4 Fun Tourist Attractions in Manchester, NH

What Is It?

The Currier Museum of Art is a vibrant cultural hotspot in Manchester, New Hampshire, featuring an extensive collection of art from renowned artists like Monet, Picasso, and O'Keeffe. Alongside captivating exhibitions, the museum boldly showcases two Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes that add a unique architectural element to your visit, allowing patrons to delve into the genius of Wright's designs. The inviting atmosphere, coupled with a delightful café, makes this museum a wonderful destination for art lovers and curious minds alike.

The Experience

As you walk through the beautiful entrance of the Currier Museum of Art, the excitement of what’s to come hangs in the air. You’re immediately greeted by the friendly staff, who are not just welcoming but genuinely happy to help with any questions you might have about the exhibits. Starting your exploration, you wander into a gallery featuring artworks from the likes of Van Gogh and Picasso—it’s hard not to get lost in the colors and emotions of the pieces around you. Each painting tells a story, capturing your attention and prompting you to stop and reflect, which is exactly what the museum invites you to do.

Taking your time, you make your way through exhibitions that are exquisitely arranged, allowing you to appreciate the art at your own pace. You notice the thoughtfully curated collections that display a beautiful mix of classic and contemporary works, just as patrons had mentioned in previous visits. The casual yet elegant layout of the museum enhances your experience, giving you plenty of opportunities to sit and observe in various nooks scattered throughout, where you can soak in the ambiance and feel the inspiration flow.

After exploring the extensive art collection, it’s time to head over to the Winter Garden Café mentioned by other visitors. You grab a delicious bite to eat while surrounded by cheerful decor and lively conversations. The Cobb salad you’ve heard so much about certainly lives up to the hype, fueling you for the next part of your adventure. As you savor your meal, you catch glimpses of fellow guests enjoying themselves, from art enthusiasts to families, creating an inclusive environment.

Now, you’re eager to embark on a guided tour of the two Frank Lloyd Wright homes that the museum offers. This is where the Currier Museum truly stands out, as guests have raved about the knowledgeable docents who bring the fascinating architecture to life. The envy of many visitors, these homes showcase both Wright’s design brilliance and a glimpse into the lifestyle of their occupants. The storytelling of the docents transforms a regular house tour into a captivating experience full of history and artistic insight, rounding off your visit beautifully.

When to Go

To experience the Currier Museum at its calmest, aim for visiting during weekday mornings, ideally before lunchtime. This way, you can enjoy a quieter atmosphere, making it easier to take in the art without the bustle of larger weekend crowds. Plus, you'll have more time to relish in the serene environment of the museum and its café.

What Is It?

Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve is the largest conservation area in the city, covering an expansive 640 acres, perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. This peaceful oasis offers an array of walking trails, including the widely praised 1.2-mile All Persons Trail, which is designed to be accessible for everyone, even those using wheelchairs or pushing strollers. With beautiful surroundings filled with Atlantic white cedars and other native flora, it’s a welcoming spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

The Experience

You arrive at the Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve ready for some fresh air, the sun shining down and a touch of excitement in the air. As you step out of your car, you notice the inviting parking lot and the accessibility features, including ample spots for those who might need them. A sense of tranquility washes over you as you see other visitors, families and nature lovers alike, making their way toward the trails.

You decide to start with the All Persons Trail, a wide, flat path that smoothly winds through the charming scenery. The path is perfectly designed for strollers and wheelchairs, making it an inviting option for all. As you walk, you take in the stunning views of the Atlantic white cedar trees and the giant rhododendrons—some with flowers blooming, creating a vibrant touch against the green backdrop. With informative signs scattered along the trail, you and the kids enjoy snapping photos and reading about the unique local flora and history.

After looping back from the All Persons Trail, you feel up for a bit more adventure and venture onto the Woodland Trail. This part of the preserve has a slightly rugged charm, with its winding paths and naturally occurring obstacles like roots and rocks. But no worries—your sturdy shoes keep you steady, and the magical forest around you keeps adventures alive. You spot a few busy squirrels and even a lingering deer, and while the bugs can be persistent, you’re prepared with some bug spray.

