If one were to model the quintessential downtown of a small New England city, the result would probably look a lot like Keene, New Hampshire. Located in the southwest corner of the state, in close proximity to both Massachusetts and Vermont, Keene is home to both Keene State College and Antioch University. Main Street is broad and very pedestrian-friendly, boasting shops, restaurants, galleries, theaters, and more; there’s plenty of hiking and other outdoor activities close at hand, too. As for where to stay, read on to discover our favorite Keene, NH, hotels and inns.
Favorite Keene, NH, Hotels & Inns Photo Credit : Photo by Jon Platek / CC BY-SA 3.0
Listed on the National Historic Register, this 1819 Federal-style building was once the home of Keene mayor Horatio Colony and is now owned by his descendants, who have maintained much of the house’s historic charm while reshaping it into a charming bed-and-breakfast. The four guest rooms are all located on the second floor, with a shared living room and den on the first. The furnishings are elegant without sacrificing comfort, and the continental breakfast is generous.
Formerly the Lane Hotel, Fairfield Inn & Suites is located right on Main Street in a century-old building that’s been extensively renovated. Now operated by Marriott, the hotel offers all the modern conveniences even as reminders of its history abound. Each room is uniquely decorated, and most of Keene’s dining and entertainment options are just a short walk away.
Located across the street from Keene State College, this bed-and-breakfast boasts a manicured lawn, pretty gardens, and four antiques-filled guest rooms (three with queen beds, one with two twin beds). If you like a more personal experience, the Carriage Barn might be for you. The breakfast room has a beautiful garden view, too.
One of Keene’s newest hotels, the Courtyard has been recognized for its energy efficiency and “greenness” with a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. With 98 rooms and two suites spread over five floors, the Courtyard is among Keene’s largest hotels, too. Like the Fairfield, this is a Marriott property, with amenities including an indoor pool, a well-appointed fitness center, and a Starbucks.
Do you have a favorite on our list of Keene, NH, hotels?
Associate Editor Joe Bills is Yankee’s fact-checker, query reader and the writer of several recurring departments. When he is not at Yankee, he is the co-owner of Escape Hatch Books in Jaffrey, NH.
