10 Best Things To Do Near Nashua, New Hampshire for Visitors

on

10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Nashua, New Hampshire

Looking for a fun New England getaway that’s easy to reach from Boston, Manchester, or even southern Maine? Nashua, New Hampshire, in Hillsborough County, is a great choice. It’s big enough to have great restaurants, parks, and shopping, but still has that small-city New England charm. If you’re planning a day trip or a long weekend, here are 10 things to do in and around Nashua that locals and visitors both love.

1. Stroll, Shop, and Eat Your Way Through Downtown Nashua

If you want to get a feel for the city, start in Downtown Nashua. Main Street is very walkable, and you can easily spend a few hours here. You’ll find:
  • Independent shops selling gifts, books, and local art
  • Cozy coffee spots and bakeries—perfect for a lazy morning
  • Plenty of restaurants and bars, from casual pizza joints to nicer date-night spots
If you like little surprises, pay attention to the alleys and side streets. Some are decorated with murals and fun window displays. Tip: Come in the late afternoon, grab a coffee, wander a bit, then stay for dinner and drinks. Parking garages downtown make it easy to leave your car and explore on foot.

2. Get Outside at Mine Falls Park

Mine Falls Park is one of Nashua’s best-known spots, and for good reason. It’s a huge green space—about 325 acres—right in the city. Here, you can:
  • Walk or run along miles of easy trails
  • Bike along the canal and river
  • Enjoy peaceful views of the Nashua River
  • Watch wildlife like ducks, herons, and turtles
The trails are mostly flat, so they’re great for families with kids or anyone who just wants a relaxing walk. On a fall afternoon, with the leaves changing, it feels like you’re far away from the city—even though you’re just a few minutes from downtown. Local-style idea: Grab takeout downtown, then bring it to the park for an easy picnic.

3. Bike or Walk the Nashua River Rail Trail

If you enjoy longer rides or walks, the Nashua River Rail Trail is a must. This paved trail starts right in Nashua and runs almost 12 miles down into Massachusetts. You can:
  • Ride your bike at your own pace on a mostly flat path
  • Rollerblade or push a stroller without worrying about traffic
  • Enjoy scenic views of ponds, woods, and wetlands
It feels like a quiet corridor through nature. On busy weekends, you’ll see families, serious cyclists, and casual walkers all sharing the trail. Tip: Bring water and maybe a light snack—there aren’t many places to stop once you’re on the trail.

4. Explore Greeley Park, a Classic Nashua Hangout

Greeley Park is one of those old-school city parks that locals grow up with. It’s a simple, relaxing spot on Concord Street, but it’s packed with charm. You’ll find:
  • Wide grassy areas for picnics and tossing a frisbee
  • A playground for kids
  • Walking paths and shady trees
  • An outdoor stage where the city hosts events in summer
If you’re traveling with family, this is an easy, low-stress way to let kids run around while you unwind. In the summer, you may stumble onto a concert, festival, or community event without even planning it.

5. Visit Merrimack Premium Outlets (Just a Short Drive Away)

If you’re in the Nashua area, chances are you’re also thinking about tax-free shopping. Just up the road in Merrimack, the Merrimack Premium Outlets are a popular stop. Expect:
  • Brand-name stores with outlet prices
  • Plenty of clothing, footwear, and accessories
  • Easy parking and food options on-site
It’s only about a 10–15 minute drive from Nashua, depending on traffic, and pairs nicely with lunch or dinner back in the city. Pro tip: Go earlier in the day on weekends. It can get busy, especially during holidays and back-to-school season.

6. Step Back in Time at Nashua’s Historic Mill District

Like many New England towns, Nashua has an industrial past. The old brick mill buildings along the river tell that story. Today, many of these mills have been turned into:
  • Loft-style apartments
  • Offices and studios
  • Small businesses and restaurants
Even just walking around the old mill area gives you a sense of Nashua’s history as a mill town. The combination of brick, water, and old bridges makes for some great photos, especially at sunset. If you enjoy local history, look for plaques or small signs that explain how the mills once powered the region’s economy.

7. Enjoy Family Fun at FunWorld or Altitude Trampoline Park

Traveling with kids or teens and need to burn off some energy? Nashua has several indoor fun spots that are perfect on rainy or cold days. Two popular options:
  • FunWorld – A classic family entertainment center with arcade games, rides, and play areas.
  • Altitude Trampoline Park – Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball areas.
These are great choices if:
  • The weather isn’t cooperating
  • You need a break from sightseeing
  • Your kids have been stuck in the car too long
Note: Check hours and any age restrictions before you go. Weekends and school vacations can be busy, so going early usually helps.

8. Taste Nashua’s Food and Craft Beer Scene

For a mid-sized city, Nashua has a surprisingly strong food and drink scene. Whether you’re into burgers, sushi, or something fancier, you’ll find it here. Look for:
  • Local breweries and taprooms with craft beers and fun, laid-back atmospheres
  • Cafés and bakeries perfect for a slow weekend morning
  • Ethnic restaurants—everything from Thai and Indian to Mexican and Italian
If you’re staying overnight, try planning a mini “food tour”:
  • Coffee and a pastry in the morning
  • Lunch at a casual spot downtown
  • Drinks and dinner at a brewery or bistro in the evening
Ask your server for a “local favorite” dish or beer; people in Nashua are usually happy to share their go-to picks.

9. Take a Day Trip to Milford or Peterborough

One of the great things about Nashua is its location in southern New Hampshire. You can use it as a base and explore more of Hillsborough County with short drives. Two charming towns nearby:
  • Milford (about 20 minutes away) – Visit the town oval, antique shops, and riverside walks.
  • Peterborough (about 45 minutes away) – A postcard-perfect New England town with boutiques, galleries, and cafés.
These towns are especially beautiful in the fall, when the foliage turns bright red, orange, and yellow. But they’re also great year-round for slow-paced exploring and photos.

10. Enjoy Seasonal Events and Festivals

Nashua and the surrounding area host a variety of seasonal events that bring the community together. Depending on when you visit, you might find:
  • Summer concerts in local parks
  • Farmers markets with fresh local produce and handmade goods
  • Holiday events and light displays in winter
  • Fairs and festivals celebrating food, music, or local culture
These events are great chances to meet locals, try regional foods, and see Nashua at its most lively. Before your trip, check the city’s event calendars or local tourism sites to see what’s going on.

Planning Your Nashua, NH Getaway

Nashua is easy to reach from many parts of New England. It’s roughly:
  • About 45 minutes from Boston (depending on traffic)
  • About 20–25 minutes from Manchester, NH
Because it’s close to highways, you can easily combine Nashua with other nearby destinations—like the New Hampshire lakes region or the White Mountains—if you’re on a longer trip. Whether you’re:
  • Looking for a relaxed weekend with parks and good food
  • Traveling with kids and want family-friendly things to do
  • Just crossing the border for some tax-free shopping
…Nashua, New Hampshire offers a nice mix of city comfort and New England charm.

What Would You Add to This List?

Have you spent time in Nashua, NH or elsewhere in Hillsborough County?
  • What are your favorite things to do in Nashua?
  • Do you have a go-to restaurant, park, or secret spot?
Share your tips in the comments—your local knowledge can help other travelers plan a better trip. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are planning a visit to New Hampshire. It might inspire their next weekend escape.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment