A Family Adventure in New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region

This summer, our family set out to explore New Hampshire’s Monadnock Region as part of a partnership with Visit Monadnock. What we discovered is that this corner of the state is the perfect destination for active families. Between the hiking, biking, farm adventure, and family-friendly attractions, we barely scratched the surface of what the region has to offer.

What is the Monadnock Region?

The Monadnock Region is located in the southwest corner of New Hampshire, centered around the iconic Mount Monadnock, one of the most climbed mountains in the world. But it’s more than just a mountain - this area includes charming small towns like Keene, Jaffrey, and Peterborough, plus countless lakes, forests, and cultural gems. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or downtown strolls, it’s a beautiful spot for families to slow down and connect.

Our Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday: Arrival at the Inn at East Hill Farm

We kicked off our trip at East Hill Farm, an all-inclusive, family-focused getaway at the base of Mount Monadnock. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel at home. We toured the property, swam in one of their three pools, and sat down to a hearty turkey dinner. That evening, the kids loved the glow party that was fun with dancing, lights, and plenty of energy burned off before bed. 

View from the pool in front of our room at East Hill Farm in Troy, NH

East Hill Farm had animals to meet, amazing meals (all included), and family-friendly activities.

Saturday: Farm Fun and Downtown Keene

After a made-to-order breakfast (literally anything you can dream up), the kids jumped into farm life. They had the option to milk cows and goats, pet bunnies, pet goats, and check in on the chickens. We spent the morning pedaling a boat around the farm’s pond and joining activities like ice cream making and friendship bracelet crafts. Lunch was included before we packed up and headed to Keene.

Our first stop in town was the Keene Bike Park, a pump-track-style park where the kids zipped around on bikes and scooters. Then we checked into the Carriage Barn Inn, a cozy inn right in downtown Keene. We explored the charming shops, grabbed burgers and fries at Fritz, and treated ourselves to frozen yogurt at YOLO Café. To top it all off, we listened to live music at the town bandstand - a perfect summer night in Keene.

Keene had a ton to offer - shops, food, culture, and nature.

Sunday: Mount Monadnock & Spofford Lake

We set alarms for an early start to hike Mount Monadnock. Parking reservations are required ($16) at the park headquarters, so we reserved in advance. We hiked the White Dot Trail up and descended the White Cross Trail. It is a 3.9-mile loop with 1,774 feet of elevation gain. It’s a challenging climb with open slab and spots that require a bit of fancy footwork, but our family made it to the summit and back in about four hours. The views stretched across all of New England and were worth every step.

Afterward, we celebrated with giant portions of ice cream at Kimball Farm in Jaffrey, then headed to Ware’s Grove Beach on Spofford Lake. Non-resident admission costs a small fee, but it was well worth it: a sandy beach, concessions, playground, and warm, clear water with a sandy bottom made it a family favorite.

That evening, we returned to Keene and had dinner at Buba Noodle Bar. The kids devoured bao dumpling sandwiches and crab rangoon spring rolls, while Matt and I enjoyed pho and ramen. 

Mt Monadnock is a challenging, yet rewarding climb.

This small ice cream from Kimballs was HUGE!

Monday: Bookshops & Rail Trails

On our final morning, we checked out of the inn and enjoyed a hearty breakfast at Yellow Bell Café. Before heading home, we stopped at Toadstool Bookshop, an independent bookstore where the kids picked out new reads. Our last adventure was biking a section of the Ashuelot Recreational Rail Trail, a flat, scenic path perfect for families. 

Delicious huevos rancheros at Yellow Bell Cafe

Best Things to Do with Kids in the Monadnock Region

If you’re planning your own family trip, here are some highlights we recommend:

• Stay at East Hill Farm – a perfect mix of farm fun, activities, and relaxation for families.

• Hike Mount Monadnock – best for older kids who can handle a moderately challenging hike.

• Swim at Ware’s Grove Beach – sandy shores, playground, and clear lake water.

• Bike the Keene Rail Trail – flat and family-friendly, great for all ages.

• Visit Keene Bike Park – a fun spot for kids on bikes or scooters.

• Explore downtown Keene – from live music on the green to shops and kid-approved eats like Fritz and YOLO Café.

• Pick out books at Toadstool Bookshop – a cozy local spot perfect for rainy-day browsing.

