places to visit in new hampshire in june

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30 top things to do in new hampshire.

Outdoor adventures, amusement parks, museums and historic sites abound in the Granite State.

Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Courtesy of Mount Washington Cog Railway

From traveling on the Mount Washington Cog Railway to posing in front of Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach at Story Land, New Hampshire has something for everyone to enjoy.

New Hampshire may be a small state, but it's packed full of attractions and activities for visitors. From its 18 miles of coastline to its centrally located Lakes Region to the looming White Mountains up north, New Hampshire offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Then there are the amusement parks, historic sites and thought-provoking museums to explore while vacationing in the Granite State.

With skiing in the winter, summer fun by the lakes and leaf-peeping in the fall, this state is a year-round destination. Here are some of the best things to do and see in New Hampshire.

Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves

The Lost River Gorge tops the list of what to see in New Hampshire for those looking for a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. Open seasonally from early May to mid-October, this attraction has a self-guided, 1-mile boardwalk loop trail with more than 1,000 stairs. Make sure to dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.

Along the way there are scenic spots to stop and admire the Lost River and its cascading waterfalls in the gorge. If you're limber and not too claustrophobic, you might choose to maneuver through nearly a dozen boulder caves, including one particularly tight spot called the Lemon Squeezer. Visitors to this attraction in the White Mountains appreciate that any of the cave crawls can be bypassed. Lost River Gorge is around 5 miles from North Woodstock's Main Street, where The Wilderness Inn Bed & Breakfast welcomes overnight guests in a craftsman-style 1912 home.

Address: 1712 Lost River Road, North Woodstock, NH 03262

Mount Washington Cog Railway

Ascend to the summit of the highest peak in New England aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway. Onboard one of the specially designed biodiesel locomotives, you'll pass through steep grades and three climate zones to reach the Mount Washington summit at 6,288 feet in elevation. When you book your tickets online, you can also choose to take a historic steam locomotive at certain times of the year.

Schedule and pricing may vary based on weather and train excursion selection; check out Mount Washington Cog Railway's website for more information. The Cog Railway makes multiple daily trips in the warmer months to the summit, with its visitor center and rooftop observation deck. From late October to early spring, the railway operates shorter trips to the Waumbek Station, at about 4,000 feet in elevation. Past travelers appreciated the onboard live commentary that covers the history, flora and fauna of the area. The Mount Washington Cog Railway is located in the White Mountains near Bretton Woods, home to the majestic Omni Mount Washington Resort with its relaxing spa and multiple dining options.

Address: 3168 Base Station Road, Mount Washington, NH 03589

[Read: The Best Hotels in New Hampshire .]

Lake Winnipesaukee

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The largest lake in the state at 72 square miles, Lake Winnipesaukee is one of New Hampshire's most popular summer vacation spots. Families flock to the lake to go boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking and canoeing on the clear water surrounded by thick forest and looming mountains. A popular excursion is a scenic boat ride on the historic M/S Mount Washington ship. The resort towns that ring the lake are chock-full of fun things for families to do, including old-fashioned arcades, go-karting and mini-golf.

Lodging abounds in the area, from vacation homes and lakeside cottages to budget motels and small inns. Church Landing at Mill Falls in Meredith has a convenient and scenic location right on the lake, within walking distance of several restaurants and shops in town.

North Conway

In the heart of New Hampshire's Mount Washington Valley, North Conway is a fabulous vacation destination for fans of scenic railroads, historic covered bridges and outdoor adventures. The village is an especially popular spot in the winter months, as it's been ranked among the best ski towns in North America, with more than a dozen ski areas within a short drive of the village.

Outside of winter, the easy hike to the waterfalls at Diana's Baths is on a fairly flat gravel path, but the small parking lot can get quite busy in the summer, so recent hikers advise you try to go early or late in the day. Visitors flock to North Conway's many shopping outlets and malls, with no general sales tax charged on goods in New Hampshire. For a glamorous place to rest your head, consider a night at Stonehurst Manor , a beautiful 19th-century hotel with mountain views and wood fireplaces.

[Read: The Top Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire .]

Hampton Beach State Park

Hampton Beach State Park is packed with people in the summer, especially on hot, sunny weekends. Walking the wide sandy beach or picnicking under an umbrella for the day is free at this coastal state park. You'll need to pay to park your car, and recent visitors suggest making parking reservations ahead of time online at the New Hampshire State Parks website; otherwise, you'll likely have to hunt for a first-come, first-served metered space around town.

Across the street from Hampton Beach sits the legendary Hampton Beach Casino, which dates back to 1899. Not so much a popular place to gamble (though there are a few games of chance), this historic strip is filled with family-friendly arcade games, small amusement rides, snacks and souvenir shops. If you want to stay overnight, check out the oceanfront Ashworth by the Sea, the only full-service beachfront hotel here.

Lincoln is a great home base for exploring New Hampshire's White Mountains. The small town is home to Loon Mountain Resort for skiing, tubing and snowshoeing in the winter as well as zip lining, gondola rides, biking and hiking in the summer. Other local attractions for warm weather visitors include Whale's Tale Waterpark, Hobo Railroad and Flume Gorge. If you're trying to keep things affordable on your getaway to the White Mountains, consider booking a room at the Notch Hostel, a dog-friendly spot with fire pits, camping spaces, cabins and more.

Hood Museum of Art

Michael Moran | Courtesy of The Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth

Home to a wide range of art and artifacts, including Indigenous Australian contemporary art and a major archive of photojournalism, the Hood Museum of Art is located on the campus of Hanover's Dartmouth College. The collection is vast, with more than 65,000 pieces of art in the museum's care, though only a portion are on display to the public at any given time. Recent museum enthusiasts note that with free admission, the museum is certainly worth an hourlong stroll through the exhibits; there are also free guided tours on occasion. Right next door to the Hopkins Center for the Arts and the Hood Museum is the elegant Hanover Inn, the oldest continuously operating hotel in the state.

Address: 6 E. Wheelock St., Hanover, NH 03755

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Courtesy of McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Concord's must-visit McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center honors two New Hampshire residents: Alan Shepard, who in 1961 was the first American to travel into space, and Christa McAuliffe, a teacher who was aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger that tragically exploded just after it launched in 1986. Visitors to this family-friendly attraction can learn about space travel and science through hands-on exhibits, demonstrations and planetarium shows.

Concord, the capital of New Hampshire, has plenty of hotel chains and budget-friendly lodging, but if you're looking for something different and historic, consider The Centennial Hotel, located in a 19th-century Victorian mansion.

Address: 2 Institute Drive, Concord, NH 03301

Prescott Park

Visitors to Prescott Park in the seaside city of Portsmouth rave about the beautiful flowers and waterfront views, commenting on what a great job the gardeners do with the landscaping in the summer months. The 10-acre waterfront park makes for a lovely place to stroll and take in the sights and smells of the serene space; there are also benches for rest and reflection. Admission to the park is free. In the summer, concerts, movies and theater productions take place in the park as part of the Prescott Park Arts Festival.

If you're looking to stay overnight in the city, Ale House Inn is housed in an 1880 former brewery warehouse and located within walking distance of the park.

Address: 105 Marcy St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

[Read: The Best Weekend Getaways in New England .]

Canobie Lake Park

Canobie Lake Park has been delighting visitors since it opened in 1902 with its botanical gardens, swings, canoes and penny arcade. Today it's a fun-for-the-whole-family amusement park filled with exciting rides, a water park and carnival-style midway games – plus dining venues that serve quintessential New England favorites like lobster rolls and fried dough. Thrill rides at this amusement park include the spinning, strobe light-filled Psychodrome and a roller coaster called Untamed that sends riders on a beyond-vertical drop of 97 degrees.

The amusement park is open seasonally, generally from Memorial Day weekend through Halloween. Check the website calendar for specific days and hours of operation (early and late in the season it's open on weekends only). Canobie Lake Park is located in Salem, in the southern part of New Hampshire. The closest hotel is the basic, budget-friendly Red Roof Inn Salem, which gets props from past travelers for its convenient location next to Interstate 93.

Address: 85 N. Policy St., Salem, NH 03079

Russell-Colbath Historic Site

The Russell-Colbath Historic Site sits in Albany, New Hampshire, along the Kancamagus Highway between the towns of Lincoln and Conway in the White Mountains. Built in the 1830s by the Russell family, a simple home on the property serves as an example of what living quarters were like for original settlers of the area. Guided tours are offered from July to September, and recent visitors praise the on-site staff, who can explain some of the home's history and preserved household items on display.

Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, this historic site also includes an accessible half-mile trail with interpretive panels about the logging and railroading industries here in the 19th century. The Russell-Colbath Historic Site is open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Outside of Conway along the Kancamagus Highway you'll find the Kancamagus Swift River Inn, with 10 quaint rooms and daily continental breakfast.

Address: Kancamagus Highway, Albany, NH 03818

Flume Gorge

Part of Franconia Notch State Park, the Flume is a scenic gorge with a 2-mile loop trail that allows visitors to admire the looming granite walls, rushing Flume Brook and even a classic New England covered bridge. The boardwalk trail at this attraction in the White Mountains does include many steps, so you'll want to make sure to wear sturdy shoes to traverse it safely. Admire plentiful mosses, ferns and flowers along the way.

Recent visitors note that the optional one-way Wolf's Den path, which involves crawling on hands and knees through boulders, is especially fun for kids. Make your reservations in advance to ensure that you'll be able to access the trail (and get a reduced entry fee) via the New Hampshire State Parks website. Nearby lodging includes Indian Head Resort in Lincoln, with resort rooms, cottages, bungalows and rustic houses.

Address: 852 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln, NH 03251

Courtesy of Storyland

For small children or nostalgic adults, this attraction is probably one of the most fun places in New Hampshire to spend the day. Story Land is located in Glen, east of the White Mountain National Forest, and dates back to 1954. It features classic attractions that celebrate children's nursery rhymes and fairy tales, including a giant Humpty Dumpty and Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach – both make great photo opportunities.

Young children like to visit the petting zoo with animals right out of favorite storybooks like the "Three Billy Goats Gruff." Older kids can pilot Swan Boats on a calm pond. More thrilling attractions include Dr. Geyser's Remarkable Raft Ride (be prepared to get splashed) and the Roar-O-Saurus wooden roller coaster. Nearby Nordic Village Resort in Jackson gets rave reviews from past travelers for its spacious accommodations that include studios, condos and townhouses, as well as pools, hot tubs and saunas for relaxation.

Address: 850 state Route 16, Glen, NH 03838

Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park

This National Historical Park honors Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a prominent American Renaissance sculptor who spent his later years (1885 to 1907) at this estate in Cornish. Visitors to this historic site can see his home, tour his studio and walk the grounds where his sculptures are on display. Recent parkgoers say they were in awe of the beautiful gardens.

Travelers should note that some areas are only open seasonally, with most indoor areas like the galleries closed from November to Memorial Day. In addition, there are wooded hiking trails up to 2 miles long on the 100-acre property, if you're looking to get a little exercise amid nature while visiting Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park. Cornish is located in central New Hampshire, near the Vermont border. Some of the closest budget lodging can be found to the north in the Connecticut River Valley, including the Fireside Inn & Suites West Lebanon – admire the hotel's impressive atrium filled with trees while you're there.

Address: 139 Saint Gaudens Road, Cornish, NH 03745

Santa's Village

Courtesy of Santa's Village

Just as the name suggests, Christmas-themed Santa's Village is a celebration of the jolly old fellow himself, as well as all things that make this winter holiday special, from elves and reindeer to sleighs and sweet treats. Family-friendly rides at this amusement park in Jefferson include the Reindeer Carousel, Christmas Ferris Wheel, Santa's Express Train and Yule Log Flume. There's also a water park that's open in the summer, with slides, splash pads and water sprays.

Visitors have noted how clean and charming this amusement park is. Typically Santa's Village is open daily in the summer, with limited weekend hours in the late spring and from Labor Day through Christmas. Be sure to check the website for operating hours before you visit. One inexpensive option for overnighting nearby is the Coos Motor Inn in Lancaster, located 6 miles north.

Address: 528 Presidential Highway, Jefferson, NH 03583

Strawbery Banke Museum

Courtesy of Strawbery Banke Museum

Set on 10 acres in downtown Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum brings centuries of U.S. history alive with costumed role-players who share what life was like in New England's past. Visitors can tour historic buildings and interactive exhibits to learn about the people who once made their homes in this waterfront neighborhood. Past travelers say a highlight of their visit is chatting with the craftspeople in period dress, such as barrel makers and boat builders.

As an outdoor history museum, Strawbery Banke is typically open daily from May through October. In the winter months, try out outdoor ice skating on Puddle Dock Pond. Tickets can be purchased online or in person. If you're with kids, consider getting a family admission ticket to save some money. Just around the corner from Strawbery Banke is The Sailmaker's House, an intimate and historic boutique hotel with just 10 guest rooms.

Address: 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Whale's Tale Waterpark

Courtesy of Whale's Tale Waterpark

Cool off during New Hampshire's hot and humid summer months at Whale's Tale Waterpark in Lincoln. Thrill rides include the Plunge body slides, where you might reach up to 40 miles an hour, as well as the Banzai Pipeline, which is a speedy tube ride that shoots you into a quarter pipe. Other attractions include Whale Harbor with short slides and gentle water sprays for toddlers; Shipwreck Island with its massive bucket dump; and Willie's Wild Waves, billed as the only wave pool in the White Mountains.

Past travelers consistently praise the friendly staff at Whale's Tale Waterpark, which is generally open mid-June through Labor Day. Located less than half a mile away on U.S. Route 3 is the Days Inn by Wyndham Lincoln, which has an indoor and outdoor pool and a kids playground.

Address: 481 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln, NH 03251

Castle in the Clouds

Courtesy of Castle in the Clouds

This unique seasonal attraction in Moultonborough offers a variety of things for visitors to do. You can tour a historic, 16-room, mountaintop mansion that was built in 1913 and features some modern technological advances of the time, including a central vacuum system. Take a self-guided mansion tour of the first two floors from late May to late October; guests can also opt for a guided basement tour of the mansion for an additional charge.

Spend the day hiking more than 28 miles of scenic trails, including gentle paths to waterfalls and more strenuous summit hikes. Trails in the Castle in the Clouds Conservation Area are free to access for summer hikes as well as winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There is a gift shop, cafe and restaurant on-site with outdoor seating offering sweeping mountain and lake views. You won't find many hotels near Castle in the Clouds, as it's located in a rural part of the Lakes Region. One of the closer options is Center Harbor Inn, set right on Lake Winnipesaukee and featuring a sandy beach plus kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals for guests.

Address: 455 Old Mountain Road, Moultonborough, NH 03254

Polar Caves

Courtesy of Polar Caves

The Polar Caves in Rumney were formed by a moving glacier 50,000 years ago. Visitors can pass through nine distinct boulder caves on a self-guided tour, while enjoying the cooler temperatures on a hot summer day. The granite spaces are all named: Shimmy through Orange Crush and walk the narrow path of Devil's Turnpike. The caves are linked by a series of trails and wooden boardwalks, and all cave entry is optional.

Be prepared to crawl, twist and get a little dirty if you choose to make your way through the natural obstacles, say past travelers. Visitors can also feed the fallow deer and ducks at the on-site animal park. Polar Caves is open seasonally, from mid-May through mid-October. Nearby Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Plymouth White Mountains offers daily hot breakfast.

Address: 705 Rumney Route 25, Rumney NH 03266

Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile National Scenic Byway that stretches from Lincoln to Conway in the White Mountains. This portion of state Route 112 is a wildly popular scenic drive in the autumn for its plentiful vistas of colorful fall foliage . Many pull-off points allow for stretching legs along this curvy, wooded highway, where you can take in views of mountains, waterfalls and rivers.

Along the highway, there are also parking lots at trailheads that allow you to traverse through the woods on foot. Past road-trippers and leaf-peepers note that cell service is very limited in this remote area. You won't really find any motels or hotels along this stretch of rural road that reaches 2,855 feet in elevation, though there are six White Mountain National Forest campgrounds.

Gunstock Mountain Resort

Courtesy of Gunstock Mountain Resort

This ski area in the Lakes Region welcomes outdoor enthusiasts in the winter with its 49 downhill ski and snowboard trails, around 17 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, and a tubing hill. You can also hike or snowshoe up the mountain, practice tricks in the terrain park, and even ski or snowboard under the lights at night.

Gunstock Mountain Resort also shines in the warmer months with its activity-packed Adventure Park. Go zip lining amid the trees up to 70 miles an hour, zoom through the forest on the Mountain Coaster, or walk along swinging bridges on an aerial obstacle course. If you're looking for a more mellow activity, consider a scenic lift ride. Tent and RV campsites are available at Gunstock Mountain Resort. Further afield is The Margate on Winnipesaukee in Laconia, which past travelers have praised for its sandy beach and indoor and outdoor pools.

Address: 719 Cherry Valley Road, Gilford, NH 03249

Currier Museum of Art

Courtesy of Currier Museum of Art

Manchester's Currier Museum of Art has a collection of 15,000 art objects, with a focus on painting and sculpture from the 14th through 17th centuries as well as contemporary works. Rotating gallery exhibits and special exhibitions showcase the varied collection. The Currier also offers access to two Frank Lloyd Wright homes, the only houses designed by the influential architect that are open to the public in New England.

Guided house tours are offered on Thursday evenings as part of "Art After Work," and the Currier Museum of Art is open year-round. For accommodations nearby, the Ash Street Inn is a bed-and-breakfast located in a 19th-century Victorian home with all the modern comforts you need. It's a couple of blocks from the museum and within easy walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants.

Address: 150 Ash St., Manchester, NH 03104

Courtesy of Funspot

A popular attraction for all ages in New Hampshire's Lakes Region, Funspot in Laconia houses the world's largest arcade with more than 600 games, including classic video arcade games and pinball machines, a 10-pin and candlepin bowling alley, indoor mini-golf, and rides for young children. Kids love playing games of skill to earn tickets to redeem for prizes, or you can spend a couple of hours playing old favorites like Space Invaders, Pac-Man and Asteroids. With Funspot's plethora of classic games, past travelers applaud the attraction for its nostalgic factor, while others say it's a good value for game tokens. Laconia's Summit Resort has two-bedroom suites, making this lodging option a good fit for families.

Address: 579 Endicott St. N., Laconia, NH 03246

Jenness State Beach

Smaller, with fewer bells and whistles than nearby Hampton Beach, Rye's Jenness State Beach is popular among families especially on sunny summer weekends, when you'll need to arrive early in the day to snag a metered parking spot, according to past visitors. Beachgoers will likely appreciate the bathhouse with restrooms, changing rooms and showers. Lifeguards keep watch as kids frolic in the waves in the summer months. Dogs are not allowed on the sandy beach in the summer, but leashed pets are permitted in the off-season. Dunes Motor Inn, with rooms under $200 a night, is right across the street.

Address: 2280 Ocean Blvd., Rye, NH 03870

[See: The Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in the U.S. ]

Bear Brook State Park

If you're looking to immerse yourself in nature on your trip to the Granite State, you can't go wrong with Bear Brook State Park, the largest developed state park in New Hampshire. Hiking, biking, camping, fishing, kayaking and swimming are a few of the activities you can enjoy in the warmer months in this recreational area. The park sits in the southeastern part of the state, near Manchester and Concord.

This is a heavily wooded area, and cell service may be limited – so come prepared with insect repellent and perhaps a paper map for navigation. Primitive campsites are available for RVs and tents at Beaver Pond Campground, with advance reservations available online. The closest lodging outside the park is near Concord and Manchester, including Tru by Hilton Concord, which is just off I-93 and offers free hot breakfast.

Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden

John Butler | Courtesy Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden

This Georgian-style mansion at the heart of Portsmouth has been open as a museum for more than a century. Built around 1760, the Moffatt-Ladd House is brimming with history, having housed General William Whipple, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. With original furniture, the house feels like a time warp; visitors have complimented the house's tour guides for their intimate and intriguing knowledge of the house's history.

Don't forget to check out the flower-laden garden while you're there. The house is open seasonally from spring to fall. Given the downtown location of this attraction, you'll find plenty of chain hotels in the area, but for something more special, consider staying at The Inn Downtown, a boutique apartment-hotel with chic rooms in an early 19th-century building.

Address: 154 Market St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

Mount Washington Auto Road

Courtesy of Mount Washington Auto Road

It's more than just a 7.6-mile road: The Mount Washington Auto Road bills itself as America's oldest continuously operating attraction. It opened in 1861, allowing visitors to take a four-hour carriage ride to the frigid summit of Mount Washington. Nowadays, you can do it a lot faster in your own car – just drive to the base of the road, pay the fee (you have to pay on a per-passenger basis) and start your ascent.

You'll want to download the Auto Road app to get an audio tour as you go up. For safety reasons, there are restrictions on certain vehicles as well as weight limits, so be sure to check them on the Auto Road website before heading out. If you don't want to drive, there are also guided tours available; in winter, the only option is to take the company's Snowcoach up, as private cars aren't permitted from December to March.

Address: 1 Mount Washington Auto Road, Gorham, NH 03581

USS Albacore Museum

If you or your family loves all things motorized, the USS Albacore is a fascinating place to visit. Built right nearby in Portsmouth, the USS Albacore was a state-of-the-art submarine that set a world record for speed in the 1960s. With the vessel now decommissioned, you can hop aboard and learn about how it works at this location just outside downtown Portsmouth – there's also a museum and memorial garden on-site. Take note: Children younger than 2 cannot go into the submarine, and the attraction is closed from around mid-December to mid-February each year.

Address: 600 Market St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

Wright Museum of World War II

If you're faced with a rainy day while visiting New Hampshire's Lake District, this museum is a formidable indoor alternative (and hard to miss, thanks to the tank poking out from one of its exterior walls). The museum has a collection of 14,000-plus items sourced both from the U.S. and the front lines of World War II as well as fully operational military vehicles. The museum aims to help visitors understand the role that Americans played in the Allied victory in 1945. Visitors have praised the Wright Museum for being thoroughly informative and for showing what happened in the U.S. during the war, not just focusing on the battle zones. If you're hoping to stay nearby, the historic Wolfeboro Inn with a New England-style pub on-site is one solid option.

