Location: Franklin
Top Things to do in Franklin
Countries
The 10 Best Things to Do in Franklin, United States
Franklin is a city in Merrimack County, New Hampshire, United States. At the 2010 census, the population was 8,477, the lowest of any of New Hampshire's 13 cities. Franklin includes the village of West Franklin.
Restaurants in Franklin
1. Tarbin Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 38 reviews
Reviewed By 615retiredteacher - Rollinsford, New Hampshire
We visited these well designed gardens on a cloudy day. As the day progressed, it became a rainy day. Who cared? We enjoyed strolling the grounds of the many different gardens as well as seeing the various animals in the Barnyard. The owner was great at answering questions as he worked to maintain the grounds. Thankfully there was a covered area where we could have our tea and scones. The desserts were delicious and it so calming drinking tea as we watched the necessary rain.
2. Northern Rail Trail of New Hampshire
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 52 reviews
Reviewed By Charles S - Baltimore, Maryland
We have ridden all but a small segment of the Northern Rail Trail, from the northern edge of Concord, NH through Franklin, Andover, Potter's Place, Danbury, Grafton and on to Lebanon. It is a wonderful example of how to turn old rail lines into a lovely place. A few notes for you:
* The scenery is lovely throughout. Our favorite sections are from Lebanon up to and along Lake Mascoma, the path along the Merrimack River south of Franklin, and the Lake Webster to Potter's Place segment.
* Since you are riding along the main commerce corridor of 150 years ago, look for interesting historical bits. The area near Franklin once hummed with mills, and there is the foundation of a railroad turntable. At Potter's Place, you pass the grave of Richard Potter, noted showman, ventriloquist and entertainer who died in 1835. Just south of the Concord county line in Penacook is the Hannah Duston Massacare Site Statue. (This is sited where it happened, on the banks of the Merrimack. It is also the first statue to a woman erected in the United States, whatever your opinion of her actions.)
* There are at least two volunteer-run historical museums along the route, at Potter's Place (open 10-3 Saturdays and 12:30 to 3 on Sundays) and a Daniel Webster house south of Franklin (open Sundays, I think 10-3).
* The trail is generally packed gravel and has been kept in good shape. Room for two riders nearly the whole way. Even on summer weekends, it is not heavily traveled. Sometimes the foliage creeps in (it isn't easy to keep it trimmed) and you need to watch for patches of poison ivy, particularly along the Merrimack River portion.
* You pass by towns regularly where you can refill a water bottle, purchase something or find a toilet, but these are not available on the trail. The Danbury Country Store and Grafton Store are particularly welcoming.
* The trail has relatively flat or gentle grades along most of its path (not often you can say that in New Hampshire!) The steepest sections are traveling out of Lebanon up to Lake Mascoma (but you get to cross a rushing stream over seven bridges), and the climb through Franklin up to Lake Webster.
Happy riding!
3. Tanger Outlets Tilton
Overall Ratings
4 based on 289 reviews
Find great savings on merchandise from your favorite designer and name-brands direct from the manufacturer at stores like: Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Gap, Coach, J.Crew, Talbots, Banana Republic, Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armour, Old Navy and many more. Before you travel, check out the Tanger Outlet website to find the latest Coupons & Sales Offers for Tanger Outlets in Tilton. Or, when you arrive at the outlets, make your first stop Shopper Services to learn about the benefits of joining TangerClub (Tanger Club information is also available online). In Shopper Services you can purchase a coupon book full of great savings or if you are already a TangerClub member pick up a coupon book for free! Think Outlets, Think Tanger.
Reviewed By Bden99 - Manchester, New Hampshire
This outlet center has your basic line of stores. There is not really much different than the standard outlets. They do have enough stores to make it worth the stop if you are in the area.
4. Black Bear Vineyard
Overall Ratings
5 based on 28 reviews
Reviewed By Melissa L
Beautiful scenery, as well as very kind and family run! Overall, a wonderful experience. Had never been to a vineyard before. Tried all the wines. Each with a distinct taste. All were wonderful! And the best part is... they are all local! I recommend taking some time and stopping by this cute little vineyard! So friendly and welcoming!