• NEXT TIME - We didn't get a chance to visit the Keene Children's Museum, participate in the rail trail passport program, or visit some of the other, small hikes in the area. I'd also love to go back and visit the town of Peterborough because I've heard such good things! 

  

  Swimming at Ware's Grove Beach was a big hit.

  
  

  

  We could have easily spent a week at East Hill Farm - so many activities!

  
  

Why Families Will Love the Monadnock Region

This trip proved that the Monadnock Region is a playground for active families. From swimming and biking to hiking one of the most famous peaks in the world, there’s something for every age and ability level. Add in charming towns, delicious food, and family-friendly accommodations, and it’s a destination we can’t wait to return to.

We only just began to uncover all that this region has to offer, and we’re already planning our next trip back.  Visit Freelance Adventurer or Visit Monadnock instagram for more photos and videos!

You might also enjoy these similar adventures:

- Family Friendly Northern White Mountains Weekend 

- 24 Hour Affordable Getaway in the White Mountains with Kids

- Ogunquit Maine for Families

A Week on the Papagayo Coast in Costa Rica: Relaxation Meets Adventure

 

Back from my annual Friends-Trip!  This summer, I spent a week in Costa Rica with two friends, and all of us flying in from different parts of the country. We wanted a trip that balanced active adventures with plenty of downtime, without the stress of constant planning. 

My main goals for the trip were:

1. Zipline in the rainforest

2. Hike to a waterfall

3. Snorkel and/or go whale watching

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Ziplining over rainforest at Buena Vista in Costa Rica

Why Did I Choose an All-Inclusive Resort?

This was my first time staying at an all-inclusive resort, and we chose Planet Hollywood Costa Rica.  I wanted beach access (the property sits on a gorgeous black sand beach), a variety of food options without decision fatigue, built-in entertainment, and an easy place to coordinate with friends traveling from different states. The resort features terraced hotel buildings on a hill overlooking the water, a huge pool with a swim-up bar, and multiple restaurants, bars, and cafés. Evenings come alive with performances by singers, dancers, and sometimes fire performers.  I decided Pacific-side Papagayo coast area was my preferred area to stay due to the ocean access and easy one hour drive east to rainforest and volcanoes. Planet Hollywood checked all the boxes.  It was my first time staying at a resort like this and I really enjoyed it!

By booking excursions directly through my resort’s partner, Nexus Tours, I got transportation included and did not need to rent a car. This let me focus entirely on enjoying myself. It ended up being the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. My catamaran tour was also booked through the resort and they used the company Catamaran Ocean Tours.  I recommend both!

We saved money by having all three friends in one room.

The pool area was a favorite!

Bathroom

Swim up (and walk up) bars for drinks (included/free). My fave was the pina coloda.

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My Costa Rica Itinerary

Sunday, Aug 3: Travel Day

We landed in Liberia on a Sunday afternoon, just a quick forty-minute drive from the resort. The resort offers a pick up shuttle (for a fee), but since my friend Matt rented a car for his own excursions, he gave me a ride to the resort.  Leanne took the shuttle. Within the hour of arriving, we were walking into the air-conditioned lobby, welcome cocktails in hand. After checking in, we wandered around to get our bearings - we loved the powder soft black sand beach, giant pool with DJ and music, and the stunning bay views from the terrace of the main building. Dinner that first night was at the buffet, which offered everything from fresh salads to sushi, followed by an incredible fire performance that instantly set the bar high for the week’s evening entertainment.

One benefit of a resort was evening entertainment.

Monday, Aug 4: Relax at the Resort

Monday was a slower day. My friend Matt, who had rented a car, set off early for a scuba diving trip, while Leanne and I opted for a more relaxed schedule. We lingered over breakfast at the buffet, floated in the pool, and enjoyed burgers from the poolside café. That night, we dressed up for dinner at the resort’s Italian restaurant, savoring pasta and drinks before heading bed.

Monday was all about decompressing and relaxing!

