The Best Small Town In New Hampshire For Seniors

New Hampshire is a rural state that is home to many cozy and wonderful small towns. One of these towns is Exeter, located just north of the Massachusetts border and not far west from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Exeter is a particularly excellent destination for seniors, offering a wealth of activities alongside conveniences such as support services for older residents and numerous opportunities to stay active in retirement. If you are a senior looking for your next place to call home, here are some of the reasons why you should consider Exeter your next stop.

Community

There are numerous events throughout the year that seniors can attend to meet others in the community. The Exeter Farmer’s Market runs from May to October, and the Winter Farmer’s Market lasts from November to April. These dual events afford new residents to the area the opportunity to buy local produce and eat while walking between vendor stalls. Holiday celebrations in town include the Town Egg Hunt, a chance for the town to come out and see the Easter Bunny, while younger children head out on an Egg Hunt. These are fun community moments that allow new residents to connect with others.

One event specific to seniors is the Summer Senior Kick-Off BBQ. The Kick-Off is a chance to enjoy delicious BBQ and live entertainment. Past Kick-off events included live music while visitors celebrated in front of the historic Town Hall building, which was first constructed in 1855. The good times in Exeter continue through the Summer Concert Series, which runs from June through August. Residents gather to listen to 4- piece bands, retro-wave performers, and retro-rock ensembles as the day unfolds in Swasey Park.

Staying Active

Speaking of Swasey Park, it is the perfect place to spend time if you are a senior looking to stay active. Visitors to the park can enjoy walking along the banks of the Squamscott River. The park is considered one of Exter’s most beautiful spots and is perfect for getting your steps in during the day.

For a more rigorous time outside, you may want to head out to the Henderson-Swasey Town Forest. The forest is crisscrossed with plenty of walking trails. The longest trail along the Western Front stretches for 1.75 miles, and the adjacent Green Loop includes an additional 1.65 miles of walking space. The forest is not huge, but it includes plenty of room for anyone who wants to stay outdoors and active during their senior years.

Dining

One important part of living in Exeter that seniors will enjoy is the walkability. Water Street runs along the Squamscott River and features numerous dining options. Vino e Vino places visitors right beside the water, where they can enjoy wines and spirits while dining from a menu that includes Salmon Crudo, Crispy Octopus, Duck Breast, and many other selections. For something a little more casual, the Sea Dog Brewing Company, located down the street, serves sandwiches and burgers, along with crispy shrimp and chicken tenders. Thirsty guests will find Sea Dog-branded brews, along with a wide selection on tap, to enjoy while looking out onto the river.

Shopping

Shopping is extremely convenient in Exeter, and the highly walkable Water Street will be a popular destination among seniors moving to the area. From the Sea Dog Brewing Company, you can move north along the river to find Forest + Ash Design Company + Shop. This shop is the go-to destination for buying gifts for friends and family, offering a range of products including jewelry, candles, and home décor. Of course, you can keep some for yourself as well. Just a short walk further along the street will bring you to Water Street Bookstore. There are few places better to pick up your new reading favorite for the coming year. The bookstore does more than sell books. It also acts as a community spot. Water Street Bookstore has raised money for research into rare diseases during its community days and also brings community members together for book clubs.

Senior Care

There are plenty of supports for seniors in Exeter. The Exeter Senior Citizens Center serves as a meeting place for various community organizations. The Center also offers a Meals on Wheels program and transportation for seniors. Guests will also find a variety of social events to attend, including bingo, arts and crafts, and exercise classes. Seniors concerned about medical care have 24-hour access to the local Exeter Hospital, even in the event of an emergency.

Towns Nearby

Those in Exeter have nearby destinations to visit that are ideal for small-town lovers. Nearby Hampton is the perfect spot for those who love time along the beach. Hampton sits just along the Atlantic coast, and Hampton Beach is popular for its coastal boardwalk, packed with ice cream parlors, pizzerias, and souvenir shops. Newmarket, situated in the north, offers peaceful views of the Lamprey River, which cuts through the town. Parks can be found throughout the area, and a streak of dining spots and shopping locations can be found on Main Street, along the river.

Living Senior Life

There is so much to see and do when living in Exeter that it should be at the top of your list if you are a senior looking for your next place to live or just a vacation destination. Just a day along Water Street can take care of your shopping and dining for the day, with Water Street Bookstore serving up new selections just steps away from where Vino e Vino serves up a glass of wine for the day. If you are a senior looking for your next destination, come to Exeter.