-floor overhang.
  • Can visitors still see the original defensive features?
    • Although most of these ancient defensive features have been removed, visitors can still see where they were originally situated.
  • What can visitors expect at the museum?
    • The museum is filled with interesting exhibits showcasing regional history.
  • Where is the Gilman Garrison House Museum located?
    • Gilman-Garrison House, 12 Water St, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-436-3205

4. Exeter Fine Crafts

Exeter Fine Crafts

© Exeter Fine Crafts

  • What is Exeter Fine Crafts?
    • Exeter Fine Crafts is a not-for-profit organization that has been supporting the arts community since 1966, when they first opened their gallery to the public.
  • When is Exeter Fine Crafts open?
    • Exeter Fine Crafts is open 7 days a week to showcase the amazing talents of over 200 juried artists and crafters from New England.
  • What types of art and crafts can visitors see?
    • Visitors can admire a large selection of arts and crafts in many mediums, including beautiful jewelry and metalwork, pottery, glass work, fiber arts, and visual arts utilizing modern innovative techniques.
  • Does Exeter Fine Crafts offer workshops or demonstrations?
    • Yes, in addition to showcasing local artists, the gallery also holds regular demonstrations and workshops for aspiring artists and crafters, including children’s art workshops.
  • Where is Exeter Fine Crafts located?
    • Exeter Fine Crafts, 61 Water St, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-778-8282

5. Me and Ollie’s Cafe

Me and Ollie’s Cafe

© Me and Ollie’s Café

  • What is Me and Ollie’s?
    • Me and Ollie’s is one of the best places to meet with friends for a great meal and a brilliant cup of coffee or tea, as agreed upon by both locals and visitors.
  • How long has Me and Ollie’s been baking bread?
    • The company has been baking fine breads for over 20 years at their original Portsmouth bakery.
  • Where does Me and Ollie’s source its ingredients?
    • All the wheat for their bread is certified organic and grown specifically for them in Montana. Their coffees and teas come from people who care about the origins and sustainability of their products.
  • What breakfast options are available at Me and Ollie’s?
    • The menu features a good selection of breakfast treats – all made with their signature breads or wraps and free-range local eggs.
  • What can customers order for lunch?
    • For lunch, customers can choose from nutritious and delicious bowls, Panini, salads, and soups (available when it is cold).
  • Where is Me and Ollie’s located?
    • Me and Ollie’s Café, 64 Water Street, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-772-4600

6. Otis Restaurant

Otis Restaurant

© Otis Restaurant

  • What is Otis Restaurant?
    • Located in a beautiful historic building in the heart of downtown Exeter, Otis Restaurant brings flavorsome farm-to-fork fine dining to the community.
  • What is the history of the Otis Restaurant building?
    • The interior of the restaurant honors the roots of the building, which was once home to the Otis Sleeper Jewelry Store, dating back to 1910.
  • Where does Otis Restaurant source its ingredients?
    • Otis works with local producers to procure the freshest and finest seasonal ingredients for their dishes.
  • What type of dining experience does Otis Restaurant offer?
    • Guests are invited to spend a relaxing evening enjoying their 5-course tasting menu, which can be adapted to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • What special experience is available for food enthusiasts?
    • Foodies are advised to try and book the Chef’s Table, where they can watch the food being prepared.
  • Where is Otis Restaurant located?
    • Otis Restaurant, 4 Front Street, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-580-1705

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