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Milford

Milford, New Hampshire, United States

Milford, New Hampshire, located in the heart of New England, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Nestled along the Souhegan River, Milford boasts a picturesque…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Milford.

Top Hotels in Milford

Top Flights to Milford

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Milford.

Tours

Visit the Milford Oval

Explore the heart of Milford with its charming town square, historic buildings, and local shops.

Hitchiner Manufacturing Co. History Tour

Discover the history of Milford's first major industry with a tour of the historical exhibits and sites.

Attend the January Jazz festival

Join the annual January Jazz Festival in Milford featuring local and visiting jazz talents.

Shopping

Shopping at Lorden Plaza

Spend a day at Lorden Plaza, Milford's primary shopping destination, featuring a variety of stores and dining options.

Milford Antique Show

Browse through a selection of antiques and collectibles at Milford's weekly antique show.

Outdoor

Hiking at Monson Center

Enjoy a peaceful walk or hike through the Monson Center, a conservation area with trails and historical sites.

Paddleboarding on the Souhegan River

Experience adventure with paddleboarding on the scenic Souhegan River.

Riverfront kayaking experience

Spend your day kayaking down the Souhegan River, enjoying nature's beauty.

Tour of the Hampshire Hills Athletic Club

Participate in a tour and one-day experience at the Hampshire Hills Athletic Club, complete with sports facilities and a pool.

Explore Keyes Memorial Park

Relax or play sports at Keyes Memorial Park, a community park with facilities and open spaces.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Milford.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

As of the most recent estimates, the population of Milford, New Hampshire, is approximately 16,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Milford

Jan

22°14°

Feb

23°15°

Mar

22°13°

Apr

19°10°

May

16°7°

Jun

13°4°

Jul

12°3°

Aug

13°4°

Sep

15°6°

Oct

17°8°

Nov

19°11°

Dec

21°13°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Milford.

What people love

Milford, New Hampshire is a charming town with a variety of attractions and activities that make it a great destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Milford include:

Scenic beauty: Milford is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including forests, rivers, and hills. The town is known for its picturesque views, especially during the fall foliage season.
Outdoor activities: Milford offers a range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking in the area's parks and recreational areas.
Historic charm: Milford has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, and visitors can explore historic sites such as the Milford Historical Society and the Milford Oval, which features well-preserved colonial-era buildings.
Local shops and dining: Milford has a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants offering unique goods and locally sourced cuisine. Visitors can enjoy shopping for souvenirs and trying out delicious local dishes.
Proximity to other attractions: Milford is located within driving distance of other popular destinations in New Hampshire, such as Manchester and Nashua. Visitors can easily explore nearby attractions and make the most of their trip to the region.

Overall, traveling to Milford, New Hampshire offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, historic charm, and local culture, making it a rewarding destination for travelers seeking a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

What to know

Milford, New Hampshire is a charming town with a lot to offer, but like any destination, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling there:

Limited Public Transportation: Milford is a relatively small town and may not have an extensive public transportation system. This could make it challenging to get around if you don't have access to a car.
Seasonal Weather: New Hampshire experiences all four seasons, which means winters can be cold and snowy. If you're not accustomed to driving in snowy conditions, this could be a potential downside to visiting Milford during the winter months.
Limited Nightlife and Entertainment Options: While Milford has a number of quaint shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities, it may not offer as many nightlife and entertainment options as larger cities. If you're looking for a bustling nightlife scene, you may find Milford lacking in that regard.
Limited Accommodation Options: As a smaller town, Milford may have limited accommodation options compared to larger cities. It's important to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Limited Cultural and Historical Attractions: While Milford has some cultural and historical attractions, it may not have as many as larger cities or tourist destinations. If you're looking for a destination rich in museums, galleries, and historical sites, you may find Milford lacking in this aspect.

Overall, while Milford has much to offer in terms of its natural beauty, small-town charm, and outdoor activities, travelers should consider the potential limitations of a smaller town when planning their visit.

Milford, New Hampshire, is a town located in Hillsborough County and has a rich history dating back to its incorporation in 1794. Here is a detailed overview of its history, significant events, historical figures, and landmarks:

Early History and Settlement

Incorporation and Naming: Milford was incorporated on January 11, 1794. The town was named either for the mill industries that were anticipated to develop along the Souhegan River or for the numerous fords that crossed the river.
Early Economy: Initially, Milford's economy was primarily agricultural, but it quickly developed into a center for manufacturing due to the water power provided by the Souhegan River.

19th Century Developments

Granite Quarries: In the 1800s, Milford became known for its granite quarries. Milford granite was highly regarded and used in many notable buildings, including the New York City Public Library and the Washington Monument.
Railroad Expansion: The arrival of the railroad in 1850 boosted Milford's economy by facilitating the transportation of goods, including granite, textiles, and agricultural products.
Anti-Slavery Movement: Milford had a significant anti-slavery sentiment in the mid-1800s. It was part of the Underground Railroad, providing a stop for fugitive slaves seeking freedom.

20th Century to Present

Industrial Growth: The 20th century saw Milford transition from a manufacturing hub to a more diversified economy. While some manufacturing remains, the town has also become a suburban community with a strong local economy.
Population Growth: The population of Milford has grown steadily, benefiting from its proximity to larger cities like Nashua and Manchester, making it a desirable location for commuters.

Historical Figures

Harriet E. Wilson: Born in Milford in 1825, Wilson was the first African American to publish a novel in North America. Her novel, "Our Nig," was published in 1859 and provides a significant insight into the life of a free Black woman in the northern United States.
Frederick Douglass: The renowned abolitionist Frederick Douglass spoke in Milford as part of his lecture tours, highlighting the town's involvement in the anti-slavery movement.

Important Landmarks

Milford Oval: Known as "The Oval," this central town square is a focal point of community life and events in Milford. It is surrounded by historic buildings and serves as a reminder of the town’s rich history.
The Carey House: This historic home is now a museum operated by the Milford Historical Society. It showcases the town's history and offers insights into its development over the centuries.
The Milford Swing Bridge: Built in 1889, this bridge is one of the few remaining swing bridges in the state and is a testament to the town's engineering heritage.

Cultural and Community Events

Pumpkin Festival: Milford hosts an annual Pumpkin Festival, which is a significant event attracting visitors from across the region. It features a variety of activities, including carving contests and local vendors.

Milford, New Hampshire, continues to be a vibrant community with a strong sense of its historical roots, blending its rich past with the needs and aspirations of its modern residents.