Looking for classic New England charm and Revolutionary War history? Head to Exeter! This picturesque town offers leafy streets, a vibrant arts scene, rich heritage, and a walkable downtown filled with shops and cafes. It’s a hidden gem perfect for a relaxing day trip or weekend retreat.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Exeter is from late spring through fall (May to October). Enjoy pleasant weather, historic walking tours, farmers markets, and colorful fall foliage. Winter brings cozy small-town vibes and festive events.
How to Get There
- By Car: Exeter is off NH Route 101, just 20 minutes from Portsmouth and about 1 hour from Boston.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Downeaster stops in Exeter, with service to Boston and Portland, ME.
- By Air: Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is about 45 minutes away, and Logan Airport is about an hour's drive.
Where to Stay
- Exeter Inn – Historic boutique hotel on the campus of Phillips Exeter Academy with elegant rooms and a cozy tavern.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Exeter – Modern amenities and convenient location just a short walk from downtown.
- Inn by the Bandstand – Charming 1809 mansion-turned-inn offering luxury rooms and personalized service in the heart of town.
Top Attractions
1. Step Into Revolutionary History at the American Independence Museum
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: Exeter, New Hampshire
Recommended For: History buffs, families, educators, and travelers with an interest in the Revolutionary War and America’s founding.
What I Love: ♥ “Home to an original copy of the Declaration of Independence and housed in an authentic 18th-century home.”
- Explore the Ladd-Gilman House, built in 1721, once home to a prominent Revolutionary War family.
- See one of the rare surviving original copies of the Declaration of Independence.
- Tour both the museum galleries and the relocated Folsom Tavern (1775), included with admission.
- Discover Revolutionary War artifacts and documents that bring U.S. history to life.
Cost: $–$$ (Discounts available for students, seniors, and military)
Best time to visit: Late spring through fall, when guided tours and special events are in full swing.
Local tips: Check their calendar for Patriot's Day events and living history programs—great for families with kids!
How to Get to the American Independence Museum: Located in the heart of Exeter, it’s easily accessible by car and within walking distance of shops and cafes in the historic downtown district.
Address: 1 Governors Lane, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-772-2622
2. Wander the Ivy-Clad Grounds of the Esteemed Phillips Exeter Academy
Location: Exeter, New Hampshire
Recommended For: Architecture enthusiasts, history lovers, art aficionados, prospective students, and curious travelers.
What I Love: ♥ “A stunning blend of Georgian and modern architecture on the campus of one of America’s most prestigious schools.”
- Tour the renowned Phillips Exeter Academy, founded in 1781, a hallmark of academic excellence.
- Admire the Georgian-style buildings and the iconic Class of 1945 Library designed by architect Louis Kahn.
- Visit the historic chapel, built in 1895, still in use today for community events.
- Explore the Lamont Gallery, featuring works by local, national, and student artists.
- Join a student-led walking tour to learn about campus history and daily life.
Cost: Free (Tours and gallery admission are open to the public)
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for the best weather and vibrant campus life.
Local tips: Check the academy's website for open house events or public performances held by students.
How to Get to Phillips Exeter Academy: Located in downtown Exeter, it’s easily walkable from local shops and restaurants. Parking is available on nearby streets or visitor lots.
Address: 20 Main Street, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-772-4311
3. Explore Colonial Roots at the Gilman-Garrison House
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What is the Gilman Garrison House Museum?
- The Gilman Garrison House Museum is one of Exeter’s important historic buildings, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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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.
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When was the Gilman Garrison House built?
- The house was built around 1709 and is especially interesting due to its defense-related features.
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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.
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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.
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What can visitors expect at the museum?
- The museum is filled with interesting exhibits showcasing regional history.
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Where is the Gilman Garrison House Museum located?
- Gilman-Garrison House, 12 Water St, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-436-3205
4. Shop Artisan-Made Treasures at Exeter Fine Crafts
Location: Exeter, New Hampshire
Recommended For: Art lovers, craft enthusiasts, families, and those interested in local handmade goods.
What I Love: ♥ “A vibrant gallery space showcasing the incredible talent of New England’s artisans across a wide range of mediums.”
- Visit the Exeter Fine Crafts gallery, a non-profit organization supporting local artists since 1966.
- Browse works by over 200 juried artists, including jewelry, metalwork, pottery, glass art, fiber crafts, and more.
- Experience a variety of mediums and innovative techniques that make each piece a work of art.
- Participate in demonstrations and hands-on workshops, including children’s art activities.
- Support the New England arts community by purchasing one-of-a-kind handmade gifts and decor.
Cost: Free to browse; workshop fees vary.
Best time to visit: Weekends and holidays for special demos, but open 7 days a week.
Local tips: Great place to find unique gifts, especially around the holidays or for special occasions.
How to Get to Exeter Fine Crafts: Located on Water Street in downtown Exeter, a short walk from nearby restaurants and historic attractions. Street and lot parking available.
Address: 61 Water St, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-778-8282
Where to Eat
5. Relax at Me and Ollie's Cafe
Location: Exeter, New Hampshire
Recommended For: Breakfast lovers, casual lunch diners, coffee and tea aficionados, and anyone seeking a cozy, local café vibe.
What I Love: ♥ “A cheerful café serving up homemade breads, fresh eggs, and ethically sourced coffee in a warm, inviting atmosphere.”
- Visit Me and Ollie’s Café, a beloved local spot known for its artisanal breads and exceptional coffee.
- Enjoy a variety of breakfast items made with free-range local eggs and their own signature organic wheat breads.
- Savor a lunch menu packed with nutritious bowls, salads, Panini, and seasonal soups.
- Relax in a laid-back café atmosphere that’s perfect for a meet-up or solo visit with a book and hot drink.
- Support a business committed to sustainable sourcing for both its breads and beverages.
Cost: Affordable — most items under $15.
Best time to visit: Morning or early afternoon for a peaceful dining experience and fresh-baked goods.
Local tips: Pair your breakfast sandwich with a specialty latte, or take home a loaf of their delicious signature bread.
How to Get to Me and Ollie’s: Conveniently located on Water Street in downtown Exeter, just steps from the Squamscott River and nearby shops. On-street parking available.
Address: 64 Water Street, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-772-4600
6. Reserve a Table at Otis Restaurant
Location: Exeter, New Hampshire
Recommended For: Foodies, fine-dining enthusiasts, couples on a date night, and anyone seeking an elevated farm-to-table experience.
What I Love: ♥ “A refined tasting menu served in a charming historic building — local ingredients meet culinary artistry.”
- Experience elevated farm-to-fork fine dining in a restored 1910 jewelry store in downtown Exeter.
- Indulge in a thoughtfully prepared 5-course tasting menu crafted from the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced locally.
- Appreciate the elegant ambiance that honors the building’s history while offering a modern culinary experience.
- Book the exclusive Chef’s Table for a front-row view of your meal being masterfully prepared.
- Relax and enjoy personalized service with menu options that accommodate dietary preferences.
Cost: High-end — tasting menus and premium experiences are priced accordingly.
Best time to visit: Evenings for an intimate dinner experience — reservations are highly recommended.
Local tips: Ask for wine pairings with your tasting menu and plan ahead to reserve the Chef’s Table early.
How to Get to Otis Restaurant: Located in the heart of Exeter on Front Street, just a short stroll from the historic downtown and riverfront. Parking available nearby.
Address: 4 Front Street, Exeter, NH 03833, Phone: 603-580-1705
Plan Your Trip