Location and Directions

The MacDowell Colony is located in the Monadnock region of New Hampshire, where a striking natural environment and robust cultural scene combine to provide a wealth of options for residents and visitors alike. Stage companies, museums, fine dining, and world-class music are among the community’s many offerings. The Colony itself has long been associated with the arts in New Hampshire. Named Peterborough’s First Citizen in 1949, Marian MacDowell worked tirelessly on behalf of the arts in the local area.

While the Colony functions as a working retreat and thus promises its Fellows privacy and autonomy, a registered historic marker identifies the grave site of Edward and Marian MacDowell on High Street, which may be visited at any time. There are also several great ways to interact with MacDowell’s artists-in-residence through its seasonal events and community programs.

To get to the Colony, please follow the directions below and use the maps for guidance.

Travel Options

By car: Driving time to the Colony is approximately two hours from Boston and five hours from New York City. Peterborough is at the intersection of Routes 101 and 202, east of Keene and west of Nashua and Manchester.

From Boston: Take I-93 North to I-95 South to Route 3 North, Exit 8 (Monadnock Region), then follow Route 101A West to Route 101 West, past Milford and into Peterborough. At the intersection of Routes 101 and 202, take a right onto Grove Street. You will proceed into the center of Peterborough, where you will then take a left onto Main Street. Go uphill and look for a sharp right onto High Street. The MacDowell Colony is located at 100 High Street, past the Monadnock Country Club. The main office is located in the large white building.

From New York City: Take I-91 North to Vermont Exit 3 (Keene, NH); follow Route 9 East to Keene. In Keene, continue straight (the road becomes Route 101 East) until you reach the intersection of Routes 101 and 202, which is in Peterborough. At that intersection, bear left onto Grove Street. You will proceed into the center of Peterborough, where you will then take a left onto Main Street. Go uphill and look for a sharp right onto High Street. The MacDowell Colony is located at 100 High Street, past the Monadnock Country Club. The office is located in the large white building.

By bus: Greyhound/Vermont Transit provides services to Keene, NH, from Logan Airport or South Station in Boston, and from Port Authority in New York City. Driving directions may then be followed as described above.

By plane: Air travelers are advised to take flights into Manchester Regional Airport in Manchester, NH. Driving directions may then be followed as described above.

Important Travel Numbers

For shuttle service to the Colony from nearby airports, train, and bus terminals, please call Amoskeag Airport Service (800-395-3479); Shamrock Transportation (800-337-8510); or Thomas Transportation (800-526-8143). Please allow for 48 hours advance notice.

Greyhound/Vermont Transit (800-451-3292, 802-864-6811, 802-862-9671)

The MacDowell Colony (603-924-3886)

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