We're typically always on the lookout for the beauty and fun that can be had in New Hampshire and there's certainly a lot of that here! But every so often we're hungry for something slightly different. By this, we mean the unique, off-the-beaten-path spots that surprise us. These are the things that make us look twice and today we're giving you a few of our favorites.
1. New Hampshire Telephone Museum, Warner
The telephone museum is a fun homage to all the ways we communicate. From the first switchboards to more modern things like the famous Mickey Mouse phone, this is a must-visit for people who love the stranger side of history.
2. The Madison Boulder, Madison
Believed to be the largest glacial erratic of its type, this huge "rock" is so much more than that. It was actually deposited by a glacier back when the ice age ended and it's no less than 12 million pounds! It can be reached on a fun hike, too. You can learn more about it here.
3. Madame Sherri's Castle, West Chesterfield
One of the state's most beloved oddities is also one of the most interesting to explore. Owned by a New York City socialite, these ruins were once a beautiful mansion and one of the most sought after invitations for those who love parties. There's more to this story, but for now just plan on visiting to take it all in. Click here to learn more about the fascinating history and how to find it.
4. U.S.S. Albacore, Portsmouth
Lying in the mud near Portsmouth is an unlikely relic of America's naval history. Used by the US Navy to test Cold War technology, the submarine sailed up and down the Atlantic from the time she was commissioned in 1953 until her retirement in 1972. In 1985 she dedicated as a memorial. Today you can visit this National Historic Landmark. Learn more about her history here.
5. The Betty & Barney Hill Abduction Site, Route 3
Back in 1961, Betty and Barney Hill were driving on Route 3 near Lincoln. After spotting something strange in the sky, they reportedly lost two hours of time and were never truly able to remember what happened. A few strange clues indicate an alien abduction and the story of this night has been studied by experts all over. Curious about what happened? You can visit the site where this happened. Learn more here!
6. The Yankee Siege Trebuchet, Greenfield
One of the strangest things to exist here in New Hampshire might just be this Medieval torture device sitting in an otherwise innocent field. The best part is that it's not the pain-inflicting machine you might think. The story behind it is actually sort of lovely! A local farmer looking to attract some traffic to his farm stand created it to toss pumpkins in a display meant to draw crowds. And it worked! Today it no longer throws pumpkins, which means the record of a 2,835-foot toss remains intact, but you can visit. To learn more about its history and how to find it check out this this article.
7. Benson Park, Hudson
This natural area has a little bit of everything! Today it's a park with lots of trees and paths to explore, but in its former life it was a zoo and amusement park. A visit means reliving some of the history by seeing the buildings that once housed cuties like gorillas. And this shoe? We're not sure why it's here, but we love that it is! You can learn more about it by checking out this article.
8. Clark's Florence Murray Museum, Lincoln
Visiting Clark's Trading Post is fun all on its own, but add in a visit to this unique on-site museum and you'll be glad you did. Filled with oddities, including a two-headed calf, you'll be scratching your head wondering just how some of these things found their way here.
What are some of your picks for the oddest things to see in New Hampshire? Let us know in the comments so we can check them out!
While you have roadside attractions on the brain, how about a delicious option? This roadside hamburger hut in Portsmouth New Hampshire shouldn't be passed up!
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