Nashua Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally awe-inspiring city of Nashua with our detailed travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, local customs, transportation options and more!


Introduction to Nashua

Located in Merrimack Valley, New Hampshire, Nashua is a small yet vibrant city with a rich history and natural beauty. It is known for its picturesque scenery, cultural landmarks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Nashua is easily accessible from nearby cities, including Boston, and offers a perfect getaway destination for a peaceful escape.

List of Places to Visit in Nashua

From historical landmarks to natural wonders, Nashua has something for everyone. Here are some must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Nashua Historical Society Museum: Located in the heart of downtown Nashua, the museum offers exhibits showcasing the city’s history and culture.

  • The Mine Falls Park: This 325-acre park offers hiking trails, bike paths, and beautiful waterfalls. It is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

  • The Holman Stadium: This iconic stadium has served as the home field for many famous tennis players, including Andre Agassi, Michael Chang, and Serena Williams.

Natural Attractions of Nashua: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Nashua River Rail Trail: This 11-mile trail offers beautiful views of the Nashua River and runs through scenic landscapes and historic landmarks.

  • Greenville Trailhead Park: This park offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors with nature walks and birdwatching opportunities.

  • The Beaver Brook Association: This non-profit conservation organization offers guided nature walks and educational programs on wildlife and natural habitats.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nashua

Nashua offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to explore the city’s magnificent natural beauty. Some popular routes include:

  • Nashua River Rail Trail: This 11-mile paved trail meanders through the scenic landscape and historic landmarks of Nashua.

  • Mine Falls Park: This 325-acre park offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, including the popular 2.7-mile loop around the Nashua River.

  • Sagamore Hill Trails: The 2-mile-long trail offers a steep climb to the summit, with scenic views overlooking the city.

Best Things to Do in Nashua: Activities and Tours

Nashua offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors, including:

  • The Budweiser Brewery Experience: Visitors can take a tour of the Budweiser Brewery and learn about the brewing process, including a tasting of the brewery’s most popular beers.

  • The Nashua Ghost Walk: Visitors can take a guided tour through the historic streets of Nashua and hear spooky stories about the city’s past.

  • The SkyVenture Indoor Skydiving: Visitors can experience the thrill of skydiving in a safe, indoor environment.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nashua

Day 1:

  • Explore the Nashua Historical Society Museum and learn about the city’s history and culture.

  • Take a stroll through downtown Nashua and stop by some of the artisan shops and cafes.

Day 2:

  • Hike the Nashua River Rail Trail and explore the scenic landscape and historic landmarks.

  • Spend an afternoon exploring Mine Falls Park and relaxing by the waterfalls.

Day 3:

  • Take a Budweiser Brewery tour and sample some of the brewery’s most popular beers.

  • In the evening, enjoy an outdoor dining experience at a local restaurant.

Day 4:

  • Go on the Nashua Ghost Walk tour and explore the spooky side of the city’s past.

  • Visit Sagamore Hill Trails and enjoy the scenic views overlooking the city.

Day 5:

  • Visit SkyVenture Indoor Skydiving and experience the thrill of skydiving.

  • Enjoy some of the popular local foods at a nearby restaurant.

Day 6:

  • Visit Beaver Brook Association and learn about wildlife and natural habitats on educational nature walks.

  • Spend a relaxing evening by the river, enjoying the sunset.

Day 7:

  • Take a bike ride around downtown Nashua and explore some of the beautiful neighborhoods and historic landmarks.

  • Visit the Holman Stadium and learn about the iconic tennis players who’ve played there.

Food and Drink Scene of Nashua

Nashua has a diverse food and drink scene featuring local delicacies and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • New England Clam Chowder: A creamy, flavorful soup made with fresh clams and potatoes.

  • Lobster Roll: A delicious sandwich made with buttered lobster piled onto a toasted bun.

  • Blueberry Pie: A classic New England dessert made with fresh blueberries and a flaky crust.

Local Beverages

  • Samuel Adams Beer: A Boston-brewed beer, Samuel Adams has been a staple of the New England drinking scene for over 30 years.

  • Apple Cider: Made with fresh, locally grown apples, apple cider is a refreshing and popular drink.

