Surry New HampshireATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Surry, New Hampshire.
1. Surry Mountain Preserve
NATURAL OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Surry Mountain Preserve offers visitors multiple outdoor recreational opportunities including hiking, hunting, fishing, and snowshoeing. The preserve is open to the public and serves as a natural conservation area. Visitors can explore various trails while enjoying the scenic beauty of New Hampshire's landscape.
2. Surry Mountain Lake
RECREATION AND WILDLIFE
Surry Mountain Lake is formed by the Surry Dam on the Ashuelot River in the south-central part of town. The lake functions as a popular recreational site for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy water activities, fishing, and observing local wildlife in this scenic setting.
3. 40 Foot Falls
SCENIC NATURAL WATERFALL
40 Foot Falls is a local waterfall attraction that can be viewed from Joslin Road on Merriam Brook. The waterfall offers a picturesque natural setting ideal for photography and nature appreciation. Its accessibility makes it a popular spot for quick visits and outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Ashuelot River
SCENIC WATER RECREATION
The Ashuelot River runs through Surry and is dammed to create Surry Mountain Lake. The river provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing for outdoor enthusiasts. Its scenic banks offer pleasant walking paths and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the seasons.
5. Fort Ticonderoga National Historic Landmark
HISTORIC MILITARY FORTRESS
Fort Ticonderoga is a historic site located at 100 Fort Ti Road, a short drive from Surry. The fortress played a significant role in America's early military history and offers educational exhibits and demonstrations. Visitors can explore the fortress grounds and learn about colonial American history through interactive displays.
6. Keene Downtown Historic District
CHARMING SHOPPING AREA
Keene's Downtown Historic District features a charming town square with shops, restaurants, and historic architecture. Located just south of Surry, this vibrant area offers visitors a variety of dining and shopping options in a picturesque New England setting. The district regularly hosts community events and seasonal festivals throughout the year.
7. Gilsum Stone Arch Bridge
HISTORIC STONE ARCHITECTURE
The Gilsum Stone Arch Bridge is a historic structure located in neighboring Gilsum, east of Surry. Built in 1863, the bridge spans the Ashuelot River and is considered one of the finest dry-laid stone arch bridges in New England. Visitors can admire the impressive stonework while enjoying the scenic river views.
8. Walpole Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Walpole Farmers Market is located in nearby Walpole, northwest of Surry, offering fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items. Vendors from around the region gather to sell their goods directly to consumers in a friendly, community atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the authentic New Hampshire rural experience while supporting local farmers and artisans.
9. Cheshire Rail Trail
SCENIC RECREATION PATH
The Cheshire Rail Trail extends through multiple towns near Surry, offering miles of recreational paths for walking, biking, and seasonal activities. The trail follows the path of the former Cheshire Railroad, providing a flat, accessible route through scenic New Hampshire landscapes. Visitors can access the trail from multiple points and enjoy varying distances depending on their preferences.
10. Stonewall Farm
EDUCATIONAL WORKING FARM
Stonewall Farm is a nonprofit working farm and educational center located near Surry in Keene. The farm offers demonstrations of sustainable agriculture, farm tours, and interactive programs for visitors of all ages. Its beautiful grounds include walking trails, gardens, and facilities for special events and seasonal activities.
11. L.A. Burdick Chocolates
ARTISAN CHOCOLATE SHOP
L.A. Burdick Chocolates in nearby Walpole offers handcrafted chocolates and a charming café experience. The shop is renowned for its artisanal chocolate mice, penguins, and other signature confections made with premium ingredients. Visitors can watch chocolatiers at work, enjoy hot chocolate or coffee with desserts, and purchase gourmet treats to take home.
12. Distant Hill Gardens
BOTANICAL GARDEN OASIS
Distant Hill Gardens is a private botanical garden and nature preserve located near Surry that's open to the public on select days. The gardens feature carefully designed landscapes, diverse plant collections, and educational programs focused on sustainable gardening and conservation. Visitors can explore trails, attend workshops, and learn about native New Hampshire flora and fauna.
13. Horatio Colony Nature Preserve
WILDERNESS HIKING TRAILS
The Horatio Colony Nature Preserve offers over 600 acres of protected wilderness with hiking trails just minutes from downtown Keene. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems including forests, wetlands, and rocky outcrops while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding region. The preserve features well-maintained trails of varying difficulty suitable for different hiking abilities and interests.
14. Alyson's Orchard
SCENIC FRUIT FARM
Alyson's Orchard is a picturesque 450-acre working farm in Walpole offering seasonal fruit picking, a farm store, and event facilities. Visitors can pick their own apples, berries, and other fruits depending on the season while enjoying panoramic views of the Connecticut River Valley. The orchard also hosts weddings, festivals, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.
15. Keene Pumpkin Festival
CELEBRATED FALL TRADITION
The Keene Pumpkin Festival is a beloved annual event featuring thousands of carved pumpkins displayed throughout downtown Keene. The festival has broken world records for the most lit jack-o'-lanterns in one place and draws visitors from across New England and beyond. Activities include pumpkin carving, live entertainment, food vendors, and a festive community atmosphere celebrating autumn in New Hampshire.