Self-Guided Walking Tour of Benson Park, Hudson, NH

Exploring Benson Park with a Self-Guided Smartphone Tour

Our review takes a closer look at the Self-Guided Walking Tour of Benson Park in Hudson, NH, a charming blend of history and outdoor fun. While we haven’t tried it personally, the tour promises a relaxed, informative stroll led by the voice of Benson’s original founder, John T. Benson.

It’s an affordable way to get some background on this historic park, especially if you enjoy audio-guided adventures and appreciate stories of days gone by.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility—you can go at your own pace and revisit parts of the tour as you like. The price point of only $5.99 per person makes it accessible for most families or solo travelers. Plus, the fact that the tour is narrated by the park’s founder adds a personal touch, giving it a genuine, nostalgic feel.

A potential downside? The tour’s success heavily depends on your phone’s GPS signal, which has received mixed feedback—some users report the audio only playing music if GPS isn’t picking up properly. So, it’s worth downloading the app beforehand and starting at the designated kiosk.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy light history, scenic walks, and easy-to-follow, self-paced activities. If you’re in the Hudson area and looking for a quick, meaningful outdoor experience that combines history with some pleasant sights, this could be worth considering.

This experience made our article of The Top 11 Tours & Things To Do In New Hampshire.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: Priced at just under $6, this tour offers good value for a self-guided experience.
• Personal narration: Stories told by Benson’s original owner lend authenticity and a personal touch.
• Family-friendly: The park includes amenities like picnic areas, a playground, and a dog park.
• Limited duration: About 30 minutes to an hour, ideal for a quick outing.
• Technical considerations: Success depends on good GPS signal; some reviews mention issues if the signal drops.
• Memory of historical days: The tour covers notable sites like the Gorilla House, Swan Lake, and Storybook Hill, evoking Benson’s wild animal farm past.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and General Layout
The tour begins at 19 Kimball Hill Rd, Hudson, NH, with the narration guiding you through a roughly one-mile loop inside Benson Park. You’ll want to download the WalkNTour app prior to arriving, so you’re ready to go. The experience is designed to last between 30 minutes and an hour, making it perfect for a light, self-paced activity.

The Narration by John T. Benson
What makes this tour stand out is the voice of John T. Benson, the original owner of Benson’s Wild Animal Farm, who shares stories about the park’s early days as an exotic animal attraction. As you walk, you’ll hear about the exotic creatures that once called the park home, as well as the wild entertainment options that drew visitors in the past.

Notable Stops and Their Appeal
The tour highlights several key locations within Benson Park:

• Gorilla House: The site where Tony the gorilla once lived. If you’re a zoo enthusiast or interested in wildlife history, this spot offers a glimpse into the park’s animal past.
• A-Frame Picnic Area and Amphitheatre: These spots offer a relaxing break and a chance to imagine the park’s lively entertainment days.
• Swan Lake: A peaceful pond teeming with fish, turtles, and birds, perfect for nature lovers.
• Butterfly Garden: Adds a touch of color and serenity to your walk, especially if you enjoy observing insects and flowers.
• Old Shoe on Storybook Hill: A whimsical feature that might appeal to children and those with a sense of humor.
• Benson Park Store & Gift Shop: A chance to pick up souvenirs and support the park.
• 9-11 Memorial: An important, moving tribute accessible via the tour, adding a solemn moment to your visit.

User Experience and Reviews
While many find the tour engaging, a few reviews highlight technical issues—some users report that if GPS isn’t strong, the audio may only play music or fail altogether. One reviewer remarked, “It was the worst tour ever. All it did was play music,” which underscores the importance of downloading the app beforehand and starting at the correct kiosk.

Others appreciated the storytelling and shared that they learned new facts about the park’s history, with one saying, “I learned a lot. I recommend it!” Visitors also enjoyed the scenic views and the chance to walk through a space that has transformed over nearly a century.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
– Download the WalkNTour app before visiting.
– Start the tour at the Red Kiosk at the park’s main entrance.
– Bring a fully charged phone and possibly a portable charger.
– Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a one-mile walk.
– Visit during park hours (7 AM to 7 PM) from February to January.

The Value of the Tour

At just $5.99, this tour offers a charming peek into Benson Park’s past and present. While it doesn’t include guided interaction or in-person storytelling, the narration gives a personal touch that many appreciate. For families, it’s a manageable outing, combining history, scenery, and a bit of leisure.

Considering the reviews, the main value lies in the storytelling—the chance to hear from the park’s founder adds a layer of authenticity that typically costs more with guided tours. Many visitors enjoy the nostalgic connection to the park’s days as a wild animal farm, especially if they have childhood memories or an interest in local history.

However, the technical issues point to the importance of managing expectations. If GPS signals are weak or if your device isn’t compatible, the tour might fall flat, leaving just music. But with proper preparation, you’ll likely find it a pleasant, light activity perfect for a quick dose of history and scenic enjoyment.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families with kids, history buffs, or outdoor enthusiasts who want a low-pressure activity. It suits those looking to enjoy a relaxed walk while learning about Benson’s unique past. It’s also a good choice for solo travelers seeking a peaceful, self-guided outing that won’t break the bank.

If you’re curious about Benson’s wild days or enjoy listening to stories as you stroll in a beautiful park, this tour offers authentic insights in a casual setting. But if you prefer in-depth guides or in-person explanations, you might find this tour a bit too lightweight.

Final Thoughts

The Self-Guided Walking Tour of Benson Park offers a budget-friendly and flexible way to enjoy this historic park. The narration by the original owner lends a personal touch that adds value beyond just sightseeing. It’s a good pick for those who enjoy easy outdoor activities combined with a dash of local history.

While technical issues have been noted, proper preparation can mitigate many concerns. The park itself is a lovely place—whether for a picnic, a walk, or a visit to the memorial—and this tour enhances that experience with stories and context from the past.

For history lovers, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful stroll with some background, this tour fits well into a half-day outing. Just remember to start at the right kiosk and ensure your device’s GPS is functioning smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, and the park itself includes a playground and picnic areas, making it suitable for kids.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 30 minutes to an hour depending on your pace and how long you spend at each stop.

Do I need to download anything beforehand?
Yes, you should download the WalkNTour app prior to arriving to ensure smooth operation. Starting at the designated kiosk is also important for the best experience.

What if my GPS signal isn’t strong?
Some reviews mention that poor GPS can result in the audio only playing music. To avoid this, start your tour at the main entrance kiosk and ensure location services are enabled.

Is there an admission fee for the park?
The tour price is $5.99 per person, but the park itself is free to enjoy. The tour is a separate, optional experience.

Can I revisit the tour later?
Since it is a smartphone-based tour, you can replay it as many times as you like, or share it with friends.

What are the hours of operation?
Benson Park is open every day from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM year-round, giving you plenty of flexibility to schedule your walk.

In all, this self-guided tour offers a light but meaningful way to connect with Benson Park’s history and enjoy a peaceful walk. With a little prep, it can be a charming addition to your visit in Hudson, NH.