Tuesday, Aug 5: Rainforest Hikes and Wildlife

Tuesday brought our first big adventure. I had booked the “Rio Celeste and Sloth” excursion, an all-day trip about two hours from the resort. A small bus picked us up, and our guide, Esteban, kept us entertained with stories about the region as we drove. We started at a cocoa and coffee farm, where we learned how both are grown and processed. Next, came a nature walk through lush forest, where Esteban spotted wild sloths high in the trees. He set up a scope so we could get a closer look and even helped us take photos through it. After a hearty "casado" lunch of rice, beans, and grilled chicken, we headed to Tenorio Volcano National Park to see the spectacular Rio Celeste Waterfall. The bright turquoise water looked almost unreal, and even a brief rain shower couldn’t dampen our mood. That evening, we returned in time to catch a Queen tribute band at the resort before a late-night hibachi dinner. 

Rio Celeste Waterfall

Got a close up look at this mama and baby sloth.

Frogs!

Casado Lunch (included in tour)

Wednesday, Aug 6: Nature Walks, Pool Time, and Kayak

Wednesday was another easygoing day. We started with lattes and pastries from the coffee shop, then joined the free Eco Nature Walk offered by the resort. Our guide pointed out howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, and taught us about the area’s unique trees and plants. After some time lounging by the pool and another round of poolside burgers, we tried our hand at kayaking in the bay (free to borrow). The water was choppier than expected, so we didn’t stay out too long, but it was still a fun way to see the coast. We ended the day with a Tex-Mex dinner and a beautiful sunset on the beach. 

Kayaks are free to borrow at the resort and easy to put in on the beach!

Saw monkeys on our morning guided nature walk (free).

Thursday, Aug 7: Mega Adventure!

Thursday was all about adrenaline at Buena Vista Eco Park. After about an hour’s drive, we started with a short horseback ride, followed by a demonstration of traditional sugar cane grinding and pottery making. Then came the 1,375-foot jungle water slide - a wild ride that had me screaming the whole way down. From there, we zipped across the rainforest canopy on a series of ziplines before enjoying an authentic Costa Rican buffet lunch. The day wrapped up with a relaxing soak in thermal hot springs before heading back to the resort for dinner at the steakhouse and an “Oscar Night” themed performance. 

Horseback riding at Buena Vista.

Cultural demonstration on sugar cane.

Friday, Aug 8: Catamaran Sunset Snorkel

Friday, our last full day, was pure magic. We enjoyed a slow morning at the buffet and a few final hours in the pool before heading to the beach for our sunset catamaran excursion. The boat took us to a remote beach where we snorkeled with a guide (I saw a stingray, pufferfish, and lots of tropical fish), then returned to find fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, and chips waiting for us. On the cruise back, dolphins played alongside the boat as the sun dipped below the horizon. It was the perfect ending to our Costa Rica adventure. 

Amazing sunset in the Gulf of Papagayo

Saturday, Aug 9: Time to Go

Saturday morning came too quickly. After one last breakfast, we packed our bags and said goodbye to Planet Hollywood before catching our flights home.

To-order omelets at resort breakfast buffet.

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Recommendations & Tips

• Make dinner reservations on the PH app as soon as you arrive since spots fill quickly. The buffet is always an option without reservations.

• The resort food was delicious but not particularly authentic Costa Rican cuisine. You will taste more local flavors on excursions.

• No Spanish required since resort staff and tour guides speak excellent English.

• Bring an insulated water bottle. Staff will happily fill it with ice water.

• Money: No need to exchange for Costa Rican colón if you follow this itinerary. USD, credit cards, Apple Pay, and PayPal were accepted everywhere I went.

• Weather in August: The Papagayo Coast is a dry tropical forest, so rain was minimal with only one quick shower during a hike. Expect mid-80s and humid.

• Booking excursions through the resort made transportation easy and stress-free.

All Inclusive meant cocktails every night!

Make reservations for all (except buffet). 
The hibachi was the hardest to get reservations for.

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Final Thoughts

This trip was exactly what I needed, a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Between poolside cocktails, sunset sails, ziplines through the rainforest, and encounters with monkeys and sloths, Costa Rica delivered on every level. Planet Hollywood made logistics effortless, so all I had to do was enjoy the pura vida lifestyle.

Interested in this adventure?  Follow me on instagram or tik tok and check out similar adventures here:

- Bahamas Cruise
- Florida Keys Trip
- Iceland Road Trip

Huttopia Southern Maine Glamping: 5 Things You Should Know Before Staying

5 things you should know before staying at Huttopia Southern Maine

This summer marked our fourth time staying at Huttopia, and our third time at their Southern Maine location. Just 30 minutes from our home, this glamping getaway has become a family tradition. If you’re considering your first Huttopia trip (or just want to know what the hype is about), here are five things every newcomer should know before booking.