Address: 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, NH 03894

Echo Lake State Park

This small but mighty state park is home to two stunning viewpoints. White Horse Ledge and Cathedral Ledge both require a little effort to get to, but they offer stellar views over Echo Lake and the surrounding forests. The trail up to Cathedral Ledge is shorter, at 1.2 miles, compared to 4.2 miles for White Horse Ledge. If hiking isn't your thing, you can swim and picnic by Echo Lake. Visitors praise the beautiful reflective waters of the lake and the easy walking trail that goes around it. The park is also easy to get to, located just outside the town of North Conway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster hails from Montreal, Canada, right over the border from New Hampshire. The state's lakes and beaches are popular destinations for French Canadians, so he has no shortage of knowledge on what to do in the Granite State.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in Vermont
• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
• Fall in New England: When & Where to Go
• The Best Places to Hike in North America

31 Charming Bed-and-Breakfasts

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , New England Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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50+ Things to Do in New Hampshire: Your NH Bucket List (2023)

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New Hampshire is one of America’s best-kept secrets, so if you didn’t realize there are so many fun things to do in New Hampshire, you’re probably not alone. Since it doesn’t have a sprawling city of millions, it’s not like everyone has a must do in New Hampshire list… but you should! New Hampshire has it all: the charm, quaintness, sites and activities, history, and gorgeous granite landscapes.

I was born and raised in NH, and just can’t seem to leave this beautiful corner of the country. What sets it apart for me is its amazing variety of sights, towns, and activities, that are all insanely accessible no matter what region you’re in. Since NH isn’t a large state, everything is at your fingertips. You can be in a city, on a mountain, then on the beach, all in the same day. Talk about bang for your buck. 

If you’re not convinced yet, I’m going to share 50+ of the best things to do in New Hampshire. Many of these are my personal favorites, and all are worth being added to your New Hampshire bucket list.

Let’s explore this great state!

Table of Contents

Lounge by the ocean at Hampton Beach State Park

The beach is a major favorite among New Hampshire locals. It’s such an integral part of our summers that I was surprised to learn we actually have the smallest ocean coastline (about 18 miles) of any state. But we definitely know how to make good use of our humble blessings! 

Hampton Beach State Park is a wicked popular vacation spot between June and August. Read a book in the sand, grab a slice of pizza on Ocean Boulevard, or catch the sand sculpture competition in September; there are a ton of fun things to do in Hampton Beach, and cool hotels to stay at, too!

Explore the oldest European settlement in the state

Located in my favorite coastal city of Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum is a 10-acre outdoor history museum imbued with over 300 years of U.S. history and one of the best things to do in Portsmouth New Hampshire !

Dating back to the 1600s, this is the oldest neighborhood in NH to be settled by Europeans. Composed of 32 restored historic buildings, heritage gardens, and costumed role-players, the museum will immerse you in its rich history. 

You can participate in hands-on traditional crafts, storytelling, and artifact viewing. If you’re a history buff, Strawbery Banke is a must .

Take a dip in Diana’s Baths

It’s not hard to find cool things to do in the White Mountains because they are absolutely riddled with breathtaking natural formations, and Diana’s Baths is definitely one of them. Made up of a series of small waterfalls and pools, this 1-mile out and back trail in Bartlett is a short, easy walk, but packed with serene nooks to explore. 

Appreciate the beautiful waterfall views along your hike, wade in the clean mountain-water pools, or picnic on a summer day!

Take a  scenic train ride in the mountains

The Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway Village offers family-friendly train rides through the Mount Washington Valley. This is definitely one of the top New Hampshire attractions for visitors to the state. 

Departing from a charming, sunny train station in North Conway , you can choose between two adventures: a heritage rail excursion to Conway and Bartlett, or a scenic roundtrip to Crawford Notch with plenty of vistas and rocky outcrops that’ll leave you in awe;; this is one of those very memorable  things to do with family in New Hampshire, especially if you live somewhere that doesn’t have mountains!

Drive, hike, or ride to the top of Mount Washington

Introducing Mount Washington : the tallest peak in the Northeast (6288’),  home to the fastest wind gust ever recorded on earth (231 mph), and the muse for every single ‘This Car Climbed Mt. Washington’ bumper sticker. 

But really, this mountain is a glorious point of pride for New Hampshire and undoubtedly one of the coolest things to do in New Hampshire, and there are several ways to experience its majesty. Experienced hikers can climb. Those who want to sit back and savor the scenery can ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway , the world’s first mountain-climbing cog, to the top. 

Last but not least, you can drive the legendary Mount Washington Auto Road to the summit yourself, then proudly display your new ‘This Car Climbed Mt. Washington’ bumper sticker. You’ve earned it!

Bring your little ones to Story Land

If you’re looking for things to do in NH with kids, check this out: Nestled in the town of Glen, Story Land is a children’s amusement park that will spark your child’s imagination and have them buzzing from excitement. 

With over 30 attractions, “the land where fantasy lives” was created to make kids smile, but adults might be equally amused by this living fairytale!

Walk across an epic boardwalk in a gorge

I highly recommend Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park , which was created by the flow of Flume Brook and sits at the base of Mount Liberty. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in NH, and a visit here is certainly one of those must do things in New Hampshire that everyone should experience for themselves.

The 1.5 mile Flume Gorge loop takes you along stairs and a boardwalk within the gorge, where you can observe the lush flora and fauna up close and take in its 90-foot granite walls. It’s an unforgettable experience. 

I first visited Flume Gorge as a child, and it blew me away – I might as well have been in Terabithia. To this day, I’m still convinced it’s one of the most magical places in NH.  This is one of those special things to do with kids in NH that they will remember all their lives!

Enjoy the holidays year-round at Santa’s Village

Santa’s Village in Jefferson is a magical place for kids, plain and simple and is an obvious addition to any things to do in New Hampshire with kids list. And it’s exactly what it sounds like – a theme park that transports you to the North Pole. 

There’s food and shopping, a tiny train, holiday themed rides, elves, and meet-and-greets with Santa Claus himself! A visit to Santa’s Village should also be on the list for fun things to do in NH with toddlers, too! You’re never too young (or too old!) to enjoy a visit with Santa!

Learn about ocean science at the Seacoast Science Center

Located at Odiorne State Park, the Seacoast Science Center is a delightful, educational way to appreciate marine life and the ocean. If you’re looking for things to do in Rye NH, add this to the list!

The exhibits will teach you about marine mammals like whales and seals, beaches, and reefs. The best part is the touch tank, where you can pet a chain catshark or hold a sea star; this is one of the most fun things to do with kids in NH, and certainly one of the coolest Seacoast NH things to do, too.

Have a serene stay at a luxurious mountain hotel

Why not experience NH in style? Located in Bretton Woods, a hotspot for skiers and adventurers, the Omni Mount Washington Resort is a breathtaking hotel; not only is this NH luxury resort with a spa one of the most fun things to do for adults in New Hampshire, but kids will have a blast too, making this a fun NH family activity!

In the 20th century, The Mount Washington was one the most luxurious hotels of its time. And the present popularity of this historical hotel lies in its massive size, and the nature that surrounds it – a stay here comes with 360-degree views of the White Mountains. Book a stay here if you want a one-of-a-kind NH experience!

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Watch a movie the old-fashioned way at a drive-in

Who doesn’t love a nostalgic drive-in theater experience? The Milford Drive-In Theater is one of the best things to do in Southern NH and is an old-fashioned two screen theater, one of the only drive-ins left in the state. Snag a spot early (first come, first served parking), buy your theater snacks at the concession stand and get cozy for the show; this could also be a romantic New Hampshire activity if you’re in the market for one of those. 

Get up close to nature at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Looking for things to do in Holderness NH? Well, off the beaten path a bit, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is a great place to visit if you’re interested in natural science or seeing a variety of cool animals up close. There are so many programs and camps for kids in NH, live animal exhibits, walking trails, and education programs. The center even offers cruises on Squam Lake .

Overcome your claustrophobia inside the Polar Caves

On the list of unique things to do in New Hampshire, the Polar Caves were formed during the last Ice Age and created when a glacier moved across the landscape and deposited massive granite boulders. I think gorgeous granite formations like the Polar Caves are what make NH’s landscape so amazing. 

You can visit Polar Caves Park and meander along the stairs and boardwalks that will weave you in and out of the caves. Some portions consist of really narrow crevices though, so be prepared if you’re not a fan of small spaces!

Sit on a frozen throne at the Ice Castles.

The Ice Castles , a frozen attraction in North Woodstock, is an incredible feat of human engineering and art, and definitely on the list of New Hampshire things to see in the winter. Built using hundreds of thousands of icicles by various artists, these castles have tunnels, ice thrones, sculptures, fountains, and more.  

It’s a magical, frozen kingdom that I really want to compare to a certain Disney movie… But maybe I should let it go. This is NH fun at it’s finest!

Jam out to live music in an oceanside park

There are some amazing memories to be made in downtown Portsmouth’s Prescott Park . A whole calendar of events happen here year-round. Not to mention, the location is fantastic! Right on the ocean, there are piers and beautiful gardens, and you’ll also be in spitting distance of Portsmouth’s best shops and restaurants.

One of the best ways to take advantage of Prescott Park is catching a live concert during their summer Concert Series . Lay out a blanket in the grass with loved ones and listen to your favorite band, with an ocean sunset and docking boats as the backdrop. This is where memories are made, especially if you’re looking for fun things to do for adults in NH; major date vibes, right?

Play PAC-MAN at the largest arcade in the world

Bet you didn’t know that Funspot arcade in Laconia is the largest arcade in the world – Guinness-certified! This place has over 600 games, 300 classic arcade games, a bowling alley, cash bingo, mini-golf, and even its own tavern, so if you’re looking for things to do in Laconia NH, check it out. If you can walk in and out of here in under an hour, you deserve a Guinness World Record yourself.

Stay in a unique cabin in the White Mountains

If you haven’t noticed yet, the White Mountains region is the home of so many classic NH things to do. 

An awesome way to get up close and personal with these amazing mountain ranges is to find a unique cabin stay. I’d recommend looking for one in towns like North Conway , Bretton Woods, Jackson , or Franconia. 

If you need some inspiration, check out our hand-picked list of 14 amazing cabins in the White Mountains; when you’re looking for cool things to do in NH, can it get much cooler than staying in a quintessentially cozy New England cabin?

Peruse the galleries of an art museum

Yes, NH actually has a good arts scene! While there are plenty of great museums to check out in NH, two institutions really stand out: the Currier Museum of Art , and the Hood Museum of Art. Both of them are beautiful museums with world-class collections and great NH things to do.

The Currier (which made our list of best things to do in Manchester) has a strong European and American collection. 

The Hood Museum in Hanover is a Dartmouth College institution, and as such has really strong ties to Dartmouth’s history and community. But with a collection of over 65,000 pieces ranging from European, Indigenous Australian, Asian, and African art, the Hood Museum offers a powerful diversity of perspectives. 

Having previously worked for this museum myself, I can proudly say it’s an impressive institution.

Tour the historic home of a famous American sculptor

In the late 19th century, the great American sculpture Augustus Saint-Gaudens lived seasonally at a gorgeous estate in Cornish, NH. 

The grounds have since been turned into the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park , where you can tour the home, walk the gardens, and view over 100 of Saint-Gaudens’ sculptures throughout the property. 

Visit a British colonial village dating back to the 1700s

The Fort at No. 4 Open-Air Museum is a historical site in Charlestown, established by European pioneers in the mid-1700s. 

You’ll get to explore the old, restored buildings, watch live reenactments, and view artifacts displays. The Fort will give you a better understanding of the fascinating, messy history of European colonization in New England, and is one of the more intellectually interesting things to do in New Hampshire. 

Have some fun in the sun at an amusement park

Looking for what to do in NH in the summer? Calling all roller coaster junkies: Canobie Lake Park in Salem is NH’s biggest amusement park and definitely one of the most fun things to do in New Hampshire!

Recently named in Time’s Money Magazine as one of America’s 10 best amusement parks , Canobie has over 85 games and rides and draws visitors from all over New England. 

Canobie really is a blast, and a great way to spend a summer day. Take a spin on the Xtreme Frisbee, if you dare!

Walk through New England’s largest outdoor sculpture park

Introducing the Andres Institute of Art , a lesser-known NH art institute but well worth the visit. One of the top things to do in New Hampshire for art lovers, the Institute is located along wooded trails in Brookline, and from dawn to dusk you are free to walk the paths and view over 60 sculptures created by various contemporary artists.

Take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway , a 34-mile scenic drive in Northern NH, is an amazing USA road trip experience . 

Officially designated an American Scenic Byway, this winding road cuts straight through the White Mountain National Forest and takes you over 2800-feet in elevation. Not only is it well worth the 2–3-hour drive, but you’ll have immediate access to the endless natural treasures of the White Mountains. 

Go in the fall if you can – many people consider this highway the best location for fall foliage leaf-peeping in the country, and certainly the best fall fun in NH!

Go on a moose tour

Have you ever seen a moose? These majestic, often elusive creatures are all over New Hampshire, but you might have to get lucky to spot one on your own. Instead, join up with a guided moose tour , like Pemi Valley Moose Tours located in Lincoln NH . This group in particular has a 97% success rate when it comes to spotting moose during their 3 ½ hour, ride-along moose tours!

Shred the gnar at a mountain ski resort

Vermont isn’t the only ski-lover’s haven in New England! NH has got some amazing peaks to shred too. And Loon Mountain Resort might just be one of the best places for it! Located in Lincoln, this resort covers three peaks and offers skiing and snowboarding lessons, rentals, and views for days. If you’re looking for New Hampshire things to do in the winter , get out and play in the snow!

Become a wine connoisseur at a local vineyard

I love a nice wine tasting and was surprised to discover how many NH wineries and vineyards there are, some even offering stuff like a New Hampshire wine and dine full day tour!

LaBelle Winery in Amherst has great food, fruity wines, and a beautiful vineyard. Averill House Vineyard in Brookline is rustic and family-owned, located in a restored barn from the 1830s. There’s also Haunting Whisper Vineyard , Flag Hill , Fulchino Vineyard , and more. And most of these offer wine tastings, tours, and dining on site. Take your pick! This is definitely a fun New Hampshire activity for adults.

See a show at a historic theatre

The Palace Theatre in Manchester is a great place to catch a live show, and is definitely one of those cool places in New Hampshire everyone should check out once. It offers a wide variety of productions, from plays to concerts to other performing arts events. We think it’s one of the top things to do in Manchester and definitely a fun pick if you’re looking for indoor activities in NH!

But it’s not just about the world-class performances they host. The Palace, which opened in 1915, is steeped in history, charm, and some even say hauntings ( it was featured on an episode of Ghost Hunters! ). So come for the show, stay for the ghosts if you’re looking for some spooky New Hampshire fun.

Peruse a farmers market on the seacoast

The Portsmouth Farmers Market is an open-air marketplace, where over 100 local vendors set up shop and sell their unique goods. It’s an awesome way to shop fresh, and support the region’s farmers, artisans, and craftspeople, definitely quaint fun Seacoast NH style . This farmers market runs from May-November.

Explore the inside of a Navy submarine

Have you ever wondered what the inside of a real submarine looks like? Well, satisfy your curiosity at the USS Albacore Museum . 

The USS Albacore is a preserved U.S. Navy submarine that was designed to conduct top-secret research in the 1950s. It sits in USS Albacore Park in Portsmouth now, where you can take a self-guided tour of its interior; this is definitely on the list of interesting stuff to do in NH for kids and adults!

Visit a mountaintop castle in the clouds.

Lucknow mansion, otherwise known as the Castle in the Clouds , is a massive mountaintop estate in Moultonborough, and a very cool way to explore New Hampshire!

Built by a wealthy businessman in 1913, the property has 5500 acres, a restaurant, and sprawling views of the lake and Ossipee Mountains. 

Come take a tour, learn about its fascinating history , appreciate the beauty, and enjoy the food. This historical mansion truly is a castle in the clouds, so if you’ve been looking for points of interest in New Hampshire, check it out!

Take a walk with a rewarding view at Cathedral Ledge

The Cathedral Ledge summit in Bartlett is a fairly low-commitment hike that offers a pretty big reward. Take this shaded walk along a mile-long auto road, up to Cathedral Ledge’s 1159-foot summit. There are plenty of options when it comes to New Hampshire outdoor activities, but at Cathedral Ledge you’ll find incredible views of the Saco River Valley and White Mountains from every direction.

Taste penny candy at an old-fashioned general store

If you’re nostalgic for those good ol’ days of candy counters and charming Yankee watering holes, you have to visit Zeb’s General Store in North Conway Village. It’s a really fun, whimsical spot for shopping while you’re exploring North Conway; it’s probably not the best shopping in New Hampshire, but you’ll find a wide array of old-fashioned candy, New England-made specialty foods, and unique souvenirs; this is one of those fun things to do in NH for kids that’s fun for the adults, too!

PS: Like old things? Check out our list of the best antique stores in New Hampshire .

Enjoy autumn like a local at the Deerfield Fair.

We love Fair Season in NH! It’s one of our quintessential fall activities. There’s just something about wearing flannel, petting farm animals, watching tractors race each other, riding rickety Ferris wheels, and eating shameful amounts of fried dough we can’t get enough of. 

The Deerfield Fair , held every September, has been operating for 144 years now. In 2019 this super popular fair attracted over 125,000 people in just four days! Oh, and if you do go, please try the apple cider donuts.

Spend an epic lake day at Lake Winnipesaukee

As the biggest lake in the state, Lake Winnipesaukee comes alive in the spring and summertime, and if you ask a local what to do in New Hampshire in the summer, chances are, they’re going to mention the state’s most well-known lake.

Located—shockingly—in the Lakes Region, there are so many ways to enjoy this gorgeous spot. Lounge on Weirs Beach, rent a boat from Goodhue Boat Co. , take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington , or shop and dine at Mill Falls Marketplace during your summer in NH!

Visit one of the oldest surviving businesses in the United States. 

First opened in 1781, the Old Country Store and Museum in Moultonborough is considered one of the oldest businesses – and possibly the oldest general store – in the U.S.

This sunny-yellow store with its original foundation still intact is brimming with little wonders, knick-knacks, locally made foods, New England souvenirs, and a candy counter where you can try old-fashioned candy. The top floor holds a small museum for the history of the store and Moultonborough and could definitely be one of the things to do with family in New Hampshire!

Explore a historical, eclectic museum

If you’re looking for things to do in Dover NH and a museum that exhibits a variety of items covering local history, natural science, and decorative arts sounds fascinating, the Woodman Museum in Dover might be just the place for you. Apart from cool intrigues and oddities displayed across four historical buildings, you’ll find the oldest sycamore tree in Strafford County, a lovely garden, and the oldest house in Dover (built in 1675!). 

Drink craft beer at NH Brewfest

What’s there to do in New Hampshire? Well, we like our beer! In fact, there are almost 100 craft breweries across the state, serving up their unique styles for every kind of beer lover. To make it easy on yourself, why not sample them all in one place at the NH Brewfest in Portsmouth ? This festival features over 150 beers from 50 NH brewers! There’s a good chance you’ll find a new favorite; this is squarely in the fun things to do for adults in NH category!

Attend the largest beer festival in New England

While NH Brewfest is perfect if you’re interested solely in NH brewers, the New England Brewfest highlights all of New England’s best. New England’s official beer festival, New England Brewfest , is held in Woodstock, NH (which we’re pretty proud of). 

In past years they’ve hosted Lone Pine Brewing Co. , Woodstock Inn , Allagash Brewing , Berkshire Brewing , and so many others; if the question is what are fun things to do in New Hampshire and you’re a beer connoisseur, you’re in luck with this answer!

Enjoy a downtown festival at the state capitol

One of the summer’s most fun festivals takes place right in downtown Concord , the state capitol. Market Days Festival is a three-day event along Main Street in August, with live music, street food, crafts, carnival games, and all kinds of shopping. 

So many local businesses set up booths and sell their services and goods at Market Days. This event is so much fun, and really uplifts the whole community. Festivals like this are fun things to do NH style!

Pick fresh produce at a family-owned farm

Apples , pumpkins , oh my. There are so many wonderful farms in NH, it’s hard to pick which ones to highlight. But I’ll give it a shot.

Lull Farm in Hollis is always bustling no matter what time of year. They have gorgeous flowers for sale, a bakery counter, and fresh seafood and dairy. Moulton Farm in Meredith  is a favorite of mine. They have an extensive amount of produce, a corn maze every fall, and delicious homemade pies. 

And finally, check out Applecrest Farm Orchards if you’re looking for one on the seacoast. It’ll satisfy all of you apple fanatics out there. 

Have dinner and brews at a popular brewpub

Sometimes you might just be craving some good American grub and a local craft beer. Well, Backyard Brewery & Kitchen has your back. 

Recently featured on Phantom Gourmet , this brewpub is a bustling locale. People rave about the handmade beer, wide-open interior and outdoor patio, and the mouthwatering prime rib. Looking for something delicious in New Hampshire? Here ya go!

Immerse yourself in the history of Canterbury Shaker Village

Canterbury Shaker Village is over 200 years old, and as a National Historic Landmark it preserves the heritage of the Canterbury Shakers and educates the public on its historical significance. 

On your visit you can explore the Village grounds, take a guided tour, and check out various indoor exhibits. The unique architecture throughout the Village is a definite highlight!

Sample some wicked good chowda at Chowderfest

Chowder is a beloved New England soup. Probably because it’s comforting and hardy, and New Englanders definitely need hardiness to get through these killer winters. 

In any case, if you’re a fan of a good chowder, visit Chowderfest and Brews at Waterville Valley Resort . If you’re looking for things to do in New Hampshire in May, this is a good choice; for a small fee you can sample all the chowder your stomach can stand. Live music and local beer samples included!

Sip on a latte at a cozy café

NH’s coffee scene doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. And while we’re no Portland, there are some undeniable gems sprinkled around New Hampshire. 

