Peterborough (pop. 6,100) is known for the arts and its artists. Composer Edward MacDowell formed the MacDowell Colony in 1907, which serves as a sanctuary for artists.
Settled in the 1760's, Fitzwilliam (pop. 2,150) features a number of historical houses and antique shops. The town is the location of Rhododendron State Park.
Rindge (pop. 5,500) offers a variety of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, with boating and fishing in the summer and skating, skiing, and ice fishing in the winter. The town is home to Franklin Pierce College.
Covering an area of more than 2,700 acres, the Rhododendron State Park includes 16 acres of rhododendrons. The best time to visit is mid-July when they are in bloom.
Address: New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation, 2059 US Route 302, Harts Location, NH 03812, United States
Phone: 1 (603) 374-2272, Fax: 1 (603) 271-2629
Exhibits at the Mariposa Museum of World Cultures focus on on folkart, textiles, costumes, art, puppets, toys and instruments from six continents. The instrument collection features a pipe organ, wind pipes, Aerophones and Didgeridoo.
Address: Mariposa Museum, 26 Main Street, Peterborough, NH 03458, United States
Phone: 1 (603) 924-4555, Fax: 1 (603) 924-7893
Hours:
June 16 to September 2: 11am-5pm
September 3 to June 15: 11am-5pm; Closed: Mon, Tue
Tips: First Friday - Free from 5-9pm.
Disability Access: Full facilities for persons with disabilities.
Named for General James Miller, Miller State Park is the oldest state park in New Hampshire and covers 533 acres. It features a variety of walking and hiking trails, including a trail to the top of Pack Monadnock Mountain.
Forest Hall also known as the Barrett House was built in the early 1800's for Charles Barrett as a wedding gift from his father. The bride's father was responsible for the lavish furnishings.
New Ipswich was a prosperous mill town in the early 19th century which later declined when it was passed over by the railroad. The house is an example of the wealth of that period.
The Peterborough Historical Society Museum features permanent and changing exhibits related to the history of the area. On display are a mill workers' home, a Victorian parlor, and Colonial kitchen.
Address: Peterborough Historical Society Museum, 19 Grove Street, Box 58, Peterborough, NH 03458, United States
Phone: 1 (603) 924-3235, Fax: 1 (603) 924-3200