Lebanon, New Hampshire (Grafton County): 10 Unforgettable Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Lebanon, New Hampshire (Grafton County)

Looking for a laid‑back New England getaway? Lebanon, New Hampshire, in Grafton County, is a small city with big charm. It sits right on the Vermont border, just off I‑89, making it an easy road trip from Boston, Portland, or even New York. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, visiting Dartmouth, or just passing through the Upper Valley, there’s a lot more to do here than you might expect. Below are 10 things to do in and around Lebanon, NH that showcase nature, local food, arts, and classic New England scenery.

1. Stroll, Bike, or Ski the Northern Rail Trail

If you like easy walks or bike rides, the Northern Rail Trail is a must‑do. It’s one of New Hampshire’s longest rail trails and passes right through the Lebanon area.
  • Crushed-stone path, mostly flat
  • Perfect for bikes, strollers, and casual walkers
  • Great for cross‑country skiing and snowshoeing in winter
You can hop on the trail from several access points near downtown Lebanon. In fall, the foliage along the trail is stunning—bright reds, oranges, and yellows lining both sides like a tunnel of color. If you prefer a short outing, just walk a mile or two out and back. Want more? You can ride for miles toward Enfield and beyond. Pack a snack, bring water, and enjoy a peaceful slice of the Upper Valley.

2. Catch a Show at the Lebanon Opera House

Right in the center of town, the historic Lebanon Opera House is the cultural heart of the city. Don’t let the word “opera” scare you off—it hosts all kinds of events:
  • Live music and concerts
  • Comedy shows
  • Community theater and dance performances
  • Family shows and kids’ events
The building itself has that classic New England town‑hall feel. If you’re planning a trip, check their online calendar before you go. You might catch a touring band, a local play, or even a film screening. I once ducked into a last‑minute show here on a rainy night and ended up seeing a great folk duo I’d never heard of before. It turned a washed‑out evening into a highlight of the trip.

3. Picnic and Play at Colburn Park (Downtown Lebanon)

Looking for something low‑key and easy? Colburn Park, right in downtown Lebanon, is a classic New England town green. You’ll find:
  • Open grassy areas perfect for picnics
  • Benches for people‑watching
  • Seasonal events, markets, and concerts
  • A charming small‑town vibe
On a sunny afternoon, grab coffee or a sandwich from a nearby café, spread out a blanket, and just relax. In the summer, the park often hosts Lebanon Farmers’ Market days with local produce, baked goods, and crafts. It’s a great spot to get a feel for everyday life in Lebanon.

4. Explore the AVA Gallery and Art Center

If you enjoy local art, don’t miss the AVA Gallery and Art Center, just a short walk from Colburn Park. This non‑profit art space showcases work from regional artists, and the exhibits change regularly. Inside you’ll find:
  • Rotating art exhibitions (paintings, sculpture, photography, and more)
  • Workshops and classes for adults and kids
  • Occasional talks and special events
Even if you’re not usually a “museum person,” the gallery is small, friendly, and easy to enjoy. It’s a nice indoor option on a rainy day, and it gives you a deeper sense of the creative community in the Upper Valley.

5. Take a Scenic Drive to Hanover & Dartmouth College

Just about 10–15 minutes from Lebanon, you’ll find Hanover, NH, home of Dartmouth College. It’s an easy and beautiful drive, especially in fall. Once you arrive:
  • Stroll around the Dartmouth Green and classic red‑brick campus
  • Browse shops and cafés in downtown Hanover
  • Visit the Hood Museum of Art (often free entry)
  • Walk down to the Connecticut River for a peaceful view
Hanover has that quintessential college‑town energy—students on bikes, bookstores, ice cream shops, and cozy spots to grab a coffee. If you’re traveling with teens who are starting to think about colleges, this can be a fun and inspiring side trip.

6. Go Hiking at Mink Brook or Boston Lot Lake

You don’t have to drive far from Lebanon to get on a trail. Two popular nearby spots are:
  • Mink Brook Nature Preserve – A gentle network of trails with forest, stream views, and peaceful walking paths.
  • Boston Lot Lake – A bit more of a hike, but still very doable for most people with moderate fitness.
Boston Lot, in particular, feels like a hidden gem. The trail climbs up from the road and then opens to a quiet lake tucked into the hills. It’s the kind of place where you can sit on a rock by the water and hear nothing but birds and wind in the trees. Tip: Trails can be muddy in spring, so sturdy shoes help. In fall, the foliage around the lake is picture‑perfect.

