Somersworth, New Hampshire: 10 Fun and Unique Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Somersworth, New Hampshire (Strafford County)

If you’re planning a trip to Somersworth, New Hampshire, or you just moved to the area, you might be wondering: “What is there to do around here?” Good news: Somersworth sits in a great spot in Strafford County, close to charming small towns, the New Hampshire seacoast, and even southern Maine. You can enjoy history, hiking, outlet shopping, breweries, and peaceful river walks, all within a short drive. Below are 10 fun things to do in and around Somersworth, NH that work well for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

1. Stroll Downtown Somersworth & the Historic Mills

You don’t have to go far for your first stop — just head into downtown Somersworth. Somersworth grew up as a classic New England mill town along the Salmon Falls River. While the mills no longer run like they used to, the brick buildings and river views give the downtown area a cozy, historic feel.
  • Walk Main Street and Market Street for local shops and cafés.
  • Check out the old mill buildings near the river — they make great backdrops for photos.
  • Pop into a local bakery or coffee shop and people‑watch for a bit.
If you like photography, try visiting around sunset. The warm light on the old brick buildings really brings the town’s history to life.

2. Shop, Dine, and Play at Tri-City Plaza & Local Spots

Somersworth is part of the “Tri-City” area with Dover and Rochester, so you’ll find plenty of modern conveniences mixed in with small-town charm. Near Route 108, you’ll find plazas and shopping areas where you can:
  • Grab a casual meal at local restaurants and diners.
  • Pick up outdoor gear, clothing, or essentials.
  • Enjoy a relaxed evening out without driving far.
While it’s not a “tourist attraction” in the traditional sense, these local spots are perfect if you’re staying nearby and want easy options for food, errands, or a low-key night out.

3. Cross the River to Berwick, Maine

One fun thing about Somersworth is how close it is to southern Maine. In just a few minutes you can be in another state. Head over the bridge across the Salmon Falls River into Berwick, Maine:
  • Walk along the river and enjoy quiet views.
  • Check out local cafés and small shops.
  • Explore peaceful back roads for a scenic drive.
It’s a simple little side trip, but crossing state lines for a quick coffee or walk along the river somehow makes the day feel more like an adventure.

4. Spend an Afternoon in Downtown Dover, NH

About a 10–15 minute drive from Somersworth, Dover is one of the liveliest small cities in Strafford County. It’s a great place to spend a full afternoon or evening. Some ideas in Dover:
  • Walk along Central Avenue and the downtown streets for boutiques and restaurants.
  • Enjoy a meal at one of the many pubs, cafés, or pizza spots.
  • Check out seasonal events and farmers markets.
Dover has that sweet spot feel: big enough to have energy and options, but small enough to still feel local and friendly.

5. Visit the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (Dover)

Traveling with kids? Put this one near the top of your list. The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire in Dover is a short drive from Somersworth and offers:
  • Hands-on exhibits that let kids climb, build, and explore.
  • STEM-focused activities that sneak in learning while they play.
  • Indoor fun, perfect for rainy or cold days.
It’s an easy half-day trip, and adults will appreciate having a comfortable, well-run space where kids can burn off energy and use their imaginations.

6. Hunt for Deals at the Kittery Outlets (About 25–30 Minutes Away)

If you enjoy shopping, take a quick ride east from Somersworth to Kittery, Maine, known for its long stretch of outlet stores. At the Kittery Outlets
  • Score deals on clothing, shoes, and outdoor gear.
  • Browse popular name brands and specialty shops.
  • Grab lunch at one of the nearby restaurants.
    • It’s a nice day trip if you want a mix of shopping and exploring the nearby seacoast. You can easily pair this with a stop in Portsmouth or a walk along the coast.

    7. Explore Historic Portsmouth and the New Hampshire Seacoast

    One of the biggest perks of staying in Somersworth is how quickly you can reach the New Hampshire seacoast. In around 30–35 minutes, you can be in Portsmouth, one of the most charming small cities in New England. In Portsmouth, you can:
    • Wander the brick-lined streets and harbor area.
    • Shop in unique boutiques and local bookstores.
    • Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
    • Walk along the water and watch the boats go by.
    If you like history, look into guided walking tours or historic house museums. The city’s been around since the 1600s, and you can feel it in the architecture and narrow streets.

    8. Relax Outdoors at Bellamy River Wildlife Sanctuary or Local Trails

    If you’re craving some nature, you don’t have to go far from Somersworth to find quiet trails and water views. A short drive toward Dover and nearby towns brings you to spots like:
    • Bellamy River Wildlife Sanctuary (Dover area) – easy trails, peaceful marsh and river views, and good birdwatching.
    • Local conservation lands and town forests with short walking paths.
    These are great places for:
    • Casual walks and light hikes.
    • Photography and wildlife spotting.
    • Simple “get some fresh air” breaks in your day.
    If you’re visiting in fall, the foliage around Strafford County can be stunning, with bright reds, oranges, and yellows along the trails and back roads.

    9. Enjoy Breweries and Casual Nightlife Around the Tri-City Area

    The Somersworth–Dover–Rochester region has become a comfortable little pocket for local breweries, pubs, and casual nightlife. While the exact spots change over time, you can usually find:
    • Craft breweries with tasting rooms.
    • Pubs serving local beer and comfort food.
    • Live music nights and trivia events.
    If you like to sample local flavors, this is a fun way to get a feel for the area. Ask locals or your hotel for up-to-date suggestions — they’ll often point you to hidden gems you might not find in a quick online search.

    10. Take a Scenic Drive Around Strafford County’s Lakes & Back Roads

    Sometimes the best thing to do in New Hampshire is simply… drive. From Somersworth, you can head out on a scenic drive through Strafford County and nearby towns:
    • Roll through farmland, forests, and classic white-steeple villages.
    • Stop at local farm stands for fresh produce in season.
    • Visit nearby lakes and ponds for a picnic or a quick swim in summer.
    If you’re visiting in October, this can turn into a classic New England foliage tour, with colorful leaves framing every winding road.

    Final Tips for Visiting Somersworth, NH

    Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your time in and around Somersworth:
    • Have a car if you can. Many of the best things to do are within a 15–35 minute drive.
    • Plan around the seasons. Summer and fall are great for outdoor activities and scenic drives; winter brings a quieter, cozy feel.
    • Mix it up. Combine small-town exploring in Somersworth with day trips to Dover, Portsmouth, and coastal Maine.
    Somersworth may not be a big name on the travel map, but that’s part of its charm. It gives you a relaxed home base with easy access to rivers, history, seacoast towns, and plenty of local flavor.

    What Would You Add to This Somersworth Travel Guide?

    Have you spent time in Somersworth, New Hampshire or elsewhere in Strafford County?
    • Do you have a favorite local restaurant?
    • Is there a hidden trail, shop, or viewpoint you love?
    • Any tips for visiting with kids or during winter?
    Share your experiences and suggestions in the comments — your local knowledge can help other travelers plan a better trip. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family
    Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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