Second to none is Apotheca in Goffstown , a café and flower shop combo that will spark your imagination and your taste buds. They have whimsical, earthy decor, comfy repurposed furniture, local artisan crafts and gifts, gorgeous flower arrangements and incredible coffee. What more do you need?  

Honorable mentions include Portsmouth Book & Bar , Local Moose Cafe , the Metropolitan Coffee House , and Union Coffee Co.

Take the family to Chucksters Family Fun Park

This amusement center in Chichester is jam-packed with fun activities, making it one of the top things to do in NH with kids. From a bumper boat pond to ziplining, go-karts, batting cages, a climbing wall, and mini golf, you won’t experience a single moment of boredom. 

Take a walk in the woods to the ruins of a castle

Located within the Madame Sherri Forest in Chesterfield , you’ll find something bewildering: the ruins of Madame Sherri’s Castle , where the iconic “staircase to nowhere” spirals up into the sky. This is definitely a unique New Hampshire thing to do!

There’s a fascinating history to this abandoned castle. It was built by the eccentric Parisian costume designer, Madame Sherri, to entertain New York City’s rich and famous in the Roaring Twenties. It’s fun to visit and imagine all the scandalous ragers taking place in those woods.

Drive through a magical tunnel of Christmas lights

If you love peeping amazing Christmas lights displays in December, look no further than the NH Motor Speedway in Loudon . While this speedway is normally used as a race car track, it is converted each holiday season into a magical 2.5-mile tunnel of Christmas lights that you can drive your car through. It’s worth waiting in line for as a super fun Christmas in NH thing to do!

Go on a shopping spree at the Merrimack Outlets

The Merrimack Outlets is a large, modern shopping center that has a nice food court, outdoor walking paths and over 100 outlet stores. There are so many upscale brands here that you won’t find anywhere else in the state, like Barbour, Coach, Lucky Brand, and Michael Kors, def some of the best shopping in New Hampshire!

Go flower-peeping at the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival

For nature-lovers and photographers who love capturing lightning in a bottle, you’ll want to attend the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival in the White Mountains. 

The town of Sugar Hill is way off the beaten path, but it possesses a secret treasure: endless fields and gardens of lupines. These beautiful purple, white, and pink flowers bloom for just a few short weeks in June. 

Attending the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival is one of the best things to do in NH in June to catch them at their glorious peak; the rolling hills explode with color, but only for a brief moment.

Ride the Alpine Slide at Attitash Mountain Resort

If you’re looking for NH things to do in summer that deliver big on fun, check out the alpine slide at Attitash Mountain Resort, the longest mountain coaster in North America! This qualifies as a fun thing to do in New Hampshire with kids and adults alike!

Spend a day on the river

New Hampshire isn’t just about the lakes; there’s also plenty of river fun to be had here! Adventurers can find a variety of rivers that are great for various outdoor activities. There are slow-moving rivers perfect for a lazy day of river tubing. And at the opposite end of the spectrum, there are some rivers with sections of exciting rapids, where folks can paddle on a white-water rafting excursion.

Don’t forget about the other fun river activities you can try, too, like fishing, swimming, or kayaking!

Take a trip to outer space

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is the perfect place to make your dream of going to space come true, without actually leaving earth.

This center has an observatory and interactive space exhibits, where you can learn all about astronomy, aviation, space science, and real-life astronauts such as the courageous Christa McAuliffe, so if you’re a big space buff, this might just be the best thing to do in New Hampshire for you!

But the best part? The planetarium shows. Recline in their domed theater, and feel like you’re literally flying through the stars. 

The answer to “what is there to do in New Hampshire” is basically EVERYTHING! Have fun making and then crossing items off of your New Hampshire bucket list!

Which of these top things to do in NH is your favorite?

More resources to help you plan your New Hampshire travels:

• 15 Picturesque Covered Bridges in New Hampshire to See ASAP!
• 11 Incredibly Fun Things to do in Exeter NH
• 16 Things to Do in Keene NH (and Nearby!)
• 14 Fantastic Things to Do in Littleton, New Hampshire 12 Fantastic Things to Do in Lebanon NH (+ Nearby!)
• 10 Incredible Things to do in Peterborough NH
• 13 of the Coziest + Best Cabins in New Hampshire
• Top Places to Go Dog Sledding in New Hampshire

Things to do in New Hampshire in June

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Looking for a different month?

June is a good time to visit New Hampshire . The weather is usually pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 61—80°F (16—26°C).

New Hampshire has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your June trip to New Hampshire. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to June. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in New Hampshire in June. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout June, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in New Hampshire in June

Top experiences in june, holidays in new hampshire in june.

There are no holidays in New Hampshire in June

Other notable holidays

• Cinco de Mayo ( May 5 )
• Mother's Day ( May 12 )
• Memorial Day ( May 27 )
• Weather in New Hampshire in June

Temperatures on an average day in New Hampshire in June

The average temperature in New Hampshire in June for a typical day ranges from a high of 80°F (26°C) to a low of 61°F (16°C). Some would describe it as pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in New Hampshire , July, has days with highs of 84°F (29°C) and lows of 65°F (18°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 34°F (1°C) and lows of 20°F (-7°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in New Hampshire in June based on historical data.

Visiting New Hampshire? See our New Hampshire Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in June

General weather summary, what to wear in june, best attractions for new hampshire in june, what's the weather like in new hampshire.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in New Hampshire for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in New Hampshire in January
• Weather in New Hampshire in February
• Weather in New Hampshire in March
• Weather in New Hampshire in April
• Weather in New Hampshire in May
• Weather in New Hampshire in July
• Weather in New Hampshire in August
• Weather in New Hampshire in September
• Weather in New Hampshire in October
• Weather in New Hampshire in November
• Weather in New Hampshire in December

Explore nearby places

• New Hampshire
• Russells Point
• Jackson Center
• Bellefontaine
• Port Jefferson
• Mount Victory
• Saint Marys
• West Liberty
• Spencerville
• Columbus Grove
• Saint Paris

All related maps of New Hampshire

• Map of New Hampshire
• Map of Lakeview
• Map of Russells Point
• Map of Jackson Center
• Map of Huntsville
• Map of Wapakoneta
• Map of Lima
• Map of Anna
• Map of Bellefontaine
• Map of Port Jefferson
• Map of Kenton
• Map of Ridgeway
• Map of Elida
• Map of Zanesfield
• Map of Sidney
• Map of Mount Victory
• Map of Saint Marys
• Map of West Liberty
• Map of Spencerville
• Map of Bluffton
• Map of New Bremen
• Map of Minster
• Map of Columbus Grove
• Map of Jenera
• Map of Middleburg
• Map of Pandora
• Map of Arlington
• Map of Delphos
• Map of Conover
• Map of Saint Paris

New Hampshire throughout the year

• New Hampshire in January
• New Hampshire in February
• New Hampshire in March
• New Hampshire in April
• New Hampshire in May
• New Hampshire in June
• New Hampshire in July
• New Hampshire in August
• New Hampshire in September
• New Hampshire in October
• New Hampshire in November
• New Hampshire in December

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• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

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15 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire

By Hannah Selinger

The Granite State might be small, but it's also geographically diverse. From ocean beaches to lakes, mountains to quaint cities, this state has pretty much everything you can ask for in terms of activity. Whether you’re heading to New Hampshire for a weekend away or for a quick, one-day excursion, there’s something for you. Here are the 15 best things to do in New Hampshire while you’re there.

Drive to the top of Mt. Washington

Mount Washington, the Northeast’s highest peak, is known for its particularly erratic weather patterns (and, among the daring, for its hike-in ski slope known as Tuckerman Ravine). Drive to the top via the Mt. Washington Auto Road , a steep and narrow 7.6-mile summit on winding roads that yields views all the way to New York (on clear days). No auto summit of Mt. Washington would be complete, however, without the obligatory “This Car Climbed Mt. Washington” bumper sticker every car summiting since the 1950s has received.

Get out on the water on Lake Winnipesaukee

New Hampshire’s largest lake, Lake Winnipesaukee , occupies 69 square miles in the state’s east. Enjoy everything the lake has to offer at the Ekal Activity Center , in Meredith, which offers antique boat rides, private charters, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboard rentals.

Go wine tasting in Amherst

LaBelle Winery produces a line of award-winning wines for visitors to sample on site. The tasting room offers 35 different wines, as well as curated tours of the property, which opened in 2012. LaBelle also operates two restaurants, in Amherst and Derry , with food designed to pair with its signature wines.

Hike off of iconic Kancamagus Highway

New Hampshire’s famed Kancamagus Highway offers 34.5 miles of trails with scenic views within the state’s White Mountains Region . Over 25 hiking trails sprout from the Kancamagus, from the challenging, nine-mile Moat Mountain Trail to the easy, half-mile Rail and River Trail . Both seasoned hikers and novices can enjoy the unspoiled beauty of New Hampshire through this trail network.

Laura Kiniry

Blane Bachelor

Stacey Lastoe

Shop for antiques on Route 4 

Route 4 is known as New Hampshire’s Antique Alley , home to the state’s oldest antiquing district, with more than 500 dealers spread across the towns of Lee, Northwood, Epsom, and Chichester. Antique Alley has been a premier destination for New England antiquing for more than 40 years.

Visit a waterfall in Pinkham Notch

New Hampshire is home to more than 100 waterfalls, but Glen Ellis Falls, a 64-foot-high waterfall on Pinkham Notch’s Glen Ellis Falls trail , is a spectacular beauty. The waterfall is off-limits to swimming, but still provides some of the state’s most sought-after photographs.

Ride the Scenic Railroad in North Conway

Take a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad, a trip that departs from North Conway Village’s 1874 rail station. The Railroad offers several different experiences, ranging from the one-hour leisure ride to the five-hour Crawford Notch Mountaineering train, which climbs up through New Hampshire to explore stunning vistas. First-class cars, outfitted with lounge chairs and screening rooms, are also available for those seeking an upgrade.

Visit the Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough

This 1913 mountaintop estate sits on more than 5,000 acres of magnificent land. Visitors can tour the property, take advantage of hiking and walking trails, dine at the estate restaurant, and even feed the ducks at Shannon Pond. Originally owned by shoe manufacturer Thomas Plant, the property has a dedicated exhibit to the history of its ownership on-site.

Dive into history at Canterbury Shaker Village

This national historic landmark consists of 24 original Shaker buildings, four reconstructed Shaker buildings, and 694 acres of conserved land. The village was established in the late 1700s and remained an important part of New Hampshire’s religious history until 1992, when the final practicing Shaker in residence died. Today, visitors can tour the homes and grounds for a sense of how the Shakers lived.

Enjoy the sand dunes at Seabrook Beach

New Hampshire’s slim coastline runs about 18 miles from the Massachusetts to Maine borders. Still, the state is home to unblemished beaches, with tufted dunes, soft sand, and a bit of a surf break. Seabrook Beach , New Hampshire’s southernmost ocean beach (it’s known, familiarly, as “The Line,” since it’s adjacent to the Massachusetts border), offers plenty of space for sunbathing, and close proximity to the area’s famed competing beach pizza vendors. Cristy’s Pizza and Tripoli Pizza Bakery make sweet, square, and optionally Provolone-topped slices of pizza that are legendary among locals.

Test your nerves on the Yankee Cannonball

Canobie Lake Park , in Salem, has been open since 1902, when it was established as a lakeside trolley park. Thirty-four years later, the amusement park welcomed the addition of the Yankee Cannonball, a wooden roller coaster that was built in 1930 for use at Westbury, Connecticut’s Lakewood Park. (It was later relocated.) The historic ride, in all its rickety splendor, is one of New Hampshire’s most iconic activities.

Ride Attitash’s Alpine Slide

In winter, Attitash Mountain Resort , which abuts the White Mountain National Park, draws expert skiers from all over the Northeast. In non-ski season, the resort operates two alpine slides that wind passengers down the ski mountain. Take the Flying Yankee chairlift to the top and enjoy the scenic ride down from the 1,750-foot mountain.

Stroll down Portsmouth’s State Street

Located on the Piscataqua River (and just a bridge away from Kittery, in southern Maine ), Portsmouth, a traditional New England city, is marked by Colonial and Federal architecture. The city’s beating heart is the historic downtown area, where shops and restaurants draw visitors from all over. State Street, downtown’s main thoroughfare, offers a walkable view of the city, as well as plenty of nearby shopping and dining options.

Reach for the stars at Concord’s McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

The name Christa McAuliffe is legendary in New Hampshire: the 37-year-old teacher from Concord was aboard the doomed 1986 mission of the Space Shuttle Challenger . In 1990, this space center —dedicated not only to McAuliffe, but also to astronaut Alan Shepard, a New Hampshire native—opened to the public. The museum offers educational experience for kids and adults alike, and features a state-of-the-art planetarium with rotating shows.

Experience farm-to-table dining in Manchester

The Foundry Restaurant is tucked into Manchester’s Millyard District , an area of historic brick buildings and former textile factories. The restaurant, which opened in 2015, is the city’s largest certified farm-to-table operation, with produce, dairy, and protein representing The Granite State’s local farms.

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29 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire

Written by Lura R Seavey Updated Sep 16, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Granite State is home to some of New England's most beautiful natural attractions and varied terrain, offering countless things to do for outdoor enthusiasts. As one of the earliest European settlements, New Hampshire is also filled with historic sites and a rich cultural heritage that draws visitors from all over the world.

New Hampshire is also a great place to visit for families, offering a variety of theme parks that are big enough for a ton of fun but not overwhelming for kids and parents.

From hiking in the White Mountains to boating on the Big Lake, there are plenty of outdoor activities in New Hampshire, while its cultural and recreational sites offer even more for all ages and interests.

Plan your next visit with our list of the best things to do in New Hampshire.

1. Climb Mount Washington (in Your Car)

2. take a scenic train ride, 3. enjoy dining and shopping in north conway, 4. climb mount monadnock, 5. spend a day on lake winnipesaukee, 6. chase waterfalls, 7. explore concord, 8. go skiing, 9. visit santa's village, jefferson, 10. hunt for antiques along antique alley, 11. black heritage trail of new hampshire, portsmouth, 12. see the bears at clark's, 13. hike the presidential range, 14. go camping, 15. visit manchester's museums, 16. drive the scenic kancamagus pass, 17. visit strawbery banke museum, 18. take a cruise on a working mail boat, 19. have a beach day at hampton, 20. take the kids to story land, 21. enjoy a fall foliage drive, 22. go amateur spelunking at polar caves, 23. explore lost river gorge, 24. play at weirs beach, 25. take a cruise around the isles of shoals, 26. dive into history on the uss albacore, 27. discover market days, 28. make a splash at whale's tale, 29. stay at a historic grand resort, map of things to do in new hampshire.

Although some do brave the arduous trek to the 6,288-foot peak of Mount Washington, most prefer a less hazardous approach. Since 1861, visitors have had the option of driving to the summit via the steep and winding Mount Washington Auto Road.

At the peak, tourists can take in the stunning views on a clear day, and visit the observatory where they study some of the world's most extreme weather.

To give your car recognition for the hard work it put in, every ascension includes a sticker announcing that "This Car Climbed Mt. Washington."

For those who don't want to put their car through the paces or would simply rather enjoy the view instead of focusing on the road, tourists can choose to ride in one of the vans during warmer months.

In the winter, visitors can take the SnowCoach to the tree line to enjoy the snow-covered scenery. Alternately, tourists can book passage on the Cog Railway , a historic train that makes its way straight up the mountain.

The Mount Washington Bed & Breakfast is an ideal place to stay, located close to the auto road entrance in Pinkham Notch. The property has been operating as a bed and breakfast since 1853 and offers a good range of accommodation options including suites, all with private baths.

Official site: https://mt-washington.com/

Trains offer tourists a completely different perspective of the landscape, daring to go where the roads don't, and providing the opportunity to fully focus on enjoying the view.

The Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway offers a variety of tours that explore the White Mountains, with hour-long trips through Conway Valley, two-hour rides in a vintage train car along the Sawyer River, or half-day excursions through the Mount Washington Valley and Crawford Notch.

If you're not headed quite that far north, the Hobo Railroad in Lincoln offers sightseeing rail tours along the Pemigewasset River.

Tourists can see the lakes region by rail on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad , which operates between Laconia, Weirs Beach, and Meredith; in the autumn, they offer special foliage tours and dinner trains catered by Hart's Turkey Farm .

There is a timeless charm about North Conway , with its shops and restaurants that surround the historic train station. This downtown area is packed with so many unique shops and enticing eateries, it's easy to spend an entire day here and still feel like you need to go back.

Be sure to get to Peach's early to kick off your day with the best breakfast in town, and when you need a boost, head to The Met coffee house for a latte or tea. If you are hankering for something sweet to have with that coffee, head to Mystic Sugar Bakery for a selection of mouthwatering baked goods, including the best key lime pie in the northeast. For a hearty meal, Horsefeathers serves lunch and dinner, or for a more refined supper, head to Chef's Bistro .

One of the best-known of North Conway's shops is Zeb's General Store , a quirky and nostalgic place that features specialty foods, handmade soaps, and gifts, as well as rare finds like Moxie jelly and an old-fashioned candy counter.

Just a few doors down, stepping into the North Conway 5 and 10 Cent Store is like a time warp. Although their goods aren't quite as inexpensive as the name suggests, this little shop is full of surprising finds for all ages.

Other top-notch shops include unusual gifts and toys at the Penguin Gallery , metal art and sculpture at the Naked Bohemian , and clothing at World Magic Gifts .

Mount Monadnock is known for its majestic white-tipped peak, a landmark that is recognizable from many points in southern New Hampshire. It reaches a height of 3,165 feet and provides a challenging but rewarding hike for more experienced climbers.

The most direct path begins at "Monadnock HQ" in Jaffrey and takes a steep 1.9-mile course to the top, around four hours round trip. The Old Toll Road trail is a little longer at 2.2 miles each way, and the Birchtoft Trail, departing from Gilson Pond is the longest, stretching 3.5 miles from base to peak.

If you're not up for quite that much of a hike, Pack Monadnock in Peterborough is an easier way to climb Monadnock. It reaches a height of just under 2,300 feet and can be hiked in two to three hours round trip.

Read More: Top-Rated Hiking Trails in New Hampshire

New Hampshire's Lakes Region is a popular tourist destination in the summer and during foliage season, and there are plenty of options when deciding where to start and what to do. Lake Winnipesaukee, referred to simply as the "big lake" by locals, is one of the best lakes in New Hampshire . It offers the most things to do, with several beaches and activities along the shore.

Weirs Beach in Laconia is one of the most popular beaches in New Hampshire . Here, tourists can spend the day sunbathing and playing arcade games, or take a leisurely sightseeing cruise on the M/S Mount Washington .

There are also several marinas that offer boat slips and rentals, and lakeside towns like Meredith, Wolfeboro, Alton Bay, and Center Harbor each have at least one restaurant that you can cruise right up to for lunch or dinner.

New Hampshire is home to beautiful waterfalls , many of which can be easily accessed without a long walk or strenuous hike. The Flume in Franconia Notch is one of the state's best-known waterfalls. It flows for 800 feet through 90-foot walls of granite that it spent thousands of years slowly cutting through, dropping 40 feet from the hill above.

The tallest waterfall in New Hampshire is Arethusa Falls in Crawford Notch , dropping 175 feet. It is most spectacular after a heavy rain or in the spring during snowmelt, and there are several other smaller falls along the 1.3-mile trail that reaches the main attraction.

The Swift River , which runs parallel to the Kancamagus Highway , has two impressive waterfalls inside the White Mountain National Forest. Rocky Gorge sits above a series of rapids, and the base of Lower Falls is a popular swimming spot on hot summer days. Sabbaday Falls is also located near the Kancamagus, accessed via trailhead in Albany.

Other popular waterfalls include Crystal Cascade and Glen Ellis Falls in Gorham; Lost River Gorge in Kinsman Notch; and the Basin in Lincoln, which is one of the few wheelchair-accessible waterfalls.

New Hampshire's capital city is by far one of the most charming places to visit. Its compact and pedestrian-friendly downtown area is filled with local shops and restaurants, public art, and the grandeur of the gold-capped Capitol Building.

Just off main street, visitors will find Eagle Square after passing through the Tree of Life gate, and nearby Bicentennial Square is a favorite with kids for its stone sculptures and the Turtle Statue .

Concord is also home to some excellent museums, like the McAulliffe-Shepard Discovery Center . Dedicated to the Concord teacher who lost her life in the Challenger disaster, it has a planetarium and interactive exhibits that teach all ages about air and space travel, astronomy, and the Earth.

Visitors interested in New Hampshire history can take a tour of the State House and visit the Historical Society next door on Park Street.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Concord, NH

With well over a dozen to choose from, New Hampshire offers ski resorts of all sizes and for all skill levels. The state's largest is Bretton Woods Resort in the White Mountains, which features over 450 skiable acres of groomed trails served by 10 lifts, as well as three terrain parks.

Located just a few minutes from I-93, Loon Mountain is a convenient destination for skiers headed north from Boston. It offers 61 trails with northern exposure and snowmaking, ensuring a long season and great conditions. Those who want an excuse to visit North Conway will want to head to Cranmore Mountain, which offers 56 trails and stunning views of Mount Washington .

Other top ski resorts include Mount Sunapee in Newbury; Cannon Mountain in Franconia; and King Pine in East Madison, which is home to one of the state's steepest trails. New Hampshire is also home to several excellent cross-country skiing areas , including the family-friendly Jackson Ski Touring Foundation, the Bretton Woods Nordic Center, and the Nordic Center at Waterville Valley.

If you're visiting when there's no snow on the ground, most resorts offer other outdoor activities like mountain biking and hiking.

Santa's Village in Jefferson is a favorite thing to do for kids and adults alike, offering a slice of Christmas cheer all summer long. Here, visitors will find a variety of rides, activities, and entertainment, as well as plenty of goodies to eat, and presents to bring home.

