free places to visit in new hampshire

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10 of the Best Free Things to Do in New Hampshire, According to Tripadvisor

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New England is the perfect home base for travel lovers, as there's so much to do in our region.

If your interest lies in the beauty of our lakes, beaches, and mountains, visiting historic sites, exploring our diverse foodie scene, or enjoying family-friendly activities perfect for the little ones, you could live your whole life in New England and never run out of things to see, do, and explore.

But what are some popular free attractions in New Hampshire, specifically? Traveling can be expensive for both locals and tourists, so finding free activities is the perfect way to have fun without breaking the bank. Thanks to Tripadvisor, we now know of several nearby destinations that don't cost a cent to visit.

The travel website shared  this list  of 10 of the best free things to do in the Granite State. Many of these places are in the great outdoors, as our region is famous for its natural scenery. But one thing's for sure, whether you prefer a more rural, coastal, or small-city ambiance, Tripadvisor has recommendations for everyone. So, what are we waiting for? Let's take a look at this list.

Gallery Credit: Megan

Here are some other popular New Hampshire attractions, according to Attractions of America.  Do you agree with their choices, or do you believe there's something missing from the list? Feel free to reach out and let us know.

These Are New Hampshire's Top 20 Attractions

Looking for some solo day trip ideas in New England? Here are some recommendations from locals. What are your thoughts?

16 Solo Day Trip Ideas in New England

Gallery Credit: Megan Murphy

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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

21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Hampshire

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Jun 23, 2023

From its 18 miles of seacoast – the shortest of any coastal state in the US – to the summit of the Northeast's highest peak, New Hampshire packs plenty of variety into an easy-to-reach area. Along with the many places to visit, New Hampshire's natural attractions offer plenty of things to do in the great outdoors, many of them free.

The attractions that draw tourists to this part of New England include beautiful ocean and lake beaches , miles of kayaking waters, above-timberline hiking on the Appalachian Trail, sailing on mountain-ringed lakes, fun-filled theme and water parks for kids, exciting rides to mountaintops, and tours of historic houses.

Whether it's challenging hikes, sailing, foliage viewing in the fall, tax-free shopping, skiing in the winter , covered bridges, or colonial history, you'll find it – and plenty more – in New Hampshire. To be sure of seeing the highlights of this small but varied state, use our handy list of the top attractions in New Hampshire.

I live in New Hampshire and grew up camping, hiking and skiing in the White Mountains. Wherever else I've lived and wherever I travel, I always come back. And I still enjoy the adventures and outdoor sports here that were my favorite things to do as a child. Join me in exploring this state I love, with this guide to the top attractions in New Hampshire.

1. Mt. Washington Cog Railway

2. the flume gorge and franconia notch, 3. mt. washington auto road, 4. kancamagus highway and white mountain national forest, 5. strawbery banke, 6. conway scenic railroad, 7. market square and portsmouth's historic houses, 8. hampton beach, 9. mt. monadnock, 10. north conway and mt. washington valley ski resorts, 11. story land, 12. clark's bears, 13. currier museum of art and zimmerman house, 14. lake winnipesaukee, 15. fall foliage drives, 16. polar caves, 17. santa's village, 18. lost river gorge, 19. isles of shoals cruises, 20. woodman institute and garrison house, 21. white mountain waterfalls, more must-see destinations in and near new hampshire.

On a clear day, the view from the summit of Mount Washington spans four states; on a cloudy day, you may be able to look down on the tops of clouds while the summit is in sunlight.

The easiest way to reach the top of Mount Washington, the highest elevation in the northern Appalachians at more than 6,000 feet, is on the steep Cog Railway that has been carrying tourists since it opened, the first of its kind in the world, in 1869.

Those who long for the nostalgia of an authentic coal-fired steam engine train, can reserve the steamer special departures, twice daily from late May through early October. Beware of falling soot, though — I once wore a white sweater on the morning run and returned looking like a Dalmatian.

The trip to the summit is about 45 minutes (an hour on the steam-powered train) and the round-trip is about 3 hours, including the layover at the top. Once there, you can visit the Sherman Adams Visitors Center , which houses a small museum; a cafeteria; and the Mount Washington Observatory , a research station that studies extreme weather conditions. The mountain is notorious for its weather; in 1934, the world record wind speed was recorded here.

At the top, the Sherman Adams Visitors Center houses a small museum; a cafeteria; and the Mount Washington Observatory , a research station that studies extreme weather conditions, for which the mountain is notorious. In 1934, the world record wind speed was recorded here.

The Cog Railway only ascends to the summit between May and October, but in the winter, you can ride as far as the Waumbek Station, an Alpine meadow at 4,000 feet elevation. There you can enjoy the sweeping views, and sip hot chocolate in the warming huts or around a fire pit.

Address: 3168 Base Station Road, Marshfield Station, New Hampshire

The Flume Gorge, in Franconia Notch State Park, is an 800-foot-long crack in the rock at the base of Mount Liberty. Its walls rise 70 to 80 feet above the brook that flows through it, and you can follow it on a boardwalk just feet above the water.

When the mile-high sheet of ice that formed the notch melted, torrents of water raged down this valley, carving a 20-foot smooth-bottomed depression into the solid granite of the mountain. Follow signs to The Basin, where the now benign Pemigewasset River still continues the process begun 10,000 years ago.

The first aerial tramway in North America, the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway carried its first passengers to the 4,080-foot summit high above Franconia Notch in 1938. On clear days, you can see New Hampshire's Presidential Range and mountains in Vermont, New York, and even Canada. The short Rim Trail to the observation tower offers spectacular views straight down into the floor of the notch.

A notch is a pass that was carved through a mountain range by retreating glaciers, and Franconia is one of the biggest notches in New Hampshire's White Mountains. Franconia Notch has miles of hiking trails; a campground; and Echo Lake State Park , with a beautiful sandy beach and boat rentals.

Author's Tip: Take a picnic lunch and follow the short trail from The Basin to Cascade Falls. A small brook slides over wide, gently sloping ledges, leaving plenty of spots along the edges for a scenic waterside picnic.

Address: I-93 exit 34B, Franconia Notch

Completed in 1861, the Mt. Washington Auto Road is America's oldest continuously operating tourist attraction. Ascending more than 4,500 feet from the base to the summit, the 7.6-mile road is not for the faint of heart. Climbing at an average gradient of 12 percent, the narrow road begins benignly through woodlands, with occasional valley views.

The forest begins to shrink as the elevation increases and the road enters the zone where trees are stunted and bent by the high winds; then trees disappear entirely as the road climbs past the timberline into a precipitous rock-strewn landscape. The views across the White Mountains just keep getting better as you climb. It takes about 30 minutes from its base on the eastern side of Mt. Washington. The return trip may take a little longer if you need to stop and cool the brakes.

You won't get to display the bumper sticker proclaiming that "This Car Climbed Mt. Washington," but you can experience the Auto Road riding in a purpose-built van with someone else driving. In the winter, you can ride to the tree line on the track-wheeled SnowCoach . These and the vans are still called coaches in homage to the horse-drawn coaches that made the trip to the summit between 1861 and the beginning of motorized trips in 1912.

Address: Route 16, Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire

This is really not a highway, but the winding two-lane NH Route 112, which climbs over the spine of the White Mountains via New Hampshire's Kancamagus Pass.

In addition to sweeping views, this scenic route, stretching from Conway in the east to Lincoln in the west, offers access to several natural and man-made attractions. The 35-mile-long Kancamagus Scenic Byway traverses the vast White Mountain National Forest , which protects 148,000 acres of wilderness.

Although you could drive the entire route in less than an hour, you'll want to take advantage of the scenic pull-outs, as some of the best views are not visible from the road. This is especially true on the western side of the summit, where the C.L.Graham Wangan Ground overlooks a sweeping view of the forested valley and Presidential Range. At the Conway end are a covered bridge and two especially scenic spots on the Swift River: Rocky Gorge and Lower Falls , both popular for swimming and picnics.

A half-mile trail leads to Sabbaday Falls , where a mountain stream flows through a gorge with 40-foot walls. Wooden railings make it safe even for acrophobics like me to look straight down at the waterfall and potholes. To stop at the scenic areas and visit all the attractions, you'll want to spend at least half a day, longer if you plan to picnic or swim at Rocky Gorge.

The Kancamagus Highway ends in Lincoln, where Loon Mountain is not just a winter ski resort, but a year-round sports center. The gondola that carries skiers in the winter takes summer and fall visitors to the summit for views, a nature trail, and a tumble of glacial boulders that form caves and passageways. This natural fun house, one of the little secrets of the White Mountains, has always been a favorite place for our children , who delight in climbing through the narrow spaces and caves.

Open all year, this drive is especially beautiful during the fall foliage season. To stop at any of the attractions or overlooks you'll need a Federal Use Pass, which you can get at the White Mountains Attractions office, just off I-93 in Lincoln, or at the Ranger Station as you begin the drive in Conway.

Strawbery Banke was the name of the first 1623 settlement at what is now Portsmouth . The 10-acre Strawbery Banke Museum contains houses from four centuries of the old port neighborhood. Some are restored and furnished to show life in the various eras, while others are preserved to show construction methods and restoration techniques - of particular interest to those who are restoring old homes.

Costumed interpreters demonstrate cooking, crafts, and skills from various periods, and you can watch authentic boats under construction. The homes vary from that of a prosperous merchant and political leader to a 1950s duplex, and represent various ethnicities that called the neighborhood home.

