5 New Hampshire Historical Sites near The NASWA

New Hampshire, one of the original thirteen colonies, is a state rich with history—etched in its towns, preserved in its architecture, and echoed in the stories passed down through generations. While the Granite State is beloved for its scenic mountains and sparkling lakes, it’s also a treasure trove of cultural and historical experiences. And nestled along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, The NASWA Resort offers the perfect basecamp for your time-traveling adventures.

Whether you’re a lifelong history buff or simply curious about the stories that shaped this part of New England, the Lakes Region offers no shortage of remarkable sites to explore. These landmarks, just a short drive from The NASWA, connect visitors to the people, movements, and moments that helped define New Hampshire and the nation beyond.

Castle in the Clouds: Elegance Suspended in Time

Perched high atop the Ossipee Mountains in Moultonborough, Castle in the Clouds (also known as Lucknow Estate) is an architectural and historical marvel. Built in 1914 by millionaire industrialist Thomas Plant, this 16-room Arts and Crafts-style mansion combines luxurious craftsmanship with jaw-dropping views of Lake Winnipesaukee below.

Visitors can tour the restored estate, complete with original furnishings, hidden passageways, and innovative early-20th-century technology. The property also features picturesque walking trails, waterfalls, stables, and a charming café with panoramic vistas. Whether you’re drawn to the fine woodwork or the romance of a bygone era, Castle in the Clouds invites you to step into the glamour of the Gilded Age.

The Libby Museum: A Naturalist’s Time Capsule

Just across the lake in the quaint town of Wolfeboro, The Libby Museum stands as New Hampshire’s first natural history museum. Founded in 1912 by Dr. Henry Libby, this lakeside gem offers an intimate glimpse into the region’s natural and cultural history.

Its eclectic exhibits range from Native American tools and colonial artifacts to taxidermy animals and geological displays. Walking through the museum feels like opening a well-worn field journal—filled with wonder, curiosity, and reverence for the land. It’s a peaceful, reflective experience that connects visitors to the enduring spirit of New Hampshire’s wild beauty and the people who lived here first.

Wright Museum of World War II: Stories of Sacrifice and Strength

Also in Wolfeboro is the renowned Wright Museum of WWII, a powerful tribute to the American home front and the brave individuals who served during World War II. With over 14,000 artifacts, including uniforms, vehicles, letters, and photographs, the museum offers a deeply personal perspective on life during wartime.

Interactive exhibits, immersive dioramas, and thought-provoking presentations bring history to life in meaningful ways. Whether you’re exploring a 1940s kitchen, climbing into a restored tank, or listening to veteran oral histories, the Wright Museum offers a moving reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom—and the resilience of those who served on the battlefield and at home.

Canterbury Shaker Village: A Window into a Way of Life

Just under an hour’s drive from The NASWA lies Canterbury Shaker Village, one of the most complete and authentic surviving Shaker communities in the country. With over 25 historic buildings, rolling pastures, and guided tours, the village reveals the daily life, innovations, and spiritual beliefs of the Shakers—a religious sect known for their simplicity, craftsmanship, and gender equality.

Stroll through the herb gardens, learn about their inventions (from the flat broom to the clothespin), and admire the minimalist beauty of Shaker furniture. It’s a serene and contemplative destination that offers insight into a fascinating—and vanishing—American culture.

Belknap Mill: The Heartbeat of Industrial Progress

Located in nearby Laconia, Belknap Mill holds the honor of being the oldest unaltered brick textile mill in the United States. Built in 1823, this National Historic Landmark is a living tribute to New Hampshire’s industrial past and its role in shaping the American workforce.

Today, the mill serves as a vibrant community and cultural center, hosting art exhibits, historical tours, and educational programs. Visitors can explore the original water-powered machinery and gain a deeper understanding of the industrial revolution’s impact on small-town New England. The surrounding Riverwalk and Rotary Riverside Park add a lovely backdrop for a leisurely stroll after your visit.

History, Hospitality, and Home at The NASWA Resort

After a day of uncovering New Hampshire’s rich past, there’s nothing quite like returning to the warm embrace of The NASWA Resort. A beloved family-run destination since 1935, The NASWA is steeped in its own storied legacy, rooted in the Greek tradition of philoxenia—treating strangers as friends.

Whether you’re relaxing on the largest private sandy beach on Lake Winnipesaukee, enjoying a lakeside meal at the NazBar & Grill, or savoring a handmade dessert at the Blue Bistro (perhaps a recipe passed down by our matriarch, Hope Makris herself), you’ll experience hospitality that feels like home.

History isn’t just something we visit—it’s something we live and share here at The NASWA.

Plan Your Historical Getaway Today

New Hampshire’s historical sites are more than just places to visit—they’re places to connect. To stand where others once stood, to listen to the echoes of another time, and to return with a deeper appreciation of the stories that shaped this beautiful region.

Let The NASWA Resort be your home base for this unforgettable journey through time. Explore our accommodations, discover more things to do in the area, and start planning your next Lakes Region adventure by calling us at 888-55-NASWA or visiting naswa.com.

Because history isn’t just in the past—it’s waiting to be experienced.