The large town of Keene is central to the western area of the region. Serving as a hub for the small towns that surround it, Keene provides shopping and entertainment and a state college. The surrounding farms, mills, town greens and steepled churchs can be appreciated while touring the area. Keene sits athwart all major east-west highways (Route 9 & Route 101) in the state, and is a short drive from Vermont.

East of Monadnock lies Peterborough, small in population, but large in cultural presence. Great hotels used to surround Mt. Monadnock, catering to the populations of Boston, Hartford and New York City during the hot summer months at the turn of the century.

The grand hotels have come and gone, however, the inspired works of poets, writers, musicians and artists survive and continue to grow. A tradition of arts and culture established early in the nineteenth century, continues to this day. The country's only marionette theatre devoted primarily to opera is one of the more unusual sites.

The famed MacDowell art colony in Peterborough has hosted many fine artists. In fact, Peterborough, is the model for the classic play, "Our Town," by Thornton Wilder. The Peterborough Players, one of New England's oldest summer theatres, still entertains every season.

The region in dotted with inns, guest houses and quality dining. Trails for both summer and winter use loop through the area. Cross country skiiers can travel from Peterborough through miles of trail to the downhill ski area in Temple.

Skiiing, hiking, biking, performances, maple sugar parties and sleigh rides keep Monadnock on the map year round.

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