5. Memorial Arch of Tilton
Overall Ratings
4 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By slarson127 - Dover, New Hampshire
The Memorial Arch is 50 ft high and is massive, constructed of NH gray granite. Beneath the Arch is a pink granite sarcophagus surmounted by a starving lion. Charles Tilton ordered both to be constructed for , well, himself. It is directly opposite the small Winnepesaukee River from his hilltop mansard mansion now part of Tilton School.
For reasons unknown, when he died he was buried in an obscure graveyard and not in his magnificent tomb. Charles Tilton left 6 now 3 statues and an island in the middle of the river for the rest of us to enjoy. The views from the park on the top of the hill are magnificent.It is definitely a place for a picnic on a summer day. My thanks to the wealthy, eccentric Charles Tilton. We remember you but perhaps not for the reasons you hoped.
6. Canterbury Shaker Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 221 reviews
Canterbury Shaker Village, Inc., is an internationally-known non-profit museum founded in 1969 to preserve the heritage of the Canterbury Shakers. Designated as a National Historic Landmark for its architectural integrity and significance, the Village has 25 restored original Shaker buildings, 4 reconstructed Shaker buildings, and 694 acres of forests, fields, gardens, nature trails, and mill ponds under permanent conservation easement. Canterbury Shaker Village is dedicated to preserving the 200-year legacy of the Canterbury Shakers and to providing a place for learning, reflection, and renewal of the human spirit.
Reviewed By Lleeder - Ipswich, United Kingdom
Visited on a very wet day, not terribly busy but think that added to the atmosphere. It was peaceful and calm. All the guides and other staff were very knowledgeable about Shakers and the site in general. Choice of four hot soups for lunch, very welcome on such a wet day.
7. Rusty Wallace Racing Experience
Overall Ratings
5 based on 178 reviews
Reviewed By Emily C
I bought this driving experience as a gift for my fiancé s a birthday gift and had no regrets!
We attended the event held at New Hampshire Speedway, which was easy to find! There was staff all over the property directing us where to go!
The instructor Ken was informative and humorous! He was cracking jokes while also stressing the importance of safety.
When it can time to actually get in the car, everything went so smoothly! He quickly got his helmet and fire suit, then was matched to a car that suited my fiancé's size.
I watched from the bleachers, while my fiancé sped off. My fiancé was BEAMING after his laps and said how he received great direction from the spotters and people who were getting him ready!
My only complaint was the picture purchasing. We had spent extra on extra laps and the video, so we were disappointed that we had to spend so much for a picture of him with his car. I understand that we were also paying for the plaque it came on, but we would've been happy with just the picture itself.
Overall great experience!!
8. New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 147 reviews
Known for hosting the Winston Cup stock-car races and Motorcycle Week.
Reviewed By bradwhipple - Sugar Hill, New Hampshire
I have been privileged to work as a Security Specialist at an amazing one mile oval racetrack, about 20 miles east of Concord, the state capitol. Several events are scheduled each year , providing entertainment for many people from NH, MA,ME,VT and surrounding states. Opportunities exist to meet your favorite NASCAR driver, take photos of their cars and crews before watching them compete. From the bleachers or VIP seating and even from the best vantage point -The Ledges- between turns three and four Concessions offer food, beverage and souvenirs.In two weeks I will again securely cover my area of assignment.
9. Highland Mountain Bike Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By lcrossman - New Hampshire
In looking for a fun summer camp for my son, we came across Highland. Great programs, great coaches at a great a price. They have everything you would every need to get started biking.........great rental equipment and learn to ride packages. Wish we knew about this sooner !!!!!
10. Canterbury AleWorks
Overall Ratings
5 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By bealeco - Harvard, Massachusetts
This is a must see for anyone that likes good beer, a cozy friendly environment, and a confirmation that the American inventive spirit is still going strong. Where else can you see a working water wheel that will soon be generating all the electricity needed...MoreI am super glad you had a great visit! Thanks for there kind words and great review! CHEERS!
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