Beautiful Walk on the Swasey Parkway

Whether dropping off or visiting a student at the Philips Exeter Academy this fall or just looking to carve out a bit of one-on-one time with your sweetheart this fall, there’s no better place to stay than our Exeter, NH Bed and Breakfast. Exeter, NH, a charming historic town on the Seacoast, is a delightful place for a fall getaway. There are plenty of great things to do in Exeter, NH this fall, too, including colorful walks on the Swasey Parkway, engaging fall festivals and events, sensational dinners at Ambrose and other local restaurants in Exeter, and scenic drives through the Seacoast’s beautiful fall foliage. 

Offering a delightful mix of picturesque scenery, engaging activities, and cozy accommodations, Exeter is the perfect destination for weekend getaways in New Hampshire. The town’s rich history and charming downtown are complemented by the vibrant autumn foliage, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. From leisurely walks along the beautiful Swasey Parkway, with its lush, colorful trees and views of the Squamscott River, to a day of shopping and dining in the charming downtown area, you’ll fall in love with this quaint town just as quickly as we did. 

Add an air of elegance to your getaway by staying with us at the Inn by the Bandstand, the premier Exeter, NH Bed and Breakfast. This charming Inn offers a blend of historic elegance, modern comfort, and unbeatable hospitality. Each room is thoughtfully decorated, providing a cozy and luxurious experience for guests, and our prime location in the heart of Exeter means you’re just steps away from the town’s best shops and attractions. Finish your day with a meal at our on-site restaurant, Ambrose, and you have the perfect ending to a perfect day. Book your stay with us today! 

Views of Exeter from the Swasey Parkway

Gorgeous Views on the Swasey Parkway in Exeter, NH

Walking along the beautiful Swasey Parkway in Exeter is a delightful experience, especially during the fall season. The parkway, gifted to the town by Ambrose Swasey in 1931, is steeped in local history. This pathway follows the same route Swasey, an inventor and philanthropist from Exeter, would make daily as he made his way from his Fort Rock Farms homestead to town. The Swasey Parkway stretches for just under a mile along the Squamscott River and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. 

The well-maintained path is lined by stately trees that put on a spectacular show of New Hampshire’s fall foliage. In addition, you’ll enjoy views of the serene river, historic lampposts, and charming benches that invite you to sit and soak in the beauty of Exeter. Stone walls mark both ends of the Swasey Parkway corridor as it runs parallel to the river, offering unobstructed views of the water and the vibrant foliage reflected in it. 

For those looking to explore more of Exeter’s natural beauty, there are several other great walking trails nearby. 

  1. Don’t miss the Phillips Exeter Academy Trails. These well-maintained trails offer a mix of wooded paths and open fields, perfect for a peaceful walk. They are open to the public and especially beautiful in the vibrant glow of fall. 
  2. Wak the trails at Oaklands Town Forest, a network that meanders through dense forest, offering a quiet escape and a chance to enjoy nature.
  3. There’s also a great network of hiking and biking trails in the Henderson-Swasey Town Forest. This area is well-known for its varied terrain and is even popular for snowshoeing in the winter.
  4. For more beautiful river views, don’t miss the Exeter River Trail. Following the river, this trail provides scenic water views and is excellent for a more extended walk under a breathtaking canopy of New Hampshire’s fall foliage. 

Exploring the Swasey Parkway and these other trails is among the top things to do in Exeter, NH, especially in the fall when the foliage peaks in September and October. 

A guest room at our Exeter, NH Bed and Breakfast

The Best Exeter, NH Bed and Breakfast

Our Exeter, NH Bed and Breakfast is ideal for getaways of all kinds. This historic Inn, housed in a Federal-style mansion dating back to 1809, features eight uniquely decorated suites that combine colonial charm with modern luxury. Each room is adorned with antiques and fine art, offering a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance.

Guests can enjoy gourmet breakfasts and fine dining at the on-site Ambrose Restaurant, which blends regional ingredients with international influences in a small-plate, tapas-style format. The Inn also shares ground-floor space with Otis Restaurant, which offers a casual yet refined dining experience.

In addition to providing a well-rounded experience, our Exeter, NH Bed and Breakfast excels at warm, friendly, and personalized hospitality. This, coupled with our proximity to Philips Exeter Academy, makes our Inn the perfect home base for visiting families. The Inn’s central location in downtown Exeter provides easy access to local shops, galleries, and historic sites, making it a perfect base for exploring the area.

There’s no better place to stay on the Seacoast than our upscale, AAA four-diamond Inn. Book your stay at our Exeter, NH Bed and Breakfast today. 

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