Things to do, Franklin NH
Interesting places to visit in and near Franklin.
Franklin Falls Dam
Franklin Falls Dam is a key flood control structure on the Pemigewasset River. In addition to its functional purpose, the surrounding area of Franklin Falls Dam offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, and about 13 miles of well maintained mountain biking trails. There's also a 25-hole disc golf course! The scenic trails and natural beauty of the area make it a popular spot for dog walkers, outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy nature and explore the New Hampshire countryside.
Tanger Outlets Tilton
Tanger Outlets in Tilton is a popular shopping destination featuring a wide range of brand-name outlet stores on busy Route 3. The outdoor shopping center offers a variety of retailers, including clothing, footwear, accessories, home goods, and specialty stores, providing shoppers with numerous options and discounts on top brands. More good news - many restaurants are nearby to eat after you're done shopping.
Smitty's Cinema & GameLAB Tilton
A unique entertainment venue that combines a movie theater with a dining and gaming experience! At Smitty's Cinema, guests can enjoy the latest blockbuster movies from the comfort of spacious seats while offering a menu that includes burgers, pizzas, appetizers, and desserts. The GameLAB arcade area features a variety of modern and classic games, offering fun for both kids and adults. There's also a bar and axe throwing area, a strange combination that challenges the brave and foolhardy alike.
Daniel Webster Birthplace
The Daniel Webster Birthplace State Historic Site preserves the small, rustic farmhouse where the famous American statesman Daniel Webster was born on January 18, 1782. The site provides a glimpse into rural life in the late 18th century and the early years of Webster, who went on to become one of the most influential orators, lawyers, and politicians in American history.
Tarbin Gardens
Tarbin Gardens is a family-owned botanical garden, offering visitors a peaceful and immersive experience with nature. Spread across several acres, the gardens feature a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees, creating themed garden areas such as formal gardens, woodland paths, and wildflower meadows. The landscape is designed to change with the seasons, ensuring something different to see throughout the year.
Mill City Park
New England's First Community Adventure Park! The centerpiece of Mill City Park is its whitewater course, designed for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. It features several rapids of varying difficulty, providing fun and challenges for both beginners and experienced paddlers. In addition to water sports, the park has a network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and walking, as well as areas for rock climbing, camping, and picnicking.
Surowiec Farm
Although there are many NH farms in the area, Surowiec Farm is the closest to Pemi Shore Cottages. The farm offers a variety of local meats, fresh flowers, and locally-grown fruits and vegetables. The farm stand sells these items along with homemade products like cider, jams, and baked goods. During season, they also have pick your own strawberries, blueberries, and apples!
Highland Mountain Bike Park
A premier mountain biking destination, Highland Mountain Bike Park is located just over in Northfield. It features a wide range of trails, from beginner-friendly routes to advanced downhill tracks. The park offers lift-serviced downhill trails, dirt jumps, and a skills training area. It also provides coaching programs, bike rentals, and events, catering to both casual riders and competitive mountain bikers. It's a key spot for mountain biking enthusiasts in New England.
Mill City Park
Mill City Park at Franklin Falls is a nonprofit organization in Franklin, NH, dedicated to connecting the community with the Winnipesaukee River through New England’s first whitewater park and an adjacent land-based park. Covering 13 acres of active park space and 18 acres of conserved land, it invites visitors to enjoy outdoor recreation—such as kayaking, river surfing, nature trails, and community events—while preserving the riverfront for future generations.
Black Bear Vineyard
Black Bear Vineyard, located in Salisbury, New Hampshire, is a family-run winery set across approximately 18 acres of beautiful rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy vineyard tours, estate wine tastings, and host private events or weddings in a peaceful, secluded setting. The vineyard produces over seven varieties of estate wines and celebrates its annual harvest festival featuring live music, food trucks, and games