There are park rides for all ages, including a train that makes stops throughout the park, a yule log flume ride, a Ferris wheel with views of Mount Washington, and the Santa's Sleigh monorail that flies at a leisurely pace above the park. Between rides, kids can get their photo taken with Santa, pick up a free gift at the blacksmith shop, and feed Santa's reindeer.

There is also a water park that's included in admission, offering a splash pad, waterslides, a playground, and a pool area; locker rentals and showers are also available. The park is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day and weekends until Christmas, so families who want a more seasonal visit can feel the full holiday magic right up until the big day.

Address: 528 Presidential Highway, Jefferson, New Hampshire

Official site: www.santasvillage.com

There is rarely a town in New Hampshire that does not have at least one antique store, but "Antique Alley" along Route 4 between Portsmouth and Concord is the best place to head for antiquing.

One of the top places to visit is R. S. Butler's Trading Company in Northwood, home to a huge variety of vintage and antique furniture, art, decorative items, and ephemera. With over 5,200 square feet of indoor display space and a vintage garden area as well, there is enough to peruse for hours.

Also located in Northwood, Eagle Antiques specializes in country furniture, crank phonographs, and Maxfield Parrish prints, as well as a variety of other items.

N. Dearborn Antiques Gallery is nearby, housed in an 1836 barn next to the historic Nathaniel Dearborn House. The owner, Joyce Fontaine, offers a variety of fine arts, quilts, architectural salvage, and military items.

Official site: www.nhantiquealley.com

In 2003, an unmarked burial ground with the remains of nearly 200 free and enslaved peoples of African descent was uncovered in Portsmouth. Today it is the African Burying Ground Memorial Park and one of the main attractions on the Black Heritage Trail in Portsmouth.

Although slavery was not as prominent as it was in the south, slave ships did land in New Hampshire's port city, where they were auctioned in the 17 th and 18 th centuries.

Tourists can take a 90-minute guided tour or a self-guided tour of Portsmouth's most significant Black history sites, many of which are part of the Strawbery Banke historic area. Most stops along the tour feature educational plaques.

Official site: www.blackheritagetrailnh.org

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH

Since 1931, the Clark family has featured trained bears as the central feature of their unique amusement park. Wildlife advocates need not fret — the Clarks only raise and train orphaned bears that cannot be returned to the wild, and they really do treat them like family.

Several times a day, visitors can watch Maureen and Murray Clark play with the bears who happily ham it up for the crowd.

In addition to the bears, the big ring also has circus shows featuring acrobats and other performers throughout the day. All shows are included in admission, as are rides like Merlin's Mansion, Wolfman train ride, the climbing tower, and the refreshing blaster boats.

Guests can also take a short ride on a Segway in their dedicated park, or for an additional fee, take a guided 45-minute sightseeing Segway Safari.

Address: 110 US Route 3, Lincoln, New Hampshire

Official site: www.clarksbears.com

The White Mountains include the Presidential Range, part of the northernmost United States section of the Appalachian Trail . Hiking the range is a multi-day trip that can be as long as 18 miles depending on trail choice, and should only be attempted by experienced and well-equipped hikers. AMC huts are positioned along the route, and the organization also provides guided hikes and themed excursions.

For those who aren't ready to commit to such a long and arduous journey, Mount Willard in Bretton Woods is a great option. The trail from base to peak is only three miles round trip, with a rewarding view of Crawford Notch at the top.

Official site: www.appalachiantrail.org

One of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors is to go camping in New Hampshire . From the waterside campgrounds in the Lakes Region to the many sites in the White Mountain National Forest , the state has a variety of outstanding options for campers.

Those who want easy access to hiking trails along the Appalachian Trail will like Lafayette Place Campground in Franconia, offering both tent and RV sites. Another good option is Sugarloaf Mountain , which offers primarily tent sites in a heavily wooded area of the National Forest.

Tourists traveling with kids in the summer will enjoy the beach and water views at White Lake State Park in Tamworth and Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham.

For those visiting the southern half of the state, Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown offers a pond for canoeing and kayaking, a good selection of amenities, and plenty of trails for exploring by foot, cycle, or even on horseback.

Tourists who want to get in touch with nature without sleeping on the ground will love Huttopia, a "glamping" campground in Albany in the White Mountains. Guests can choose from a variety of permanent tents that range from platform-raised rustic models to large family-sized tents and cabins with toilets, showers, and even kitchens. Huttopia White Mountains also has a heated saltwater swimming pool on-site, as well as an upscale food truck for snacks and meals.

Manchester is a city full of history, a former gritty mill-yard town that has been reborn as a cultural and social hub. Tourists interested in the history of the mills will want to visit the Millyard Museum in the Amoskeag Millyard , a former textile factory that was powered by the water flowing past in the Merrimack River. Tourists with kids will want to head upstairs to visit the See Science Center , home of a variety of educational exhibits, as well as an impressive Lego® model of the mills in 1:55 scale.

Art lovers will want to visit the Currier Museum of Art , home to over 11,000 pieces of art in a wide range of media, from drawings to furniture. The museum also offers self-guided tours of Frank Lloyd Wright's Zimmerman and Kalil Houses , both of which are located in Manchester.

Manchester is also home to an Aviation Museum and the Lawrence L. Lee Scouting Museum .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Manchester, NH

Despite its moniker, the Kancamagus Highway is a relatively narrow two-lane road that traverses the Kancamagus Pass , connecting the towns of Conway and Lincoln via the White Mountain National Forest. It runs, for the most part, along Swift River, which is home to several excellent waterfalls, like Lower Falls and Rocky Gorge.

This 35-mile stretch offers plenty of safe pull-off spots where you can stop to photograph the scenery and vistas, and is also home to several national park trailheads, including the route to Sabbaday Falls . This is a popular route for early season leaf-peeping and is also known for being a good place to spot moose.

Strawbery Banke is an open-air history museum that highlights 300 years of the Puddle Duck neighborhood, the first European settlement on the Piscataqua River.

Historic homes and re-created pockets of time span from early settlement in 1695 to 1954, allowing visitors to witness the progression of architecture, customs, and daily life over the centuries.

This is a good tourist attraction for families, as well as history-lovers , thanks to the engaging costumed interpreters who demonstrate traditional crafts, perform daily tasks from various eras, and answer questions from curious visitors.

Gardeners and aspiring botanists can also admire a variety of historic ornamental and edible gardens throughout the neighborhood, including the Ethnobotanical Herb Garden, a Victorian garden, a colonial kitchen garden, and a WWII Victory Garden.

In addition to the history of the colonial settlement, the museum includes information about local Native American peoples, as well as the enslaved Africans who lived and worked in the neighborhood.

Address: 14 Hancock Street, Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Official site: www.strawberybanke.org

The M/V Sophie C has been delivering mail to the summer residents of Lake Winnipesaukee's islands since 1945, making it the oldest floating U.S. Post Office .

It continues to make its rounds, and tourists can hop aboard for the ride to get a unique sightseeing experience on New Hampshire's "big lake." The two-hour loop visits four islands on its morning rounds and five different islands in the afternoon.

Passengers get expert commentary from the skipper along the way, and can even mail a postcard from onboard, complete with its own postage cancellation stamp.

Cruises depart from the docks at Weirs Beach in Laconia, where tourists can also opt to take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington . This larger ship offers daytime, sunset, and dinner cruises; morning cruises offer the option to hop off for sightseeing in Wolfeboro or Alton Bay and hop on later in the day to return.

Address: 211 Lakeside Avenue, Weirs Beach, Laconia, New Hampshire

Official site: https://cruisenh.com/

Hampton Beach is New Hampshire's most popular beach , stretching a mile and a half along the Atlantic shoreline and offering a lively Boardwalk area full of beach supplies, restaurants, and snack shops . Families will also find plenty of things to do when the kids need a break from the sun, including several arcades and plenty of shopping.

During the summer season, the beach is staffed with lifeguards and there are multiple bathhouses. The Sea Shell Stage hosts nightly live music , and on Wednesday evenings and holidays there are free public fireworks.

Hampton Beach also has several major annual events, including the Master Sand Sculpting Classic in mid-June, a country music festival in early July, and a seafood festival in September.

There is metered parking along the beach which fills up early, but Central Parking on Ashworth Ave is a great option if you want to avoid traffic, only one block from the sand with friendly staff who can tell you where to get the best local seafood.

Address: Ocean Boulevard, Hampton, New Hampshire

Official site: https://hamptonbeach.org/

Story Land is a top New Hampshire family attraction located in the White Mountains region, offering the rides and entertainment of a theme park while focusing on the simple joys of classic fairy-tale stories.

In addition to plenty of rides like spinning teacups and flying fish, there are several creative play areas in the park, including a tree house and the legendary house of the old woman who lived in a shoe. There are also musical shows and performances throughout the park on a regular schedule.

Although best suited for younger kids and pre-teens, even older siblings will find exciting things to do within the park, including newer additions like the Roar-O-Sauraus wooden roller coaster, a refreshing raft ride, and the Bamboo Chutes flume ride.

To cool off during the heat of summer, there are several mist tents, as well as water-play areas. Adjacent to the park, tourists can also New Hampshire's first and only aquarium. Living Shores Aquarium is a new addition to the park, featuring touch pools, activities, and educational presentations; separate admission is required.

Address: 850 NH Route 16, Glen, New Hampshire

Official site: https://www.storylandnh.com

Each year in September and October , the landscape of New Hampshire turns from a dozen shades of green to a range of vibrant yellows, oranges, and reds. It's hard to miss them no matter where you are, but there are some areas that offer the best fall foliage scenery.

One of the most popular fall foliage photography spots in New Hampshire is a footbridge off Route 16 in the valley at the base of Mount Chocorua , with the firey colors of the hillside reflected in the water of the small lake below.

The best place to get photos of New Hampshire's covered bridges surrounded by the colorful trees is in Swanzey , just south of the cozy city of Keene, where you'll find three bridges.

One of the most picturesque ways to admire the foliage is from the water, and kayaking or boating on Lake Winnipesaukee is an excellent way to find new and interesting views and scenery. Alternatively, several tour operators offer guided boat tours for leaf-peeping.

Having the opportunity to explore caves isn't just for trained spelunkers, thanks to Polar Caves park. The caves, which were formed when massive glaciers dropped enormous chunks of granite in their wake, are easily accessed via a series of secure staircases.

Visitors can bypass the more cramped spaces, but those who want to give it a try can sneak into narrow openings in the rocks to discover hidden passageways and hideouts.

This is a particularly great thing to do on a hot summer day in New Hampshire – despite all the stairs, visitors are rewarded with the cool, even temperatures of the subterranean caverns, including one that was once used by Native Americans to keep ice year-round.

Polar Caves isn't just a fun natural attraction – it's also full of history. The larger caves were used as part of the Underground Railway to hide escaping slaves, and later became hiding places for less noble pursuits during the prohibition era.

The park also includes lovely tree-shaded walking paths, with educational signage about local flora and fauna, and a small petting zoo, where visitors can feed the deer, ducks, and even peacocks.

Address: 705 Rumney Rte 25, Rumney, New Hampshire

Official site: https://polarcaves.com/

Lost River Gorge is another stunning natural attraction that we can thank the Ice Age for. As the glaciers moved and melted, they carved chasms and dropped massive rocks, which were then worn away by the melting ice.

Today, Lost River continues to flow through them, making its way over, around, and even under the boulders. Visitors can admire the falls and the water-worn rocks from a boardwalk , or opt to go explore the passageways and caves .

It is quite a climb to get to the top, but worth it for the views. Those who want to keep going will find another hiking trail, as well as a boulder field and a suspension bridge that's not for the faint-of-heart.

Address: Route 112, Kinsman Notch, New Hampshire

Weirs Beach is one of the state's most popular beaches, with its unique "boardwalk" taking center stage. It's a great option for families with younger kids and couples who prefer smaller venues; the businesses sit along one side of the street facing Lake Winnipesauke .

This quaint "downtown" area is home to arcades, ice-cream and pizza shops, souvenir vendors, and several good sit-down restaurants, including waterfront options.

Tracks run along the waterfront, and the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad shares its station with the home dock of the MS Mount Washington . There are also public docks along the same stretch, and a large marina within walking distance.

Weirs Beach is also home to a classic drive-in theater that shows double features on each of its four screens on summer evenings – a great way to wrap-up a day of swimming, boating, and playing.

Those who enjoy motorcycles may recognize this as the home base for Laconia Bike Week , held each year in mid-June; those who don't, may want to avoid the area during that time, as main roads are closed to traffic and it can get very crowded.

Address: Lakeside Avenue, Laconia, New Hampshire

Tourists who want to explore New Hampshire's only ocean-islands can hop aboard a sightseeing cruise with the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company for an opportunity to spend a few hours ashore on Star Island .

This is one of the most popular things to do in Portsmouth , and a wonderful way to get out on the water and enjoy a new perspective of the New Hampshire seacoast.

Isles of Shoals cruises include a walking tour of Portsmouth Harbor in addition to the Star Island tour. Alternatively, visitors can skip the walking tours and spend all their time on the water with Portsmouth Harbor Cruises .

The USS Albacore was built in the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and first saw active service in 1953. It gained notoriety in 1966 as the world's fastest submarine, and operated as a research vessel for the navy, testing early versions of technology still in use today.

Decommissioned in October of 1972, the Albacore sat idle for over a decade until it was moved back to its home town.

Visitors take a self-guided tour of the sub while exploring its interior, all left just as it was when in active use. Audio stations add depth to the experience, including stories about the ship's adventures read by former crew members.

There is also a visitor center with exhibits and a nice Memorial Garden at Albacore Park, which is dedicated to naval personnel who served on this submarine and others.

Those fascinated with engineering marvels should take time to learn about how the Albacore got to its current location (and why it almost never did!).

Address: 569 Submarine Way, Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Official site: www.ussalbacore.org

If you're looking for something fun to do in late June, plan on heading to Market Days in downtown Concord . Each year, the capital city's Main Street is closed to traffic for three days, filling up with food, craft, and local shop vendors.

There is also live family-friendly entertainment, with musical performances in Eagle Square and Bicentennial Square , as well as the main stage in front of the Capitol Center for the Arts .

Portsmouth also has a similar festival in the beginning of June, and more of the smaller cities are following suit.

In addition to the larger events, many of New Hampshire's small towns have their own community celebrations that can be a fun thing to do on a lazy weekend drive. These usually include a parade and smaller fair-style gathering with games and concessions that benefit various local groups.

Whale's Tale Waterpark is the go-to White Mountains attraction for families in the summer, popular with vacationers and locals alike.

Little tikes have their own shallow water play area with a gradual zero-entry slope and gentle waterslides, while kids of all ages can play at Shipwreck Island, where getting splashed while you play pirate is guaranteed.

Other highlights include a lazy river; several thrilling waterslides; a huge wave pool; and "Akua Beach," where visitors can learn to surf or hone their skills.

The park also offers locker rentals and has good shower and changing facilities.

Address: 481 Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, New Hampshire

Official site: https://whalestalewaterpark.net/

The classic grand resorts in the White Mountains are among the best resorts in New Hampshire, offering charm, history, and luxurious amenities.

Designed to emulate a luxury ocean-liner, the Mount Washington hotel is one of the most photogenic spots in the state with its wraparound decks, red roofs, and a dramatic backdrop of the famed mountain. First opened in 1902, this resort hotel has welcomed presidents, diplomats, and celebrities.

The Omni Mount Washington Resort offers on-site golf, skiing, and recreation packages, as well as all-inclusive dining options.

The Mountain View Resort & Spa comes in a close second with a sprawling property and its own slew of amenities, including a private movie theater, full-service spa, and an ice-skating-rink, among many other perks.

Although it has been closed for over a decade, tourists who find themselves in the Colebrook area should put The Balsams on their sightseeing bucket list. First founded in 1875, this picturesque historic property resembles a European palace. It is best-known as the home of the Dixville Notch Ballot Room and for its many reported paranormal sightings.

More on New Hampshire

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Great things to do - seacoast nh region.

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50+ Fun Things to Do in New Hampshire

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Looking for the best things to do in New Hampshire? Have we got the list for you! Here at New Hampshire Way, we are a team of New Hampshire travel experts dedicated to helping travelers plan better New Hampshire trips.

New Hampshire is way more than Portsmouth and North Conway — though we love both of those places! — and it’s way more than hiking and skiing (though again, we love both of those too!).

Some of the top New Hampshire attractions, from the Flume Gorge to Diana’s Baths, from Lake Winnipesaukee to Mount Monadnock, from the Conway Scenic Railroad to Strawbery Banke, are the kinds of places you’ll remember for a lifetime.

No matter how old you are, who you’re traveling with, or how long you’re visiting the Granite State, we’ve got plenty of New Hampshire adventures for you!

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This post was most recently updated in May 2023.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in NH

New Hampshire is a stunner when it comes to the great outdoors, but even the less outdoorsy ones among us can have a great time in the Granite State. There is plenty of fun all over the state.

Explore the Flume Gorge , take the Mount Washington Cog Railway to the top of the mountain, hike to Artist’s Bluff or one of the many waterfalls , and hit up one of the local breweries at the end of an active day!

Pick out a bunch of glass objects and smash them to smithereens at the Rage Cage in Nashua ! Go on the Black Heritage Trail in Portsmouth. And the M/V Sophie C is an unusual take on cruising Lake Winnipesaukee — via USPS mailboat!

Lost River Gorge is a magical place where kids will love climbing into the caves. Don’t miss Story Land or Santa’s Village . If you have tweens or teens, they’ll love Canobie Lake Park .

Spend an afternoon exploring the best of Portsmouth : the living museum at Strawbery Banke, visit Portsmouth’s best craft breweries, and check out the local shops on Market Square.

Go for a drive and spend an afternoon visiting Diana’s Baths , Cathedral Ledge, and Echo Lake — or go outlet shopping and hit up Cathedral Ledge Distillery !

Go skiing and snowboarding — New Hampshire has so many excellent ski resorts! This is also a great place to snowmobile , whether you’re a newbie or an expert. And don’t miss Ice Castles in Lincoln!

And now for our list of some very fun things to do in New Hampshire!

Take a Ride on a Lake Winnipesaukee Mailboat

As New Hampshire’s largest lake, Lake Winnipesaukee has quite a few options for getting out on the water. You can paddle your own kayak, sail to your heart’s content, or even hop on a steamboat cruise — but the coolest option by far is taking a ride on the oldest floating post office in the United States!

The M/V Sophie C is an actual USPS mailboat that delivers mail to several of the lake’s inhabited islands during the summer months. And visitors to Weirs Beach can come along for the ride.

Not only do you get a beautiful tour of Lake Winnipesaukee, the Ossipee mountains rising in the distance, but the small mailboat is able to sail through narrow channels to access harder-to-reach islands.

On board you can fill out postcards and send them right from the boat! On the islands, watch the mail carrier do hand-offs to island residents — sometimes sailing by a dock and exchanging mailbags with a smiling person on shore!

We loved every minute about the Sophie C , and we think it’s one of the best unusual things to do in New Hampshire.

Hopping on the Sophie C is strictly seasonal, from late June through early September. Cruises are two hours and start at at $40 per person.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Lake Winnipesaukee

See Moose in the Wild on Gorham Moose Tours

Have you ever seen a moose in the wild? New Hampshire is a great place to go moose-spotting! While there aren’t as many moose as there used to be, moose tours give you a chance to see these majestic animals in the wild.

On a moose tour, you jump in a bus and head north, your driver showing you the “wallows” where the moose hang out and heading for their favorite spots.

Tour companies tend to have moose-spotting success rates of over 90% — some as high as 98% — so your chances are sky-high. And once you actually see a moose, your heart will sing!

While there are three moose tour companies operating in New Hampshire, we love Gorham Moose Tours for their small size, fun guides, high success rate, and strategic Great North Woods location. Tours from $35, June through September. Be sure to book ahead.

Ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway

Mount Washington is not only New Hampshire’s highest peak, it’s the tallest mountain in the northeast United States (6,288 feet/1,916 meters). And while you can climb the mountain, or drive to the top, there’s nothing like taking “the Cog” — the Mount Washington Cog Railway .

The Cog was the first mountain-climbing railway in the world — and the only one that still exists in North America today. Get into your curiously angled seat on the old-fashioned train and soon you’ll be chugging up the mountain past scraggly trees and wildflowers.

Climbing the mountain as steeply as 38 degrees in points, this is the second-steepest railway on the planet. On your climb, your guide will tell you all about this railway’s history. P.T. Barnum called it the second greatest show on Earth!

Once at the summit, you’ll have an hour to explore the surrounding landscape. If you’re lucky, you’ll get views of the surrounding Presidential Range — but even if it’s a typical cloudy, windy day at the summit, there’s no better way to get there! We think the Cog is one of the best New Hampshire attractions. There are several different tour options and prices available , starting at $74 for the biodiesel trips and $89 for the steam train. Be sure to book in advance.

Not up for the Cog? Consider driving to the top of Mount Washington instead via the Mount Washington Auto Road , and earning the right to display one of the THIS CAR CLIMBED MOUNT WASHINGTON bumper stickers that are ubiquitous throughout New England.

Read More: A Guide to the Mount Washington Cog Railway

Visit Madame Sherri Forest

One of the most mysterious places in New Hampshire is Madame Sherri Forest, located in Chesterfield, a stone’s throw from the Vermont border in Chesterfield, New Hampshire. Set on 513 acres on the slope of Wantastiquet Mountain (Rattlesnake Mountain), some of which lead all the way to Mount Monadnock.

People come here for the hiking trails, but the showstopper of the place is Madame Sherri Castle. Madame Antoinette Sherri, a costume designer from Paris, built a French-inspired stone house in the Chesterfield Forest in the early 1900s. She and her husband were socialites known for their epic parties.

Over time, Madame Sherri lost her fortune, and the house fell into decline. In 1963, it burned down. All that remains is a stone staircase perched among the trees. It makes an excellent Instagram backdrop, especially if you’re aiming for a spooky shoot.

The castle is a short walk from the parking lot on Gulf Road. Please don’t walk on the staircase; it partially collapsed in 2021.