Period gardens, a 1770 tavern, a fully stocked World War II era neighborhood market, and frequent special musical and historical programs make this an interesting place to visit. To tour each of the houses, shops and buildings that are open to visitors could take an entire day.

On Tuesday evenings in July and August , local musicians perform on an open-air stage as part of the Tuesdays on the Terrace Concert Series. In the winter, the shallow pond is cleared for ice skating and there are occasional professional skating demonstrations.

Author's Tip: Walk across Marcy Street from Strawbery Banke to stroll through Prescott Park, 10 acres of lawns, trees, and gardens overlooking Portsmouth Harbor.

Address: 454 Court Street, Portsmouth, New Hampshire

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH

A good way to enjoy the scenery of the long valley of the Saco River as it winds between the mountains is on the Conway Scenic Railroad . Trains run in two directions from the beautiful 1874 Victorian station in the center of North Conway .

The Valley Excursion heads south along the meadows and woodlands to the town of Conway, while the longer Mountaineer route leads north, past Cathedral Ledge and through the dramatic cleft of Crawford Notch. Both routes have unobstructed views of Mt. Washington and the Presidential Range, but my favorite is the Mountaineer route along the steep mountainside and over the cliffs of Crawford Notch. I admit to closing my eyes as the train crosses over the 500-foot-long Frankenstein Trestle and we hang suspended 80 feet above the cliffs.

On the shorter southern route, you can reserve lunch in the vintage dining car, resplendent in polished wood and etched glass. The northern route is especially beautiful in the fall, when the hardwood forests of Crawford Notch are at their brightest reds and yellows.

In the winter, the northbound train travels through the snow-covered woods as far as Attitash Mountain in Bartlett.

Address: Main Street, North Conway, New Hampshire

At the heart of the historic center of this seaport and shipbuilding town, Market Square has been the city's busy hub since the days when New Hampshire's Colonial Legislature met here. Overlooked by the impressively tall steeple of North Church, the square and the brick-paved streets that radiate from it are surrounded by venerable mercantile buildings that now house shops, cafés, and restaurants.

As it winds its way along the waterfront, through Market Square and into streets of sedate old homes, the Portsmouth Harbor Trail connects more than 70 of the city's historical sites and scenic attractions, which are identified by descriptive boards (you can download a map, or take a tour from the information kiosk on Market Square). Among these are 10 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings, 10 National Historic Landmarks, and a number of historic homes that are open to visitors.

Each of these has unique features, history, and collections. Warner House, built in 1716, has the oldest Colonial wall paintings still in place and the first example of Queen Anne furniture known in America.

The 1758 John Paul Jones House , where Captain John Paul Jones lived while in Portsmouth, exhibits collections of china, silver, glass, portraits, and clothing.

Moffatt-Ladd House, built in 1763, still contains original furniture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

The 1785 Governor John Langdon House interior features ornate woodwork and period furnishings, and the Rundlet-May House, built in 1807, features furniture made by local craftsmen.

Market Square is also the hub of Portsmouth's vibrant restaurant scene , with more than a dozen eating places within a five-minute walk. La Maison Navarre is a café and pastry shop (I like their elegant baguette sandwiches and divine macarons) and my favorite place to go for an elegant and romantic dinner is the impeccable Ristorante Massimo just off the square on Penhallow Street.

New Hampshire may have the shortest seacoast of any state, but it has one of the Northeast's favorite family beach resorts. Hampton Beach has been a popular resort town for generations, and still has its "casino" — a community focal point of beach resorts at the turn of the 20th century.

These were not built for gambling but to house a ballroom, tearooms, and family entertainment. Today, the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom , which was built in 1899, is a live music and comedy venue on the boardwalk that lines the long white-sand beach.

Other activities in this always lively town are concerts at Hampton Beach State Park's Seashell Stage, movies on the beach, and fireworks.

Fun parks, soft ice cream, and deep sea fishing trips from the harbor round out the beach vacation experience. Each June, the beach becomes a giant art gallery, when international contenders vie for the title at the Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Competition.

Author Tip: Parking at Hampton Beach can be a real nuisance, so avoid the metered spots on Ocean Boulevard and head to Central Parking on Ashworth Avenue, just a block from the water. I like the fact that I pay once and don't have to worry about getting a ticket, but I also appreciate their freshwater shower and ATM.

I also appreciate that I can buy my parking pass in advance, helpful on busy summer weekends and during events. They are open until late at night, giving you a safe and well-lit spot just a block from the Ballroom.

The world's most climbed mountain owes its popularity to several factors: you can climb it easily in a day, its trails offer options for different abilities, and it is an easy day trip from the Boston area. Most hikers use one of the five main trails, but the 35-mile trail network includes alternative routes for those who hope to climb in solitude.

On beautiful summer and fall days, you may need a reservation for parking at the trailheads, and the summit may have the ambiance of a Boston subway station at rush hour, but I still find the views sensational and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow climbers.

The easiest route to the top is the 2.3-mile White Arrow Trail from the Old Toll Road Trailhead. That said, as you get close to the summit, expect some steep granite ledges.

The mountain stands alone and has given its name to the geological term describing a mass of solid rock that withstood the force of moving glaciers scraping away the earth that once encased it. Because it stands alone, the views from its summit ledges are unobstructed, wide-reaching, and beautiful, especially when fall foliage paints the surrounding forests red and orange.

That also means that the mountain is visible as a backdrop to scenery and villages across the entire southwest corner of New Hampshire. Not surprisingly, it's called the Monadnock region, and is also known as the "Currier & Ives Corner" for its idyllic villages with white church spires and its abundance of covered bridges. Postcard villages here include Fitzwilliam, Jaffrey Center, Hancock, and Harrisville.

North Conway was one of the first ski resorts in America and is still a major ski destination. Six mountain resorts in the scenic Mt. Washington Valley offer state-of-the-art lifts and trail grooming, while North Conway and Jackson are centers of the lively après-ski scene.

Cross-country (Nordic) skiing , snowshoeing, sledding, dog-sledding, sleigh rides, and ice skating make these resorts appealing to those who eschew downhill skiing. Most are four-season resorts, with golf, tennis, swimming, and other activities.

In the summer, Cranmore Mountain has an Aerial Adventure Park and Mountain Coaster, while Attitash offers an alpine slide, water slides, mountain bike trails, and horseback riding. Wildcat Mountain , one of the most challenging for skiers, has a zipline and stupendous views of Mt. Washington from its summit.

On the other side of Mt. Washington from Wildcat is Bretton Woods , also with a zipline and other year-round activities. Black Mountain is an especially family-friendly ski area, as is King Pine , at the all-season Purity Spring Resort in Madison.

North Conway is as well known to shoppers as it is to skiers, with one of New England's largest concentrations of outlet stores, as well as tax-free shopping. With all the outlet bargains, don't miss shopping in the small independent shops along North Conway's Main Street. I especially like finding New England-made merchandise, from wild berry jams and maple syrup to fragrant balsam pillows, at Zeb's General Store and unusual gifts at Penguin Gallery .

I never run out of things to do in North Conway . I can drop my kayak into the Saco River or into Echo Lake to watch the climbers overhead on White Horse Ledge. I can hike to Diana's Bath and work up an appetite for a localvore dinner at my favorite downtown restaurant, Chef's Bistro . In the summer and fall, the Conway Scenic Railroad runs the entire length of the valley in vintage cars.

Story Land is straight out of a fairy-tale book, made for kids, but with such clever and original places to play that parents love it, too. Kids can board a pumpkin coach to Cinderella's Castle, ride in a wooden shoe or sail in a pirate ship, take a swan boat for a spin around the lake, or "drive" parents around a track and through covered bridges in an antique car.

Then they can get dizzy in a spinning teacup and slide down from a treehouse or playhouse in a giant pumpkin. The charm of Story Land is not only its imaginative rides and play areas, but the fact that they are original and unique to this long-time family operation. Clever new attractions are constantly being added to appeal to different ages.

Author's Tip: If you arrive after 3 pm, your ticket is good for the following day as well. I found this especially handy when my children were very young and a whole day at an amusement park was too much for them. This way we could get two shorter visits on different days.

Address: NH Route 16, Glen, New Hampshire

Formerly known as Clark's Trading Post, Clark's Bears has been entertaining families with trained bear shows for more than 50 years, and as you watch these animals ride scooters, shoot basketball hoops, and balance on barrels, you'll notice that the bears are having as much fun performing their tricks as the audience is watching them.

In addition to the bears, the several daily shows include performances by a team of acrobats. Between shows, families can ride a steam train through the woods, learn to "drive" Segways, play in the splash park, and visit the quirky fun houses and museum collections along the Victorian Main Street.

Like Story Land, Clark's is family owned (the fifth generation is now in place), and its attractions are original and unique. Just up the road, Whale's Tale Water Park is a good place to take kids on a hot summer day, with speed slides, a wave pool, and two huge water slides.

Address: US Route 3, Lincoln, New Hampshire

The more than 11,000 works in the collections at the Currier Museum of Art are as wide-ranging as they are significant. Not surprisingly, particular attention is given to New Hampshire artists and works of the White Mountain School of artists , with several examples including Bierstadt's view of Moat Mountain. Along with the paintings are superb examples of New Hampshire-made antique furniture.

