New Hampshire (NH) Museums and Galleries in Merrimack Valley

America's Stonehenge

105 Haverhill Road Salem, NH, 03079 Phone: 603-893-8300

The hidden truths of America, right in your backyard

Did other Europeans with knowledge of astronomy and stone construction reach North America a thousand years or more ahead of Columbus? Some say they came and left evidence of their visits -- megaliths and stone chambers -- throughout New England. You can explore one of the largest collections of artifacts at America's Stonehenge in Salem, New Hampshire. Some believe the site includes a stone astronomical calendar, like the one found at Stonehenge. A video in our museum gives you all the background you'll need. Then it's time to hit the half-mile trail through the pine forest to see for yourself. Along the way you may meet a few alpacas who share the property. Don't worry -- they're gentle creatures who enjoy greeting visitors.

Canterbury Shaker Village

288 Shaker Road Canterbury, NH, 03224 Phone: 603-783-9511

National Historic Landmark Celebrates the Shakers

The Shaker religious sect is considered by many historians to be the most successful communitarian society in America. This beautiful outdoor museum and National Historic Landmark was once home to 300 Shakers. Today, expert tour guides share the story of the Shakers’ 200-year history on this site and their beliefs in simple living, gender equality, pacifism, and work as worship. Explore the architecture and collections in the Village’s 25 restored historic buildings, learn about Shaker inventiveness and industry, and explore 700 acres including organic gardens, orchards, and scenic mill pond. See craft demonstrations of oval box making, letterpress printing, and broom making. Enjoy a simple lunch at the Horse Barn Cafe and shop New Hampshire’s premier store for Shaker reproductions. Richly authentic, Canterbury Shaker Village is a place for learning, reflection and renewal of the human spirit.

Currier Museum of Art

150 Ash Street Manchester, NH, 03104 Phone: 603-669-6144

The Currier Museum of Art offers permanent collection of European and American artists, decorative arts, photographs and sculpture. Among the artists featured at the Currier at Wyeth, Monet, Picasso, and Georgia O’Keefe. The museum takes visitors on of the nearby Zimmerman House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Many fascinating changing exhibits run throughout the year. Hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission: Adults, $12, seniors, $10, students, $9; youth age 13-17, $5

Museum Complex - Bear Brook State Park

Route 28 Allenstown, NH Phone: 603-485-2034

The museum complex at this park ilncludes the New Hampshire Antique Snowmobile Museum, Museum of Family Camping, Old Allenstown Meeting House, and the Richard Diehl Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Museum. Most of the museums are housed in historic CCC buildings. Open: Various hours throughout the summer Information: http://www.nhstateparks.com/bearbrook.html

McAuliffe–Shepard Discovery Center

2 Institute Drive Concord, NH, 03301 Phone: 603-271-7827

This space exploration center and memorial to astronaut Alan B. Shepard and teacher Sharon Christa McAuliffe is filled with exhibits and activities about space exploration.

Museum of New Hampshire History

6 Eagle Square Concord, NH, 03301 Phone: 603-226-3189

Interactive and detailed museum exhibits tell visitors about the history of the Granite State, its indigenous peoples, and colonial settlers. The museum has a store. Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.; July-October 15 and all of December, additional hours on Monday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Adults, $5.50; seniors, $4.50; children age 6-18, $3. Information: www.nhhistory.org/museum.html

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Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee

Great North Woods

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Monadnock

Seacoast