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
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