The second floor is divided between the American gallery and an admirably varied collection of European paintings that include works by Constable, Monet, Corot, Tiepolo, and Lorenzo de Costa . The first floor includes the double special exhibition gallery and the museum's collections of modern and contemporary art. The former includes works by Picasso, Matisse, and O'Keeffe , the latter, a Calder mobile sculpture.

Also in Manchester , part of the museum and accessible by tours originating here, is the Zimmerman House, by Frank Lloyd Wright . This outstanding example of Wright's Usonian homes is the only Wright-designed building in New England open to the public. The tours, which include the interior entirely furnished as Wright designed it, put the house and furnishings in their historical and artistic context.

Address: 150 Ash Street, Manchester, New Hampshire

South of the White Mountains is Lake Winnipesaukee, the focal point of New Hampshire's Lakes Region , which also includes nearby — and far less developed — Squam Lake and Newfound Lake . Winnipesaukee is a beehive of summer activity, surrounded by water parks, beaches, fast food, and family-oriented attractions.

The west side of the lake is the most developed, especially around Laconia's kid-friendly Weirs Beach and more trendy Meredith , while the eastern resort town of Wolfeboro is quieter. Water sports are abundant, with sailboats, kayaks, and motorboats vying for water space with the historic cruise boat, M/S Mount Washington .

The Loon Center and Markus Wildlife Sanctuary in Moultonborough protects the breeding waters of these treasured birds and offers visitors a chance to learn about them. Nature and wildlife is also the focus of Squam Lakes Natural Science Center , which operates nature cruises on this well-protected lake that was the setting for On Golden Pond .

If your vacation is dampened by a rain-day, you'll find plenty of things to do near Weirs Beach. In addition to a strip of game arcades, shops, and restaurants right along the water, the nearby FunSpot offers plenty of indoor diversions. My favorite part is their collection of lovingly restored classic arcade video games (they claim it's the biggest in the world), including pinball galore. They also have bowling, both candlepin and ten-pin, as well as indoor mini-golf and modern games for all ages.

New Hampshire is at its most beautiful in September and early October, when fall paints its maples shades of scarlet and orange and its birches a luminous yellow. Almost any road you follow will bring views, whether it's a winding, tree-lined country lane or a highway that opens up sweeping mountain vistas.

For its variety of views, follow the Connecticut River up the west side of the state, where routes 12, 12A, and 10 offer a changing series of views across valley farms to the mountains of Vermont. Take side roads into villages along the way — picture-perfect Walpole is near the southern end — for white church spires and village greens surrounded by blazing maples.

Close to my home, this route is one I follow in the fall not just for the foliage, but for the orchards and farmstands that line the valley. Alyson's Orchard is a good stop not only to pick apples, but to enjoy the hilltop views; I stop for farmstead cheese across the road at Boggy Meadow Farm .

The entire route from Chesterfield to Woodsville, known as the Connecticut River Byway , is about 140 miles long, and the southern part, from Chesterfield to Hanover, is about 100 miles.

In the central Lakes Region, country roads north of scenic Squam Lake wind through pretty villages of Holderness, Sandwich, and Tamworth, some of New Hampshire's most attractive small towns , with views to the White Mountains . Route 16 leads north to one of the state's most iconic fall views as the distinctive cone of Mt. Chocorua is reflected in a forest-ringed lake.

Few images of fall in New Hampshire are as iconic as a covered bridge framed in bright foliage, and while you'll find these bridges scattered across the state, nowhere are there so many so close together as in the town of Swanzey, in the state's southwest corner. These are marked on the state highway map, so you can easily follow a route that includes six of them. Allow an hour, plus time to admire and photograph them.

I drive through one of these each time I go to the grocery store, and I usually have to wait for a couple of cars to go through the single-lane bridge. I don't mind, grateful that we still have these beautiful reminders of a slower-paced time.

Several options allow the driver a chance for "leaf-peeping" — cruises on Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Sunapee , train rides into the mountains from North Conway , or various tramways to peaks in the White Mountains.

Glaciers, which once covered the White Mountains in a mile-thick layer of ice, formed Polar Caves by scraping huge chunks of rock ledge off the mountainside as they melted and slid southward. These boulders and granite slabs fell into a tumble at the base of a towering cliff, creating caves and passages underneath and between them. Some of the spaces are so deep that ice remains there into the summer.

At the foot of the caves is the Rock Garden, a series of trails among huge rocks strewn on the forest floor, easier to navigate than the steeper trails among the caves. Wooden stairs and walkways lead up to dimly lit passages and caverns to explore; some, like the Bear's Den are challenging, with tight spaces between surfaces. Signs tell stories of Native Americans, escaping slaves, smugglers, and others who used these caves.

Polar Caves Park is more than the caves, and there is enough so a family could spend hours here, watching and feeding a huge flock of ducks and geese that roam free and swim in a large woodland pond. An illustrated sign helps kids identify the variety of birds, and fallow deer will eat from their hands.

Address: 705 Rumney Rte 25, Rumney, New Hampshire

Stepping through the igloo gatehouse of Santa's Village , my kids feel as though they've entered into a Christmas wonderland where toys come to life, and all the favorite things about the holiday season are all around them.

An elevated monorail ride, the Skyway Sleigh, gives an aerial overview of the fun to come, as riders skim above the treetops. Rides and games all feature Christmas themes: a ride with spinning drums; a roller coaster for younger children called the Peppermint Twist; a penguin spin-out coaster; and the Chimney Drop, a bounce ride where kids feel like Santa dropping down a chimney.

Kids (and you) can get wet in the Yule Log Flume, and there's an entire section devoted to water rides and slides. The Great Humbug Adventure is a dark ride through Scrooge's house looking for humbugs.

The carousel has reindeer instead of horses, prancing to the tune of Christmas songs. At Sugar n' Spice Bake Shop, a giant gingerbread house, kids can dress their own gingerbread men and women with frosting clothes.

Everything - all rides, shows, 3-D movies, live music, and entertainment, even the pet condo and strollers for little people, are included in the admission price, and the games and rides are well designed for various age groups, so kids from toddlers to teens will have fun here.

Address: 528 Presidential Hwy, Jefferson, New Hampshire

During the last Ice Age, glaciers covered the White Mountains with a mile-high sheet of ice. When these melted and receded, the combination of meltwater and moving ice carved deep potholes into the granite and tore loose giant boulders, dropping them helter-skelter across the landscape. It was a combination of these that created this natural wonder.

Lost River Gorge disappears into caves formed by a tumble of glacial boulders, appearing again in cascades and long waterfalls and swirling in giant cauldron-shaped potholes as it drops through the steep ravine. You can explore all the caves and the narrow passages formed by the masses of broken granite ledge or bypass them to climb through on boardwalks and stairs.

If you're claustrophobic, avoid the tightest of these passages, appropriately called "the lemon squeezer." At the top is a garden of woodland wildflowers, a forest adventure trail, and a suspension bridge that leads to a 750-foot boardwalk through a glacial boulder field.

Address: Route 112, Kinsman Notch, New Hampshire

A group of nine islands off the coast of Maine and New Hampshire, the Isles of Shoals were described in 1614 by Captain John Smith (who modestly named them Smythe Isles) as "barren piles of rock." The description is apt, but their complicated and fascinating history includes tales of shipwrecks, pirates, ghosts, murder, and buried treasure.

Their story also includes more than 400 paintings by the impressionist artist Childe Hassam, who came to the summer arts colony that once thrived here, attracting well-known authors, poets, and artists of the day.

The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company in Portsmouth takes passengers to Star Island for a three-hour shore stop, where they can enjoy island landscapes and visit the historic Oceanic Hotel, a 200-year-old chapel, and buildings from the 19 th -century village. The smaller White Island has a picturesque lighthouse that is a New Hampshire State Historic Site.

Other boat trips, offered by Portsmouth Harbor Cruises, explore the harbor, the coastline, and Great Bay.

Combining local history (Dover was the state's first permanent settlement and celebrates its 400 th anniversary in 2023) with a wider range of natural sciences and cultural exhibits, the privately endowed Woodman Institute complex is a delightful trove of surprises.

I grew up in Dover, and as a child this wondrous collection of treasures from all over the world was an Aladdin's cave for me, feeding my curiosity and very likely inspiring my lifelong love of travel.

The 1818 Woodman House is filled with collections of minerals, birds, shells, mammals, Native American artifacts, and Civil War items that include Abraham Lincoln's saddle. An entire room is devoted to the extensive doll collection of a local teacher; another to memorabilia from World War II. Your kids will be wowed, as I was, by the enormous Polar Bear that towers over them, and by the full suit of armor worn by a Samurai warrior.

In the adjoining 1813 home of Senator John Parker Hale are furnished rooms, police and fire memorabilia, nautical items, needlework, antique toys, and decorative arts, plus a fascinating collection of early photographs used to document pre-labor-law practices in New England's mills, including child labor.

But the most precious of all is the last surviving fortified colonial garrison house, the William Damm Garrison , built in Dover in 1675 and preserved here under a portico. It is completely furnished with period artifacts, including tools, household equipment, furniture, and needlework.

You can wander through the entire house, filled with furniture and domestic implements of the colonial period, to inspect all these at close range, even climbing the narrow steps to see the upper floor. You are also welcome to picnic on the museum's lawns and enjoy the gardens.

Address: 182 Central Avenue, Dover, New Hampshire

Apart from the beautiful scenery, the best free things to see in New Hampshire are the waterfalls that tumble down the slopes of the White Mountains. You can see some of these on short hikes and a few are visible from the roadside. Most make lovely places for a picnic.

