United States

Exeter

Exeter

Exeter is a town located in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, United States. It is situated in the southeastern part of the state, approxim…

Best for you if…

  • A week-long stay
  • Walkable sightseeing
  • Outdoor activities travelers
  • Historical sites travelers
  • Visiting in Summer
Recommended stay
5-7 days
Best time
Summer
Walkability
Compact
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Exeter is a strong pick for outdoor activities & historical sites — plan about 5-7 days, with sights close enough to walk between. Peak season: Summer.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 71/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Compact density — Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together. (≈6.4 km span)

11 Places to explore
5-7 Recommended days
Summer Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: Summer

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: January · February · November · December

Weather

Fall

50°F to 70°F

Spring

50°F to 70°F

Summer

70°F to 90°F

Winter

30°F to 50°F

How to get there

How to Reach Exeter, United States

Exeter is a charming town located in the state of New Hampshire, United States. If you are planning a visit to Exeter and wondering how to get there, you have several options available depending on your starting point. Here are some common ways to reach Exeter:

By Air:

If you are traveling from a distant location, the easiest way to reach Exeter is by flying into Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT). The airport is located approximately 25 miles west of Exeter. From the airport, you can rent a car or hire a taxi to reach your destination in Exeter.

By Train:

Exeter is well-connected by train, making it a convenient option for travelers. Amtrak's Downeaster train service operates daily between Boston's North Station and Exeter, with several stops along the way. The train station in Exeter is conveniently located in the heart of the town, making it easy to explore the area upon arrival.

By Car:

If you prefer the flexibility of driving, Exeter is easily accessible by car. Interstate 95 runs near Exeter, making it convenient for travelers coming from nearby cities such as Boston or Portland. Simply follow the signs for Exeter and take the appropriate exit to reach the town.

By Bus:

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a bus to Exeter is a viable option. Several bus companies, such as Greyhound and Concord Coach Lines, operate routes that include Exeter. The bus station is located in downtown Exeter, allowing for easy access to the town's attractions.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, reaching Exeter is relatively straightforward. Once you arrive, you can immerse yourself in the town's rich history, explore its quaint streets, visit historic landmarks, or enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Exeter welcomes visitors with its small-town charm and New England hospitality.

Getting to know Exeter

Exeter is a town located in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, United States. It is situated in the southeastern part of the state, approximately 50 miles north of Boston. With a population of around 14,000 residents, Exeter is known for its rich history and charming New England atmosphere.

The town of Exeter was founded in 1638, making it one of the oldest towns in New Hampshire. It played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, serving as the capital of the state during the Revolutionary period. Exeter was also home to Phillips Exeter Academy, one of the most prestigious private schools in the country, which was established in 1781.

Today, Exeter is a vibrant community that offers a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. The downtown area is lined with historic buildings and features a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The town is also known for its beautiful natural surroundings, with numerous parks, trails, and rivers for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

In addition to its rich history and scenic beauty, Exeter is known for its strong sense of community. The town hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, bringing residents together to celebrate and connect. Exeter also boasts excellent schools, making it an attractive place for families to settle down.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Visit the Exeter Historical Society Museum
  • Explore the hiking trails in Exeter River Park
  • Attend the annual Exeter UFO Festival

Places worth exploring

11 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 5-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Exeter?

Most travelers spend about 5-7 days in Exeter, United States.

When is the best time to visit Exeter?

High season is typically Summer.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Exeter?

Travelers often find better value in January, February, November, December.

What kind of trip is Exeter good for?

Exeter suits Outdoor activities, Historical sites, Cultural events.

Is Exeter walkable?

Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together.

Any local tips for Exeter?

Visit the Exeter Historical Society Museum

Build your trip

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Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Exeter → East Kingston → Kingston South East · ≈16 km
  • Exeter → North Hampton → Hampton Falls · ≈17 km
  • Exeter → East Kingston → Amesbury · ≈17 km

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