1. Pack Light. They’ve Got You Covered

One of the best things about staying at Huttopia is that it feels like a hybrid between a hotel, an Airbnb, and a campground - all in the best ways. Your tent or cabin comes equipped with beds made with fresh linens, towels, dishes, soap, and even a mini-fridge and hot plate in many accommodations. The only things we brought were clothes, beach towels, food, and our favorite adventure gear like bikes and our inflatable SUP. That said, gear isn’t necessary. They rent stand-up paddleboards and canoes, e-bikes, and their Café-Bistro is fully stocked with everything from smoothies and espresso to wood-fired pizzas. You could easily show up with just a duffle bag and still enjoy a full, fun, and comfortable stay.

Bathrooms inside Trappeur Tents

Kitchenette has a fridge, dishes, sink and more.
We cooked outside on the grill that also has a burner.

Our Trappeur tent had a Queen bed "room" 
and also a side with a bunk bed that had a full size base and twin top.

2. It’s Quiet, Safe, and Perfect for Kids

Another reason we keep coming back is peace of mind. Huttopia Southern Maine is designed with family-friendliness in mind. Cars park at the main lot, and guests use wagons to bring belongings to their sites (another reason to pack light). This means no vehicle traffic in the campground, which makes it super safe for kids to ride bikes, explore independently, and meet other families. We bring our kids’ bikes every time, and they spend hours riding loops around the gravel paths. We also use walkie-talkies so they can check in from wherever they’re exploring. It’s freedom and safety in a beautifully natural setting.

In addition to lake a pool, there are hammocks, playground,
volleyball, foosball ping pong, bocce court and more.

3. Be Prepared to Get Wet

Between Sand Pond and the pool, we spent most of the weekend in swimsuits and loved every second. The sandy-bottomed lake has warm, clear water and a swim dock that draws both kids and adults. Huttopia provides free lifejackets, floaties, and pool noodles to borrow, and the pool is perfect for cooling off between adventures. This year we brought our new inflatable SUP, which we used to paddle from our lakefront tent to the swimming area. Whether you're a water bug or just want to dip your toes, you’ll definitely want to pack a swimsuit or two.

We all had a lot of pool time

The pond was warmer than the pool! 
We also spent hours here.

I brought our own inflatable SUP but
 they also rent them and canoes!

4. Let Someone Else Do the Cooking

As much as I love packing and prepping campground meals, I’ve learned to lean into the Café-Bistro more and more each year, and I’m never disappointed. This year, we treated ourselves to breakfast both mornings and enjoyed a variety of sweet and savory crepes, barista-crafted coffee drinks (Matt gives a strong thumbs-up to the cappuccino), and smoothies (our son loved the Huttocolada). Lunch paninis hit the spot, and the wood-fired pizzas available in the evening smelled heavenly. The bistro also has beer, wine, and refreshing treats like popsicles and ice cream. Next year, I might skip a dinner cookout entirely and plan for pizza night instead.

The Cafe-Bistro and lodge has wonderful food and drink options.

Breakfast - the "Tutti-Frutti" crepe!

5. You Might Not Want to Leave

When we first stayed at Huttopia, we assumed it would be a great home base for exploring local attractions. That was... optimistic. Our kids had zero interest in leaving the property, and honestly, we didn’t either. That’s part of why we now stay at the Southern Maine location. It’s close to home, and we’re happy to spend the entire stay on-site. This year, we did manage one mini-excursion - a quick 5-minute drive to the Bauneg Beg Mountain trailhead (hike posted on Seacoast Hikes). The 2-mile loop offered the perfect amount of challenge for our family and a beautiful forested summit view. If you’re itching for a beach day, Southern Maine’s coast is just a short drive away. Check out my posts on local beach spots for ideas.

5 minutes down the road - we hiked to Bauneg Beg Mountain

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re new to camping or a seasoned glamper, Huttopia Southern Maine is the perfect blend of nature and comfort. With warm lake water, kid-friendly amenities, and a relaxing atmosphere, it’s no wonder we keep coming back.

Have you stayed at a Huttopia before? Follow along on Instagram for more family-friendly adventures around New England!