My favorites are Diana's Bath and Sabbaday Falls , both close to North Conway and each a short and level walk through the forest. Reached from the Kancamagus Highway, between Conway and Lincoln , Sabbaday Falls is a double treat, with a flume where water surges and drops into a pothole pool it has carved at the base. Above (there are wooden steps and secure handrails), water cascades over a series of ledges where it has sculpted pools and channels.

Diana's Bath, off West Side Road in North Conway, has a similar combination of pools, cascades and basins, but over a longer drop. Little waterfalls play across the face of a 20-foot ledge, scouring potholes as they drop from shelf to shelf. The water converges into chute, forming an 8-foot falls, then a 15-foot cascade. Although I seldom have this idyllic spot to myself, I rarely pass by without taking the short walk to see it framed in green or fall colors, or cased in sparkling ice in the winter.

Alongside The Kancamagus Highway are Rocky Gorge and Lower Falls , where the Swift River plunges through granite walls and over a series of shelves. At Lower Falls the ledges are wide and flat, with plenty of room for picnics and sunbathing; shallow pools are great for kids and at the bottom is deeper water to cool off in. On hot summer afternoons, we have trouble finding a place to spread a towel, so we go in the morning to stake a spot.

Also beside a road, Jackson Falls drops into the center of the village in a series of shallow shelves that seem to be designed for picnics. For more drama, head a short distance north to Pinkham Notch, where you can reach the 60-foot Glen Ellis Falls via a short path and stairs.

More spectacular, Crystal Cascade is a 15-minute climb from the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitors Center. Dropping in two separate falls, one a 60-foot cascade dancing over ragged ledges and the other a 20-foot straight drop between granite walls, this is perhaps New Hampshire's most beautiful waterfall. A bridge below the falls provides a perfect viewing spot.

There is so much to do in New Hampshire - historic Portsmouth , hiking trails in its White Mountains, and beautiful campgrounds for outdoor lovers - that you could spend several vacations here without ever crossing its borders.

But its several neighbors are worth visiting, too. To the east is Maine , with lively Portland and the beautiful Acadia National Park . To the west is Vermont , also a major destination for skiing and hiking .

To the north is the province of Quebec , in Canada (be sure to take your passport), and south is Massachusetts , with all the attractions of Boston and the beaches of Cape Cod .

More on New Hampshire

20 Free (or Nearly Free!) Things to Do in New Hampshire

The state of New Hampshire is the perfect travel destination if you are looking for a place to spend a lot of time outdoors. There are so many things to do in New Hampshire all year long, but you will find that some options are only available during certain seasons. Therefore, you will want to plan your trip carefully if you want to take advantage of some of the free things to do in New Hampshire during the spring, summer, fall, or winter seasons. The one thing you will never worry about though is what to do in NH whenever you do decide to visit. The reason for this is that there is always something fun and exciting to do in this beautiful state!

Where is New Hampshire?

New Hampshire is a state in the New England section of the country. It is located along part of the northern border of Massachusetts, to the east of Vermont and the west of Maine. The southern border of Quebec, Canada is to the north of this state. The location of New Hampshire makes it the perfect destination for so many people all over the northeastern section of the country. However, anyone from all over the country can visit easily.

Best Time to Visit New Hampshire

The best time to visit New Hampshire is the months of September and October. This is when the leaves start to change colors and thousands of people arrive to see the fall foliage. Of course, this isn’t the best time of year to visit if you want to avoid the crowds. If that is your goal, then late spring and summer are much better options for you. Weather in New Hampshire

The weather in New Hampshire is quite hot and humid during the months of July and August. The spring and fall are seasonable with warm temperatures. The winter months do get really cold and snow can fall as early as November and last until May or even June.

1. Take a Scenic Drive on the Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway goes through the White Mountains for thirty-four and a half miles from the town of Lincoln to the town of Conway. Along the way, you will find many spots to stop and enjoy the views. You will even discover hiking trails that lead to incredible waterfalls. The only things you won’t see on this highway are gas stations restaurants, and any other type of convenience destination.

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2.Visit the Blue Ocean Discovery Center

This Blue Ocean Discovery Center is one of the best New Hampshire attraction. It is free to enter, but they do ask for donations. The donation request is small, so it won’t break your vacation budget at all. Your visit will include time at the touch tanks, but you will also learn quite a bit about whales. Before you are allowed to wander around on your own, you will be shown how to work a lobster trap. At the end of your visit, you can either participate in a scavenger hunt or you can do a self-guided beach cleanup.

3. Hike to the Cathedral of the Pines

The Cathedral of the Pines is an open-air cathedral that is located on a hill in the southwestern section of the state. A climb to the cathedral will reward you with views of Mount Monadnock. However, you may be more focused on paying your respects to the people who lost their lives in war, because that is what this site was constructed for. This is one of the best things to do in New Hampshire, especially during the fall when the leaves are changing.

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4. Attend an Arts Jubilee Concert

The Arts Jubilee Concerts are held in North Conway and they are free to the public. You will find the performances at the bottom of Cranmore Mountain. The performances are normally held on the weekend, which makes it the perfect thing to do in North Conway, New Hampshire in summer.

5. Explore Odiorne Point State Park

Odiorne Point State Park is one of the best places to visit in New Hampshire. A stop here will have you adding so many things to your Rye, New Hampshire to do list. A couple cool things to do in this part of New Hampshire include spending time at the beach, enjoying the views of Portsmouth Harbor, and exploring the ruins of Fort Dearborn.

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6. Conquer a Hike on West Rattlesnake Mountain

If you are looking for something easy to do over in Holderness, New Hampshire, the two mile hike up this mountain is perfect. This is one of the many family activities NH you can add to your list. Plus, once you reach the top of this mountain, you will have incredible views of Squam Lake.

7. Go Snowshoeing

We all know that skiing is very expensive, so there is no way it can be included on a list of free things to do in New Hampshire. However, if you are looking for the best things to do in New Hampshire in winter, you don’t need to look any further than snowshoeing. You can find almost any trail covered in snow for this family adventure and walk until you cannot walk any further.

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8. Hike to Waterfalls

While you are guaranteed to see waterfalls in all the state parks in NH, they are not the only places where you can find them. You can easily add hiking to nearby waterfalls to your list of fun things to do in New Hampshire with kids. But some of these waterfalls are best hiked to by older people, which makes this activity one of the fun things for adults to do in New Hampshire. If you miss the waterfalls in the fall, you can always add them to your best things to do in New Hampshire in winter list. Although, at that time of the year, you will be looking at frozen waterfalls instead of flowing ones.

9.Visit the Saint-Gaudens National Historical Site

This historic site is located over in Cornish, NH. There are 100 acres of forest to explore and the best way to do it is by walking along the short nature trails. There are panels along those trails that share information about what you are seeing along the way. You may need to pay a small fee to enter this park. However, it is free on National Public Lands Day, as well as Veteran’s Day.

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10. See the Covered Bridges

There is a total of 54 covered bridges throughout the state of NH. Seeing the covered bridges is considered one of the best things to do in New Hampshire this weekend. You can easily stop at these covered bridges as you are in the area, or you can turn it into a day long activity. No matter how you see these covered bridges, you will agree that it is one of the fun things to do in New Hampshire.

11. Visit a Farmer’s Market

There are farmers’ markets all throughout the state of New Hampshire. They are normally only held between the months of June through October though, because of the shorter growing season in this state. If you are looking for a free thing to do in New Hampshire this weekend, a local farmer’s market in the area you are visiting must be on your list. They can be super fun family activities. This is especially true if you visit the one in Portsmouth in October. That is when that farmer’s market offers a pumpkin smash.

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12. Hike the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail covers 2,184 miles from Georgia all the way up to Maine. New Hampshire is home to 161 of those miles. This is one of the best things to do in New Hampshire for adults, as some of the trail is too rugged for kids. This is one of the free things to do in New Hampshire at any time of the year. However, it is best to tackle it in the fall, because there are no bugs.

13. Tour the State Capitol

Touring the State Capitol is one of the best things to do in Concord, New Hampshire. The best part is the tours are free on the weekends. If you stop inside the New Hampshire General Court Visitors Center, you will find an abundance of history about this state.

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14. Attend Local Events

There are so many local events held in New Hampshire every year. Most of them are held during the fall, due to the popularity of the area at that time of the year. You must plan your visit to New Hampshire carefully if you want to attend these events. A couple that are the most popular include Apple Harvest Day, Oktoberfest, Brewery Lights, Keene Ice and Snow Festival, and the Sheep and Wool Festival.

15.Wander Around the Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth College

The Hood Museum of Art is one of the best art attractions in New Hampshire. This museum is always free, and you will see many different works of art inside. While you will see many different artists, your favorite pieces might be those created by Georgia O’Keefe and Picasso.

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16. See the Public Art Throughout the City of Concord

The city of Concord is filled with public art, but most of it is located right on Main Street. This is one of the best free things to do in Concord, New Hampshire and you can do it at any time of the year. The sculptures do change occasionally, so it is possible to see something new with each visit.

17. Watch the Fireworks

One of the best things to do in New Hampshire in summer is watch the fireworks over Lake Winnipesaukee. There are normally a dozen fireworks shows or more each year during the summer, so you can almost always catch one when you are in the area.

