Milford Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and amazing cuisine of Milford, New Hampshire. Plan your visit and discover the best things to do, places to stay, and where to go next.


Introduction to Milford

Milford is a charming town located in the southern part of New Hampshire, in the scenic Merrimack Valley. It is surrounded by beautiful hills, forests, and lakes, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Besides its natural beauty, Milford also has a rich history and culture, with plenty of museums, historical sites, and local events that reflect its unique character.

Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, a foodie, or a culture seeker, Milford has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you on a journey to explore the best things to see and do, places to stay and eat, and how to get around in Milford. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to this hidden gem of New Hampshire.

List of Places to Visit in Milford

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Milford Historical Society: This museum is located in a restored 1820s farmhouse and has a collection of artifacts and exhibits about Milford’s history and culture.
  • The Green: The Green is a historic park located in the heart of Milford and is home to many events and festivals throughout the year.
  • The Granite Town Rail Trail: This 12.9-mile trail follows the former Milford-Bennington Railroad and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The New England Quilt Museum: Located in downtown Lowell, MA, the New England Quilt Museum has a collection of over 400 antique and contemporary quilts.

Natural Attractions of Milford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Purgatory Falls: This natural wonder is a series of waterfalls and pools located in the Purgatory Brook. It’s a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
  • The Souhegan River: The Souhegan River is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The river flows through the heart of Milford and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Vernondale Wildlife Area: This 450-acre wildlife area is home to a variety of wildlife species and offers hiking and birdwatching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Milford

  • Purgatory Falls Trail: This 2.5-mile trail starts at the Purgatory Falls parking area and leads to the falls and pools of Purgatory Brook.
  • The Wapack Trail: This 21-mile trail follows the Wapack Range and offers scenic views of southern New Hampshire and eastern Massachusetts.
  • Milford Rail Trail: This 2.9-mile trail follows the former Boston & Maine Railroad line and offers a leisurely walk or bike ride through Milford’s countryside.

Best Things to Do in Milford: Activities and Tours

  • Milford Oval: The Oval is a historic district with 12 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s home to many shops and restaurants and is a popular spot for events and festivals.
  • Milford Drive-In Theater: This classic drive-in theater shows double features of current movies during the summer months.
  • Milford Farmer’s Market: The farmer’s market is held on Saturdays during the summer months and offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Milford

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore downtown Milford and the Milford Historical Society.
Day 2 Hike to Purgatory Falls and have a picnic by the brook.
Day 3 Explore the shops and restaurants of Milford Oval.
Day 4 Take a scenic drive to the nearby scenic mountains.
Day 5 Visit the New England Quilt Museum in Lowell, MA.
Day 6 Spend the day fishing or kayaking on the Souhegan River.
Day 7 Relax at the Milford Drive-In Theater and watch a double feature under the stars.

Food and Drink Scene of Milford

Must-Try Dishes

  • New England Clam Chowder: This creamy soup is a classic New England dish made with clams, potatoes, onions, and cream.
  • Lobster Roll: A lobster roll is a delicious sandwich made with fresh lobster meat, mayonnaise, and celery, served on a toasted bun.
  • Apple Pie: Milford is located in the heart of New Hampshire’s apple orchard country, making apple pie a must-try dessert.

Local Beverages

  • White Mountain Cider Company: This restaurant and cider company offers a variety of hard cider and craft beer.
  • LaBelle Winery and Bistro: This award-winning winery and bistro offers wine tastings and delicious cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Milford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Amherst Inn: This charming bed and breakfast is located in nearby Amherst, NH, and offers a cozy and comfortable stay.
  • The Bostonian Motel: This budget-friendly motel is located in downtown Milford and offers convenient access to all the main attractions.

What to Buy in Milford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Apple Cider Donuts: These delicious donuts are a local specialty and can be found at many of the local orchards.
  • Craft Beer and Hard Cider: White Mountain Cider Company offers a variety of delicious craft beer and hard cider that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Milford

Milford is a friendly and welcoming town that values community, history, and nature. The residents take great pride in preserving their town’s heritage and natural beauty, and are always eager to share it with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Milford

The best time to visit Milford is in the fall when the leaves turn bright colors and the weather is cool and crisp. However, spring and summer are also great seasons to visit, with plenty of outdoor activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Milford

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore Milford’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do participate in the local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or disturb the wildlife.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate outdoor gear for hiking and other activities.
  • Don’t forget to respect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Milford

Milford is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling, such as locking their car and not leaving valuables in sight.

Health in Milford

Milford has several medical facilities and pharmacies for any health needs. Visitors should also be aware of ticks and take precautions against Lyme Disease.

Getting to Milford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Milford

  • Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is the closest airport to Milford, located about 20 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Milford

  • Boston Express bus line provides service to Milford from Boston and other New Hampshire towns.

Other Options

  • Milford is conveniently located near several major highways, including I-495 and the Everett Turnpike.

How to Get Around in Milford

Milford is a small town and most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also drive or bike to the nearby outdoor destinations.

Where to Go Next from Milford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Boston: Boston is a vibrant city with a rich history, culture, and cuisine. It’s located about an hour’s drive from Milford.
  • Mount Monadnock: This scenic mountain is a popular spot for hiking and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The New Hampshire Seacoast: The coast of New Hampshire is a beautiful and scenic area with historic towns and fishing villages.

Conclusion

Milford is a hidden gem of New Hampshire that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there is something for everyone in Milford. So plan your visit today and discover the magic of this charming town.

Milford Town Hall on The Oval Milford Town Hall on The Oval