When it comes to fun things to enjoy in New Hampshire the list is long! From outdoor attractions to museums and sightseeing, living here is a benefit when friends and relatives want to visit. You’ll always have something to do with them! One of our favorite ways to have fun is by exploring the great outdoors, but we give bonus points for anything that offers a little something extra. Today’s featured spot has just that!

Benson Park in Hudson offers the local community and visitors the chance to enjoy 166 acres of nature. Complete with trails, a pond and lots of forested areas to find peace this is one place that’s worth visiting even if you’re not from the area.

Di M / TripAdvisor

There are nearly 4 miles of trails to explore, including the longest which is the 2.5-mile Haselton Farm Trail.

idzilla / TripAdvisor

Getting lost here is beautiful and it’s extra-special that it’s so easy to find and access all year.

Dennis W / TripAdvisor

What some people might find surprising is that this park actually dates back to 1924 when it was known as Benson’s Wild Animal Farm.

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While the current area of the park is much larger than the original land, remnants of this popular attraction can still be seen today.

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The animal park changed hands in 1979, but closed permanently in 1987. Attractions like the “Old Woman’s Shoe” can still be seen.

Chuck Paone / Google

Visitors can also find the former elephant barn which was once one of the most popular attractions.

Dennis W / TripAdvisor

Visitors especially love the former gorilla cage which can still be accessed!

NHORNurse / TripAdvisor

Hop inside to see the park from a whole different vantage point.

Rosemary M / TripAdvisor

This is one of the most under-the-radar special places in the state. not just because it’s beautiful to explore, but because it offers a glimpse into the state’s past.

Tom O’Laughlin / Google Make plans to visit any time of year and you’ll be able to imagine what it might have been like to enjoy time here back in the roaring 20s!

Benson Park is open May through August from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., September through October from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., November through February from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from March through April from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can learn more about it by visiting the official website or following them on Facebook. You can reach them on 603-886-6018.

Di M / TripAdvisor

idzilla / TripAdvisor

Dennis W / TripAdvisor

przgrl13 / TripAdvisor

hudsonnh.gov

Chuck Paone / Google

NHORNurse / TripAdvisor

Rosemary M / TripAdvisor

Tom O’Laughlin / Google

Make plans to visit any time of year and you’ll be able to imagine what it might have been like to enjoy time here back in the roaring 20s!

For more throwback fun, how about something a little sweeter? The absolutely whimsical candy store in New Hampshire, Lee’s Candy Kitchen will make you feel like a kid again.

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Address: Benson Park, 19 Kimball Hill Rd, Hudson, NH 03051, USA