Looking for a peaceful New England getaway with small-town charm and natural beauty? Visit Wilton! Nestled in southern New Hampshire, Wilton offers historic mills, scenic hikes, local arts, and a slow-paced atmosphere. Perfect for weekend retreats, leaf-peeping, or quiet escapes year-round.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Wilton is during fall foliage season (late September to mid-October) for stunning autumn colors, or late spring through early fall (May–October) for comfortable weather, festivals, and hiking. Winters are quiet but picturesque with snow-covered landscapes.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Wilton is located along NH Route 101, about 30 minutes west of Nashua and 1.5 hours from Boston.
- By Plane: The nearest airports are Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (45 minutes away) and Boston Logan International Airport (90 minutes away).
- By Bus: Bus service is limited; a rental car is recommended to explore the area.
Where I like to stay
- The Birchwood Inn – Quaint country inn located in nearby Temple, offering a peaceful retreat with classic New England character.
- Hawthorne Inn – A charming B&B just outside of Wilton with cozy rooms and scenic grounds.
- Chain hotels – Nearby Milford and Nashua offer reliable hotel options if you prefer modern conveniences.
Top Attractions
1. Step Into Craftsmanship History at Frye’s Measure Mill
A beloved historic landmark of the Monadnock Region in New Hampshire, Frye's Measure Mill transports visitors back to the past to a time when the northern United States was full of factories. For more than two centuries the mill has used hydroelectric power to create an array of products throughout the years. Folk art created by some of the top rated artisans in the country, hand-forged ironware, pottery, hand-blown glass, colonial tinware, and more can be seen at the mill. Tours of Frye’s Measure Mill are offered between the months of June and October on Saturday afternoons at 2:00pm.
12 Frye Mill Rd, Wilton, NH, 03086, Phone: 603-654-6581
2. Catch Creative Youth Performances at Andy’s Summer Playhouse
Andy’s Summer Playhouse in the town of Wilton, New Hampshire is an innovative youth theater that operates during the summer season. Housed within one of the original meeting houses of the town in the historic Wilton Center, this small theater was established in 1971 and produces a variety of original works presented by local performers between the ages of eight and eighteen. The young artists are mentored and directed by professionals from all across the United States. In addition to performances at Andy’s Summer Playhouse, the theatre group hosts several workshops on an array of theater arts like playwriting and design.
582 Isaac Frye Hwy, Wilton, NH 03086, Phone: 603-654-2613
3. Grab a Tasty Slice at Wilton House of Pizza
A family-owned and operated popular restaurant in Wilton, New Hampshire, the Wilton House of Pizza has been operated by DJ and Amy Garcia since 2013, after DJ decided to purchase the eatery from his parents in 2012. What was once a simple, small pizza shop has evolved into a focal point of the small town thanks to loyal customers and the owners dedication to great service and food. Beyond the variety of pizzas on the menu at Wilton House of Pizza, the menu includes calzones, pasta, specialty wraps, subs, quesadillas, chicken wings, triple decker clubs, salads, and appetizers.
28 Forest Rd, Wilton, NH 03086, Phone: 603-654-2020
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Wilton Town Hall Theatre – Classic indie movie house showing films and live performances in a historic building.
- Miller State Park – Just 20 minutes away, with trails leading to the summit of Pack Monadnock and sweeping views.
- Heald Tract – Conservation land with serene forest trails, ponds, and wildlife viewing, great for peaceful hikes.
- Florence Rideout Elementary Mural – A vibrant piece of public art celebrating the town’s spirit and creativity.
Where I Like to Eat
- Hilltop Café – Organic, seasonal breakfast and lunch fare in a cozy countryside setting.
- Wilton House of Pizza – Local favorite for casual dining, Greek-inspired pizzas, and subs.
- Gary’s Harvest Restaurant – Hearty breakfast and lunch with a hometown feel and friendly service.
My favorite local events:
- Wilton Summerfest (June) – Family-friendly celebration with music, vendors, food, and a small-town parade.
- Harvest Festivals (September–October) – Enjoy apple picking, crafts, and foliage drives throughout the Monadnock Region.
- Holiday Market at the Farm (December) – Seasonal goods, local crafts, and warm treats at nearby farms and inns.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Wilton, New Hampshire:
- Peterborough (20–25 min) – Browse galleries, visit the Monadnock Center for History and Culture, or walk riverside trails.
- Milford (10–15 min) – Shop local stores, grab coffee on the oval, or check out the seasonal farmers market.
- Temple Mountain (15 min) – Hike former ski slopes and enjoy panoramic views from this quiet conservation area.
- Pack Monadnock (Miller State Park) (20 min) – Great for hiking, birdwatching, and catching breathtaking sunsets.
- Brookline (15–20 min) – Visit Andres Institute of Art, an outdoor sculpture park with trails through the forest.
- Harrisville (30 min) – A postcard-perfect mill town with a general store, scenic lake, and yarn heritage.
Plan Your Trip