You don't need to break the bank if you want to explore New Hampshire's history and culture. The state is home to a ton of affordable museums and there are some fascinating museums where admission is absolutely free! Make plans to enjoy an experience that’s as incredible as it is affordable. Here are three museums in New Hampshire worth seeking out.
1. Cog Railway Museum, Mount Washington
In Coos County, you’ll find an early wonder of engineering. The Cog Railway is the world's first mountain climbing cog railway – it travels to the top of Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England. It’s been a tourist attraction since the 1860s and it continues to amaze visitors today.
A museum details the unique technology and history of this attraction. You can see the simple but effective cog technology that allows the train to climb up into the clouds.
2. New England Ski Museum, Fraconia
This unique museum preserves the history and legacy of commercial and recreational skiing – both downhill and cross-country. It has been located in Franconia Notch State Park for the last 40 years.
Skiing has been around for a very long time, and a permanent exhibit explores its 8,000-year history, from prehistoric roots to modern shaped skis. It also details the legacy of modern skiers like Bode Miller, the most successful male American alpine ski racer of all time.
3. Horatio Colony Museum, Keene
This interesting museum is located in the former home of American poet, playwright, and businessman Horatio Colony II. It preserves Colony’s collections and the 1806 Federal-style house.
The museum and associated nature preserves the history of the Colony family and the area’s social and natural past.
These museums are just a small sample of New Hampshire’s incredible collection of museums. Here are some living history museums that will take you far back in time.
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