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18. See the Museum of the White Mountains

The Museum of the White Mountains is one of the best attractions in New Hampshire. You will find this museum on the Plymouth State University Campus, which is in Plymouth, NH. Inside this museum, you will learn a lot about the history of the state, as well as the different cultures. We recommend planning your visit carefully, because this museum is one of the New Hampshire attractions that is closed on Sundays.

19. Visit the American Classic Arcade Museum

The American Classic Arcade Museum is a family friendly attraction in New Hampshire. However, you must be careful if you want to keep this visit completely free. Admission to the museum is free. But you will find yourself paying for any games that you play when you are there.

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20. Explore the Old Man of the Mountain Museum

The Old Man of the Mountain Museum can be found within Franconia State Park. The inside of this museum is filled with old photos and artifacts that share the history of the local mountains, the tramway base station, and how the state has tried to prevent the rock formations from crumbling and getting destroyed.

Expert Tips for Traveling to New Hampshire

There is always something the locals know about their hometowns and states that visitors are not aware of. For these expert tips, we went directly to the source, so you can have the best time when you are visiting New Hampshire.

Book Early for the Fall Season – If you plan to visit New Hampshire to see the fall foliage, you must book your stay well in advance. Everything books quickly for September and October, especially early October when leaves are said to be at their peak most years. Take a Day Trip to the Atlantic Ocean – Since New Hampshire is so close to the Atlantic Ocean, it is easy to take a day trip there during your visit. Eat the Seafood – New Hampshire’s location means that they have access to some of the freshest seafood in the world. You must check out some of the local seafood restaurants, so you can try some of the local seafood dishes.

These are the twenty free, or nearly free things to do in New Hampshire. It is easy to budget for a visit to New Hampshire if you have many of these things on your itinerary. If you are ready for your next vacation, we suggest adding New Hampshire and all its beauty to your list of potential destinations.

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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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Free museums in New Hampshire

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All free museums and attractions to visit in New Hampshire

New Hampshire (United States) has a lot to offer for you culturally, even if you're on a budget, including free museums, free activities and free attractions. 17 museums and attractions in New Hampshire can be visited without charge.

Are you looking for free things to do in New Hampshire? These are the best places to visit:

Castle Clinton National Monument

North Carolina State Capitol

Fort Mose Historic State Park

Jacksonville University's Life Sciences Museum

Boston National Historical Park

Besaw Iron Furnace Interpretive Center

New England Ski Museum

Horatio Colony Museum

Museum of the White Mountains - Plymouth State University

Hood Museum

Tuck museum, franconia heritage museum, thorne sagendorph art gallery, historical society & museum, canterbury historical society, wigwam museum - historical society of amherst nh, loon preservation committee.

portal.category.list.cta

Best museums

Best museums in united states, best museums in california, best museums in new york state, best museums in texas, best museums in florida, best museums in pennsylvania, best museums in massachusetts, best museums in illinois, best museums in michigan, best museums in ohio, best museums in virginia, best museums in washington state.

Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee

Great North Woods

Merrimack Valley

White Mountains

Great things to do in new hampshire.

From mountains to seacoast to its delightful small cities, New Hampshire has a multitude of wonderful things to do, all years. Interesting places to explore like America’s Stonehenge or the shops and theaters and Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth are among many of the attractions that bring loyal visitors to the Granite State year after year, in all seasons. A popular form of accommodations is resorts – some in the mountains, some on the seacoast – because they typically welcome families and offer a wide assortment of entertainments and access to the tools (rented kayaks, canoes, snowshoes, for instance) for outdoor adventure.

Morningside Flight Park

357 Morningside Lane Charlestown, NH, 03603 Phone: 603-542-4416

Flight park is ready when you’re ready to soar into your next great outdoor adventure

Mount Washington Cog Railway

Off Route 302 Bretton Woods, NH, 03589 Phone: 603-278-5404 Toll-Free: 800-922-8825

Exciting ride aboard a cog railway culminates in breathtaking views atop Mt. Washington

Castle in The Clouds

Route 171 - 455 Old Mountain Road Moultonborough, NH, 03254 Phone: 603-476-5900

Take a mansion tour, feed rainbow trout in a pond, hike past waterfalls on this expansive estate

Ice Castles

24 Clark Farm Road North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: Toll-Free: 888-407-4054

Your moment of imagination, exploration and magic awaits at Ice Castles

Lakes Region Tourism Association

61 Laconia Road Tilton, NH, 03276 Phone: 603-286-8008 Toll-Free: 800-605-2537

Bustling Lakes Region is a playground for every type of vacationer, every season of the. Year

Town of Bethlehem

Discover Bethlehem’s breathtaking views, endless adventure and thriving arts & culture

Mt. Washington Auto Road

Route 16, Pinkham Notch Gorham, NH, 03581 Phone: 603-466-3988

All year long, special adventures, and awe-inspiring tours, are offered on this mountain road

Great Glen Trails

Route 16 at Pinkham Notch Gorham, NH, 03581 Phone: 603-466-3988

It’s four seasons of fun adventures at this White Mountains outdoor center

Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods Chamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 194 Twin Mountain, NH, 03595 Phone: Toll-Free: 800-245-8946

In this fun-filled region of the White Mountains, there is no such thing as being bored

Woodstock Inn Brewery

135 Main Street North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-3951 Toll-Free: 800-321-3985

Take a tour or just relax at this brewery’s bar, pub or patio with a good meal and a great beer

Conway Scenic Railroad

38 Norcross Circle North Conway, NH, 03860 Phone: 603-356-5251 Toll-Free: 800-232-5251

Choose from heritage rail excursions or scenic train rides through picturesque valley

There are endless ways to experience Scottish culture in New Hampshire

Hampton Beach Village District

115 Ocean Boulevard Hampton Beach, NH, 03843 Phone: 603-926-8717

Live music, fireworks, beach activities, casinos: No one gets bored at Hampton Beach

Androscoggin Valley Chamber of Commerce

961 Main Street Berlin, NH, 03570 Phone: 603-228-0836

Every single season in the Androscoggin Valley offers exciting things to do and see

Flume Gorge & Visitor Center

852 Daniel Webster Highway (Route 3) Franconia Notch, NH Phone: 603-745-8391

As you walk this loop trail, you’ll be awe-struck by massive gorge, waterfall – and a covered bridge

Mountain Club on Loon

90 Loon Mountain Road Lincoln, NH, 03251 Phone: 800-229-7829

Every season at this mountain resort comes with fun, exciting activities for all ages

Cafe Lafayette Dinner Train

3 Crossing at Riverplace North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-3500

Scenic train ride aboard vintage cars serves up another memorable experience: a five-course meal

America's Stonehenge

105 Haverhill Road Salem, NH, 03079 Phone: 603-893-8300

Explore America's Oldest Known Structure

Canterbury Shaker Village

288 Shaker Road Canterbury, NH, 03224 Phone: 603-783-9511

The simple life made extraordinary by the Shakers

Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce

The seasons change, and the fun never ends, for visitors to Mt. Washington Valley

Chuckster's Family Fun Park

Two Great Locations Chichester and Hooksett, NH Phone: 603-798-3555

Golf, zoom around a go-kart track or fly through the air!

Huttopia - White Mountains

57 Pine Knoll Road Albany, NH, 03818 Phone: 603-447-3131 Toll-Free: 844-488-8674

With a cozy cabin as your headquarters, plan your fun day in the White Mountains

Scenic RailRiders

188 Sewalls Falls Road Concord, NH, 03301 Phone: 603-931-1700

Check this off your bucket list: riding the rails along the Merrimack in a custom-built “bike”

Santa's Village

528 Presidential Highway Jefferson, NH, 03583 Phone: 603-586-4445

Before you visit Santa’s Village, you might want to make a list – and check it twice

White Mountains Attractions

200 Kancamagus Highway North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-8720 Toll-Free: 800-346-3687

New Hampshire's White Mountains boast a colorful array of activities for visitors of all ages

Awake Your Inner Shooter with Adventure Photography Tours

Candy, Old-Fashioned Style, and LOTS of It

Even in Outdoorsy New Hampshire, Tea Time Has Its Place

Unique Riverside Shop for Candles and Gifts

A New Hampshire Country Store, from Aged Cheese to Pewter Gifts

Polly Want a Pancake!

Fabric Artistry Like You’re Never Seen

Elegant Antiques; Discerning Taste

Explore the Rocks

Little Harbor Loop Trail Wanders Shoreline & Gardens

Candy, Candles, Collectibles

Currier & Ives Trail Is a Peaceful Meander

Hanover Offers Outdoor Fun & Food for the Intellect

Gift Shopping in Hanover

General Store Celebrates Inspired Nonsense

Absolute Hunger Relief at Murphy's

Portsmouth Harbor Trail Walking Tours

Stop to Shop

Byway, Not the Highway, By the Lakes

Apple Cider Is Ingredient #1 at This Restaurant

Art in Pewter Evokes New England's History

Fruit Wines, Apple Brandy, and Vodka to Taste Year-Round

Biking Alongside Winnipesaukee History

I, Whirlygig

Head to the Hood

The Old Country Store; Old History Stage

Meet Our Fabulous Wetlands

Arethusa Falls Near Bartlett

Craftsmen in Merrimack

36 North Main Street Concord, NH, 03301 Phone: 603-228-8171

Lay Your Hands on NH’s Military History

History Along a River Trail

Drive and Nibble; Drive and Sip

Hanover Region Is Full of Interesting Things to See and Do

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EVENTS & ENTERTAINING

Food & drink, relationships & family, free things to do in new hampshire, more articles.

