Where to Stay in Nashua: New Hampshire's Most Charming Accommodations

The Crowne Plaza stands as Nashua's grande dame of hospitality, having undergone a meticulous renovation that respects its architectural heritage while embracing modern sensibilities. The moment one enters the expansive lobby with its polished marble and subtle lighting, the establishment's commitment to refined comfort becomes apparent.

My recent summer sojourn placed me in one of their executive suites, where floor-to-ceiling windows framed verdant views of the surrounding woodland. The king-sized bed—dressed in Egyptian cotton linens—proved the perfect antidote to jet lag, while the marble-appointed bathroom featured a rainfall shower that delivered precisely the water pressure one hopes for but rarely experiences in hotel accommodations.

The property's attentive staff warrant particular mention; when I inquired about a specific single malt not listed on their bar menu, the concierge procured a bottle within the hour. Such service—reminiscent of Singapore's finest establishments—elevates the Crowne Plaza beyond mere accommodation to a genuine retreat.

Those seeking a more intimate experience would do well to consider The Nashua Grand Hotel, a boutique establishment housed within a meticulously restored 19th-century textile mill. With merely 28 rooms, each uniquely appointed, the property offers that increasingly rare commodity: genuine character.

During my three-night stay, I occupied the Riverfront Suite, where original brick walls and exposed wooden beams created a compelling dialogue between industrial heritage and contemporary luxury. The custom-built king bed frame—crafted by a local artisan from reclaimed factory timbers—proved both aesthetically pleasing and remarkably comfortable, particularly when paired with the luxury mattress topper that transformed an already excellent mattress into something truly extraordinary.

The bathroom merits special commendation for its deep-soaking copper tub positioned before a picture window overlooking the Nashua River. I found myself extending my evening ablutions, armed with a glass of Bordeaux from their well-curated wine list and the latest Ishiguro novel—a simple pleasure elevated to an art form.

For extended sojourns, the Residence Inn Nashua offers an impressive balance of space, amenities, and location. Having recently spent a full week here while researching New Hampshire's burgeoning craft spirits scene, I found their one-bedroom suites particularly conducive to my work-leisure equilibrium.

The full kitchen—equipped with Bosch appliances—proved invaluable for those mornings when one prefers breakfast in dressing gown rather than public attire. I particularly appreciated the pour-over coffee maker provided upon request, a thoughtful alternative to the standard in-room coffee options that rarely satisfy discriminating palates.

The property's grounds feature a remarkably well-designed courtyard with a fire pit that became my evening sanctuary. Here, I discovered an unexpected pocket of sociability among fellow travelers, exchanging recommendations over the hotel's complimentary local craft beers served each Wednesday evening.

The fitness center warrants mention for exceeding the typically perfunctory hotel gym experience. With Peloton bikes and a comprehensive range of free weights, maintaining one's exercise regimen becomes less chore and more pleasure.

For those seeking accommodation with a stronger connection to New Hampshire's natural splendor, Timberlane Lodge delivers a sophisticated interpretation of the woodland retreat. Positioned along a scenic bend of the Nashua River, this collection of 12 luxury cabins offers privacy without sacrificing amenities.

My riverside cabin featured floor-to-ceiling windows that transformed the surrounding forest into living art, while the interior's thoughtful design employed local granite, sustainable timber, and handcrafted furniture to create an atmosphere of organic luxury. The king-sized bed faces directly toward the river view—a decision that demonstrates the property's commitment to showcasing its natural setting.

The private deck, equipped with a portable fire pit, became my preferred location for evening cocktails. The property provides a complimentary s'mores kit featuring artisanal marshmallows and single-origin chocolate that elevates this campfire classic to something rather more sophisticated.

The on-site restaurant, Timber, warrants special mention. Chef Harrison's menu demonstrates remarkable restraint, allowing locally-sourced ingredients to express their inherent qualities without unnecessary embellishment. The venison, sourced from a nearby sustainable farm, was among the finest I've encountered outside of Scotland.

A critical factor often overlooked in accommodation selection is the quality of on-site dining—particularly relevant for couples seeking to minimize logistical complications in favor of quality time together. In this regard, The Nashua Grand Hotel's restaurant, Mill & Main, deserves particular recognition.

Executive Chef Thomasina Reeves, formerly of Boston's acclaimed Cultivar, brings sophisticated farm-to-table sensibilities to a menu that honors New England's culinary heritage while introducing contemporary techniques. The tasting menu—which changes weekly based on ingredient availability—offers a compelling reason to remain on property for at least one evening of your stay.

For those who appreciate proper cocktail craftsmanship, the bar program at Crowne Plaza's Shade Bar & Grill merits investigation. Bar Director Christopher Walsh has assembled an impressive selection of New Hampshire spirits and created a menu that balances classics with inventive originals. I found myself particularly drawn to his 'Granite State Negroni,' featuring local gin and a house-made bitter aperitif that complemented the traditional Campari rather than competing with it.

For in-room dining experiences, I recommend packing a travel cocktail kit to elevate your private happy hour. Paired with local cheese from Nashua's excellent WineNot Boutique, it transforms an ordinary evening into something rather more memorable.