You might enjoy these other similar adventures:

Ogunquit for Families

Family-Friendly Nothern White Mountain 

Kennebunk Beach Walk

5 things you should know before staying at Huttopia Southern Maine 

Chasing Lupines in Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

One of my favorite annual adventures

For years, I dreamed about visiting Sugar Hill, New Hampshire during lupine season. But between my hectic teaching schedule, the long drive from the Seacoast, and the challenge of traveling with toddlers, it just never happened.

That all changed five years ago when I finally made the trip - and I’ve returned every year since. Now, it’s one of my favorite early summer traditions. The fields of purple, pink, and white wildflowers bloom against a backdrop of mountains and barns - it’s pure New England magic.

While things have changed a bit over the years, the magic remains. Sadly, due to issues like trampling and litter, one of the main fields (Stop 2 below) restricted access last year. You could still view it from the roadside, but visitors were not allowed to walk through the field. It’s a reminder that these stunning places rely on all of us to care for them respectfully.

Thinking of making your own lupine pilgrimage? Here’s how to do it.

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Adventure: Walking through fields of lupines in Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

Getting There:

Sugar Hill is tucked into the northwestern edge of the White Mountains. From New Hampshire’s Seacoast, take I-93 North. Get off at Exit 38 and follow NH-117 toward Sugar Hill. Below are some of my favorite photo stops along the way!

When To Go:
Peak lupine season in Sugar Hill typically falls during the second week of June. Some years it's a little earlier or later depending on weather, but mid-June is a safe bet.

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 Top Photo Stops

1. Polly’s Pancake Parlor – 672 Sugar Hill Road

Across from the legendary pancake spot (worth a visit of its own!) is a lovely field of lupines framed by mountain views. The field is moderate in size, with well-trodden paths and sometimes even a white horse grazing near the barn. It's a great place to start your tour and one of the most photogenic.

Views of lupines from the field across from Pollys

It can be a long wait, but Polly's is worth it

2. Sugar Hill Road & the Stone Wall Field

A little ways up from Polly’s, you’ll spot another vibrant lupine field to your right. It was once accessible through a small opening in a stone wall, leading to narrow trails weaving through dense blooms. In recent years, however, visitors have been asked not to enter the field due to damage and misuse. You can still admire and photograph the view from the roadside, just be mindful of traffic and respectful of property lines.

Last year, visitors were not allowed to go into the field.
  I got this photo in 2021.

Respect signs!!

3. St. Matthew’s Chapel

Continue up Sugar Hill Road and you’ll find this iconic white steepled church overlooking the hills and fields below. It’s a favorite for postcard-worthy photos and well worth the stop- even if just to take it all in.

The chapel is the perfect backdrop!

4. Sunset Hill Conservation Land

Turn onto Sunset Hill Road and look for the red barn marked “Sugar Hill.” Just beyond is a conservation area with a wide lupine field and sweeping mountain views. The blooms here are a bit more spaced out, but the scenery is spectacular.

The red barn is the perfect backdrop!

The final stop gives mountain views behind the flowers!

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Tips for a Great Visit

• Respect the flowers and land – Stick to existing paths and resist the urge to create new ones. Trampling harms the plants and ruins the experience for others.

• Weekdays are best – For a quieter experience, aim for a weekday morning. Weekends can be crowded, especially during peak bloom.

• There are no restrooms – Plan accordingly!

• Be kind to other visitors – Wait your turn for the perfect photo, and try not to photobomb someone’s shot.

Some years I go with friends but others I've brought my kids

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Add-On Adventure:

After photographing the lupines, consider a nearby hike. One of my favorites is the short but rewarding climb up Bald Mountain from the Mt. Kinsman Trailhead, just a five-minute drive away.

Bald Mountain hike add on makes it a perfect day!

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Sugar Hill in bloom is truly something special. I’m so grateful I finally made the trip—and even more grateful that it’s now a beloved yearly tradition. Whether you're an avid photographer or just want to bask in early summer beauty, a visit to Sugar Hill during lupine season is sure to be unforgettable.

Visit Sugar Hill in New Hampshire for gorgeous flower viewing!

Follow along on Instagram at @FreelanceAdventurer or on Facebook at The Freelance Adventurer for more New England hikes, photo spots, and outdoor adventures!

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My original Sugar Hill Lupine Post

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