Benson Park in Hudson, New Hampshire offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the park’s rich history and natural beauty at their own pace. Starting from the red kiosk, a self-guided walking tour typically takes around 30 minutes, accessible for all. Informative signs along the trails provide insights into the park’s transformation from a wild animal farm to a beloved community space. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history enthusiast, this captivating experience is not to be missed.
Good To Know
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The self-guided walking tour of Benson Park in Hudson, NH, provides an insightful exploration of the park’s history, from its origins as a wild animal farm to its transformation into a community green space.
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Visitors can follow informative signs along the park’s trails to learn about the diverse native flora and fauna, as well as the legacy of the park’s founder, John T. Benson.
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The tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the park’s former animal exhibits, which showcase the captivating history of the exotic creatures that were once housed at Benson’s Wild Animal Farm.
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The self-guided walking tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, allowing all visitors to explore the park’s natural beauty and historical significance at their own pace.
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Visitor reviews suggest that the self-guided tour offers a convenient and immersive experience, with opportunities for both historical appreciation and nature-based recreation.
Overview of Benson Park
Benson Park, located in Hudson, New Hampshire, has a rich history dating back to the 1920s.
Originally known as Benson’s Wild Animal Farm, the park was founded by John T. Benson and featured an array of exotic creatures.
Over the years, the park has undergone a transformation, transitioning from a wild animal attraction to a family-friendly recreational area.
Today, visitors can explore the park’s trails, discover its natural beauty, and learn about its fascinating past through a self-guided walking tour.
The tour offers insights into the park’s history, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to connect with the legacy of its founder and the evolution of this cherished local landmark.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New Hampshire.
History of the Wildlife Park
In 1924, John T. Benson opened Benson’s Wild Animal Farm, a park that featured exotic creatures and family-friendly entertainment. Benson had a passion for wildlife and sought to share it with the public.
Over the years, the park evolved, housing bears, monkeys, deer, and other animals that delighted visitors. However, changing times and public sentiment eventually led to the closure of the zoo portion in the 1980s.
The park was then transformed into a community green space, preserving Benson’s legacy while adapting to modern needs. Today, the park offers hiking trails, a playground, and a glimpse into Hudson’s colorful past as a destination for family adventures.
Exploring the Park’s Trails
The park’s trails wind through lush greenery, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the tranquil setting.
Meandering along the paths, guests can spot native flora and fauna, from towering oaks to chirping birds. Informative signs dot the trails, providing insights into the park’s history and ecosystem.
Hikers can choose from various routes, exploring the diverse natural habitats that make Benson Park unique.
Whether strolling at a leisurely pace or embarking on a more vigorous trek, visitors are sure to discover the park’s hidden gems and leave with a newfound appreciation for the great outdoors.
Discovering the Animal Exhibits
Exploring the park’s former animal exhibits reveals a captivating chapter in Benson Park’s history. Once home to an array of exotic creatures, the park offered visitors a chance to encounter animals they may never have seen before. From majestic lions and tigers to playful monkeys and bears, the exhibits provided a unique educational experience.
| Animal | Habitat | Fun Fact |
|---|---|---|
| Lions | Savanna | Known for their impressive manes and powerful roars. |
| Monkeys | Tropical Forests | Highly intelligent and skilled at climbing. |
| Bears | Forests | Omnivores that can stand on their hind legs. |
Though the animals are long gone, their legacy lives on, inviting visitors to imagine the park’s vibrant past and the wonder it once inspired.
Transformation Over the Years
Over the decades, Benson Park has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from its roots as a captivating wild animal farm into a beloved community hub.
What was once a showcase for exotic creatures is now a sprawling green space, with walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas that cater to families and nature enthusiasts alike.
The park’s focus has shifted from entertainment to recreation, providing a serene refuge for locals and visitors to connect with the great outdoors.
Despite the changes, the park’s legacy as a place of discovery and wonder lives on, inspiring new generations to explore and appreciate its natural beauty.
Practical Information for Visitors
Easily accessible by car, Benson Park is located at 19 Kimball Hill Rd, Hudson, NH 03051.
The self-guided walking tour starts at the red kiosk near the park’s main entrance and takes around 30 minutes to complete. Visitors can explore the park at their own pace using the WalkNTour app on their smartphones.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Tickets cost $5.99 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
The park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with an average rating of 3.5 stars based on 6 reviews.
Visitor Experiences and Reviews
Visitors to Benson Park have shared a range of experiences through their reviews.
Based on 6 total reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor, the self-guided walking tour has a 3.5-star average rating.
Some visitors praised the insights into the park’s history and its transformation over the years, while others felt the tour could be improved.
Several reviewers noted the convenience of exploring at their own pace using a smartphone.
Things To Known
Is the Audio Tour Available in Multiple Languages?
The details provided don’t indicate whether the audio tour is available in multiple languages. The tour is described as a self-guided experience, so it’s possible the audio is only provided in English, but this isn’t explicitly stated.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Park?
Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to Benson Park. The park provides picnic areas where guests can enjoy their meals and refreshments while exploring the grounds at their own pace during the self-guided walking tour.
Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?
The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for seniors or students. However, the overall price of $5.99 per person is already quite affordable, making it accessible to most travelers regardless of age or student status.
Is There a Specific Route I Must Follow During the Tour?
The tour is self-guided, allowing visitors to explore Benson Park at their own pace. There’s no specific route to follow, though the audio tour provides insights and recommendations to enhance the walking experience throughout the park.
How Much Time Should I Allocate for the Self-Guided Walking Tour?
The audio tour is approximately 30 minutes long, but visitors can explore the park at their own pace. It’s recommended to allocate around 45-60 minutes to fully experience the self-guided walking tour and enjoy the park’s history and transformation.
Sum Up
Benson Park in Hudson, NH, offers a delightful self-guided walking tour that allows visitors to explore the park’s rich history and natural beauty at their own pace. From the former wild animal farm to the beloved community space it is today, the informative signs along the trails provide a captivating experience for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. With its accessibility for all, the tour is an excellent way to discover the park’s transformation over the years.