Explore Downtown Keene

The White Mountains , Lakes Region, and Seacoast might get most of the attention in New Hampshire — but one of the nicest towns in New Hampshire, Keene , happens to be nestled in the southwest corner of the state. It’s not as popular as Portsmouth or North Conway — but people who know Keene know how special it is.

Main Street in downtown Keene is simultaneously a New England throwback and thoroughly modern, with pho shops and microbreweries sharing space with bed and breakfasts and Keene State College’s buildings. There’s even an advertisement for Parrish Shoes on one brick wall — a throwback to Robin Williams and the film Jumanji , which was filmed in Keene.

Don’t miss the Urban Exchange , a secondhand shop featuring high-end women’s clothing, even one rack devoted to cashmere. Hannah Grimes Marketplace features unique items and gifts, all made within 150 miles of Keene.

As far as food goes, we’re huge fans of Lindy’s Diner , serving up breakfast to locals and would-be presidents alike. Prime Roast Coffee dishes up excellent lattes and pastries. If you’re into beer, we highly recommend a stop at Modestman Brewing and Elm City Brewing — the latter of which also dishes up a tasty cajun chicken and sausage plate.

We wouldn’t be surprised if Keene is the next great weekend destination for New Englanders — especially if you pair it with exploring the Monadnock region.

Read More: 27 Cool Things to Do in Keene, NH

Drive the Kancamagus Highway

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in New Hampshire, look no further than the Kancamagus Highway . Winding through the White Mountains from Lincoln to Conway, this is perhaps the best drive in the Granite State, taking you past waterfalls, gorges, and stunning viewpoint after stunning viewpoint.

The Kancamagus Highway, affectionately known to locals as the Kanc, is 34.5 miles long. You could drive it from start to finish in about an hour if you wanted to. But the magic here is stopping at the outdoor sites along the way, from Sabbaday Falls to Rocky Gorge to the Albany Covered Bridge.

You can safely drive the Kancamagus Highway year-round, but there’s nothing like doing it in the fall when the leaves are changing. This is arguably the perfect place to view fall foliage in New Hampshire! (Just know that fall is when the Kanc is at its busiest!)

We recommend driving the Kanc with an audio guide to learn about the area while driving hands-free. This one is connected to your GPS and narrates based on your current location, which is a nice way to enjoy the drive.

Read More: Complete Guide to Driving the Kancamagus Highway

Soak Up the Sun at Hampton Beach

If you’re looking for a fun beach getaway, Hampton Beach is New Hampshire’s seaside playground! Come here to explore the best of the New Hampshire seacoast — with a side of good kitschy fun.

When most locals think of Hampton Beach, they think of the arcades, fried seafood, live music shows at the Hampton Casino Ballroom, the sand sculpting festival over Labor Day Weekend, and lots of family and friends enjoying their time together.

If you’re looking to kick back and relax, you can stake out a spot on the beach and luxuriate; you can also use Hampton Beach as a base for exploring the Seacoast, from the excellent breweries to chilled out Rye and funky Portsmouth.

Hampton Beach State Park technically includes the entire beach zone, as well as a campground further south. The Atlantic Ocean can be on the chilly side, but all the local New Englanders will assure you that it’s worth it!

Read More: The Best Beaches in New Hampshire

Hike to Artist’s Bluff

Most hikes have a trade-off of some kind. The most beautiful hikes are often extremely challenging, long, or tough to access; the easier hikes often don’t have scintillating views.

However, Artist’s Bluff in Franconia Notch State Park breaks all the molds. It has an incredible view for a payoff — one of the best views in the White Mountains, in our opinion — but it’s a simple easy-to-moderate hike, one that you can easily access just off 93.

The trail is 1.5 miles altogether and we recommend doing it counterclockwise — the scramble up a brief rocky area is easier going up than down. Get there in the late afternoon for beautiful light across Echo Lake and Franconia Notch.

If you’re interested in hiking but don’t have a lot of hiking experience, we heartily endorse Artist’s Bluff. Perhaps this will be your gateway to more hikes in the White Mountains!

Read More: Things to Do in the White Mountains

Explore the Flume Gorge

If you enjoy waterfalls, geology, plants, or beautiful places where Mother Nature seems to be showing off, you will love the Flume Gorge . This natural wonder is one of the highlights of Franconia Notch State Park, easily one of the best parts of the White Mountains.

The Flume Gorge is a natural passageway between two enormous walls of granite, set at the base of Mount Liberty in Franconia Notch State Park in Lincoln. Through the gorge, you walk along wooden pathways and staircases, ascending to the source of the rushing water until you reach Avalanche Falls.

The White Mountains are full of beautiful places to visit, but the Flume Gorge is one of our favorites. Greenery seems to spring up from every spare piece of Earth, and the air is misty and fresh. It’s also one of our favorite spots for Instagram photos. Entry to the Flume Gorge is $18 when reserved online and $21 at the ticket counter.

There are several other attractions at the Flume Gorge: the Flume Covered Bridge, one of the loveliest small covered bridges in the state; the Wolf Den, a cave you can crawl through; and the Glacial Boulders, some of these enormous rocks dating back 25,000 years.

Read More: 27 Epic Things to Do in Lincoln, NH

Attend a Powwow

When most Americans think of experiencing Native American culture on their travels, they head to the Southwest or the Plains. But you can absolutely experience Native American culture in New England — and one great way to do so is to attend a powwow in New Hampshire!

Powwows are celebrations of local Indigenous culture, featuring dancing, music, and celebration. They are generally open for all to attend, and you’ll meet people from dozens of tribal nations throughout North America. It’s like a big family reunion of interesting people.

In New Hampshire, our team enjoyed a powwow put on by the Laconia Indian Historical Association in Sanbornton in the Lakes Region. You can also check out the event calendar of the Ko’asek Abenaki Nation and see what’s going on at the Mt. Kearsage Indian Museum in Warner. Dartmouth College puts on a local powwow too.

You can see a full schedule of New Hampshire powwows here . Bring your comfiest shoes and be ready to talk to everyone!

Stroll the Gardens at Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park

Looking for a true hidden gem in New Hampshire? Just a stone’s through from Vermont in the town of Cornish, Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park celebrates the life of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America’s greatest sculptors.

Saint-Gaudens lived in Cornish from 1885 until his death in 1907. He was best known for his works commemorating hero’s of the American Civil War, including Abraham Lincoln, the sculpture of whom is on the premises at Saint-Gaudens today.

At the park you can see several of Saint-Gaudens’ bronze sculptures and visit Aspet, his glorious, idyllic country home. There are hiking trails through the woods and even a small cottage for the artist-in-residence. It’s the perfect place for an afternoon getaway from Dartmouth or Lake Sunapee.

The Dartmouth-Sunapee region may be one of the undersold regions of New Hampshire — but Saint-Gaudens shows that this is a region worth visiting.

You can get a 7-day pass to Saint-Gaudens for $10. Kids under 15 are free and there are several fee-free days throughout the year as well.

Ski and Snowboard the Slopes

Dreaming of fresh powder? New Hampshire is one of the best skiing and snowboarding destinations on the East Coast! Whether you’re a seasoned skier or looking to take your first lessons, New Hampshire has resorts that cater to all levels. See our full ski resort guide here.

If you’re looking to splurge, head to Bretton Woods, right in the heart of the White Mountains. This upscale resort is the largest ski zone in the Granite State, with 63 trails on 464 acres, and we think the scenery is among the very best in New England.

We’re also a big fan of Mount Sunapee, further south in the Dartmouth-Sunapee region. Far away from the attractions of the White Mountains, Sunapee is all about ski and sun and has a huge network of trails to explore.

Loon Mountain, near Lincoln, and Attitash, near North Conway, make great options if you want to mix skiing with enjoying the winter activities of the White Mountains, from Ice Castles to snowmobile tours to shopping and dining.

New Hampshire’s ski season runs from mid-November through mid-April (if the snow cooperates!), so you can spend almost half the year on the slopes!

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to NH Ski Resorts

Try a Pancake Flight at Polly’s Pancake Parlor

If you’re a pancake fan in the slightest, there’s a place in Sugar Hill waiting for you: Polly’s Pancake Parlor . This legendary pancake house has been dishing up flapjacks for more than 80 years.

You can mix and match different pancake batters — including classic buttermilk, cornmeal, gingerbread, and gluten-free — with fillings like blueberries, walnuts, and chocolate chips.

Can’t decide? Get a pancake flight! Three different pancakes on your plate. Go with the classic New Hampshire maple syrup, or try Polly’s homemade maple cream.

And if you’re not into pancakes, there are plenty of other options on the menu: omelets, waffles, Eggs Benedict, quiches, and lunch sandwiches.

We are huge fans of the cornmeal coconut pancakes and highly recommend going for lunch on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

Bring the Kids to Story Land

If you have young kids, one of the best places you can take them in New Hampshire is Story Land . Located in Glen, near Jackson in the White Mountains, Story Land is a small, sweet, and manageable amusement park built with young families in mind.

Story Land is built beautifully into its forested surroundings, and most of the attractions are built around fairy tales. You can ride in Cinderella’s pumpkin coach, fly in a Dutch wooden shoe, or sail through the Arctic on the Polar Coaster.

When so many theme parks try to push extreme rides and nonstop ads, Story Land is a wonderful, relaxed throwback. Just feeding the goats at Heidi’s home or sitting with Humpty Dumpty can be the highlight of the day — though there’s the Bamboo Chutes flume ride when you need a kid-sized dose of adrenaline!

Story Land is best suited for elementary school-aged kids, preschoolers, and toddlers. You can see the bulk of the sites in a half day visit, getting back in time for nap time. Single day tickets start at $39.99 , depending on the day you choose to visit.

Go on a Snowmobiling Adventure

Interested in snowmobiling? New Hampshire has more than 7,000 miles worth of snowmobile trails for you to explore! Thanks to New Hampshire’s long winter season, you can zoom through the mountains and valleys from November through April.

One of the best areas for snowmobiling in New Hampshire is in Pittsburg, up in the North Country at the very top of the state. For bragging rights, you can even snowmobile across the Canadian border into Quebec!

Other than that, the state is covered with trails. The Mount Washington Valley a favorite spot — especially parts of Crawford Notch that close to traffic over the winter.

New to snowmobiling? No problem. Join a tour with NXT Snow or Sweet Ride Snowmobiles , starting at $80. You might have found your new favorite winter hobby!

Spend a Day in Downtown Portsmouth

We at New Hampshire Way are huge fans of Portsmouth — it’s a beautiful city with lots to do, excellent shopping, restaurants, and bars. Whether you come for a weekend or just a day trip from Boston or Portland, there is so much to enjoy here!

Start in the Market Square area and hit up Cup of Joe for a coffee and pastry (we love their lavender latte). Check out the surrounding shops — we recommend RiverRun Bookstore for your latest read, Attrezzi Fine Kitchen Accessories for upscale kitchenware, G. Willikers for wonderful toys, and Off Piste for weird and quirky gifts you won’t find anywhere else.

Head back in time at Strawbery Banke , a living museum of 300 years of Portsmouth history, where the actors fully commit to their roles. We think it’s one of the best things to do in Portsmouth for history fans. Alternatively, take a harbor cruise along the water, exploring the coast of New Hampshire and Maine.

We recommend checking out The Black Trumpet , Durbar Square , or one of the other best Portsmouth NH restaurants for a meal to remember. And we love the brewery scene here — you can’t beat the outdoor area at Great Rhythm or the ever-changing selection at Portsmouth Brewery !

Finally, don’t miss live music at one of the local bars or Portsmouth’s Music Hall.

You might come to Portsmouth on a whim — but we think you’ll be hooked.

Read More: Fun Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH

Take a Scenic Railroad Ride

At first glance it looks like New Hampshire has no trains — take a look at a rail map and the only commuter train briefly skims along the Seacoast between Boston and Portland. But New Hampshire still has many working railroad tracks that have been repurposed to scenic railroad journeys.

The Conway Scenic Railroad is one of the most famous New Hampshire attractions, and for good reason. This North Conway-based journey takes you up through Crawford Notch with gorgeous views throughout the White Mountains. A variety of journeys are available — but if you’re a train enthusiast, you’ll love the five-hour Mountaineer journey!

The Hobo Railroad , based in Lincoln, takes you on an 80-minute train ride along the Pemigewasset River and through the White Mountains in restored vintage train cars, starting at $22.50. Alternatively, take Lincoln’s Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train for a two-hour train ride and five-course meal, starting at $99.

Not to be outdone, you can take a scenic train ride through the Lakes Region. The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad has journeys from Meredith (two hours) or Weirs Beach (one hour) along the western edge of Lake Winnipesaukee, turning around in Lakeport, starting at $22.50.

While we wish New Hampshire had a more extensive train network for public transportation, we’re happy to have these scenic train tours in the Granite State.

Whatever you do, we recommend booking as far ahead as possible for fall foliage season, as they often sell out.

Read More: Is the Conway Scenic Railroad Worth It?

Visit the Currier Museum of Art

Manchester, New Hampshire’s largest city, is home to some excellent cultural treasures. Perhaps the best is the Currier Museum of Art , housed in a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building and home to a truly astounding collection of works.

The Currier Museum particularly excels when it comes works by American and European masters like Monet, Hopper, Wyeth, and Homer. But more than that, the museum’s mission is to bring art to diverse audiences — including underserved communities — and teach art as a way to understand the creative process in all fields.

Entry to the museum is $15 for adults.

For an extra treat, book a tour to visit the Zimmerman and Kalil Houses , two Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes in Manchester. This tour, which has limited time slots, includes admission to the Currier Museum with your ticket, starting at $35.

We love pairing the Currier with a visit to the Red Arrow Diner for lunch — or perhaps a nice latte at Café la Reine.

Stay in a Cozy Bed and Breakfast

Is there any better way to wake up in New Hampshire than lying in a cozy bed in a small country town, a hearty home-cooked breakfast awaiting you? It may be a New England stereotype, but it’s good one.

New Hampshire has so many wonderful bed and breakfasts all over the state. They range from very affordable to sky-high luxury, so there’s something for everyone.

If you want to stay in a perfect Norman Rockwell village, we love the Monadnock Inn in Jaffrey Center, a town that looks like it was built inside a snow globe. The cozy rooms and wraparound porch make a wonderful respite after a day of climbing Mount Monadnock or antiquing in Peterborough.

And if money is no object, The Manor on Golden Pond in Holderness brings the luxury B&B treatment, with rich bed linens, in-room fireplaces, jacuzzis, delicious cookie treats after meals, and views over Squam Lake.

Visit New Hampshire Breweries

If you enjoy craft beer, you are going to love New Hampshire. We are huge fans of the interesting brewing scene in New Hampshire — and they make way more than just New England IPAs.

So which breweries are worth visiting? There are several dozen throughout the Granite State, and our team has been to most of them, collectively tasting a few hundred beers. Here are a few of our favorites:

In the White Mountains, we love Schilling Beer Company for its uniquely European beers on offer and Moat Mountain Brewing in North Conway for its eight-beer flight and killer menu.

Down in Monadnock, we love Branch & Blade Brewing in Keene for their incredibly creative, often bizarre, ever-changing beers, and Post & Beam Brewing in Peterborough for its full-flavored beers and cozy atmosphere.

In the Lakes Region, we love the welcoming, family-run Woodman’s Brewery , set in a cottage in the woods in Bristol, and Twin Barns Brewing in Meredith, with its outdoor patio and board game collection plus fun beers making for a nice afternoon.

And Candia Road Brewing Co. in Manchester serves a clever collection of rotating brews alongside plenty of vegan food options, next to a piano and fireplace.

Along the Seacoast, we love sitting outside on the farm at Throwback Brewery in North Hampton, arguably one of the best outdoor breweries in New Hampshire, and trying their outlandish and classic beers. Portsmouth Brewery in Portsmouth is a classic for a reason, and over the years we’ve never had a bad beer there.

But that’s just a fraction of what New Hampshire has to offer.

2023 Update: A previous version of this post recommended White Birch Brewing, which has since closed.

Read More: The Best New Hampshire Breweries

Pay Tribute to the Old Man of the Mountain

The Old Man of the Mountain was one of New Hampshire’s most recognizable symbols — a rock ledge shaped exactly like a man’s profile. You’ll find the Old Man on everything from road signs to souvenir mugs.

When the Old Man crumbled unexpectedly in 2003, it felt like all of New Hampshire went into mourning. But by today, the Old Man has been memorialized beautifully throughout the state.

The Old Man of the Mountain Memorial in Franconia allows you to stand at a spot based on your height and squint at a sculpture that adds the Old Man’s face back to the mountain.

At the same time, the free Old Man of the Mountain Museum at the base of the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway gives you plenty of history and information about this New Hampshire landmark.

The Old Man may be gone — but he’ll never be forgotten.

Sit at the Counter at an Old-Fashioned Diner

Which state has the best diners? (Well, just asking that question is a good way to get into an argument with New Jersey.) But New Hampshire has some of the best diners in the nation. Rather than going modern, these diners have chosen to embrace vintage style, making them as Instagrammable as they are delicious.

So which diners in New Hampshire are worth visiting? Plenty.

We love the Red Arrow Diner in Manchester, set in a long, narrow tin can that can barely fit seats beyond the counter. You’ll find diner favorites on the menu, plus an excellent selection of poutine made with their extra-crispy French fries.

You’ll notice the bubblegum-pink Tilt’n Diner in Tilton from a mile away! This diner brings on the retro decor and serves breakfast to an affable crowd of New Hampshire regulars in the Lakes Region.

The Peterborough Diner in Peterborough is set in an emerald-green train car that was once a Worcester Lunch Car from the 1950s. They make a great French toast and have a gluten-free version, too!

And then there’s Lindy’s Diner in Keene. They say the road to the White House goes through Lindy’s Diner — and indeed, many presidential candidates stop there. Be sure to try their chicken-fried steak and gravy, a southern favorite that’s tough to find in New England.

Climb Mount Monadnock

One of the most climbed mountains in the world happens to be in New Hampshire: Mount Monadnock! This mountain, in the southwest of the state, is 3,165 feet tall (964 meters) can be safely climbed by novice hikers and even kids.

Mount Monadnock is part of Monadnock State Park in Jaffrey. Just under two hours’ drive from Boston, Mount Monadnock draws outdoorsy people from all over New England. It’s a great first mountain to climb, and you’ll have many first-time-climbers among you.

There are several routes up Mount Monadnock, but most popular climb from Mount Monadnock headquarters should take about 2-2.5 hours up and 1.5-2 hours down. If you’re climbing with kids, be prepared for it to take longer. We recommend starting after breakfast to enjoy a picnic at the summit.

Be sure to bring enough food and more water than you think you need (there are no facilities on the mountain). The views from the summit with spellbind you, especially on a clear day. Once you’ve tackled Monadnock, you might be ready for one of New Hampshire’s 4000-footers!

Reward yourself with a beer at one of the excellent breweries in the Keene area.

Tour the Black Heritage Trail in Portsmouth

The Black Heritage Trail aims to tell New Hampshire’s forgotten stories — ones that are too often swept under the rug in one of America’s whitest states. On this cultural journey, you will learn about the Black New Englanders that left an imprint on Portsmouth, from those who were enslaved to leaders of the Civil Rights Movement.

The guided tours of the Black Heritage Trail are outstanding — and rather than one universal tour, there are several different tours given throughout the year. You could learn about the lives of Black seafarers, or the history of the abolition movement in Portsmouth, or stories of Black families in households that included both enslaved and free people. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Portsmouth, NH.

You can also take a self-guided tour right on your smartphone. The trail winds you through the city from Governor John Langdon House to the African Burying Ground, and plaques along the way share the history with you.

Be sure to check the Black Heritage Trail’s calendar for ongoing events — talks, lectures, poetry readings, as well as the annual Juneteenth celebration. Their team is doing some of the best historic events in New Hampshire!

With endless evergreen forests, tall rising mountains, and lakes around every corner, New Hampshire makes a wonderful destination for camping. We grew up camping in New Hampshire and it makes a wonderful way to enjoy the nature of the Granite State!

New Hampshire is home to dozens of campgrounds, 23 of which are at New Hampshire State Parks. Before you book, consider what kind of trip you want to have. Do you want to be close to local attractions, or stay in the woods the whole time? Are you a tent, camper, RV camper, or are you looking for cabins?

We especially love camping in the White Mountains, but there are campgrounds all over the state — even within the city limits of Manchester!

If you’re looking to get away from everything, head to the Great North Woods. You can even do camping canoeing trips on Lake Umbagog with Northern Waters Outfitters .

If you want a family-friendly experience close to lots of activities, consider Lost River Valley Campground near North Woodstock or the Saco River Family Campground near North Conway.

If you want to stay overnight on the Kancamagus Highway, camping is your only option. Several campgrounds occupy this part of the White Mountain National Forest.

Not to be outdone, southwest New Hampshire has some great campgrounds, including Greenfield State Park and Mount Monadnock State Park .

Marvel at the Ice Castles

Every winter, a community of ice and snow springs up in the White Mountains. Welcome to Ice Castles ! Every year, a dedicated crew spends thousands of hours building a wonderland of snow and ice in North Woodstock, New Hampshire.

Ice Castles is one of our favorite things to do in New Hampshire in winter. The complex is family-friendly with something for everyone. Marvel at the castles of ice and photograph the lights of the Mystic Forest right Walk — or zoom down ice slides, crawl through ice tunnels, and go tubing.

You can visit at day or night, but we recommend visiting after dusk to enjoy the best of the light shows.

If you have your heart set on Ice Castles, be sure to pencil in a date in January or February! By March, the ice begins to melt, not to be seen again until the end of the year. Entry tickets are $29 for adults and $22 for kids.

Read More: Things to Do in New Hampshire in the Winter

Hunt for Antique Treasures

Looking for a new and interesting piece to add to your home? New Hampshire, like all of New England, is a gold mine for antique shops. Antique Alley is a driving route along Route 4 from Portsmouth to Concord and is home to several excellent shops and markets.

