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10 Budget Friendly NH Attractions

Fun & Affordable Ways to Explore NH

These low-cost activities are the perfect way to spend an afternoon in the Granite State. From museums and indoor attractions to unique outdoor activities that can only be found in New Hampshire, there are plenty of ways to get out and explore what the state has to offer. With so many affordable activities—there’s no excuse to miss out!

Andres Institute of Art, Brookline
Andres Institute of Art, Brookline
Andres Institute of Art blends the serenity of nature with the thoughtfulness of art. The whole family will enjoy the wandering trails of New England’s largest outdoor sculpture park where a collection of ever-changing sculptures decorate 140 acres of verdant forest. With sculptures made by artists from all across the globe, there’s plenty of room for interpretation and education, too.

Cost: Free, donation appreciated


Madison Boulder Natural Area, Madison
 
Experience the wow factor at this site: home to the largest known glacial erratic in North America. How large is large? The granite rock measures 83 feet in length, 23 feet in height above the ground, 37 feet wide and it weights a whopping 5,000 tons. Stand next to it to really appreciate this magnificent boulder.  
Cost: Free



Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, Warner

Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, Warner
If you’re looking for a fun and informative way to engage with Native American history, Mount Kearsarge Indian Museum is the place for you. Find yourself immersed in the Native American culture that once ruled the land as you learn about their traditional customs, values, and earthly ways of life.  

Cost: $11 for adults, $8 for children 6-12, $10 for seniors, students and veterans

New Hampshire Children’s Museum, Dover

New Hampshire Children’s Museum, Dover
As New Hampshire’s most visited educational and cultural institution, the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire has served over two million people from New Hampshire and beyond—offering fun, hands-on learning experiences for kids of all ages. Founded in 1983, the museum offers a blend of art, science and cultural experiences for families.

Cost: $11 for children and adults aged 1+, $9 for seniors aged 65+


The Old Country Store and Museum, MoultonboroughThe Old Country Store and Museum, Moultonborough
This small-town country store in Moultonborough is perhaps the oldest in the entire country. At 239 years old, this storied establishment has seen more than a lifetime’s worth of business and visitors from far and wide. Stop in to browse an extensive variety of country keepsakes and local products, or simply marvel at the antique fixtures and regional wares. Upstairs is a museum that is fun to explore and definitely worth a visit!

Cost: Free

Seacoast Science Center, Rye
Seacoast Science Center, Rye
Located in scenic Odiorne Point State Park, the Seacoast Science Center is a hub for learning about ocean life and indigenous ecosystems. Stroll through immersive exhibits that offer educational opportunities for both kids and adults. Brave a touch tank, discover the significance of reefs and how we work to protect them, and embrace the wonders of our Blue Planet.

Cost: $10 Ages 12 - 64, $5 Ages 3 - 11, $8 for Seniors and Military

UNH Observatory, Durham
UNH Observatory, Durham
Let the twinkling stars and mesmerizing planets of our universe dazzle you during a free observing session at the UNH Observatory. Peer through powerful telescopes and communicate with knowledgeable volunteers as you stargaze and partake in an educational experience geared towards the sky.

Cost: Free

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Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge, Whitefield
Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge is an all-season destination for outdoor adventure. Visitors can enjoy the refuge’s expanse of 166 acres where over 9 miles of trails wind through unspoiled landscapes. Bring your bike and pedal the refuge’s most popular trail: The Pondicherry Rail Trail, or simply hike along dirt paths and make your own adventure. In the winter, snowmobilers, snowshoers, and cross country skiiers are invited to enjoy this natural escape into nature!  

Cost: Free


Walldog Murals, Keene  
Take a self-guided tour around Keene to see the colorful scenes painted on buildings all around town.  The Murals were painted by a group of professional sign and mural artists from all over the world. The murals, done in a vintage advertising style, represent the people, places and events that have made the city what it is today.

Cost: Free


Mt. Prospect Ski Area, Lancaster

Weeks State Park, Lancaster
Weeks State Park is home to the beautiful mountaintop estate of John Wingate Weeks. The park offers 360-degree views of the White Mountains and beyond, and visitors can even climb a stone fire tower for even more breathtaking views. The estate is open for tours during the operating season and the site is the perfect backdrop for a picnic any time of year!

Cost: Admission - $5 for adults, $3 for ages 6-17, Tours - $5 for adults, $3 for ages 6-17

Summertime on the Seacoast

Beautiful beaches, a bustling boardwalk, entertainment, outdoor activities, history and a phenomenal food and drink scene too! Get your summer on NH’s Seacoast started here!
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Sky High Adventures

Whether you’ve always dreamed of taking an epic helicopter ride, lifting off in a hot air balloon, or feeling the wind in your face on a daring hang glider…NH’s got you covered.
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Summer Chamber Music Fills the Air

There’s nothing quite like attending a live concert or show and summertime in New Hampshire is the perfect time to do just that.
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Escape to NH for a Relaxing Getaway

If your idea of a summer vacation includes great entertainment, delicious food and drink, and relaxation then head to New Hampshire. Find trip inspiration here!
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The Adventurer's Guide to New Hampshire

For the adrenaline-seekers, the fun-lovers and the bold—New Hampshire is the perfect playground for epic summer adventures and unforgettable memories.

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A Blast From the Past: Drive-in Theatres

Get friends or family together for a night out at the Drive-In! NH has 2 drive-in theaters offering a great way to see movies and a little nostalgia too!   
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7 Museums to Visit this Spring

While spring’s warmth draws us outside—on some of those cooler days heading indoors to discover a fun museum can be the perfect escape. Here are 7 to explore this spring.
 
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6 Rainy Day Escapes for Kids

Don’t let a little rain dampen your day in NH, head inside for 6 fun ways to help your kids beat the rainy day blues.
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5 Icy New Hampshire Adventures

Winter in NH: time to explore an ice castle, check out an ice carving competition or head to an ice festival! Here’s 5 ways to celebrate all things frozen this season. 
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Off the Slopes Outdoor Fun

Grab your sense of adventure and head to New Hampshire this winter to explore exhilarating outdoor experiences like ziplining, fat biking, dogsledding.
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