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Immerse Your Family in New Hampshire's Natural Beauty

As one of the smallest states in the country, New Hampshire is easy to travel around during a family trip. In this relatively small space, you can see mountains, forests, beaches, rivers, lakes, cities, small towns and more. There's a lot to do across this scenic New England state, including plenty of free destinations, attractions and activities to please your whole crew.

Hampton Beach

New Hampshire might not have a lot of coastline—there are only 18 miles of it—but what little it has is worth visiting. The beautiful, exciting and popular Hampton Beach is at the south end of the state's coast, and it offers lots of free fun for the entire family.

There's the beach itself, with its soft white sand, as well as Hampton Beach State Park (160 Ocean Blvd., Hampton, NH). The Hampton Beach Playground on Ocean Boulevard dates back to the 1920s and still delights kids, and there are lots of shops, places to eat and arcades along the boardwalk. The Hampton Beach Village District arranges a variety of family-friendly free entertainment, particularly during the summer months. This includes free nightly concerts at the Seashell Stage, movie screenings on the beach, festivals, public competitions and more.

Obviously, summer is peak beach season anywhere in New England, and Hampton Beach draws significant numbers of tourists and locals alike. Even with some crowds, though, it's an excellent place to unwind and be entertained with the kids—often without even spending a dime.

Great Bay Discovery Center

Up at the north end of New Hampshire's small stretch of coastline, the Great Bay is formed to the west of Portsmouth. It's a scenic area with wildlife preserves and a number of nature- and conservation-oriented research facilities. At the south end of the bay, you'll find the Great Bay Discovery Center (89 Depot Rd., Greenland, NH).

This fun, educational, free-entry attraction is part of the Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Interactive exhibits inform about the local ecosystem and its wildlife. There's a hands-on tank experience with horseshoe crabs, mud snails, oysters and other indigenous critters found in the bay, which is always a highlight for kids.

The Great Bay Discovery Center grounds are open year-round, but the center itself is closed November through April and only open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends in October. From May through September, it's open those same hours, Wednesday through Sunday. It gets cold there on the water in the fall, so put on some extra layers that you can shed if you get too warm exploring the natural scenery.

Lake Massabesic

Lake Massabesic covers about 4 square miles, and it's one of the most stunning natural areas in New Hampshire. It lies within the city of Manchester and the town of Auburn, and it's an idyllic place for some outdoor family fun and bonding, all at the unbeatable low price of free.

This is a prime location for birding and boating. And if you fancy some fishing, the lake is teeming with smallmouth and largemouth bass, yellow and white perch, horned pout, pickerel and occasional stocks of trout. If you're bringing a small watercraft that fits on the roof of your vehicle, use the Deer Neck Bridge boat launch.

The Lake Massabesic Trail isn't strenuous or hazardous, so it's great for hiking with kids (or if you're not too practiced an outdoor adventurer yourself). It's a 4-mile loop lined with lots of wildlife, and it's widely used from April through December.

• Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center

The Merrimack River runs through Manchester, New Hampshire's largest city. And many species of fish, like Atlantic salmon, river herring, American shad and sea lamprey, swim up this river to spawn. The Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center (4 Fletcher St., Manchester, NH) is an environmental center and fun family attraction on the river, dedicated to educating about its ecosystem and aquatic life.

You and the kids can see live turtles, frogs and other animals, plus there's an array of interactive exhibits and educational games. If you visit during fish season—that's the start of May through mid-June—you'll also likely get to view migrating fish on their way to spawn.

Fish season is undoubtedly the best time to go, but there's still plenty to see and do at other times, and the center is open year-round. It's open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday but also opens for the same hours on Sundays during fish season. There's no cost for admission, but donations are welcome.

Albacore Park

Submarines are cool. Head to Albacore Park (600 Market St., Portsmouth, NH) and give your kids the rare opportunity to go in one while you're exploring New Hampshire. The USS Albacore, a U.S. Navy submarine decommissioned in 1972, is preserved and open to the public at the park. Walk through it and learn all about it via an audio tour that includes tales of life aboard the vessel told by former crew members.

There's also a visitor center and museum with historic photos and artifacts pertaining to submarines. Adjoining the visitor center is Memorial Garden, a scenic and tranquil place with a large dolphin sculpture and memorials to submarines and their crews lost during World War II and the Cold War.

It's a unique and memorable experience for your family vacation, and it's free too. If you go any time from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, the hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; from March 4 to Memorial Day, it closes an hour earlier, and it's only open on weekends during the remaining time in winter.

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• Hampton Beach Village District
• Great Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve: Great Bay Discovery Center
• Manchester, NH: Lake Massabesic Watershed
• AllTrails: Lake Massabesic Trail
• USS Albacore

Eric Mohrman has been a freelance writer since 2007, focusing on travel, food and lifestyle stories. His creative writing is also widely published. He lives in Orlando, Florida.

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Concord

Best free things to do in concord.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Carter Hill Orchard

2. Susan N. McLane Audubon Center and Silk Farm Wildlife Sanctuary

3. New Hampshire State House

4. Capital Region Visitor Center

5. Concord Craft Brewing Company

6. President Franklin Pierce Tomb

7. Dimond Hill Farm

8. Daniel Webster Statue

9. Winant Park Hiking Trails

10. Statue of Franklin Pierce

11. Concord Antiques

12. Granite State Candy Shoppe

13. Gibson's Bookstore

What travelers are saying

• Know Before You Go
• Visitor's Guide

Summer in New Hampshire

• Seasonal Trips

Summer is a time for the Live Free state to really shine. Our beaches, lakes, and rivers are a perfect way to cool down. Try renting a surfboard, kayak or canoe, or find cruises if you’d like to enjoy the water without getting your toes wet. When you’re ready for a bite, New Hampshire is home to amazing cuisine in all seven regions, ranging from waterfront dining to mountain views. Don’t forget to check out our calendar of events during our summer months when festivals, concerts, and fairs take place each and every weekend.

Summer Vacation Inspiration

Plan your next summer adventure, must see blooms this season, wild new hampshire hikes, where to spot new hampshire’s wildlife, kayak with a view, kayaking for first timers, discover new hampshire adventures after dark, summer theatre in the sun, new hampshire live and in concert, sky high adventures, unique new hampshire experiences.

Check out a sampling of some of New Hampshire’s most unique experiences to inspire your summer bucket list!

Exploring the Lakes Region

Exploring the seacoast region - part i, exploring the seacoast region - part ii, road trip packing essentials, snacks to pack for your nh road trip.

There’s just something about a road trip that screams snacks. Here are some must-have NH made treats that are sure to satisfy on your travels around the state.

Trips for All 4 Seasons

52 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In New Hampshire

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: July 18, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

If you landed on this page, you’re probably on the prowl for epic things to do in New Hampshire.

Thankfully, you won’t have to look far.

New Hampshire provides a picturesque backdrop for many awesome attractions.

Of note, this New England state is surrounded by some of the most gorgeous states in the US.

So no matter where you’re driving in from, you will likely be treated to a scenic ride.

Surrounded by both forestry and coastal shorelines, New Hampshire is one of the best states in the Northeast to travel to.

Once you’ve decided where in NH you’ll stay, narrowing down your itinerary can seem overwhelming.

With so many exciting things to do, it can be difficult to choose just a few.

New Hampshire is home to nearly 100 state parks, more than 40 museums, five state-managed beaches, 19 ski resorts, a booming restaurant industry, and so much more.

To help you come up with the perfect plan for your stay in The Granite State, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places in the state to check out.

Table of Contents

1. Franconia Notch State Park

Winston Tan / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for epic things to see in New Hampshire, this stunning, mountainous park has it all.

Situated in the heart of White Mountain National Park, is a well-traveled destination for hikers, bikers, photographers, and all-around nature lovers.

Connected at two opposing ends by a distinguished parkway, the park provides an eight-mile stretch of passable paths.

Franconia Notch State Park has many outdoor amenities including camping grounds, beach swimming, boat rentals, fishing, skiing, picnic pavilions, bike rentals, and much more.

One of the park’s most exciting and adventurous features is the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, the first North American passenger tramway which opened in 1938.

Visitors can take a breathtaking eight-minute ride to the peak of Cannon Mountain.

On clear days, visitors can view parts of New Hampshire, Maine , Vermont , Canada, and New York.

Moreover, Franconia Notch State Park has many prepossessing natural features like waterfalls, a natural flume, and a lake, among others.

If you’re interested in beautiful places to visit in New Hampshire, be sure to add this destination to your list.

Address: Flume Gorge, Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251, United States

2. Echo Lake/Cathedral Ledge State Park

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

Echo Lake is positioned amid the gorgeous Cathedral Ledge State Park .

Outdoor New Hampshire attractions are a dime a dozen, but the expansive and scenic landscape of this park make it worth a place on your itinerary.

Of note, a one-mile long road leads to the peak of the 700-foot Cathedral Ledge, a scenic overlook with magnificent views of Saco River Valley to the White Mountains.

Cathedral Ledge is an ideal site for photography opportunities, a picnic with a view, and perhaps a wedding proposal.

Echo Lake is a super cool location to enjoy watersports, sunbathing, and swimming.

From Echo Lake, several hiking trails lead to Cathedral Ledge.

The trails are of varying degrees of difficulty, but each provides awesome scenery to enjoy along the way.

