Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Bow to Salem, New Hampshire
Are you planning a road trip from Bow to Salem, New Hampshire? Well, you're in luck! There are plenty of fascinating museums, beautiful parks, and historic landmarks on this route that are worth exploring. In this article, we'll highlight the top five places to visit and recommend a point of interest with each stop.
Did you know that the distance between Bow and Salem is approximately 61 miles? It takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete the journey, assuming there is no traffic. The route will take you through scenic New Hampshire landscapes, charming small towns, and several tourist attractions.
Halfway through the trip, you will come across Derry, New Hampshire, also known as "Spacetown, USA." The town has a rich history in the American space program, and it's worth taking a quick break to explore Space Town Museum, which showcases Derry's connections to space exploration.
The trip from Bow to Salem is relatively short, but there are still plenty of places to stop and explore along the way. Here are the top five:
1. New Hampshire State House, Concord, NH
The New Hampshire State House, located in Concord, NH, is one of the most visited landmarks in the state. It's the oldest state capitol building in the country that has housed the state government continuously since its completion in 1819. The building's golden dome is a major attraction, and visitors can take a guided tour of the Capitol building and visit the Statehouse Museum, which features paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the Hall of Flags, which houses 115 battle flags carried by New Hampshire soldiers in various conflicts dating back to the Civil War.
2. Canterbury Shaker Village, Canterbury, NH
Canterbury Shaker Village is a historic village that preserves the heritage of the Shakers, a religious community that settled in the area in the late 1700s. The village comprises 25 restored buildings, including the Meetinghouse, the Dwelling House, and the School House. Visitors can take a guided tour, attend workshops, or visit the museum to learn about the Shaker culture, crafts, and way of life.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the Shaker Store, which sells handcrafted items such as baskets, furniture, and textiles made by local artisans.
3. America's Stonehenge, Salem, NH
America's Stonehenge is a mysterious archeological site located in Salem, NH. The site consists of a network of stone chambers, stone walls, and standing stones arranged in an astronomical alignment. The origins and purpose of the site remain a mystery, although some theories suggest that it was built by ancient Europeans or pre-Columbian explorers. Visitors can explore the site on a self-guided tour, watch a video presentation, or attend special events.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the Oracle Chamber, a rectangular chamber with an entrance guarded by a massive stone slab. The chamber is believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes.
4. Canobie Lake Park, Salem, NH
Canobie Lake Park is a family-friendly amusement park located in Salem, NH. The park features over 85 rides, games, and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and kiddie rides. Visitors can also enjoy live shows, arcade games, and dining options. The park is open from May to October and offers special events and fireworks shows.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the Yankee Cannonball, a wooden roller coaster that has been thrilling visitors since 1936.
5. Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Salem, MA
Salem Maritime National Historic Site is a historical park located in Salem, MA, known for its rich maritime history. The park includes several historic structures, including the Derby House, the Custom House, and the Friendship of Salem, a replica of a 1797 merchant ship. Visitors can take a guided tour of the buildings, watch demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills, or attend special events.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Don't miss the Maritime Museum, which features exhibits about Salem's seafaring past, including ship models, navigational instruments, and clothing.
In conclusion, a road trip from Bow to Salem, New Hampshire, is a short but rewarding journey that offers plenty of opportunities to explore New England's history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in museums, parks, or landmarks, you're sure to find something that suits your tastes. The trip takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, but we recommend taking your time to enjoy each stop along the way. Happy travels!