The peaceful ambiance allows for some quiet reflections as you take a break at one of the strategically placed benches along the trails. A gentle breeze rustles the leaves above, and you can hear the distant calls of birds, making the moment all the more serene. You and your family share laughs and stories, and by the time you're done exploring a couple of trails, you feel revitalized, both mentally and physically. As you’re walking back to the car, you can't help but think this will definitely become a regular family outing, discovering new facets of this hidden gem in Manchester over the seasons.

When to Go

The best time to visit Manchester Cedar Swamp Preserve would be during the early morning or later in the afternoon when the foot traffic tends to be lighter. Avoiding the noon hours ensures a more serene experience without the bustling crowds, especially on weekends when families are more inclined to head out for a nature walk.

What Is It?

The Millyard Museum, run by the Manchester Historic Association, is a hidden gem in the heart of Manchester, NH. Located in the historic Mill No. 3, the museum showcases the rich history of the city and the people who have shaped it. With its permanent exhibit, Woven in Time, guests can explore the area's intriguing narrative, from the early indigenous populations to the thriving textile industry that defined Manchester's past.

The Experience

Upon stepping into the Millyard Museum, you’re greeted with an inviting atmosphere filled with history. The moment you enter, you can feel the weight of the stories that the exhibits hold, and you can’t help but be drawn in. As you navigate through the thoughtfully laid-out displays, you find fascinating artifacts that tell the story of Manchester’s mill history. It’s an educational experience that’s fun for all ages, whether with family or on a solo visit.

You wander from one exhibit to the next, soaking in the rich narratives of the city—from the early native communities who relied on the Amoskeag Falls for sustenance to the industrious mill workers of a bygone era. Some patrons have praised the interactive components of the museum that keep younger visitors engaged, while others note that they enjoyed the audio tour, which allows for a deeper understanding of what they're observing. The staff is particularly noted for their friendliness and knowledge, ready to answer your questions or share more about intriguing aspects of the displays.

As you explore, you might lose track of time, finding yourself engrossed for hours in the museum's wealth of information. Whether it's the old machinery or the old-timey fire engine that catches your fancy, there's definitely a sense of delight in learning how Manchester transformed over centuries. After browsing through the exhibits, many guests have mentioned how nice it is to reflect on the artistic efforts behind the building itself, adding to the experience.

Before heading out, be sure to stop by the gift shop, which has made quite an impression on visitors. People have laughed about their surprise at the variety of local history-themed items and souvenirs. When you finally leave, you can’t help but feel excited about the new knowledge you’ve gained and perhaps even a newfound appreciation for the city you live in, or at least a memorable addition to your weekend adventure.

What Is It?

The Tours of Zimmerman and Kalil Houses offer a unique glimpse into the genius of Frank Lloyd Wright, showcasing his stunning Usonian designs. Built in the 1950s, these meticulously preserved homes feature period furnishings and are maintained by the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester, NH. Guided tours provide visitors with a rich insight into Wright's architectural philosophies and personal stories behind these remarkable residences.

The Experience

As you arrive at the Currier Museum of Art, excitement fills the air as you prepare for a unique experience that celebrates American architectural history. The anticipation grows as you board the shuttle that whisks you away to the site of the Zimmerman and Kalil Houses, both designed by the masterful Frank Lloyd Wright. Once you step off the bus, you're welcomed by the beauty of nature and intricately designed buildings that seamlessly fit into their surroundings.

The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing fascinating stories about the original residents and the artistic vision behind the buildings. You can't help but marvel at the cozy interiors that seamlessly blend function and design, with furniture that tells its own story reflecting the era of Wright's work. It's not just a tour; it's like stepping back in time to see how people lived in harmony with their environment, and it inspires you to appreciate the very concept of home.

Throughout the tour, you'll find various spots in the homes that offer stunning views of the outside landscape, thanks to Wright's genius in using natural light and integrating architecture with nature. The little insights offered by the guides make everything come alive, and before you know it, you're caught up in the legacy of mid-century design.

As you wrap up this unforgettable outing, you're left with a sense of gratitude. The experience at the Zimmerman and Kalil Houses is more than just an architectural tour—it's a heartfelt journey into the life and mind of one of America's greatest architects, all conveniently located in the tranquil setting of Manchester, NH.