Echo Lake provides visitors with comfortable amenities like a bathhouse, picnic tables, and parking.

Although camping is not permitted at Echo Lake, other nearby state parks do have campgrounds.

Whether planning your visit for today, this week, or this weekend, any day is a good day to visit Echo Lake and Cathedral Ledge State Park.

Address: 68 Echo Lake Rd, North Conway, NH 03860, United States

3. Flume Gorge

Pierre Leclerc / Shutterstock

This natural gorge at the base of Mount Liberty in New Hampshire is much-visited and one of many cool things to do in The Granite State.

Speaking of granite, the gorge walls are as tall as 90-feet in some places and are composed of Conway granite.

The flume trail is a two-mile stretch of hiking pathway that includes inclined sections as well as many stairways.

Along the boardwalk, hikers can check out flower, fern, and moss growth.

One of the keenest features of Flume Gorge is the Flume Covered Bridge.

Built in 1886, the bridge has been restored several times since then.

Other notable features of Flume Gorge include Table Rock, a 500-foot section of granite, Avalanche Falls, a 45-foot waterfall, Liberty Gorge, a cascading mountain stream, and Wolf Den, a passageway only accessible on your hands and knees.

This must see NH phenomenon will not disappoint if you add it to your vacation plans.

Address: 852 Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251, United States

4. Hampton Beach State Park

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

This oceanfront state park is lined by the Atlantic Ocean and miles of white sandy beaches.

Providing endless, year-round recreational opportunities, any time of year is a good time to visit Hampton Beach State Park .

One of the best and most beautiful beaches in all of New Hampshire, we highly recommend you check it out.

In the summer months, it’s a wonderful place to sunbathe, swim, surf, paddle, and more.

Throughout the year, visitors love to camp and fish.

Of note, Hampton Beach State Park has RV campsites as well as tent grounds that buggy up to the gorgeous oceanfront jetties.

The park has a wonderful picnic pavilion, restrooms, a playground, and even a park store for purchasing sundries and souvenirs.

During the off-season, horseback riding along the beach is permitted.

Parking is limited at the park so reservations are recommended.

If you’re seeking things to do in New Hampshire that involve outdoor recreation, make sure to book a reservation at Hampton Beach State Park.

Address: NH-1A, Hampton, NH 03842, United States

5. Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves

Bryn Pinzgauer / flickr

One of New Hampshire’s popular vacation spots is Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves .

Nestled in the White Mountain’s Kinsman Notch, this top New Hampshire destination is a spectacular landscape shaped by forces of water, weather, and time.

Lost River, aptly named because it disappears or gets lost beneath a glacial gorge, has been a fun tourist attraction for many years.

Exploring Lost River and Boulder Caves is an exciting adventure for aspiring or novice explorers.

Of note, hiking, adventure, and nature are the main draws to this awesome New Hampshire site.

One notable area feature is the one-mile-long boardwalk trail which is suitable for more experienced hikers.

Visitors can explore the Boulder Caves system on self-guided tours that call upon you to navigate tight and dark spaces.

Moreover, on-property facilities include a gift shop, restrooms, a sheltered picnic pavilion, and a gemstone mining sluice.

If you’re asking yourself where to go in New Hampshire, this slice of heaven is your answer.

Address: 1712 Lost River Rd, North Woodstock, NH 03262, United States

6. Prescott Park

If you’re wondering where to visit beautiful botanicals in New Hampshire, be sure to check out Prescott Park .

This well-established botanical garden is a public park that is free for all to enjoy.

Situated along the Portsmouth waterfront, Prescott Park was founded to replace a run-down industrial site; the park has flourished ever since.

Today, the gardens of the park are both a place to visit for their beauty and their educational facets.

During a visit to Prescott Park, city gardeners serve as a guide and educational resource to visitors.

Significantly, the 10-acre park features gardens spaces, sculptural attributes, beds of annuals, hostas gardens, butterfly gardens, and more.

Each space is artistically designed by professional gardeners with an eye for dimension, color, and other important considerations.

Free guided tours are provided once a week but visitors may roam the gardens on their own anytime throughout the week.

Beautiful outdoor attractions and things to do in NH are multitudinous; be sure you don’t miss out on Prescott Park.

Address: 105 Marcy St, Portsmouth, NH 03801, United States

7. Mine Falls Park

Nathan Bickel / Shutterstock

A vital attraction in Nashua, New Hampshire, Mine Falls Park sits in the heart of the city.

A wonderful place for passive outdoor recreation, Mine Falls Park consists of forestry, wetlands, and open fields; there are plenty of activities to be enjoyed at this outstanding park system.

Another of many beautiful places in New Hampshire, Mine Falls Park has served as a muse to artists, photographers, and the like.

Bordered on one side by the Nashua River and the other side by the Millpond and a canal system, the park is ideal for watersports.

Notably, Mine Falls Park is a wonderful site for outdoor fun like boating, fishing, swimming, biking, and even cross-country skiing.

Additionally, the park is home to many sporting fields for soccer, basketball, and other organized sports.

Finally, Mine Falls Park has a noteworthy system of hiking trails of varying lengths and degrees of difficulty that outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to.

One of many top New Hampshire attractions, Mine Falls Park is highly recommended.

Address: Nashua, NH 03060, United States

8. Sabbaday Falls

Jan Bray / Shutterstock

Best visited between June and November, Sabbaday Falls is reached by a short hiking/walking trail just outside of Conway, New Hampshire.

The trail’s length is 0.7 miles and is suitable for beginners.

The hike to the waterfall’s 101-foot elevation is easy for all skill levels and is an in-and-out loop with wooden safety rails.

Along the hiking trail, visitors enjoy a picturesque landscape with the gushing waterfalls as their soundtrack.

A favorite feature of Sabbaday Falls is that leashed dogs are welcome.

Along the way, there are many nice spots to sit for a break or a picnic lunch, and there are photo opportunities by the dozen.

Although the trail is well-maintained, hiking during winter months is not permitted as the trail becomes quite icy and dangerous.

The easy-to-hike trail makes this a perfect activity for families with young children.

A visit to Sabbaday Falls answers the question of what to do in New Hampshire.

Address: Kancamagus Hwy, Campton, NH 03223, United States

9. West Rattlesnake Mountain

Pernelle Voyage / Shutterstock

If you are looking for awesome places to visit in New Hampshire, make sure to check out West Rattlesnake Mountain .

This heavily hiked, 3.7 mile, in-and-out trail is located just outside Holderness, New Hampshire.

With Squam Lake as the trail’s backdrop, your entire time upon the trail is lovely.

Primarily used for hiking and biking, West Rattlesnake Mountain is also a delightful destination for nature observers.

Hikers will basque in identifying beautiful wildflowers, wildlife, forestry, and lake features along the trail.

Suitable for families with young children and dog-friendly, West Rattlesnake Mountain is a cool place to visit today, this week, or this weekend.

Be sure to check the park’s website before your visit, because the trail is closed seasonally due to excessive muddiness.

If you’re interested in stuff to do in the great outdoors, be sure to visit West Rattlesnake Mountain during your stay in New Hampshire.

Address: Center Sandwich, NH 03227, United States

10. Isles of Shoals

Allan Wood Photography / Shutterstock

Situated six miles off the shore of New Hampshire and Maine, Isles of Shoals are a system of nine islands discovered in the early 1600s.

The islands once served as a home base for fishermen, however, today, the islands have no year-round residents.

However, the islands are home to a few summer cottages and the Oceanic Hotel, one of a few famous places in New Hampshire.

The Isles are also home to the Shoals Marine Research Laboratory.

If you’re traveling with any true crime aficionados, the islands were also the site of a famed double murder.

If you wish to visit the Isles of Shoals, many charter companies provide charter cruises that will deliver you directly to the island of your choice.

Boat tours of the islands are the best way to see the scenic beauty that juts out into the bay.

Each of the islands has individual eco-systems which are interesting to observe.

Finally, one of the main attractions is the Isles of Shoals Museum located on Star Island; the museum recounts regional history.

No matter how you visit or which, if not all, islands you check out, Isles of Shoals is one of many tourist attractions you won’t want to miss.

Address: NH, United States

11. Odiorne Point State Park

With so many things to do in New Hampshire, especially parks and outdoor attractions, narrowing down tourist destinations can be tricky.

Odiorne Point State Park is a solid itinerary choice, though.

This public recreational area sits in Rye, NH on 135-acres of craggy Atlantic Ocean shoreline.

Some of the park’s inviting features include the Seacoast Science Center and remains of an old World War II fort.

Besides the scientific and historical draws of the park, visitors love Odiorne Point State Park for all the adventure it provides.

At Odiorne Point State Park, nature enthusiasts may fish, learn about diverse ecosystems, enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, and explore dense vegetation.

Sports lovers come to Odiorne State Park to swim, canoe/kayak, cross country ski, hike, mountain bike, and snowshoe.

Finally, families love to visit the park for picnicking, the walking trails, the playground, and the convenience of the on-site restrooms.

New Hampshire has so many magnificent places to visit; be sure to add this awesome park to your list.

Address: 570 Ocean Blvd, Rye, NH 03870, United States

12. Morningside Flight Park

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One of the top 10 things to do in New Hampshire, Morningside Flight Park makes high-octane adventures accessible to the public.

Significantly, Morningside Flight Park is considered one of the most well-rounded flight parks in the country.

