Welcome to Lawn Squad® of Exeter, NH

Exeter, New Hampshire, is one of the most historically significant and genuinely beautiful small cities in all of New England — a place where colonial architecture, Revolutionary War history, a world-famous prep school, and a thriving downtown dining scene come together along the banks of the Squamscott River. The American Independence Museum on Governors Lane is an essential stop, housed in the Ladd-Gilman House where New Hampshire’s state government operated during the Revolution. Knowledgeable guides lead fascinating tours through this remarkably preserved property, and visitors can see original drafts of the United States Constitution and a rare copy of the Declaration of Independence — all free to visit in 2025. Just down Front Street, the Exeter Historical Society at 47 Front Street is a warmly welcoming archive and exhibit space staffed by extraordinarily knowledgeable volunteers, open to the public several days a week and free to enter, offering deep dives into local genealogy, colonial history, and rotating exhibits that consistently draw praise. The Phillips Exeter Academy campus, one of the most architecturally stunning prep school grounds in the country, is also well worth a self-guided stroll, featuring buildings by Louis Kahn and a beautiful library that ranks among the great works of 20th-century American architecture.

Exeter’s natural spaces are quiet and varied, anchored by the beloved Swasey Parkway on Water Street — a graceful, tree-lined riverfront promenade along the Squamscott River that is perfect for a peaceful walk in any season, with gazebos, benches, and grassy areas that host a popular summer farmers market and local festivals. The Henderson-Swasey Town Forest off Newfields Road offers a more rugged outdoor experience with miles of trails through mixed woodland popular with hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers, while the connected Oaklands Town Forest adds even more trail mileage for those looking for a longer adventure. Just a few minutes away, Stratham Hill Park in neighboring Stratham is a wonderful all-ages destination with open fields, wooded hiking trails, a beloved bike pump track, beautiful hilltop views, and well-maintained facilities that make it one of the finest community parks in the Seacoast region.

Exeter’s dining scene has quietly become one of the most exciting in New Hampshire, punching well above its weight for a small city. Vino e Vivo on Water Street is widely regarded as one of the finest dining experiences in the entire state — a French-inspired wine bar and restaurant where Chef Paul Callahan crafts beautifully balanced small plates like duck fat beignets, crispy octopus, and duck breast, all paired with exceptional wines curated by a knowledgeable sommelier. Just steps away, Otis Restaurant on Front Street offers a weekly-changing five-course prix fixe dinner in an intimate setting that draws comparisons to Michelin-starred restaurants, with thoughtfully sourced ingredients and impeccable pacing that makes every meal feel like a genuine culinary event. For something more relaxed but equally special, Fat Hen Brewing Co. on Front Street is a one-of-a-kind brewpub serving outstanding house-brewed ales alongside extraordinary British-style meat pies — the lamb vindaloo and chicken tikka masala pies in a crackling crust have earned it a devoted following — in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels straight out of an English village pub. Exeter is a town that richly rewards any visitor willing to slow down and explore it properly.