The leaves may be down and there is a noticeable chill in the air but the activities in Peterborough are heating up. A relaxing and interesting day or weekend should be on your schedule as you gear up for the holiday season.
Peterborough is easily found in the heart of southern New Hampshire’s Monadnock region. This scenic town is rich in history, cultural activities, shopping and great dining. A treasure trove of interesting shops, museums, galleries and activities are all within easy walking distance of each other and make for a perfect getaway.
Depot Square in downtown Peterborough is your best starting point for a fun filled day.
Begin by sampling the best coffee in town at Twelve Pine while sitting back with the morning paper in their sun filled atrium. A walking tour of the nearby shops includes fine antiques, gift and card shops, one of NH oldest jewelers and the wonderful Sharon Arts gallery and store.
Stroll over to the Peterborough Historical Society created in 1907 and view their latest exhibit, New Hampshire Glass Makers. This exhibit will run throughout the winter and showcases the history of glass making in New Hampshire with many never before seen examples on display. The historic brick building housing the Historical Society is well worth a look as is the fine furniture exhibit and the family fun area “Play in the Town’s Attic,” a must see family stop.
As your hunger grows there is generous selection of in town restaurants for lunch from the classic Peterborough Diner to the newest restaurant, The Old Theater Restaurant and Tavern. Pub food and great beer and ales from around the world await you at Harlow’s Pub and for that special soup don’t miss the intimate Aesop’s Table located in The Toadstool Bookstore.
Stretch your legs again with a short walk over to the Mariposa Museum and World Cultural Center. They are featuring a Filipino Dance performance on the 13th of November at 7PM. During the day wander through their beautiful collections and learn fascinating cultural tidbits from their warm and knowlegeable staff.
Make a beeline to Ava Maria’s on Grove Street to satisfy that sweet tooth with the best hand made chocolate in New Hampshire! A great selection of ice cream, frozen yogurt and candies will round out that special dessert.
An afternoon of bike trail riding or walking is easily accessible. For a beautiful walk in the woods head up to Old Street Road and visit the Shieling Forest. The well marked trails are an not strenuous and offer a quiet respite. Shieling Forest is located 1 mile from downtown Peterborough. The paved Peterborough bike trail winds along the beautiful Contoocook River.
For dinner head back to Depot Square for a scrumptious dinner at Acqua Bistro, a special river side location with an fabulous menu and martini bar.
An evening of music is usually on tap at Harlows. On the 13th of November Mamadou, a master west African Rhythm guitarist and drummer, Mamadou Diop will play from 9:30 to 11:30.
Too tired to drive home? Book a room at the Jack Daniels Motor Inn or the The Three Rivers B&B which are both located close to the downtown and offer that classic warm New England hospitality.
So there you have it. A day, an evening, an adventure all in Peterborough, NH…. a beautiful New England treasure close to home.
