The Exeter Farmers Market is one of the most anticipated signs that spring has arrived in this quaint New Hampshire Seacoast town, and that summer is soon to follow. Exeter is a destination with classic New England architecture, vibrant downtown energy, and a welcoming community spirit that instantly draws you in. Visitors return year after year for its walkable streets, locally owned shops, and rich history, but the market adds a special spark to the season.
A visit to Exeter offers so many memorable experiences beyond the market itself. From exploring art galleries and historic landmarks to strolling along the Squamscott River or browsing locally owned boutiques, there are countless things to do in Exeter NH that make a weekend full and rewarding. Food lovers can enjoy inspired dining at places like Ambrose, history enthusiasts can tour iconic sites, and couples can enjoy scenic walks through downtown. Including the Exeter Farmers Market in your plans is a wonderful way to experience local flavor while exploring even more things to do on the Seacoast.
Our luxury Exeter Hotel places you right in the center of downtown, just steps from the energy and charm that define this town. With high-end amenities, warm personal hospitality, and beautifully designed accommodations with thoughtful touches throughout, our Exeter Hotel offers the ultimate romantic retreat while you explore. After a day of shopping, dining, and discovering, return to refined comfort and thoughtful service. Book your getaway today!
What You’ll see at the Exeter Farmers Market
The Exeter Farmers Market is a must-visit during any trip to town and a highlight among locals. Held along scenic Swasey Parkway in downtown Exeter, the market stretches along the riverfront near the intersection of Water Street and Front Street, making it easy to find as you explore the town. It opens for the season in May and runs every Thursday from 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm through early October. Though there is plenty of convenient parking in town near the market, you’re within easy walking distance of downtown Exeter from our hotel.
Once there, the setting along the Squamscott River creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere where you can shop for farm-fresh produce and flowers from Roots in Reverie, artisan breads, local cheeses, pasture-raised meats from Hurd Farm, and fresh seafood from Swell Oyster Company. Each vendor brings exceptional quality and local pride to the Exeter NH Farmers Market, and the experience goes beyond shopping alone.
Many weeks, the Exeter Farmers Market showcases live music and local performers, along with prepared food vendors offering everything from casual bites to sweet treats. The setting encourages you to relax at nearby seating areas or spread out on the grass and enjoy your food while taking in the vibrant energy of the Exeter Farmers Market.
More Farmers Markets on the Seacoast
As charming as it is, the Exeter Farmers Market is just one of the many grower and producer markets on the Seacoast, and we love exploring them all! Here are a few nearby farmers’ markets that are well worth adding to your Seacoast itinerary.
- Just about 25 minutes from Exeter, the Portsmouth Farmers Market is a lively market that takes place at 1 Junkins Avenue and runs on Saturdays from 8 am to 12 pm, beginning in early May through late October. You will find a wide variety of organic produce, baked goods, meats, cheeses, flowers, and artisan products, along with live music and seasonal events. It pairs perfectly with a morning exploring downtown Portsmouth.
- Located about 20 minutes from Exeter at Parsons Field, the Rye Farmers Market is community-focused and typically runs on Sunday mornings from May to November. It offers fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and locally made items in a relaxed outdoor setting. It is an easy and enjoyable stop along the Seacoast.
- About 20 minutes inland, the Durham Farmers Market is held on Mondays from early June through early October, generally from 2:30 pm to 6 pm. This afternoon market features fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, baked goods, and specialty items from local farms.
- The Dover Farmers Market offers a vibrant mix of vendors and a welcoming community feel. Located at Nebi Park on River Street, you can expect fresh produce, meats, seafood, prepared foods, and artisan goods, all reflecting the rich agricultural heritage of the region.
- Located about 15 minutes from Exeter on the historic Town Common, Hampton Falls’ Market runs from mid-June through mid-October on Wednesdays from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Visitors can browse fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and locally made products while enjoying live music and a relaxed community atmosphere.
Beyond just giving you the chance to buy delicious foods, these markets offer a great way to get to know our local communities along the Seaocast. From the vibrant energy of the Exeter Farmers Market to exceptional dining and engaging cultural attractions around the Seacoast, Exeter delivers a well-rounded Seacoast experience at every turn.
Stay at the Best Exeter Hotel
After a day spent browsing downtown boutiques, walking along the river, and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Exeter Farmers Market, your getaway deserves well-appointed accommodations. Our historic Exeter Hotel is the ultimate destination in the Seacoast region, offering a warm, inviting, and a truly luxurious, romantic experience in the heart of downtown. From the moment you arrive, you will notice the thoughtful attention to detail and gracious hospitality that make every stay exceptional. Being just steps from the Exeter Farmers Market means you can fully enjoy the best of Exeter, then return to sophisticated comfort without missing a beat.
With just eight stunning guest suites and rooms, each featuring luxury finishes and elegant design, our Exeter Hotel offers an intimate atmosphere that other properties simply cannot match. We are proud to be the only AAA Four Diamond property on the Seacoast, a distinction that reflects our commitment to excellence in service, accommodations, and overall guest experience. Whether you are planning a romantic weekend, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for the best place to stay while exploring things to do in Exeter NH, you will find it here. Book your getaway at our Exeter Hotel today and discover why we are the premier choice on the Seacoast.
