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.
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| View from the pool in front of our room at East Hill Farm in Troy, NH |
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| 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.
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| 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.
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| Mt Monadnock is a challenging, yet rewarding climb. |
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| 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.
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| 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:
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Stay at East Hill Farm – a perfect mix of farm fun, activities, and relaxation for families.
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Hike Mount Monadnock – best for older kids who can handle a moderately challenging hike.
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Swim at Ware’s Grove Beach – sandy shores, playground, and clear lake water.
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Bike the Keene Rail Trail – flat and family-friendly, great for all ages.
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Visit Keene Bike Park – a fun spot for kids on bikes or scooters.
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Explore downtown Keene – from live music on the green to shops and kid-approved eats like Fritz and YOLO Café.
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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!
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Swimming at Ware's Grove Beach was a big hit. .jpeg)
We could have easily spent a week at East Hill Farm - so many activities!
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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
