Things To Do
in Keene
Keene is a charming city located in southwestern New Hampshire, known for its rich history and vibrant community. The city is home to Keene State College, which adds a youthful energy to the area. Keene is famous for its annual Pumpkin Festival, where thousands of carved pumpkins light up the streets.
The downtown area features a mix of local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a hike at the nearby Mount Monadnock. The views from the summit are breathtaking and worth the climb.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at a local park. Take some time to relax and soak in the beautiful scenery.
Head into downtown Keene for some dinner at one of the local restaurants. Explore the quaint shops and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Begin your day at the Historical Society of Cheshire County to learn about the area's rich history. The exhibits are engaging and informative.
Next, visit the Keene State College's Thorne-Sagendorph Art Gallery to view local artwork. It's a great spot to appreciate regional artists.
Conclude the day with a stroll through Central Square. Find a cozy coffee shop for a warm drink and enjoy the local music scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong community feel with a welcoming atmosphere.
- Access to various outdoor activities and natural beauty, including parks and hiking trails.
- A vibrant arts and culture scene with local theaters, galleries, and festivals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Good educational institutions, including Keene State College.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors outside of education and healthcare.
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall can be challenging for residents.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban areas.
- Potential for higher property taxes than some surrounding regions.
- Small-town feel may not suit those looking for a more urban lifestyle.
Best Activities in Keene
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy stunning mountain views and unique rock formations on this popular hiking trail located near Keene.
Cool off and relax at Surry Mountain Lake, a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Take a leisurely stroll, go birdwatching, or have a picnic in the beautiful natural setting of Ashuelot River Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Keene with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Keene
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular spot for hiking and photography, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A scenic trail that provides excellent opportunities for capturing the natural beauty of Keene and its surroundings.
A picturesque destination for water-based activities and capturing serene landscapes with a camera.
Food in Keene
Keene Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A succulent pork chop grilled to perfection and coated with a luscious maple syrup glaze. Served with a side of roasted vegetables and fluffy mashed potatoes.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish featuring corned beef or ham, potatoes, and vegetables boiled to tender perfection. This classic New England meal is both comforting and delicious.
These delectable donuts are a local favorite, especially during the fall season. Made with fresh apple cider and dusted with cinnamon sugar, they are a sweet delight.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Keene better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market showcasing an array of locally produced goods, from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and homemade baked goods. Visitors can also savor ready-to-eat treats from food vendors.
Every Friday, the streets of Keene come alive with a variety of food trucks offering diverse cuisines. From gourmet sliders to authentic tacos, this weekly event celebrates the city's love for diverse street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Keene, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when queuing or in public places.
It is customary to offer a friendly greeting, such as a handshake or a simple 'hello', when meeting someone for the first time in Keene, as it shows respect and friendliness.
Keene has a diverse population, so it's important to respect people from different cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, and lifestyles, and to embrace diversity in the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Keene with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Keene
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Keene, United States, and is typically expected in restaurants, cafes, and other service industries. The standard tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill.
In Keene, United States, cash, credit cards, and mobile payments are widely accepted for transactions. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular. It is common for businesses to accept various forms of payment to provide convenience to their customers.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Keene.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Keene, with mild temperatures and the famous Keene Daffodil Festival in April.
Summers in Keene are warm and pleasant, with numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and water sports available in the surrounding area.
Fall is a beautiful time to visit Keene, as the foliage in the region turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The Keene Pumpkin Festival in October is also a major attraction.
Winter brings snow and cold temperatures to Keene, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the nearby mountains.
Keene at Night
Hiking in Keene
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just a short drive from Keene, this park offers several hiking trails that lead to stunning views from Pack Monadnock Mountain.
Home to Mount Monadnock, this popular hiking destination features a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging, with breathtaking vistas at the summit.
This scenic trail follows the Ashuelot River and offers an easy hike with beautiful views, suitable for both hiking and biking.
Located a bit further away, this expansive state park offers numerous trails through a diverse landscape, perfect for hikers looking for solitude.
A lesser-known spot offering easy to moderate trails with wooded areas and scenic views, ideal for a peaceful hike close to Keene.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Keene through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Keene by plane.
Located approximately 90 miles southwest of Keene, BDL is the second largest airport in New England, serving the Hartford, Connecticut region.
About 100 miles southeast of Keene, BOS is the primary airport serving the Boston area, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Located around 60 miles southeast of Keene, MHT is the largest airport in New Hampshire, providing both domestic and limited international services.
Approximately 105 miles west of Keene, ALB serves the capital district of New York and offers various domestic and international flights.
Located around 115 miles south of Keene, PVD serves Providence, Rhode Island, and offers a variety of domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic White individuals comprise the largest demographic group in Keene.
This group represents a smaller percentage of the population compared to White residents.
Hispanic or Latino individuals, including various ethnic backgrounds, form a significant minority in the area.
This group includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds, contributing to the diversity of the city.
People identifying as mixed race, which includes combinations of different ethnic backgrounds.
Indigenous people represent a smaller segment of the population in Keene.
This group is very limited in number within the Keene demographic.
The Soul of Keene
Discover the essence of Keene through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport in Keene, with various local leagues and youth programs encouraging participation.
Basketball enjoys popularity in Keene, with school teams and community leagues providing opportunities for players of all ages.
Baseball is a classic American pastime that is widely played in Keene, featuring youth leagues and adult recreational teams.
Running is a favored activity in Keene, with many residents participating in local races, training groups, and fitness events.
Given the natural beauty of the area, hiking is a popular recreational activity in and around Keene, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Keene.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries in Keene offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring that plant-based diners can savor a diverse range of dishes. From veggie-packed grain bowls to dairy-free desserts, there are ample choices.
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can explore restaurants that provide gluten-free alternatives. Many establishments are committed to offering gluten-free versions of classic favorites, catering to varied dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Keene with these cultural adventures.