We recommend concentrating on towns like Lee, home to Firebird Farm Antiques ; Northwood, home to Eagle Antiques , and Chichester, home to Thos. Bartlett Antiques and Oddments . (Don’t miss the cider donuts at Chichester Country Store while you’re up there.)

But Antique Alley is far from the only antiquing option in New Hampshire! We at New Hampshire Way are fans of the Monadnock region for antiquing. Downtown Peterborough is a treasure itself, home to Grove & Main and Remarkable . Be sure to drive to nearby Fitzwilliam for Bloomin’ Antiques , set on one of the prettiest town commons in New Hampshire.

Be warned…some of New Hampshire’s antique shops inspired us to redecorate our entire homes!

Hike to Waterfalls

Whoever said you shouldn’t go chasing waterfalls clearly hasn’t been to New Hampshire! The White Mountains region is especially rich in waterfalls. Some of them are easy to get to, some require a bit more effort, but all of them add a little beauty to the showstopper that is New Hampshire.

Sabbaday Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit — it’s about a 15-minute walk from the trailhead, right on the Kancamagus Highway. Diana’s Baths also give you set of fun waterfalls after a short walk.

Arethusa Falls is requires more effort, with a moderate-to-somewhat-challenging hike (three miles round-trip or a five-mile loop). You’ll be rewarded with a view of a waterfall on a wide rocky wall.

Zealand Falls is an excellent waterfall right on the Appalachian Trail in Bethlehem. Hike up to see the falls, and you can even overnight at the nearby AMC hut if you’d like!

Looking for more falls? The Flume Gorge is home to powerful Avalanche Falls, and if you’re driving down Route 302 in Crawford Notch, you’ll drive right past the Silver Cascade, long and narrow and visually spectacular.

Try Mead at Sap House Meadery

By now you know that New Hampshire has plenty of breweries, wineries, and distilleries — but that’s not all. Mead is starting to become popular in the Granite State, and Sap House Meadery in Ossipee is a delightful place to try it out.

Mead, a type of fermented honey wine, isn’t just for medieval reenactments or renaissance fairs — nor is it cloyingly sweet. It’s a gentle beverage that you sip like beer or wine, and in the hands of a thoughtful brewer, it can take on many different flavors.

Sap House Meadery is always trying out new and interesting mead blends, along with their classics. Drop in for a mead tasting — or even stay for lunch! They also offer hive-to-bottle tours on Saturdays, and you can buy mead to take home.

It’s also worth visiting for its fabulous, well-curated interior, an Instagram backdrop that you’ll love.

Shop at the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen

Throughout the Granite State, you’ll come across galleries with an intriguing sign: the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen . Sounds a bit intimidating, right? Almost like a secret society?

Don’t be intimidated! The League of New Hampshire Craftsmen is a community of brilliant creators. Their galleries, which you can find in locations from Nashua to Littleton to North Conway, feature works created by local artists and artisans in New Hampshire.

At these shops you’ll find both traditional and contemporary works. You can find handmade jewelry, woven scarves and hats, prints and photography, housewares, pottery, sculptures, and objets d’art. And it’s all high-quality items that you’d want to display in your home.

The mission of the League is to advance, cultivate, and champion excellent in fine craft. And the results are gorgeous. Here at New Hampshire Way, we encourage you to support small businesses in New Hampshire whenever possible. The League is the perfect place to find a New Hampshire souvenir you’ll cherish forever.

Visit Funspot, the Largest Arcade in the World

Did you know that New Hampshire is home to the largest arcade on the planet? It is! Funspot Arcade is located in Weirs Beach in Laconia, right by Lake Winnipesaukee.

Funspot is home to more than 600 arcade games. It also hosts the American Classic Arcade Museum , filled with 250 classic arcade games like Asteroids, Donkey Kong, and of course Pac-Man.

And it’s far more than just arcade games. There’s bingo, a bowling alley, and even an indoor mini golf course! You could easily spend the whole day here.

Funspot is one of our top picks for things to do in Lake Winnipesaukee on a rainy day, and one of the best New Hampshire attractions if you’re looking to chase Guinness Book of World Records-cited places. It’s open every day but Christmas and Thanksgiving.

Read More: A Guide to Weirs Beach, Lake Winnipesaukee’s Family Fun Town

Tube Down the River — or a Snowy Hill

Imagine yourself enjoying New Hampshire’s nature from an inner tube. Whether you want to be floating down a lazy river in the summer or screaming down a mountain in the winter, we have plenty of options for you!

The Saco River is arguably the top spot for summertime river tubing, and you’ll find this one of the best things to do in North Conway on a hot day! The river here is nice and shallow, so you can easily stop for a swim or pull your tube up on shore.

We also love tubing the Ammonoosuc and Pemigewasset Rivers in the White Mountains. Even the Connecticut River can be tubed in some regions, New Hampshire on one side and Vermont on the other!

For snow tubing, most of the big ski resorts have a hill reserved for tubing: Bretton Woods, Loon Mountain, Waterville Valley.

But if you want an unusual snow tubing experience, nothing tops Cosmic Snow Tubing on Saturday nights at Granite Gorge in Keene! You’ve got neon lights and music and it feels like a party!

Meet Your Political Idols

New Hampshire famously hosts the first primary in the United States, leading to virtually every presidential candidate visiting the state dozens of times. And yes, this can be annoying — especially when political ads take over every TV station.

But if you’re interested in politics and have some politicians you admire, you can take advantage of the primary frenzy to meet your favorite politicians face to face.

Whether it’s a big rally in Manchester or an event at Lindy’s Diner in Keene — they say the road to the White House runs through Lindy’s — this can be your chance to say hello, have a quick conversation, and get a selfie. Especially at the smaller events.

Here’s a tip — even if your favorite Senator or Congressmember isn’t running for president, they often show up in New Hampshire as surrogates for candidates who are running. So keep an eye out for that young House representative who inspires you.

Visit the Hood Museum of Art

One of the treasures of the Dartmouth-Sunapee region is the Hood Museum. This art museum on the Dartmouth College campus hosts one of the most thoughtful and interesting collections in the Granite State.

Most famous are the museum’s massive Assyrian stone reliefs from the palace of Ashurnasirpal II, dating back to 900 BCE, and José Clemente Orozco’s The End of American Civilization fresco, now a National Historic Landmark. The museum also has a superb collection of Indigenous art.

What we love most at the Hood Museum are the student-led and curated collections. Art students at Dartmouth are given free reign to curate interesting collections, and thanks to their youth, you often get a point of view that you don’t get in museums led by older curators.

We especially love the student-curated the Alvin P. Gutman gallery. One pre-med student curated an exhibit on PTSD and art; another curated an exhibit called “Butt of the Joke” about art, humor, and the human body.

Best of all? Admission to the Hood Museum is free. It’s one of our favorite free things to do in New Hampshire!

Hike the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire

The Appalachian Trail winds through 14 states from Georgia to Maine, but one of the most picturesque parts of the trail is in New Hampshire! And that’s not our bias — plenty of Appalachian thru-hikers share that the New Hampshire trail was one of their favorite parts.

The New Hampshire portion of the Appalachian Trail begins in Hanover on the Vermont border and ends in Berlin on the Maine border, which takes most thru-hikers around eight days.

But you don’t need to be a thru-hiker to enjoy New Hampshire’s slice of the Appalachian Trail. There are plenty of excellent day hikes along the trail for all hiking levels. Hike up to waterfalls, stop for refreshments in the AMC huts, and be a “trail angel” to thru-hikers, offering encouragement or snacks.

For beginner hikers, hiking to Zealand Falls is an easy, nearly flat journey throughout. If you’d like something a bit more challenging, North Kinsman is a great hike that can get you to check off one of the NH 48.

And for the advanced hikers, Franconia Ridge is a tough but incredibly rewarding hike, not to mention one of the best places to enjoy fall foliage in the Granite State.

Read More: Hiking the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire

Explore Downtown Littleton

Downtown Portsmouth and North Conway might get all the attention — not to mention huge tourist crowds — but here at New Hampshire Way, we think Littleton might be even better . This town in the White Mountains, close to the Vermont border, is home to our favorite downtown in the Granite State.

Right away Littleton feels like a throwback — a walkable New England downtown lined in red brick. Right on Main Street you’ll find a small movie theater, Victorian houses, a covered bridge, even a statue of Pollyanna by the library (author Eleanor H. Porter was a Littleton local).

But the shops are what makes downtown Littleton truly special. Little Village Toy and Book Shop is superb; Chutters Candy Shop is home to the world’s longest candy counter.

Perhaps most famous is Schilling Beer Company , a brewery that draws beer aficionados from all over New England. This brewery specializes in European beers, where you’ll find more Czech pilsners than IPAs.

For dinner, enjoy one of Schilling’s excellent pizzas, or head to Tim-Bir for local farm-to-table cuisine. Staying overnight? Don’t miss the famous pancakes at Littleton Diner.

Read More: 23 Fun Things to Do in Littleton, NH

Shop Until You Drop — Tax-Free!

New Hampshire has no sales tax — so the state is a very popular place to do some shopping! Sales tax might be tiny, but it can really add up when you buy something particularly expensive.

Where are the best places to go shopping in New Hampshire? We love the excellent malls in New Hampshire , and there are plenty of outlets in New Hampshire , too. Our favorite outlets are the Merrimack Outlets in Merrimack, near Nashua, where you can find plenty of designer shops along with the mid-range finds.

North Conway has its own collection of outlets along with a very cute shop-filled downtown area; Portsmouth is a great place to shop for gifts and only-in-New-Hampshire treats. Border towns like Salem and Nashua are full of furniture and electronic stores, serving many Massachusetts residents looking to get a deal.

Finally, New Hampshire is home to three Apple Stores — one in Nashua, one in Salem, and one in Manchester. Not bad for a state with a population of 1.36 million. Think of how much you’d save if you got that new iPhone in New Hampshire.

Read More: The Best Outlets in New Hampshire

The Best Malls in New Hampshire

Enjoy New Hampshire’s Best Coffeeshops

We know, there seems to be a Dunkin’ everywhere you look in New Hampshire, but think beyond Dunkin’. New Hampshire is home to plenty of fun and interesting coffee shops, each of them dishing up delicious specialties!

The Met Coffee House is one of our favorite places to start the day in North Conway, with a great coffee menu and a fun interior. We love their inventive creations, like the pecan pie latte.

Franconia Coffee House is a cozy morning stop before heading out for a stunning hike, while White Mountain Cafe and Bookstore in Gorham serves their brews alongside decadent whoopie pies and muffins.

And Portsmouth has so many! Enjoy a coffee with a new novel at the Portsmouth Book and Bar , people-watch from an outdoor seat at Popovers on the Square , or head to Cup of Joe for a lavender latte with macadamia milk.

And good news for those who avoid dairy: we are pleased to see that non-dairy milks, including oat milk, are easy to find at small coffee shops in rural parts of New Hampshire. That wasn’t the case five years ago!

Try a Taste of Nepal at Base Camp Cafe

Who knew that there was fantastic Nepalese food right in New Hampshire? Base Camp Cafe in Hanover is a favorite of Dartmouth’s international students, serving delicious and flavorful dishes from the Himalayas.

Located in the basement of a shopping center and filled with Nepalese decor, this restaurant is the perfect place to escape a chilly or roasting day. It also makes a nice detour from the traditional American dishes that dominate menus in New Hampshire.

Not sure what to get? We recommend trying momos , Himalayan dumplings, and a tarkari , a Nepalese curry, with a pot of chai to wash it down.

Base Camp Cafe is also a great option for vegetarians and vegans, featuring dishes made with with potatos, sweet potato, eggplant, mushrooms, and more.

Explore Diana’s Baths

One thing we love about the White Mountains is how many natural wonders are easily accessible. Diana’s Baths, just outside North Conway in Bartlett, are a series of pools connected by waterfalls.

It just takes a mostly flat 0.6 mile walk through the woods — about 15 minutes — and you’re rewarded with gorgeous cascading waterfalls, most leading to shallow pools. Unlike many of New Hampshire’s waterfalls, swimming is welcome here.

Diana’s Baths were originally a location of a sawmill in the 1800s — well, until tourists discovered it! Today, it makes a great destination year-round. Spring brings the most flush waterfalls, summer is the perfect weather for taking a dip, fall brings brilliant foliage, and the frozen winter waterfalls are a sight to behold.

We recommend pairing Diana’s Baths with a visit to nearby Cathedral Ledge, with a rewarding panoramic view over the countryside. Finish up with a short walk around Echo Lake if you want to do the region right! Three of the best things to do in North Conway, just a stone’s throw from each other.

Read More: Best Things to Do in North Conway, NH

Smash Things Up at the Rage Cage in Nashua

Have you ever felt like smashing a bunch of glass to smithereens? Whether you’re angry or frustrated, we understand that urge. In New Hampshire, there’s a way to do so safely: the Rage Cage in Nashua.

The Rage Cage offers a chance to get out your aggression in a safe, controlled environment — and have a one-of-a-kind night out with your friends!

Pick out several smashable items, from vases and plates to lamps, teapots, even small electronics, and choose your music for the session. (Whether your taste tends more toward 90s hip-hop or death metal — or even “My Heart Will Go On” — you can listen to whatever you’d like!) Put on a jumpsuit and face shield and you’re good to go!

Once you’re in the room, you can go wild smashing your items with hammers, sledgehammers and crowbars. Go nuts! (Our recommendation? Choose some large ceramic items. It’s tougher to smash than glass, and much more satisfying.)

The Rage Cage also offers sessions in their paint splatter room, where you can throw paint around. All in all, you’re up for an activity you’ll be talking about for months.

Read More: 28 Fun-Filled Things to Do in Nashua, NH

Sip and Swirl at New Hampshire Wineries

Isn’t it great that you don’t have to go far to try great wine in New Hampshire? In the past 20 years, wineries have sprung up in the most surprising of locations, and New Hampshire’s northern location hasn’t put it off the list.

Most of New Hampshire’s wineries tend to be in the southern part of the Granite State — though you will find a few in the Lakes Region and even the White Mountains!

Fulchino Vineyard in Hollis looks like it could almost be in Tuscany — yet it’s right outside Nashua! We love their outdoor garden area, an idyllic setting for wine tastings, and especially loved their dark, spicy Malbec.

Hermit Woods Winery & Deli in Meredith is one of our favorite spots for lunch on Lake Winnipesaukee. There’s nothing like a wine flight and a charcuterie board to wile away the afternoon. They have some lovely rosé wines in particular.

As unlikely the White Mountains are for a winery setting, we enjoyed Seven Birches , with grapes grown at the RiverWalk Resort. Tour the winery or visit their location at Atrium Wine Bar in downtown Lincoln, along with some picnic snacks.

Find Your Inner Elf at Santa’s Village

You don’t have to go all the way to the North Pole to find Santa — sometimes New Hampshire’s Great North Woods is close enough! Up in Jefferson, Santa’s Village is a Christmas-themed family theme park that brings holiday cheer year-round.

Here you’ll find rides, a water park , an “Elfabet Game” scavenger hunt where kids can track down elves from A to Z, live reindeer, and of course, Santa!

Speaking personally, we think Santa’s Village is exceptionally well-run with a wonderful staff, and unlike New Hampshire theme parks, you can visit through December. Sometimes you can enjoy the rides underneath a light snowfall — a truly unique New Hampshire experience.

Admission is date-specific and they run different themes and events throughout the year.

And while Jefferson may look fairly far north in the Granite State, it’s an easy journey from Lincoln, North Conway, or any of the other hubs of the White Mountains.

Visit the Castle in the Clouds

If you’re looking for things to do in Lake Winnipesaukee, we highly recommend driving up to Moultonborough to visit the Castle in the Clouds . This massive estate is far more than just the mansion atop the hill

The Lucknow Mansion was built by Thomas Plant, who rose from factory worker to the owner of the largest shoe factory in the world. An unusual example of Arts & Crafts architecture, the home was designed to be in harmony with nature.

Take a self-guided tour of the mansion to see a sliver of life in New Hampshire in the early 1990s — for wealthy people, at least! From the top floors, you have an excellent view of Lake Winnipesaukee with all its shapes and contours. On a clear day, you can’t beat the view from here.

Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for kids.

The estate is home to plenty of hiking trails, viewpoints, and a cafe and restaurant. It’s a wonderful way to spend an entire afternoon in the Lakes Region. Be sure to hit up the Country Store afterward — it’s a general store that dates back to 1781.

Ride the Thrills at Canobie Lake Park

Ah, Canobie Lake Park . We at New Hampshire Way have so many wonderful memories of this theme park that caters to every age group! Whether you go for a middle school band trip (hello!), a getaway with your twenty-something friends, or a trip with your kids, Canobie Lake in Salem, New Hampshire, has something for everyone.

For thrill-seekers, Canobie Lake Park has the spinning and soaring Xtreme Frisbee, the Untamed roller coaster with a beyond-vertical 97-degree drop, and the Yankee Cannonball, a traditional wooden rollercoaster with lots of climbs and dips.

There are plenty of easier, family-friendly rides, from spinning teacups and bumper cars to a carousel and the Sky Way, taking you across the park from above.

And on a hot day, you can cool off at Castaway Island, the water park of Canobie Lake. You can enjoy water slides, the lazy river, or on the Boston Tea Party, a flume ride that creates a 50-foot wall of water onto a bridge of people waiting to be soaked!

Admission is $59 per adult.

Whether gentle or wild, Canobie Lake Park makes for a truly fun day out!

Read More: Best New Hampshire Water Parks

Squeeze Through the Caves at Lost River Gorge

Lost River Gorge in North Woodstock often gets compared to its neighbor, the Flume Gorge — and you can see why. Both are wonderful outdoor attractions where you climb wooden footpaths through a misty river gorge, greenery popping up in every direction around you.

But Lost River Gorge has the bonus of the Boulder Caves! These caves, with names like the Bear Crawl and the Devil’s Kitchen, are along the edges of the gorge, some easier to squeeze into than others. (Not a cave fan? No problem. They’re all optional.)

Lost River Gorge is great for people of all ages, but this is a place kids LOVE. Not least because many of the caves are perfectly kid-sized. Good luck squeezing through the “Lemon Squeezer” cave if you’re an adult! (And if you fail, you can buy “I tried and failed to do the Lemon Squeezer” merch at the gift shop!)

We especially recommend exploring the Judgment Hall of Pluto, which has a waterfall inside the cave!

General admission to Lost River Gorge is $23 when booked in advance and $26 on-site (subject to availability).

Photograph the Covered Bridges of New Hampshire

There’s nothing like photographing a covered bridge surrounded by autumn leaves, one of the archetypal images of rural New England. If you’re in New Hampshire, you’re in luck — we have so many covered bridges that tracking them down feels like a treasure hunt!

If you’re keen to photograph covered bridges, we recommend focusing on the White Mountains region, the Dartmouth-Sunapee region south of Hanover, or the Monadnock region south of Keene.

Which covered bridges are especially worth seeing? We love the Cornish-Windsor Bridge in Cornish, which is the only covered bridge crossing the Connecticut River between New Hampshire and Vermont.

And the Honeymoon Covered Bridge in Jackson seems to be plucked from a fairy tale, a must-visit in one of New Hampshire’s prettiest small towns.

Then there’s the Albany Covered Bridge, a bridge with a lot of history and one of the best stops along the Kancamagus Highway.

Wherever you go, there are plenty of bridges to see!

Try Out the New Hampshire Distilleries

You’ve heard of New Hampshire breweries and New Hampshire wineries — but what about New Hampshire distilleries? New Hampshire is going through a craft spirits revolution, and there are several unique distilleries that are fun to visit.

Most New Hampshire distilleries happily welcome visitors for tastings of their craft spirits. And a bottle of handcrafted New Hampshire liquor makes an excellent gift.

Tamworth Distilling is a truly wonderful find in a rural part of the Lakes Region, and the fabulous design of the distillery will delight you. Stop by to sample their award-winning spirits and gawk at the displays. If you’re lucky, pick up a bottle of their excellent Old Man of the Mountain Bourbon, which tends to sell out as soon as they bottle it.

Cathedral Ledge Distillery in North Conway, an organic distillery, is a fun spot to visit in between your outdoorsy adventures in the White Mountains. This place touts their vodka and gin, but we particularly loved their horseradish vodka (perfect for Bloody Marys!) and their sweet, dessert-like maple liqueur is the ultimate New Hampshire souvenir.

And at New England Sweetwater Distillery in Winchester, near Keene, you’ll be warmly welcomed by co-owner Kenny, a man with many stories. Sit down to sample their Ashuelot vodka, Kingfish rum, and even Monadnock Moonshine (!). Don’t be surprised if you and Kenny end up gabbing for an hour or more!

Conquer the NH 48: New Hampshire’s 4000-Footers

If you like to challenge yourself, the ultimate New Hampshire achievement is completing the NH 48 ! New Hampshire is home to 48 4000-Footers — mountains that exceed 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) in elevation and 200 feet (60 meters) in prominence.

Mount Washington is New Hampshire’s highest peak at 6,288 feet (1,916 meters) — but keep in mind that NONE of these mountains are easy hikes. Even the entry-level 4000-footers like Cannon Mountain and Mount Whiteface can kick your butt if you’re not in good shape.

For most people, completing the NH 48 can take years, sometimes decades. But some truly determined hikers manage to pull it off within a year, taking entire weekends to hike and climbing multiple peaks in a day.

No matter how long it takes, when you finish the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with a 4000-footer club patch from the Appalachian Mountain Club! Not to mention lifelong bragging rights.

Relax at White Lake State Park

Sometimes, all you need is a nice place to relax in a beach chair, breathe in the scent of pine trees, swim in a peaceful lake, and just enjoy the great New Hampshire outdoors. If that’s the case for you, we highly recommend White Lake State Park in Tamworth.

This campground, located right where the Lakes Region converges with the White Mountains, is home to a glacier-carved lake with silky water, edged with soft sand and evergreen trees, and topped with views of the Ossipee Mountains in the distance.

