Columbia New HampshireATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Columbia, New Hampshire.
1. Shrine of Our Lady Grace
PEACEFUL RELIGIOUS SANCTUARY
The Shrine of Our Lady Grace is a religious site located on the north end of town just off Route 3 in Columbia. This shrine was built in honor of the oblates, those lay people who dedicated themselves to religious service. Visitors can experience a peaceful atmosphere while exploring the grounds of this spiritual landmark.
2. Mount Washington
HIGHEST PEAK NORTHEAST
Mount Washington stands as the highest peak in the Northeastern United States and is a dominant landmark in New Hampshire. Visitors can reach the summit via the historic Cog Railway, the auto road, or by hiking various trails. The mountain is famous for once holding the world record for the fastest wind speed ever recorded on the surface of the Earth.
3. Mount Washington Hotel
HISTORIC GRAND RESORT
The Mount Washington Hotel is a grand historic hotel situated in Bretton Woods with stunning views of its namesake mountain. The hotel, now known as the Omni Mount Washington Resort, was the site of the 1944 Bretton Woods Conference which established the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. This magnificent white structure with its distinctive red roof represents the height of New Hampshire's grand hotel era.
4. Flume Gorge
NATURAL GRANITE WONDER
Flume Gorge is a natural granite gorge extending 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty in Franconia Notch State Park. Visitors can walk along an elevated wooden walkway that runs along the rim of this picturesque rock pathway covered with foliage and waterfalls. The two-mile loop trail typically takes about an hour and a half to complete, making it accessible for hikers of all experience levels.
5. Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park
AMERICAN SCULPTOR'S HOME
Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park preserves the home, gardens, and studios of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America's greatest sculptors. The site features over 100 of the artist's works in an idyllic setting that includes formal gardens and sweeping views. Visitors can tour the historic buildings and grounds while learning about Saint-Gaudens' significant contributions to American art.
6. Franklin Pierce Homestead
PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIC SITE
The Franklin Pierce Homestead is the historic home of America's 14th President and serves as a State Historic Site. This well-preserved Federal style house was built in 1804 by Pierce's father and was the president's home until his marriage in 1834. The homestead contains original furnishings and personal items belonging to the Pierce family, offering visitors insight into early 19th-century New Hampshire life.
7. Kancamagus Highway
SCENIC MOUNTAIN BYWAY
The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile scenic drive along NH Route 112 spanning between Lincoln and Conway through the White Mountain National Forest. This spectacular byway is renowned for its breathtaking views, especially during fall foliage season when the landscape transforms into vibrant autumn colors. The route features numerous scenic overlooks, hiking trails, and historic sites with minimal commercial development to preserve its natural beauty.
8. Hampton Beach
POPULAR FAMILY SHORELINE
Hampton Beach is a vibrant family-friendly beach destination along New Hampshire's Atlantic coastline. The area features a lively boardwalk with restaurants, shops, and an active entertainment schedule including concerts at the Sea Shell Stage. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and various beach activities while also participating in annual events like the Master Sand Sculpting Competition.
9. Strawbery Banke Museum
LIVING HISTORY SETTLEMENT
Strawbery Banke Museum is a 10-acre outdoor history museum that tells the story of Portsmouth through nearly 400 years of history. The site features more than 30 restored buildings, beautiful gardens, and costumed role-players who bring the past to life through demonstrations and interactive experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in different time periods while exploring historic homes, shops, and gardens representing Portsmouth's evolution from colonial settlement to 20th-century neighborhood.
10. Prescott Park
WATERFRONT URBAN OASIS
Prescott Park is a beautiful waterfront park in downtown Portsmouth offering spectacular views of the Piscataqua River. The park features meticulously maintained formal gardens, open green spaces, and serves as the venue for the popular Prescott Park Arts Festival during summer months. Visitors can enjoy strolling along waterfront paths, picnicking in scenic surroundings, and attending outdoor concerts and theatrical performances in this vibrant public space.
11. North Conway Outlet Shopping
TAX-FREE SHOPPING DESTINATION
North Conway is renowned for its extensive outlet shopping district featuring over 100 brand-name stores offering tax-free shopping. The shopping area spans both sides of White Mountain Highway (Route 16) with a mix of outlet centers, boutiques, and specialty shops. Shoppers can find significant discounts on designer clothing, outdoor gear, home goods, and more while enjoying the scenic mountain backdrop that makes this shopping experience unique.
12. Robert Frost Farm
POET'S HISTORIC HOMESTEAD
The Robert Frost Farm is the former home of renowned American poet Robert Frost and now serves as a State Historic Site. This simple white farmhouse and surrounding property inspired many of Frost's most famous poems during the years he lived here (1900-1911). Visitors can tour the house, walk interpretive trails that connect to Frost's poetry, and attend special events and readings that celebrate his literary legacy.
13. USS Albacore
HISTORIC NAVAL SUBMARINE
The USS Albacore is a former research submarine now preserved as a museum ship at Albacore Park in Portsmouth. This revolutionary vessel was designed to test experimental features that would later be incorporated into modern submarines, featuring a teardrop hull design that influenced all subsequent submarine development. Visitors can tour the interior of this historic submarine, experience the cramped quarters where sailors lived and worked, and learn about innovations in underwater naval technology.
14. Harrisville Historic District
PRESERVED MILL VILLAGE
The Harrisville Historic District is considered one of America's most intact 19th-century mill villages, showcasing well-preserved brick mill buildings and workers' housing. This National Historic Landmark reveals the story of New Hampshire's industrial heritage and the development of water-powered textile manufacturing. Visitors can explore the historic architecture, enjoy the picturesque setting around the mill pond, and visit working artisans who continue crafting traditions in some of the restored spaces.
15. Casino Ballroom
ICONIC MUSIC VENUE
The Casino Ballroom is a historic entertainment venue that has hosted performances by major musical artists since 1899. Located at Hampton Beach, this legendary concert hall has welcomed performers ranging from Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong to modern rock, country, and comedy acts. Music lovers appreciate the intimate setting that provides excellent sightlines and acoustics while enjoying performances by national touring acts in this New Hampshire landmark.