Why Winter's Better In Exeter: Beat The Blues With These Local Picks

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in Exeter. From family outings to seasonal events and easy day trips, there’s plenty around town to keep your calendar full. Just remember to double-check hours, weather updates and ticket details before heading out. And if you want even more local winter ideas, keep scrolling — you’ll find a way to get personalized suggestions based on what you love to do.

The Rinks At Exeter – Indoor Ice Skating Rink

Address: 40 Industrial Drive‍, ‍Exeter, NH 03833
Phone: (603) 775-7423
Details: The Rinks at Exeter offers year-round ice time for everything from public skating and learn-to-skate programs to hockey leagues and figure skating sessions. The facility is home to two full-size rinks, which allows multiple activities to run simultaneously throughout the week. Public skate times, specialty sessions and programs rotate regularly, so it’s worth checking the rink calendar before you go.

FlippityFlop – Children’s Interactive PlayGym

Address: 2 Kings Way Avenue, Units D&E, Exeter, NH 03833
Phone: (603) 418-7997
Details: Designed for younger kids to move, climb and explore, FlippityFlop blends structured play with open exploration in a bright, welcoming indoor gym. The space hosts free play and birthday parties, with group classes focusing on movement and early development soon to come. It’s an easy option when you’re looking to burn off energy without braving the cold.

American Independence Museum

Address: 1 Governor’s Lane, Exeter, NH 03833
Phone: (603) 772-2622
Details: Housed in a historic building on Exeter’s town green, the American Independence Museum explores New Hampshire’s role in the founding of the nation through artifacts, documents and rotating exhibitions. The museum also hosts lectures, family programs and seasonal events that bring history to life beyond the galleries.

Sea Dog Brewing Co.

Address: 5 Water Street, Exeter, NH 03833
Phone: (603) 793-5116
Details: Sea Dog Brewing Co. pairs house-brewed beers with a full pub menu in a relaxed riverside setting right in downtown Exeter. Along with rotating taps, the location hosts live music and trivia nights that make it easy to linger longer than planned.

Exeter Bowling Lanes

Address: 6 Columbus Avenue, Exeter, NH 03833
Phone: (603) 772-3856
Details: A longtime local favorite, Exeter Bowling Lanes offers classic ten-pin bowling in a casual, no-frills environment. Between rounds, you can play a game of pool, grab some pub food or even stop at the beer garden on balmy days. For hours of operation, pricing and booking details, click here.

Art Up Front Street Studios & Gallery

Address: 120 Front Street, Exeter, NH 03833
Phone: (603) 418-6286
Details: Art Up Front Street serves as both a working studio space and a gallery, showcasing local artists across a range of media. Visitors can browse exhibitions, shop for handmade pieces or attend events offered throughout the year.

The Word Barn

Address: 66 Newfields Road, Exeter, NH 03833
Phone: (603) 244-0202 (Text only)
Details: The Word Barn is a small but mighty literary space known for intimate author talks, readings, workshops and storytelling events. Tucked just outside downtown Exeter, the venue focuses on thoughtful programming that brings writers and readers together in a relaxed setting.

McCues Comedy Club

Address: 580 US Highway 1 Bypass, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Phone: N/A, contact via online form
Details: Just a short drive from Exeter, McCue’s Comedy Club hosts stand-up performances ranging from emerging comics to nationally touring acts. The club offers a laid-back comedy experience with rotating lineups throughout the month. Tickets and show details are available online, and advance booking is recommended for popular nights.

Want ideas that fit your family and your budget? Enter your ZIP code and preferences — kid-friendly, outdoor, educational and more — for winter getaway recommendations made for you.

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