Come here to camp for a few days, or just come here for the day, setting up on the beach and enjoying that wonderful water. We think White Lake is one of the best swimming spots in the Granite State, as well as one of the best lake beaches in New Hampshire.

In addition to enjoying the beach, you can rent canoes and hike the trail around the lake.

White Lake is where our editor Kate grew up spending her summers, and it’s still wonderful to this day. That said, the word is out about White Lake, and it’s increasingly popular with visitors, especially on the weekends. If you’re looking for a quieter, less crowded experience, we recommend visiting Monday through Friday.

More Things to Do in New Hampshire:

• Best Things to Do In Portsmouth, NH
• Best Things to Do in North Conway, NH
• Best Things to Do in New Hampshire in the Winter

Best of New Hampshire Way:

• New Hampshire Fall Foliage: When and Where To Go
• 30 Unforgettable Things To Do In The White Mountains, NH

What’s your favorite thing to do in New Hampshire? Share away!

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2023 New Hampshire Travel Guide | Best Restaurants, Hotels, & Things to Do

With an eye on what’s new for 2023, Yankee’s editors round up the best attractions, eateries, and hotels in top New Hampshire travel destinations.

By Yankee Editors

Apr 29 2023

White Mountains | New Hampshire

With an eye on what’s new for 2023, Yankee’s editors round up the best attractions, eateries, and hotels in top New Hampshire travel destinations. Headed to the city? Check out our spotlight guide to Portsmouth, New Hampshire .

Editors’ Picks: Where to Eat and Drink in New Hampshire in 2023

Bakery, Bread | Fire Dog Breads , Keene

What began as a farmers’ market cult favorite in 2017 has grown into a brick-and-mortar bakery helping to anchor Keene’s emerging artisan-food hub, Emerald Street. Yet Fire Dog still maintains a hand-crafted, home-kitchen feel as it turns out superlative crusty rustic loaves made with house-milled grains, including wheat, rye, and corn from farms right here in New England.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

Coffee Roaster | Blue Harbor Coffee Co. , Hampton

Coffee mastery runs in the family for Istanbul native Coskun Yazgan, a third-generation roaster whose brother and sister-in-law just happen to run Portsmouth’s Caffe Kilim, now in its 30th year. Yazgan struck out on his own java journey in 2019, opening a café-roastery that showcases coffees sourced from boutique farms in nearly 20 countries and roasted to perfection in small batches. For a can’t-miss eye-opener, try the Orca dark-roast blend with a shot of espresso.

Destination Brewery | Throwback Brewery , North Hampton

Outlandishly flavorful IPAs, imperial stouts, and other brews made with ingredients largely sourced from within 200 miles are the main draw at Annette Lee and Nicole Carrier’s brewery, but there are so many reasons to linger: the charming 1860s barn and beer garden, cute farm animals, fresh-from-the-field cooking at the on-site restaurant, and an events calendar sprinkled with trivia and open-mic nights, yoga classes, and more.

Historic Restaurant | Three Chimneys Inn , Durham

Housed in a 1649 homestead, one of New Hampshire’s oldest buildings, the Three Chimneys gives a village inn feel and a menu that runs generally Continental, with New England flourishes like fried calamari, clam chowder, and prime rib. Ask for a table on the wisteria-shaded terrace or, in winter, a spot by the fireplace.

New Restaurant | Ansanm , Milford

What began as a pop-up sensation at chef Chris Viaud’s acclaimed fine-dining restaurant, Greenleaf, came into its own last fall when this Haitian eatery opened in a South Street storefront whose small size belies the big flavors within. Viaud’s family—including his Haitian-born parents, Myrlene and Yves—all help steer the Caribbean comfort-food menu of griot (marinated fried pork), savory pastries called patés, and yes, superlative jerk chicken wings.

Pizza | 900 Degrees , Manchester

In reaching its 15th anniversary last year, 900 Degrees could have gotten by just on the strength of its pies, gourmet Neapolitan creations pulled from wood-fired brick ovens at, yes, the perfect temperature. But add an atmosphere suitable for date nights as well as family get-togethers, a generous selection of wines and cocktails (plus 12 tap lines), and a deck for al fresco dining, and it’s truly a slice of heaven.

Seafood Shack | Brown’s Lobster Pound , Seabrook

In a competitive field, Brown’s edges past other seafood shacks for its freshness, its fried clams (strips or whole), four kinds of chowder (clam, fish, lobster, corn), ample parking, and water views. It’s BYOB and cash only, though, so come prepared.

Wine Bar | Vino e Vivo , Exeter

Despite its downtown location, Vino e Vivo feels seductively off-the-beaten-path, sitting below street level in a brick-lined alley. Subdued lighting gleams off reclaimed wood and copper; an eye-catching wall of bottles behind the bar is an invitation to explore both crowd-pleasing cabernets and sauvignon blancs as well as lesser-known grapes and regions. But the food deserves just as much attention as the wine here, thanks to the presence of James Beard Award semifinalist Paul Callahan in the kitchen.

Editors’ Picks: Best Places to Stay in New Hampshire in 2023

Campground | Bear Brook State Park , Allenstown

New Hampshire’s largest state park encompasses more than 10,000 acres of scenic wilderness. Overnight at one of the park’s 101 campsites or hunker down at a cabin at Bear Hill Pond. Then fill your days with archery, swimming, biking, or exploring some of the 40 miles of hiking trails that course through the property. Motorheads should be sure not to miss the New Hampshire Snowmobile Museum.  

Glamping | Lumen Nature Retreat, Woodstock

At this White Mountains luxury escape, campers can scrap the sleeping pads and tight spaces in favor of comfort and rejuvenation. All of Lumen’s A-frame tents and more spacious “safari” quarters feature high-end beds and linens, access to a climate-controlled bathhouse, and other savvy touches (battery chargers, kitchen kits) that can make anyone go wild for the woods.

Green Hotel | The Glen House , Gorham

The fifth iteration of this 68-room hotel at the base of Mount Washington honor its environment inside and out, including using carbon-free power systems and installing “dark sky compliant” outdoor lighting. An outdoor deck gives guests a front-row seat to the surrounding natural beauty, as does the lounge, whose windows offer a Presidential Range panorama.

Hotel Restaurant | Pavilion , Wolfeboro

Come hungry to Pavilion, the dining arm of Pickering House Inn, one of the top resort hotels in the country. Here, chef-owner Chris Viaud dishes up an ambitious menu that draws on local, seasonal ingredients. The delicious mix includes sharable plates such as Brussels sprouts with cider vinaigrette and pickled red onion, as well as entrées like local mushroom risotto and pan-roasted duck breast with sunchoke, leek, and apple. Rye and vodka from nearby Tamworth Distilling infuse the cocktail list.

Hotel Spa | Omni Mount Washington Hotel , Bretton Woods

Adhering to the notion that a grand hotel deserves a grand spa, this 25,000-square-foot retreat features rooms with views of the surrounding peaks and a long menu of indulgent facials, wraps, massages, and other treatments—including the enlightening Espresso Mud Wrap, which uses crushed coffee beans and volcanic pumice to awaken the senses.

Luxury Suite | Overlook Suite at Mill Falls at the Lake , Meredith

Climb stairs to your own lodge-style retreat looking out over soothing lake water. The luxury here is being able to launch your kayak or paddleboard right onto Lake Winnipesaukee. It’s having exclusive access to a stone-rimmed plunge pool for two on sticky summer days. It’s tucking kids into their own beds, then sitting out on the deck or screened porch, listening for loons. Then, when the air temperature cools, lighting a roaring fire in the floor-to-ceiling fieldstone fireplace.

New Hotel | The Inn at Rye Place , Rye

Not that different from your frugal parents, who chose motels a few miles from the beach to save a buck? You’ll love this reasonably priced boutique hotel, celebrating its second summer. New owners utterly transformed the property without diminishing its retro cred. Rooms—some of which are dog- or even double-dog-friendly—are spacious, and so is the backyard, where games and firepits are just the kind of no-cost entertainment that’d tickle your ancestors (as would free breakfast).

Romantic Overnight | The Inn at Thorn Hill, Jackson

The bar for luxury is set high at this inn, but if you want a true heart-to-heart escape, book a stay at one of the rustic cottages on the property. These two tiny homes are private and peaceful, yet mere steps from the main lodge, and both feature gas fireplaces, screened-in porches, and private baths, including a two-person spa hot tub in the aptly named Trailside cottage.

Stay & Play | Loon Mountain Resort , Lincoln

It’s all about the “peak experience” at this family-forward resort. Glacial cave scrambles, gondola rides, biking, mountaintop yoga, and hiking (of course) are all in Loon’s backyard. So is a lineup of dining options and a range of spa treatments when you’re ready to chill out from all that action.

Editors’ Picks: Best Things to Do in New Hampshire in 2023

Factory Outlet | Barbour , Milford

Secreted away in a nondescript office park, this old-school outlet can give your wardrobe a royal upgrade at prices that are a bit friendlier to the common people. Featuring the high-end British clothing line favored by the House of Windsor since the 1970s—most notably the signature waxed cotton jackets that co-starred in seasons four and five of The Crown —the outlet has nice discounts on overstock and can-you-believe-it deals on irregulars and returns, such as a pristine Orinsay puffer coat (retail $450) for under $100.

General Store | Zeb’s General Store , North Conway

Named after an early 1900s schooner boat captain, Zebulun Northrop Tilton, Zeb’s is a multifloor tour of nostalgia and homegrown fare. Amid the store’s antique fixtures, discover an array of penny candy, Moxie soda, and more—including the largest collection of New England–made specialty foods—at this White Mountains bucket-list stop in the heart of downtown North Conway.

Mountain Biking Spot | Highland Mountain Bike Park , Northfield

Fifteen miles of varied trails anchor the riding scene at this one-time ski hill. Highland’s chairlift will you get atop the hill, while fun cruisers including Cat Scratch Fever and the double-black-diamond Lunch Lady will get you down it again. Adrenaline junkies gravitate to the Skill and Jump Park Zone, while newbies can take advantage of Highland’s “Find Your Program,” a one-day ticket that includes lift pass, bike rental, and one-hour training session.

New Attraction | Nashua Center for the Arts , Nashua

If you’d see more concerts, comedy acts, and theater productions if it didn’t mean driving into Boston, then you belong in the audience at Nashua’s spanking new Broadway-style theater. Already an arts hub, the city’s about to feel livelier as this inaugural season brings diverse entertainment to the stage. You’ll feel drawn right into performances by the likes of jazz legend Pat Metheny from any roost in the 750-seat house.

Stargazing Spot | McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center , Concord

Reach for the stars—or at least get an unparalleled look at them—at this museum. The recently renovated planetarium puts the edge of the known universe on full display with 10K projectors; it’s one of only three institutions in North America with this state-of-the-art technology. Stargazers of every stripe, meanwhile, gravitate to the monthly Skywatch and telescope clinic, a fun primer for wannabe astronomers on what to look for and how to get the most out of their own equipment.

Stay-All-Day Beach | Hampton Beach , Hampton

Part seaside resort and part old-time carnival, Hampton is not so much the diamond of New Hampshire’s coast as its honky-tonk rhinestone. Walk “the strip,” where T-shirt and souvenir vendors vie for your attention, amid a bevy of fried dough stands, ice cream vendors, candy shops, arcades, and entertainment venues. The beach often gets crowded, but the water is sparkling clean and the people-watching is unsurpassed (see for yourself via the webcams at hamptonbeach.org).

Used Bookstore | Avenue Victor Hugo Books , Lee

In a red post-and-beam barn, just up a country road from Flag Hill Distillery & Winery, Vincent McCaffrey is seven years into his comeback chapter. The rare-book shop he launched from a pushcart, then nurtured on Boston’s Newbury Street for 29 years, is reincarnated here, and narrow aisles are a magnet for those who love turning pages that transcend time. Thoughtful gifts lurk on loaded shelves and in bins of antique sheet music and magazines.

Check out our full 2023 Best of New England Summer Travel Guide to find our current editors’ picks in all six New England states.

Yankee Editors

14 Most Beautiful Towns In New Hampshire You Should Visit

• New Hampshire is home to many beautiful towns with unique charms, offering a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy.
• Towns like Peterborough, Harrisville, Lincoln, Meredith, Portsmouth, Hanover, Exeter, Sugar Hill, Littleton, Hancock, Gorham, Londonderry, Keene, and Jackson are all worth visiting.
• From art and culture to outdoor adventures, historical landmarks to picturesque scenery, these towns in New Hampshire have something for everyone to experience and appreciate.

Its location in the heart of New England makes New Hampshire a center of attention, as it should be because it’s home to many awesome attractions . To its east is the pristine Gulf of Maine, with its breeze sending good luck to tourists. There are many spots to explore in the Granite State, from the peaks of White Mountains , Monadnock, and Great North Woods Regions to the waterways of Seacoast, Merrimack Valley, Dartmouth–Lake Sunapee, and the picturesque Lakes Region .

The list goes on, and there’s much to see . When sightseeing in New Hampshire, tourists should not confine themselves to the quaint capital Concord . The state is proud of its beautiful towns, each offering charms that will cure that travel itch.

UPDATE: 2023/09/06 22:53 EST BY MARIA BOU INK

These Are The 10 Most Beautiful Towns In New Hampshire You Should Visit

The beauty of New Hampshire towns cannot be limited to 10. Therefore, this list was updated to include more pretty towns in NH to visit.

Related: 10 Small Towns In New Hampshire That Look Like A Norman Rockwell Painting

Peterborough

Peterborough, one of the prettiest towns in New Hampshire, is a convenient location brimming with small-town charm. Located along the Contoocook River, it is a well-liked tourist destination full of art and culture. This quaint, New Hampshire town is home to two theater companies as well as The MacDowell Colony, a well-known artists' retreat. The Colony, the country's oldest artists' retreat , sponsors numerous events and supports artists' creative endeavors. It received the National Medal of Arts in 1997 as a result of its extraordinary success. The Monadnock Center for History and Culture is a great place to learn about Peterborough's extensive past. Food lovers enjoy several delicious eating alternatives, while outdoor enthusiasts will like the diversity of activities offered.

• Best time to visit Peterborough: June to September

Harrisville

A charming 19th-century mill village called Harrisville may be found in the state’s southernmost Monadnock Region. The New Hampshire beautiful town is a real historical jewel and is teeming with gorgeous structures and individual businesses. Red-brick buildings, mills, and bodies of water are all present in the downtown district, which is a National Historic Landmark. These elements combine to create picturesque scenes. The town is a great spot to explore on foot and has many pathways for wandering.

• Best time to visit Harrisville: Mid-June to mid-September

Fall in New Hampshire offers a surreal picture of hues, aromas, and sounds that make tourists want to curl up in a warm sweater and take in a crisp autumn afternoon. Particularly Lincoln, New Hampshire, is a hidden treasure of a town full of adorable stores, filling regional eateries, and stunning scenery to add to the scrapbook. Lincoln is the ideal starting point for a New England autumn color road trip since it serves as the entrance to the picturesque Kancamagus Highway. Tourists should also put visiting the Cannon Mountain and White Mountain National Forest on the list of things to do in this one of the most beautiful towns in New Hampshire.

• Best time to visit Lincoln: June to October

Meredith is surrounded by natural beauty and is situated in the Lakes Region, which includes Squam Lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, and Newfound Lake. This charming town in New Hampshire offers a variety of historical monuments, outdoor activities, and specialized stores. Tourists have a choice of leisurely beautiful drives, plays at the Winnipesaukee Playhouse, rides on the Winnipesaukee beautiful Railroad, and more. The Lakes Region Fine Arts and Crafts Festival is only one of the many occasions and celebrations that occur throughout the year.

• Best time to visit Lincoln: June to August

When talking about the best towns in New Hampshire, Portsmouth is always part of the list . This city by the pristine Piscataqua River is flocked by summer revelers who want to make a splash – literally. As a historic seaport, Portsmouth has been teeming with life ever since, so those who want to step back in time have something to appreciate in this city. After all, this New Hampshire charmer has 400 years of rich history , evident in its many buildings. What takes the cake, however, are the many beaches of the city waiting for tourists who want to walk to witness the sunrise and Portsmouth's other exciting attractions .

• Best time to visit Portsmouth: May to October

Related: Cozy Christmas Vacation: Why Portsmouth, NH Is Perfect

The charming Connecticut River passes by Hanover, serving as a refuge for those who want to log off. Beyond this calming waterway, the town is home to many spots that cater to lovers of the outdoors. North of Hanover is Moose Mountain, where the Appalachian Trail passes. The said trail trudges the main street, perfect for a sightseeing journey. It will then lead trekkers to the athletic fields of the historic Dartmouth College. When winter comes, the said trail turns into a playground for snowmobilers, bikers, and snowshoers. An adventure hangover is a good thing in Hanover.

• Best time to visit Hanover: End of May to end of September

Exeter is another town proud of its river with the same name. The breeze of this waterway entices tourists to sit by its side to enjoy its calm. The only thing visitors need to do is to choose where to place their picnic mats. After all, the town has more than 56 acres of recreational spots . Before enjoying the greenery, tourists can first sightsee Main Street, where brick buildings house unique shops. From humble historic structures to awesome outdoor spots, Exeter knows how to excite.

• Best time to visit Exeter: Late May to early October

Sugar Hill is home to over 600 residents (as of 2020), and they are always eager to welcome visitors. As they should because the town has a lot to offer. For starters, tourists can drop by the museum that highlights the area’s rich past. Afterward, they can grab a snack at the local favorite Polly's Pancake Parlor. As its name suggests, the town is located on a hillside, making it a good starting point for those who want to hike Bronson Hill or White Mountain National Forest, where its peaks await those who want a good view of the townscape.

• Best time to visit Sugar Hill: May to September

Related: 10 Cozy Towns In New Hampshire To Visit This Fall

Littleton is proud of its famous local, Eleanor H. Porter, who authored the children’s classic Pollyanna , whose statue was unveiled in the town. It is also home to Littleton Coin Company, flocked by numismatists for its collection. Outdoor lovers will also enjoy exploring this White Mountain town by the Connecticut River. Hikers can take the route to Kilburn Crags and nature trails that lead to viewpoints where the Presidential Range awaits. Meanwhile, art lovers can visit galleries, but, really, the nature spots in Littleton, one of the most beautiful towns in New Hampshire, are masterpieces.

• Best time to visit Littleton: Late May to Mid-September

Hancock was incorporated in 1779 , so it’s not just a mere town but a historic destination. Natural wonders abound in this quaint town: to its east lies the pristine Contoocook River and the calming Powder Mill Pond, while the west is home to the fisher-favorite Nubanusit Lake. It’s also proud of the Merrimack River, made famous by the poet Henry David Thoreau. With such waterways, paddlers, swimmers, and anglers will always have a playground in Hancock. Hikers can reach the peak of Skatutakee Mountain, while history buffs can visit the museum. Indeed, Hancock is hands-on in giving superb travel memories.

• Best time to visit Hancock: May to September

Another White Mountain town, Gorham, aims to please those raring to have a satisfying time with the wonders of Mother Nature. Parts of the lush White Mountain National Forest and Moose Brook State Park border the town, making it one of the best towns in NH and the perfect refuge for those escaping urban life, albeit for a while. Add the presence of the rivers of Androscoggin, Peabody, and Moose, plus Mount Madison, and a stay in Gorham is nothing but gorgeous. The moose await those who want to be awe-inspired by their presence.

• Best time to visit Gorham: December to February and late June to early December

Related: 10 Free Things To Do This Fall In New Hampshire

Londonderry

Londonderry is known for its orchards, an enticing prospect for fruit lovers. There are five such destinations in the town, so those who want to pick fresh fruits and taste them right away can visit each orchard all in one day. Stonyfield Farm can also be checked out, famous for its organic yogurt, the perfect food when sightseeing the Historic Apple Way. History buffs would love checking out such landmarks as the Morrison House Museum and an aviation museum, while outdoor lovers can explore Musquash Conservation Area or Beaver Brook. Londonderry is indeed lovely.

• Best time to visit Londonderry: Late June to mid-September

Tourists keen on looking for a worthwhile weekend trip should head to Keene, a city that offers refuge to weary travelers. This New Hampshire charmer offers family-friendly adventures, journeys to the past, and outdoor escapades. For the second one, visitors can drop by museums and galleries to enrich their souls. Stepping back in time is always possible outdoors, too, thanks to the bustling Main Street. Lastly, those raring to break a sweat can explore Madame Sherri Forest, Sunset Rock, Mount Monadnock, Ashuelot River, and its other nature spots. Keene, a New Hampshire town, makes tourists kings and queens of traveling.

• Best time to visit Keene: June to early September and fall

Nestled in the White Mountains, the resort town of Jackson is one big playground for skiers. However, though famous for its snow, this destination can also be enjoyed in spring, summer, or fall. Hikers can meander the trails of White Mountain National Forest or scale Wildcat Ridge, while sightseers can take snaps of Honeymoon Bridge. Nestlenook Farm is perfect for families who want to try horse-drawn sleigh rides, while Jackson Art Studio and Gallery awaits creative souls. From the neighborhood to the mountaintop, Jackson delivers.

• Best time to visit Jackson: May to October

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10 Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire

Lying in the northeast of the States, New Hampshire is a wonderful place to visit and is renowned for its astounding natural beauty. With majestic mountains and endless forests found alongside its glittering Lakes Region and small stretch of Atlantic coastline, it really is no wonder that locals are so proud of the dazzling landscapes on display.

Among the best places to visit in New Hampshire are the state’s stunning natural sights which lend themselves perfectly to outdoor adventuring such as hiking, camping, kayaking and skiing. One of the best times to visit is during fall when all the leaves on the trees turn a myriad of yellows, oranges, and reds.

Tucked away among all these incredible landscapes are some charming towns and cities which are home to some of the oldest historical sights and cultural landmarks in the whole of the U.S.

Founded all the way back in the early 1700s, Keene has long been an important commercial and cultural center. As such, there are some wonderful old brick buildings to be found lining its Main Street, with some fine churches also sprinkled around town.

A very pretty and picturesque city, Keene has a lively and youthful feel to it thanks to its large student population. Lots of great bars and restaurants can be found around its historic downtown area.