  • Maple Syrup: A signature New England product, fresh maple syrup is a delicious topping for pancakes, waffles, and more.

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

Nashua offers a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. Some of the best options include:

  • The Radisson Hotel Nashua: A four-star hotel with a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center.

  • The Hampton Inn Nashua: A budget-friendly hotel located near downtown Nashua with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

  • The Nashua International Hostel: A hostel with a friendly atmosphere and excellent location near local amenities.

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

Nashua offers many opportunities for shopping, with acclaimed artisan shops and local markets that sell a wide range of unique gifts and souvenirs. Here are some best local products:

  • Maple Syrup: A signature New England product, fresh maple syrup is a delicious topping for pancakes, waffles, and more.

  • Local Crafts: Local artisan shops sell handmade crafts, pottery, and artwork that make great souvenirs to bring home.

  • Antiques: Nashua is home to several antique shops that sell unique, collectible items.

Local Culture and Customs of Nashua

Nashua has a rich cultural history with a wide variety of customs and traditions. Here are some of the local customs and traditions that visitors might encounter:

  • New England Patriots: The New England Patriots are the region’s beloved football team, and many Nashua locals are die-hard fans.

  • Thanksgiving Traditions: Thanksgiving is a significant holiday in New England, and many Nashua families gather together to enjoy a traditional turkey dinner.

  • Love for Maple Syrup: Nashua locals take their maple syrup seriously. Fresh maple syrup is a staple of the New England diet and enjoyed in many different forms.

Best Time to Visit Nashua

The best time to visit Nashua is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. The city offers many outdoor activities that are best enjoyed during these seasons. However, some people prefer to visit during the winter months when the city transforms into a winter wonderland.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nashua

Do:

  • Take a scenic drive through the countryside and enjoy the stunning views.

  • Try the local cuisine and discover the flavors of New England

  • Enjoy a live musical performance or theater show in one of the city’s historic venues.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack warm and comfortable clothing, especially during the winter months.

  • Don’t miss out on the local shopping experience, with artisan markets and antique shops found all over the city.

  • Don’t hesitate to ask locals for travel advice and tips on places to visit. Nashua locals are proud of their city and always happy to share their knowledge.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nashua

Nashua is considered to be a relatively safe city to visit, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.

Health in Nashua

Nashua offers excellent healthcare services, with several hospitals and clinics located within the city. Visitors should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance before visiting and take any necessary precautions to avoid illnesses such as tick-borne diseases.

Getting to Nashua: Transportation Options and Logistics

Located just an hour north of Boston, Nashua is easily accessible by road and air. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Nashua

  • The Manchester-Boston Regional Airport: Located about 20 miles south-west of Nashua, it is the nearest airport to the city.

  • The Boston Logan International Airport: Located about an hour’s drive from Nashua, it offers a wider range of international connections.

Bus Stations Near Nashua

  • The Boston Express Bus Line: Offers daily service to and from Nashua and Boston.

  • The Concord Coach Lines: Offers bus service to and from Nashua and Boston as well as other cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Visitors can also rent a car to explore the city and the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Nashua

Nashua offers several transportation options for visitors, including:

  • Taxis and Ridesharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate in the city, making it easy to get around.

  • Public Transit: Nashua Transit System operates several bus routes around the city.

  • Bike Rentals: Visitors can rent bikes from several local bike shops and explore the city on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Nashua: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nashua is centrally located in New England, making it an excellent starting point for exploring nearby destinations. Some popular options include:

  • Boston, Massachusetts: An hour’s drive from Nashua, Boston is a historic and cultural hub with many attractions and landmarks.

  • White Mountains, New Hampshire: Located two hours north of Nashua, the White Mountains offer stunning scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.

  • Vermont: Known for its rolling hills, covered bridges, and unique cuisine, Vermont is a picturesque destination located just a few hours north of Nashua.

Conclusion

Nashua is a culturally rich and naturally awe-inspiring city that offers something for everyone. From hiking trails and recreational activities to local cuisine and cultural landmarks, visitors will never run out of things to see and do. Come to Nashua and explore the beauty and charm of New England like never before!

Nashua City Hall Nashua City Hall