Franklin Pierce Homestead State Historic Site
4.6(114)google
IndoorGuided TourEducationalHistoric Building
Overview
The Franklin Pierce Homestead is a historic house museum and state park located in Hillsborough, New Hampshire. It was the childhood home of the 14th president of the United States, Franklin Pierce.
Practical Info
Mon10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
TueClosed
WedClosed
ThuClosed
Fri10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sat10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sun10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Suggested Duration1.5-2.5 hours
Best TimeBest visited from June to October on weekend mornings right at 10:00 AM opening. This historic federal-style manor was the childhood home of President Franklin Pierce; morning light pours beautifully through the lattice windows, perfectly illuminating the rare, imported 19th-century panoramic wallpaper frozen in time.
Getting ThereSituated near Hillsborough at the junction of NH-9 and NH-31. Car transit is mandatory: from Concord, follow US-202 W west for 25 minutes, take the branch for NH-31 S, and the historic site will be immediately visible on your right, offering a flat, complimentary open-air gravel parking loop outside the fence.
Travel Tips
- The historic homestead operates on a seasonal summer schedule without modern HVAC; interior temperatures soar mid-afternoon, making morning arrivals optimal.
- Fragile historical floorboards and narrow stairs prohibit spiked footwear or stiletto heels; the upper story lacks elevator infrastructure for wheelchair access.
- The surrounding grounds are state-protected zones; pets and smoking are strictly forbidden within the historic perimeter, and sensitive plant zones are roped off.
Reviews
Positive
- The homestead of the 14th US President Franklin Pierce preserves the authentic, rustic charm of the early 19th century.
- The guides are passionate and excellent storytellers, detailing President Pierce's childhood and the historical backdrop.
- The visitor volume is moderate, entirely free from crowds and noise, allowing a quiet appreciation of fine antique furniture.
- The admission fee is very affordable, making it a highly budget-friendly stop for a quick dive into presidential history.
Heads up
- The site is very small, consisting mainly of the single historic house; 30 to 45 minutes is enough to see everything.
- Operating hours are limited and highly seasonal, usually open only on select summer days; check the website before visiting.
- Accessibility is poor; due to the historic structure, narrow and steep wooden stairs prevent wheelchair users from reaching the second floor.
- There are few surrounding commercial amenities; it relies heavily on driving as public transit does not reach it, making it isolated.