American Independence Museum, Exeter

A charming museum with knowledgeable guides, a fun gift shop, and great branding, the American Independence Museum is a great stop for families and history buffs alike. The museum is open May through November on Wednesdays through Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cost of admission is $8 for adults; $6 for seniors, students, educators, and first responders; $4 for children ages 6 through 18, and free for children under 6, military and veterans, museum members, library pass holders, NEMA members (like me!), and time travelers (as promised by their website). Like many historic houses, the buildings are not wheelchair accessible and may prove difficult to navigate for people with mobility issues. Tours of Ladd-Gilman House are guided at 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m., with plenty of signage for a self-guided tour. Folsom Tavern is only open to guided tours at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. This experience is billed as their “immersive, sensory-friendly tour”, as the tavern has a space for relaxation, playing with historical toys, and reading children’s books on early American history. Overall, this is a great opportunity for local families to introduce children to the American Revolutionary War and view rare documents related to the founding of the United States.

Did a docent led tour by Dana. Very informative and interesting. A good mix of American history as well as history of New Hampshire. The tour took one hour. All staff were very friendly and very welcoming. If you’re in the area with an hour to spare and want to learn something, put a stop on your list