10 Fun Things To Do Near Rochester, New Hampshire (Strafford County)
Looking for things to do in and around
Rochester, New Hampshire? You’re in the right place. This friendly city in Strafford County sits in a sweet spot: close to the Seacoast, an easy drive to the mountains, and packed with its own local charm.
Whether you live in the area or you’re planning a New England getaway, here are
10 fun things to do near Rochester, NH that offer a mix of outdoors, history, food, and family fun.
1. Catch a Show at the Rochester Opera House
Right in downtown Rochester, the
Rochester Opera House is one of the city’s true gems. Built in the early 1900s, it combines historic charm with lively modern shows.
You can see:
- Plays and musicals
- Comedy nights
- Live music and concerts
- Kids’ performances and school shows
The theater itself is beautiful, with old-style details you don’t see much anymore. If you enjoy small-town arts with big-time talent, this is worth planning a night around.
Tip:
Check the schedule ahead of time and book tickets early for weekend shows. Parking is usually easy to find within a short walk.
2. Stroll, Skate, or Picnic at the Rochester Common
The
Rochester Common is the kind of classic New England town green you see on postcards. It’s a simple spot, but that’s what makes it nice.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Walk the paths and relax on a bench
- Let the kids run on the grass or playground
- Enjoy outdoor events and festivals
- Go ice skating in winter when the rink is open
Pack a sandwich, grab a coffee from a nearby café, and enjoy some low-key time in the heart of Rochester. If you’re visiting in December, the Common decorated with lights feels straight out of a holiday movie.
3. Step Back in Time at the Rochester Historical Society Museum
If you like local history, the
Rochester Historical Society is a great way to learn how this Strafford County city grew over the years.
Inside the museum, you’ll find:
- Old photos and maps of Rochester
- Vintage clothing, tools, and everyday items
- Displays on local businesses and mills
- Stories from longtime Rochester families
It’s not a huge place, but that’s part of the charm. You can take your time and actually look at everything instead of racing through. It’s a nice rainy-day option and a good way to appreciate the city beyond what you see driving through.
4. Shop and Snack Your Way Through Downtown Rochester
One of the best things to do near Rochester, NH is simply to explore its
downtown district on foot. The area has been growing and improving, with new spots opening alongside longtime local favorites.
You can:
- Browse antiques, collectibles, and thrift shops
- Check out local art and handmade goods
- Grab coffee, ice cream, or baked treats
- Enjoy a casual lunch or dinner at a local restaurant
If you like to people-watch, sit by a window with a drink and just soak in the small-city energy. On weekends, you might bump into a sidewalk sale, live music, or a community event.
5. Hit the Trails at Blue Job Mountain (Just Outside Town)
If you’re up for a short drive and a bit of a workout,
Blue Job Mountain in nearby Farmington is one of the best outdoor things to do near Rochester.
The hike is:
- Relatively short (many people finish in under 2 hours)
- Moderate in difficulty, good for families with active kids
- Rewarding, with wide views at the top
On a clear day, you can see rolling hills and distant peaks. In the fall, the foliage is incredible—like someone spilled a giant box of crayons over the forest.
Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and don’t forget a light jacket if it’s breezy. The trail is popular but usually not crowded like some of the bigger New Hampshire peaks.
6. Explore Nearby Dover: Children’s Museum & Riverfront
Just down the road in
Dover, NH (about 20–25 minutes from Rochester), you’ll find more fun things to do in Strafford County.
Two favorites:
- Children’s Museum of New Hampshire – Hands-on exhibits, water play areas, art projects, and science displays. Great for kids 10 and under.
- Dover riverfront – Walk along the Cochecho River, enjoy public art, and stop for a bite at one of the local cafés or restaurants.
If you’re visiting Rochester with kids, a half-day in Dover pairs nicely with a quieter evening back in town.
7. Go Apple Picking (or Berry Picking) at a Local Farm
One of the most classic New England things to do near Rochester, NH is
apple picking in the fall. The countryside around Rochester and across Strafford County is dotted with farms and orchards.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Pick apples, blueberries, or strawberries
- Try fresh cider and cider donuts
- Visit farm stands for local honey and produce
- Meet farm animals (a big hit with little kids)
Many farms are just a short drive from Rochester. Fall weekends do get busy, but it adds to the festive feel—hayrides, pumpkins, and plenty of flannel.
8. Take a Scenic Drive to the New Hampshire Seacoast
One of Rochester’s best perks is how close it is to the water. In about 30–40 minutes, you can be on the
New Hampshire Seacoast, especially around Portsmouth and Rye.
From Rochester, plan a:
- Day trip to Portsmouth for shops, cobblestone streets, and great food
- Beach walk at Wallis Sands or Rye Harbor
- Harbor cruise or whale watch (in season)
Think of Rochester as your budget-friendly base, and the seacoast as your quick escape. You get small-city prices with easy access to ocean views—pretty nice combo.
9. Visit Salmon Falls River & Explore the Rochester–Somersworth–Berwick Area
The
Salmon Falls River runs along the New Hampshire–Maine border, not far from Rochester. It’s a scenic area with old mill buildings, small bridges, and spots to walk, fish, or just enjoy the water.
In this area you can:
- Explore nearby Somersworth’s growing downtown
- Check out Berwick, Maine, just across the river
- Snap photos of historic mills and river views
It’s not a flashy tourist zone, but that’s what makes it feel real. If you like discovering places that don’t feel overrun, this cross-border corner is worth a slow afternoon.
10. Experience Seasonal Events and Festivals in Rochester & Strafford County
If you time your visit right, you can catch some of the fun
seasonal events near Rochester, NH. Throughout the year, the city and surrounding towns host:
- Summer concerts and outdoor movies
- Fairs and craft shows
- Holiday parades and tree lightings
- Car shows and food truck events
These events are great if you want to feel like a local for a day. You’ll see families, teens, and older residents all enjoying the same space—that’s small-city New Hampshire at its best.
Before your trip, check city and county calendars so you don’t miss anything.
Planning Your Visit to Rochester, New Hampshire
Here’s a quick recap of
things to do in and around Rochester, NH:
- Enjoy live entertainment at the Rochester Opera House
- Relax at the Rochester Common
- Learn local history at the Historical Society
- Shop and dine downtown
- Hike Blue Job Mountain
- Spend a family day in nearby Dover
- Pick apples and berries at local farms
- Road-trip to the New Hampshire Seacoast
- Explore the Salmon Falls River area
- Join in on seasonal festivals and events
Rochester may not be the loudest spot on the New England map, but that’s exactly why many people love it. It offers a relaxed pace, friendly faces, and easy access to some of the best parts of New Hampshire.
Share Your Rochester, NH Experience
Have you spent time in
Rochester or Strafford County?
- What was your favorite thing to do near Rochester, NH?
- Did you discover a hidden gem I didn’t mention?
Drop your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories and suggestions.
And if you know someone planning a trip to New Hampshire,
share this post with them to help them plan their own Rochester adventure.
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