While its fantastic Colonial Theater attracts locals and out-of-towners alike with its packed calendar of music, film, and cultural events, many others come to enjoy the annual Keene Pumpkin Festival, which is lots of fun to take part in.

In addition to this, Keene is also a great place to head to if you love the great outdoors, as the wilderness of Mount Monadnock State Park lies nearby.

9. Mount Monadnock State Park

Dominated by the lofty peak of the same name that lies at its heart, Mount Monadnock State Park is a great place to go hiking or skiing; there are a plethora of great paths and cross country skiing trails for you to try out. Meandering their way over hills and through highlands, these routes take you past some fabulous scenery, as verdant forests stand alongside babbling brooks and impressive rock formations.

One of the most popular trails is the White Dot and White Cross loop to the summit of Mount Monadnock. The views from the top of the surrounding countryside are so astounding.

For visitors looking to really immerse themselves in the plentiful natural bounties, camping a night in the state park is a magical experience. A particularly pleasant time of year to visit is during fall, when the leaves turn from lush green to auburn and orange.

8. Bretton Woods Mountain Resort

Located in White Mountains National Park with majestic snow-capped peaks all around it, Bretton Woods Mountain Resort is home to the largest ski area in New Hampshire and is simply a must if you’re looking to hit the slopes.

Renowned for being a popular haunt of the rich and famous in the early 20th century, the resort saw U.S. presidents and celebrities stay. Consequently, it should come as no surprise to learn that there are lots of excellent dining options, golf courses, and spas for you to try out.

Surrounded by breathtaking scenery with over a hundred trails and pistes on offer, Bretton Woods Mountain Resort is well worth checking out if you want to relax in style and make the most of the staggering natural sights all around you.

Lying on the banks of the Connecticut River, right opposite its sister city of Norwich in Vermont , Hanover is famed for being the home of the prestigious Dartmouth College. Much of life in town is dominated both by its campus and its sizeable student body.

One of the oldest higher education institutions in the whole of the U.S., the Ivy League college has some lovely old buildings for dotted around its green and spacious campus, with several great bars, cafes, and restaurants found around Main Street.

Other than visiting the college, there is not all that much to do in town, so visitors may want to hike along part of the Appalachian Trail that runs through Hanover.

The capital of New Hampshire, Concord, is a charming place to spend some time. Its magnificent State House is undoubtedly the highlight of what is on show. Built in a Greek Revival style, the facade of the building is certainly very eye-catching, especially when its golden dome sparkles in the sun. The State House takes its pride of place on the city’s bustling Main Street.

Around this historic area, you can find a number of elegant old buildings, all built out of the same tough-looking granite, as well as lots of cozy cafes, shops, and restaurants. Due to its proximity to both the Canterbury Shaker Village and Manchester, it is well worth combining your visit to Concord with a trip to either location – or any one of the lovely state parks that lie nearby.

5. Mount Washington State Park

Named after the majestic peak that lies at its heart, Mount Washington State Park is full of magnificent scenery. Nature lovers and outdoor aficionados will revel in all that it has to offer. The highest mountain in the northeast of the States, Mount Washington towers to a height of 6,288 feet (1,916 meters).

Its summit contains an observatory of the same name and an accompanying museum, as well as a cafeteria and gift shop. The views from its peak of the surrounding mountains and forests are simply breathtaking. After drinking in the scenery to your heart’s content, there are lots of paths and trails that snake their way down the mountainside for you to explore.

4. Portsmouth

Lying at the mouth of the Piscataqua River just a few kilometers inland from the Atlantic Ocean, Portsmouth is home to a bustling seaport and is the third-oldest city in the whole of the States.

As such, there are loads of fascinating historic sights and cultural landmarks for you to check out around town. Elegant, tree-lined avenues lined by beautiful old colonial buildings make up much of its center.

With several interesting museums also on offer, alongside some fantastic microbreweries, Portsmouth is an intriguing mix of old and new. The vibrant feel about its streets is simply intoxicating as the city thrums with life.

3. Manchester

The largest city in the state, Manchester is a vibrant place to visit and has the most going on in terms of arts and culture, entertainment, and sports in New Hampshire. As such, it attracts many visitors from both near and far.

Its convenient location near to both Boston and the Atlantic Ocean – as well as Lake Winnipesaukee and the White Mountains National Forest – makes it a great base from which to explore the region.

The revitalized mill town has a multitude of shops, restaurants, and bars for you to sample, while the Currier Museum of Art is well worth a visit; its fantastic collection includes works by Monet, Picasso, and Matisse.

Other interesting and educational institutions include the Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center and the Manchester Historical Society Millyard Museum – both of which teach you more about local life in the area. With so much going on, it is well worth spending a couple of days in Manchester to take in the atmosphere, see the sights, and explore the surrounding region.

2. Lake Winnipesaukee

Bewitchingly beautiful to behold, Lake Winnipesaukee is the sixth-largest lake in the U.S. Its rugged and indented coastline is lined by wonderful forests, with scenic bays and charming towns dotted here and there. A very popular tourist destination, Lake Winnipesaukee has a wealth of great water sports for visitors to enjoy. Swimming in the lake or going sailing around its many, many islands are favorite pastimes among both locals and tourists.

Alternatively, you can simply relax on one of the lake’s many beaches or go on a peaceful hike along its scenic shore to take in the astounding views. Lying at the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Lake Winnipesaukee is not far from many other beautiful lakes and natural sights, so holidaymakers will never be found wanting for something to do.

1. White Mountain National Forest

One of the most popular attractions in the whole of New Hampshire, White Mountain National Forest is an absolute delight to visit, with some simply stupendous scenery for you to enjoy. With a number of mountain ranges, such as the Presidential Range and Sandwich Range, winding through the never-ending forest, there are loads of majestic peaks, as well as a plethora of unique fauna and flora.

Hidden away among the dense foliage are moose, black bears, and bald eagles, along with many more diverse species. Camping overnight in the national forest is a great way to really immerse yourself in the magnificent nature all around you.

As well as the Appalachian Trail that winds its way through the mountains and forests, there is a multitude of other great trails and paths for you to explore. A particularly delightful time of year to visit is during fall when all the foliage transforms into a magical array of yellows, reds, and oranges.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire

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• Know Before You Go
• Visitor's Guide
• Things to Do

Whether you’re a first timer, a regular visitor, or a Granite State native, there are endless adventures waiting for you in New Hampshire. The best part is, it’s all close by! New Hampshire has a backyard vibe you’ll be pressed to find anywhere else. Go climbing to the top of a scenic mountain in the morning, and be home to surf the seacoast at sunset. Feel the rush as you swoop past the trees on a zipline canopy tour, or roar through the woods on an ATV. Paddle through family-friendly Class II rapids, or catch a chairlift up our snow-covered slopes and race your friends downhill. Last one to the bottom buys a round of hot chocolate!

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This is great, thank you very much!

Melissa - sounds like you are all set with visiting NH on this trip.

https://www.visitfreeport.com/

https://www.visitfreeport.com/deal/

https://amtrakdowneaster.com/experience-maine?gclid=CjwKCAjwjtOTBhAvEiwASG4bCGlEL9D2yBefBauyPPzRkv7OPgsHxxe0esQWXrrbfqVdNuBlfeGahRoCcbsQAvD_BwE

Here are some of the shops:

https://www.visitfreeport.com/map/category/shop/

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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New Hampshire Hotels and Places to Stay

• When is the best time to visit?
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Scenic Places to Visit in New Hampshire from the Mountains to the Coast

• April 9, 2024

It may be one of the smallest states in the country, but there are so many incredible places to visit in New Hampshire even I, who grew up here, am still discovering them!

Check out our most recent “Places to Love” Season 7 episode, “New Hampshire Seacoast & More”

Where to Go in New Hampshire

The seacoast.

If you look at a map of New Hampshire, you’ll notice it kind of looks like a right triangle. Right where the bottom 90 degree angle would be is where the Seacoast region is. This tiny area stretches 13 miles along the Atlantic Ocean and is the state’s only coastline. It also happens to be the region where I’m from!

Where else can I start but my own hometown? I’m not alone, though, Portsmouth is easily one of the most popular places to visit in New Hampshire. I promise you, it’s as beautiful in real life as it looks in photos.

EAT: There are a ton of amazing places to eat in Portsmouth. The dining scene has really come a long way, and since it opened in 2000, one of my favorites has to be Jumpin’ Jays Fish Cafe . It’s even been named a James Beard Award finalist. For breakfast, there’s nowhere quite like Cup of Joe Café and Bar . Not only is the food good and the coffee hot, it’s owned by Portsmouth’s own assistant mayor. In the summer, grab a cone at Annabelle’s Natural Ice cream, one of the best in the whole country. Get the pure maple walnut to really keep it local.

SIGHTSEE: The best thing to do is to wander around Portsmouth’s historic district and take in all the colonial architecture. Strawbery Banke is an awesome outdoor history museum that details over 350 years of history. For something lighthearted, check out the Museum of Dumb Guy Stuff , which is a quirky homage to boyhood. I’d also check out tours with the Black Heritage Trail New Hampshire for everything related to Black history in the state.

ENJOY: Spend an evening at Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club . Grab dinner or even just a cocktail and be prepared for some world class live music. Another gem? The Seacoast Repertory Theatre (or just the Seacoast Rep). They have great shows all through the year, and I would know – this is where I spent my childhood!

STAY: If you want to be central, stay in the historic district. However, if you don’t mind being a little out of town, head to Wentworth by the Sea in the tiny nearby town of New Castle. This is where my family lived, and I always grew up admiring its beauty. It’s one of the few grand hotels to survive the Gilded Age!

Fun fact about Dover – it’s the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in New Hampshire and the seventh in the country. Downtown is situated along the Cocheco River, and the town has made a name for itself for its dining scene. Wherever you go, don’t skip Hong Asian Noodle Bar . It may be new, but it’s already made a splash with its authentic noodles and broth. If you’re with kids, the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is a ton of fun, and if you’re here for First Friday, you won’t want to miss the Dover Art Walk.

North Hampton

Another gem in the Seacoast region is North Hampton. It’s been around since the 1600s and is actually mostly inland, though there is a stretch right on the coast. Enjoy North Hampton Beach before checking out Fuller Gardens , one of the last working estate gardens in the US Northeast. Unwind at Throwback Brewery , which also includes a restaurant. Their whole ethos is making everything farm fresh from their beer to their food.

Merrimack Valley

Southwest of New Hampshire’s Seacoast, Merrimack Valley is also partially in Massachusetts. Its name comes from the Merrimack River, which runs roughly through its center. While part of its culture comes from its role in America’s Industrial Revolution, it’s also developed an artistic reputation since a number of artists through the centuries have called this place home. Think everyone from Anne Bradstreet in the 1600s to Leonard Bernstein, Robert Frost, Jack Kerouac, and more.

As you might guess, Manchester comes from the United Kingdom city of the same name. This isn’t a coincidence either. When merchant Samuel Blodget opened up a canal and lock system here, he chose the name because he wanted this town to lead the Industrial Revolution in America the way Manchester did in England. Today it’s the state’s most populous city and much of its former mills have been turned into everything from restaurants to classrooms.

EAT: Head to The Foundry for New Hampshire’s largest farm-to-table restaurant. Restoration Cafe is a great breakfast and lunch space if you want something clean and easy while still being delicious. And Cafe Momo has an awesome menu of Nepalese fusion cuisine.

SIGHTSEE: If you only visit one place in Manchester, make sure it’s the Millyard Museum . It’s dedicated to Manchester’s industrial history and how denim manufacturing directly influenced the city. Another gem is Cat Alley (aka Dean Court) which is home to a number of beautiful murals all dedicated to, you guessed it, cats! The Currier Museum of Art always has interesting exhibitions and is home to two Frank Lloyd Wright creations – the Zimmerman House and the Kalil House.

ENJOY: Catch a show at The Palace Theatres . It’s truly incredible how grand this theater is while still keeping its local, community roots!

GET OUTSIDE: Arms Park is a small park right on the Merrimack River in the city. Get your food to go and come here to enjoy being outside and don’t miss the colorful stairs. A little further out, Crystal Lake Park is great for swimming when the weather warms up.

STAY: Asher Street Inn . This boutique bed and breakfast is located in a historic Victorian home right by everything you’ll want to see in Manchester. 

The Robert Frost Farm

Located in the town of Derry, this little two-story clapboard farm is where Robert Frost lived for eleven years of his life from 1900-1911. He wrote his first two books as well as a number of poems while here and the farm had influence on his poetry even after they left. The farm is now a part of Frost’s legacy and is open from May to October. Not only can you tour the house, you can meander around the half-mile long nature/poetry trail on the property. Look for the different signs to see Frost’s poems. 

All the way in southwestern New Hampshire is the Monadnock region. It gets its name from the 3,165-foot high mountain that makes up most of the landscape and is the perfect area for some peace, quiet, and the great outdoors.

Mt. Monadnock

Mt. Monadnock defines this region and can be seen from all 34 towns. If you get to the peak, you’ll also be able to see all six New England states. Use the White Dot or White Cross trails for a shorter hike near the summit or if you want something longer, follow the Pumpelly Trail for 4.5 miles.

Keene is one of the great small towns to base yourself in if you want to explore Mt. Monadnock. In between your outdoor adventures, stay at the historic Burrell House , grab a drink at Elm City Brewing , and shop around for cool souvenirs at Hannah Grimes Marketplace . You can also time your visit for any one of the big events Keene throws like Pride Week or Radically Rural.

Peterborough

Another great small town to stay? Peterborough. It’s such a classic New England spot that it actually inspired the play “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder. Stay in the very adorable Little River Bed and Breakfast , grab a bite at Post and Beam Brewing , and time your visit to coincide with the local farmer’s market on Elm Street. For some history, pop over to The Monadnock Center for History and Culture and don’t miss out on Miller State Park , the oldest of its kind in New Hampshire.

North of the Seacoast and Merrimack Valley is the Lakes region. As the name suggests, it’s home to a whopping 273 bodies of water. It’s especially beautiful in the summer months when you can come for anything from a romantic getaway to an outdoors adventure.

Lake Winnipesaukee

Try and say Lake Winnipesaukee ten times fast! This is the state’s largest lake and is about as New Hampshire as it gets. With clear water and a wooded shoreline, make sure you find a way to enjoy this lake whether that’s swimming, kayaking, or boating. My vote is to book a tour aboard the M/S Mount Washington . Book a dinner cruise or Sunday brunch to really make it special!

Squam Lake Natural Science Center

When you come to the Lakes region, don’t skip out on Squam Lake Natural Science Center . It’s dedicated to everything related to New Hampshire’s natural world and includes lake cruises, live animal exhibits, the Blue Heron School, and so much more. It’s even sensory inclusive certified. I especially loved the loon cruise as I’d never seen one before!

Situated between Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam, I always recommend people stay in Laconia if they want to explore the Lakes region. Be sure to grab a bite at the Local Eatery , a restaurant that crafts its whole menu on what’s available from local farms. You also don’t want to miss Funspot for the world’s largest arcade! Yes, you read that correctly – the world . Choose from over 600 coin-operated games and do not skip the “Landmarks of New Hampshire” mini golf course.

The only time I’d avoid is Bike Week in June unless, of course, you love motorcycles. It’s one of America’s largest rallies, so things will get very busy and hectic.

White Mountains

Right above the Lakes and Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee is the White Mountains region. As you might guess, its name comes from the White Mountains which make up most of the area. If the Lakes region is perfect for those that want to get out on the water, this is where you’ll want to go to be high above the ground.

White Mountain National Forest

Covering over 750,000 acres with a small bit of that in crossing over into Maine, White Mountain National Forest is just absolutely breathtaking. Over 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail is located in this area and it’s home to a number of 4,000ft high peaks. For newer hikers, check out the relatively short Artists Bluffs Trail, Sabbaday Falls Trail, Diana’s Baths Trail, or the Arethusa Falls Trail. If you’re up for a challenge, the Franconia Ridge trail is 9-miles round trip and you’ll be rewarded with truly incredible views.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Fun fact – Mount Washington Cog Railway is the very first of its kind in the whole world and one of the very few still in operation. It’s by far my preferred way to summit Mt. Washington, which otherwise would take at least a 10-hour hike or a long drive to reach. After all, why drive when you can relax and enjoy a narrated ride to the top? You’ll have an hour to enjoy the summit, so you won’t feel remotely rushed either. Be sure to take in the 360 views from the Adams Visitor Center and pose with the Mt. Washington summit sign!

Afterwards head over to Omni Mount Washington Resort for some afternoon tea.

When it comes to the White Mountains, Littleton is largely considered the perfect gateway town. Right at the mountains’ northern edge, stay in the historic Thayers Inn , check out the guitars at Northern Lights Music , grab a beer at Schilling Beer Co , and indulge in your sweet tooth at Chutter’s , the world’s largest candy counter!

The Kancamagus Scenic Byway

Stretching between Conway and Lincoln, The Kancamagus Scenic Byway (or just “the Kanc”) is one of my favorite scenic drives in America . It’s especially magnificent come fall when everything is bursts of red, orange, and yellow! The whole stretch is a little over 34 miles and will cut through White Mountains National Forest. Just be prepared to want to stop a lot!

Phew! That’s just a start to all my favorite places to visit in New Hampshire. Any I’m missing? Let me know below!

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Celebrate 20 years of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats during the team's home opening weekend.

Stay in the know about weekend happenings in the Granite State:  Sign up for the Weekender newsletter .

For even more events, visit NHPR's community calendar . And don't forget to check the New Hampshire forecast before you head out.

• The Tomeka Reid Stringtet on Thursday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Hanover, hosted by the Hopkins Center for the Arts at Dartmouth. More info .
• 90th Anniversary Big Wind Day Celebration on Friday, April 12 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Tuckerman Brewing Company in Conway, hosted by the Mount Washington Observatory. More info .
• More performances: The Music Hall on Saturday, April 13
• Nossrat Yassini Poetry Festival from Friday, April 12 through Sunday, April 14 on the University of New Hampshire campus in Durham. More info .
• More at the Harris Center: An Introduction to Wildlife Rehabilitation
• See also : Children’s Craft: Sewing Spotted Salamanders at the Tin Mountain Conservation Center
• See also: Queer Artist Gathering at The Loading Dock in Littleton
• New Hampshire Fisher Cats 20th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, April 13 at 4:05 p.m. at Delta Dental Stadium in Manchester (series vs. Somerset Patriots runs through Sunday, April 14). More info .
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Many Eclipse Visitors to Northern New England Pulled an All-Nighter Trying to Leave

Many eclipse visitors to northern New England had to pull an all-nighter navigating crammed roads in order to leave

Traffic inches along southbound Interstate 93 near Franconia, N.H., on Monday, April 8, 2024, more than eight hours after the solar eclipse. Thousands of people had traveled to a group of rural communities in the state, which were in the path of totality (AP Photo/Nick Perry)

FRANCONIA, N.H. (AP) — Thousands of visitors to northern New England communities in the path of the total solar eclipse were told to pack their patience for the trip. In some areas, they needed it for up to 12 hours after the event started, inching their way back home on packed interstates and secondary roads.

In New Hampshire , travelers were stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic in the northern part of the state through at least 2 a.m. Tuesday, clogging up southbound Interstate 93. Southbound traffic on Interstate 89 also was heavy Monday evening. Southbound traffic was backed up in parts of Maine for several hours.

New England had clear skies and mild weather Monday, making for ideal viewing conditions for totality. In New Hampshire, people flocked to places such as Lancaster, Stewartstown, Colebrook and Pittsburg, near the Canada border.

But the roads were swarmed on the trip back, and traffic came to a standstill in some areas.

“People were just pulling over on the side of the road going to the bathroom, people were pulling over to shut their cars off, sleeping in their cars all over (U.S.) Route 3,” said Scott Lacourse, who left his vacation home in Pittsburg with his wife and their two dogs at 6:30 p.m. They got home to Londonderry, New Hampshire, nine hours later. That's nearly three times longer than usual.

“Every rest area, any pull-off, anything, was full," Lacourse said, adding that there also was no cell service.

Photos You Should See - April 2024

Some people who had paper maps with them navigated their way through back roads. Others were running out of gas, and some broke down. Some people opted for the dangerous maneuver of driving across a median ditch and turning back onto northbound lanes. At least one car got stuck in the ditch. Some people who tried to stop for fast food along the way were met by a long line and the realization that the staff had stopped taking orders.

Lacourse and his wife, Sirena Holobinko Bogdahn, thought that if they left later in the day traffic would be cleared, but that wasn't the case.

In spite of that, “it was well worth it,” she said of the eclipse viewing. “It was so amazing.”

John Martin, who was visiting from Massachusetts , described it as a “creep and a crawl” near Franconia, where Route 3 feeds into the Franconia Notch Parkway, a one-lane mountain pass in each direction, before expanding into the multilane interstate.

“You're looking at your GPS trying to get off of 93 to find something a little quicker, and everybody else was thinking the same thing,” he told WMUR-TV.

New Hampshire state officials had warned travelers that the return could be slow going and encouraged people to stay in the area, which usually sees its most tourists during the summer and the fall foliage season, for a while.

"To our friends visiting from out of state, remember: there’s no sales tax in NH, so feel free to stay a bit longer!” Gov. Chris Sununu had said Friday.

Traffic also slowed to a crawl in other states.

In Maine, the traffic on Route 4 south from Rangeley to Farmington was heavy and slow several hours after the eclipse but never completely stopped, averaging 8 to 15 mph for much of the 40-mile drive along the two-lane rural road that threads mountains and hills.

In Paducah, Kentucky, which was in the path of totality, along with communities to the west in Illinois, thousands of people crossed the Ohio River after watching the eclipse. Post-eclipse traffic also moved very slowly in places such as southbound Interstate 65 in southern Indiana, and along southbound Interstate 81 in New York and Pennsylvania .

McCormack reported from Concord, New Hampshire. Associated Press journalist Robert Bukaty in Portland, Maine, contributed to this report.

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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