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Walking Tour Guides of Exeter 

Swasey Parkway is a wonderful walk along the river in Exeter. Additionally, enjoy the walking and biking tours listed below. Exeter is rich with history and historic markers around town. For the sports enthusiasts Exeter also offers golfing and kayaking.

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Walking Trail by the River

On the trail across the river from Swasey Parkway you will see the historic 1771 Powder House, the Pavilion and possibly our local herons and bald eagles. It is a dirt trail that is easy to access and walk, located by the mill apartments downtown. 

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Founders Park Sculpture by artist Emile Birch 

Take a walk through Founders Park downtown located between the Great Dam Bridge marker and the public library. The sculpture was created in 1988 to mark the 350th anniversary of Exeter's founding in 1638. It memorializes primary founders; John Wheelwright, John Phillips, Nicholas Gilman and Native American Wehanonowit.

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Exeter Great Dam historic marker

The meeting of the Exeter and Squamscott Rivers attracted both Native and European peoples to this site in Exeter. The dams powered the large textile mill built in 1830. Diverse workers were part of the new fabric in the community. The marker is located in Founders Park.

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Exeter Powder House Walking Tour Guide & Map -
or you may prefer a bicycle

You will find this walking tour guide and map downtown behind the Exeter Mill apartments by the Powder House. The dirt trail winds around the pond and continues around the Town of Exeter. You may spot our bald eagle flying around. Bicycling through our town is another great option. 

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Revolutionary Capital historic marker downtown Walking Tour 

Begin your walk at the Revolutionary Capital historic marker in downtown Exeter next to the Inn by the Bandstand. Explore the surrounding historic buildings including the Town Hall, the Bandstand, and the Ladd-Gilman House. Continue on to the Gilman Garrison House and Founders Park.

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An award winning architectural treasure, the Academy Library, designed by architect Louis Kahn, is located on the beautiful campus of Phillips Exeter Academy. While you walk the campus, step inside the interior atrium of the library. It is extraordinary.

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Historic Homes of Exeter |
Dr. Josiah Gilman House 1752

As you walk along Front Street you will see numerous historic homes including Dr. Josiah Gilman,  John Lord and Amos Tuck home 1718, Daniel Thing clothier home 1730, and many more. On Cass street explore Major John Gilman's home 1723 and the Giddings Tavern 1727.

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Abraham Lincoln historic marker downtown Walking Tour 

Begin your walk at the Abraham Lincoln historic marker in downtown Exeter next to the Town Hall. Walk west along Front Street, past Phillips Exeter Academy campus, and you will discover many of the historic homes of the Revolutionary Era including the John Lord House 1718, home of Amos Tuck. 

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Bike friendly | Free parking | Vibrant downtown

Exeter is home to a lively community and is revered for its historic walkable downtown, restaurants, independently owned shops, coffee shops, bakeries, museums, bookstore, art galleries, live music, town sidewalks, and bicycle lanes. 

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By the Exeter river boat launch (next to the PEA Boat House) you will see the kayaks available for rent through the Exeter Rec Department weekdays and weekends.

To reserve call 603-773-6151

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During your visit to Exeter you can indulge in a day of golf at our local beautiful nine hole golf course.  It is member owned and open to the public. The Country Club is  located at

58 Jady Hill Avenue. 

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Take a Break in our many Restaurants during your visit

After a day of walking, biking, or kayaking, treat yourself to a vast variety of choices for food, wine, craft beer, and cocktails at any nearby restaurant, pub, or river patio. 

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