Keene

The Monadnock Region, named after the mountain that serves as the backdrop to numerous views of southern New Hampshire, is where Keene is located. The following rural communities are located close to Keene: Fitzwilliam, Jaffrey Center, Harrisville (stop at Harrisville Designs for dreamy knitting yarns), Hancock (The Hancock Inn is the state's oldest continuously operating inn), and Walpole (home of Burdick's Chocolates).

The stores and restaurants that give downtown Keene its busy atmosphere are located on the street floors of elegant brick commercial buildings that are maintained in excellent condition. An Industrial Heritage Trail, a bike and walking trail with signs highlighting the city's manufacturing history, runs through the center of Keene. After passing one of Swanzey's five covered bridges, the trail continues in a north-south direction for several miles. You can find murals depicting significant events and people in local history on the sides of buildings near the trail and in other parts of the downtown.

The Horatio Colony House Museum on Main Street preserves the 1806 Federal home of a well-traveled collector. This museum is more entertaining than the classic old museum because of Colony's eccentric nature and his quirky collections. Visit the Wyman Tavern, which is located further down Main Street and is still furnished as it was in 1775 when Minutemen gathered there to march to the Battle of Lexington. The Keene State College campus is located behind the Tavern, adding to the already busy calendar of musical events in the area.