7. Head to Quechee Gorge (“Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon”)

Just across the border in Vermont, about a 20–25 minute drive from Lebanon, sits Quechee Gorge—one of the most famous natural attractions in the area. From the bridge, you can look down into a deep, rocky gorge carved by the Ottauquechee River. Want to stretch your legs?
  • Walk the short trail down to the river
  • Explore nearby Quechee State Park
  • Grab ice cream or snacks from roadside stands in season
The views change with every season:
  • Summer: Lush green and cool water below
  • Fall: Brilliant foliage all around the gorge
  • Winter: Snowy, dramatic, and much quieter
It’s a simple side trip that adds a big scenic “wow” factor to your Lebanon, NH visit.

8. Visit the Montshire Museum of Science (Great for Kids)

If you’re traveling with kids—or you just like hands‑on learning—the Montshire Museum of Science in Norwich, Vermont (about 10–15 minutes from Lebanon) is fantastic. Inside and outside the museum, you’ll find:
  • Interactive science exhibits (touch, build, experiment)
  • Water and bubble stations that are a hit with younger children
  • Nature trails behind the museum along the Connecticut River
It’s the kind of place where kids can run around, press buttons, and actually learn something without realizing it. Plan at least a couple of hours here, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.

9. Taste Local Flavors: Breweries, Cider, and Farm Stands

The Upper Valley around Lebanon is quietly building a great food and drink scene. While places come and go, you’ll usually find:
  • Local breweries pouring craft beers, often with casual food menus
  • Cideries and wineries within a short drive offering tastings
  • Seasonal farm stands with fresh apples, maple syrup, jams, and baked goods
If you enjoy trying regional flavors, ask locals or your hotel for their favorite nearby brewery or farm stand. In the fall, a perfect Lebanon‑area afternoon might look like:
  • Morning hike or rail trail walk
  • Afternoon stop at a local brewery or cidery
  • Heading back to town for dinner and a show at the Lebanon Opera House

10. Enjoy Seasonal Events: Farmers’ Markets, Foliage, and Winter Fun

One of the best things about visiting Lebanon, New Hampshire is how different it feels in each season. In spring and summer:
  • Lebanon Farmers’ Market with local produce and crafts
  • Outdoor concerts and community events at Colburn Park
  • Kayaking or paddling on nearby lakes and the Connecticut River
In fall:
  • Incredible foliage on every back road and hillside
  • Apple picking and pumpkin patches at nearby farms
  • Scenic drives toward Hanover, Enfield, and Quechee
In winter:
  • Cross‑country skiing on the Northern Rail Trail
  • Nearby downhill ski areas (within about 30–45 minutes’ drive)
  • Cozy cafés and restaurants to warm up after a cold day outside
If you like that Hallmark‑movie winter feel—snow, lights, and small‑town charm—Lebanon and the surrounding Grafton County area deliver.

Planning Your Trip to Lebanon, NH

Here are a few quick tips before you go:
  • Getting there: Lebanon is right off I‑89 near the Vermont border, and there’s even a small regional airport nearby.
  • Getting around: You’ll definitely want a car to explore Grafton County and nearby towns like Hanover, Norwich, and Quechee.
  • How long to stay: A weekend is perfect for a taste of the area, but you could easily fill 3–4 days, especially if you like hiking and day trips.
Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, local culture, or just slow, scenic drives, Lebanon makes a great base for exploring the Upper Valley region of New Hampshire and Vermont.

What Would You Add to This Lebanon, NH List?

Have you visited Lebanon, New Hampshire or the surrounding Grafton County area?
  • What was your favorite thing to do near Lebanon?
  • Did you find a hidden‑gem hiking trail, café, or viewpoint?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips. And if you found this guide useful, please share it with a friend or on your social media. It might be the push someone needs to discover this underrated corner of New England.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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