Situated among the Connecticut River Valley’s rolling hills in NH, Morningside Park adventures are enjoyed with the gorgeous natural landscape as your backdrop.

Of note, visitors to the park may choose to hang glide, paraglide, zipline, play outdoor laser tag, camp, and more.

With so many offbeat adventures to check out in one localized destination, the options are limitless.

With each of the adventures, thrillseekers have the option to ride tandem with a certified instructor or complete a lesson package to become certified him/herself.

Each of the thrilling activities includes necessary equipment and gear, but best of all the exhilaration of a lifetime.

Lastly, if you wish to make more than one day of your trip to Morningside Flight Park, camping accommodations (cabin or tent) are available for rental.

This top vacation spot is highly recommended for adventure-loving thrill-seekers.

Address: 357 Morningside Ln, Charlestown, NH 03603, United States

13. Fun World

If you’re wondering what to do in NH with young children, be sure to pay a visit to Fun World .

Located in Nashua, NH, Fun World is an indoor amusement park with tons to do.

This must do attraction is packed with indoor amusements for children and adults alike; it’s fun for the whole family.

Notably, Fun World has a fleet of indoor rides like a two-story carousel, a Himalaya ride, and even a thrilling roller coaster.

In addition to rides, Fun World has a huge playground with a 101-foot tube slide, a climbing wall, ball pits, a toddler room, and lots more.

Beyond these physical activities, Fun World is home to an arcade with over 250 popular and rare video games.

Moreover, the indoor amusement park also has a complete bowling alley for all to enjoy.

For visitors’ convenience and enjoyment Fun World also has a great snack bar with lunch/dinner selections you and your children are sure to love.

With so many exciting activities in one place, this is a superb destination to visit when you’re in New Hampshire.

Address: 200 Daniel Webster Hwy, Nashua, NH 03060, United States

14. Peirce Island

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There are not many places to see that are as beautiful as Peirce Island in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Situated upon 27-acres of picturesque riverfront property, Peirce Island is a historical gem.

Once the site of Fort Washington, a military locale that played a big role in both the Revolutionary War and World War II, Peirce Island is now a top sightseeing destination.

During a visit to Peirce Island, you can observe this enriching historical sight.

Notably, the most fun way to access the island is by way of the free boat launch on the south end of the island.

Upon arrival, visitors enjoy the well-groomed walking trails, free guided tours, a lovely children’s playground, a dog park, and more.

One of the most well-visited attractions on Peirce Island is a public swimming pool that’s been in operation since 1937.

If you’re thinking about what to see in New Hampshire, Peirce Island is a swell option.

15. Mount Washington Auto Road

Travelers to Mount Washington in New Hampshire have been ascending the mountain since the late 1800s.

The mountain, with its beautiful scenery and adventurous allure, sets the scene for a thrilling experience.

Notably, Mount Washington Auto Road is at the center of the adventure.

The nearly 8-mile road is New Hampshire’s oldest and most visited attraction; it’s a must see.

Historically, the road opened in 1861 with horse-drawn tours to the mountain’s summit.

Since then, Mount Washington Auto Road has evolved with the times.

Presently, visitors to Mount Washington Auto Road can enjoy guided or self-guided tours.

Guided tours are a two-hour trek hosted by knowledgeable and experienced tour guides who lead a discussion of the history, vegetation, and more.

Tours allow time for photography and snack breaks.

In fact, The Sherman Adams Building, situated along the route, has a cafeteria and restrooms for visitors’ convenience.

This wonderful New Hampshire sightseeing tour is a must do for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Address: 1 Mt Washington Auto Rd, Gorham, NH 03581, United States

16. Seven Birches Winery

This charming boutique winery is situated amid the White Mountains of New Hampshire and within an awesome vacation resort, it’s one of the coolest places to go.

Crafting wine from both imported and local grape varietals, Seven Birches is a top NH Winery.

Of note, all wine and cider production is done on-site and tours of the production can be arranged for visitors.

One of the best ways to experience Seven Birches Winery is with a visit to their tasting room.

This experience includes five selections of wine per guest as well as tasting flights and winery tours.

Beyond the tasting room, guests may partake in vineyard and wine bar tours.

Additionally, the winery hosts weekly “Vineyard Talks” with the vineyard manager.

These talks include a dynamic discussion of vines and the establishment’s future plans.

These talks are an excellent way to kick off a tasting room visit or winery tour.

One of many cool places to go, we highly recommend visiting Seven Birches Winery.

Address: 22 S Mountain Dr, Lincoln, NH 03251, United States

17. Conway Scenic Railroad

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If you are thinking about what to do in the way of historical and unique attractions in New Hampshire, you’ll want to check out Conway Scenic Railroad .

Essentially, this cool attraction runs old-timey train rides through scenic stretches of NH.

Visitors depart an old-fashioned train station, built in 1874, on one of three excursions.

No matter the tour you choose, each takes you on a ride back in time; this is an excellent attraction for families with children.

Notably, the Conway Valley Train is an 11-mile, 55-minute round trip ride aboard a historic locomotive.

The Bartlett-Sawyer Excursion is a 21-mile, nearly two-hour round trip train ride through the scenic Sawyer River Valley and Bartlett or Sawyer River.

Finally, the Mountaineer train takes passengers on a 1950s-era ride that recreates a post-World War I experience.

No matter which excursion you choose, this is one of the best sightseeing tours in New Hampshire.

Address: 38 Norcross Cir, North Conway, NH 03860, United States

18. Story Land

Founded in 1954, this New Hampshire amusement park is an institution.

Founded on the vision of Bob and Ruth Morrell to bring storybook characters to life, Story Land has always been a place where families could come to delight in rides and attractions centered around their favorite stories.

Since its humble beginnings, the park has grown to include live shows, character experiences, dining, and more.

With more than 30 awesome attractions for the whole family to enjoy, a day trip to Story Land should be on your itinerary.

Story Land is home to many dry rides like multiple roller coasters, swings, a train ride, and many others.

Additionally, Story Land has some truly wonderful attractions like an interactive lab, a nursery rhyme area, a playground, and even live animals.

Finally, there are carnival games that you can play for sweet prizes.

Lastly, the park has lovely dining options, amusing shows, and a great gift shop too.

One of many family-friendly New Hampshire attractions, Story Land is worth a spot on your travel list.

Address: 850 NH-16, Glen, NH 03838, United States

19. Whale’s Tale Waterpark

Whale’s Tale Waterpark

This epic waterpark has all the makings of wholesome family entertainment in the beautiful New Hampshire sunshine.

Whale’s Tale Waterpark has been thrilling fun-seekers for more than 30 years.

One of the area’s most lauded waterparks, Whale’s Tales is beautifully landscaped and expertly kept, which means the whole family can enjoy the park.

Many of the park’s attractions are monitored by certified lifeguards and Coast Guard-approved life vests are available to borrow.

Concerning the fun attractions, Whale’s Tales has epic water slides, a wave pool, small wading pools for younger guests, a lazy river and so much more.

One of the park’s most exciting attractions is the FlowRider attraction for surfing or boogie boarding.

To make your day at the park even more comfortable, the park has private cabanas for rental, a snack bar, and a gift shop that sells both souvenirs and sundries.

One of the most thrilling activities you’ll encounter in NH, you’re sure to enjoy Whale’s Tales Waterpark.

Address: 481 Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251, United States

20. Clark’s Bears

Clark’s Bears , a bear-themed park, is one of many unique things to do in NH.

Located in Lincoln, New Hampshire, this park is home to adorably smart and endearing trained bears.

Visitors to Clark’s Bears are treated to the famous Black Bear Show and are delighted by the tricks and antics of these well-trained beasts.

In addition to the famed bear show, the park is home to other amusing shows and attractions.

Some of the fun things to do in NH while at Clark’s Bears include The Anaconda Escape water ride, water blasting bumper boats, a 30-foot outdoor rock climbing wall, The Wolfman train ride, among others.

Moreover, Clark’s Bears is home to a circus show, Segway tours, and Merlin’s Mansion, an upside-down funhouse.

Finally, the attraction is home to five small museums, five gift shops, and food vendors like a popcorn wagon, snack bar, and pizza/sub shop.

You’ll never wonder what to do in NH with Clark’s Bears nearby.

Address: 110 Daniel Webster Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251, United States

21. Attitash Mountain Resort

If you’re visiting New Hampshire in the winter months, Attitash Mountain Resort is a beautiful place to check out.

This premier destination is a wonderful spot for families, nature lovers, and thrill seekers.

During the winter months, snow sports are the big draw to Attitash.

Visitors come from far and wide to ski and snowboard.

The resort offers expert ski schools that can teach children and adults the basics of either snow sport.

Advanced skiers or riders love to shred at the mountain’s epic all-terrain park.

After a long day of hitting the slopes, the mountain’s lodge has two dining options, while you can grab a quick nibble at the base’s Snack Shack.

Finally, situated at the mountain’s base is the Attitash Mountain Village, an excellent option for lodging.

If you happen to be visiting NH during the summer months, scenic lift rides are a fun way to check out the resort.

Other summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, fishing, and more.

One of many New Hampshire attractions featuring winter sports, Attitash Mountain Resort is fun for all.

Address: 775 US-302, Bartlett, NH 03812, United States

22. Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Mattia Panciroli / flickr

Of so many New Hampshire attractions, this one is best for animal lovers.

Squam Lakes Natural Science Center delivers astounding live animal exhibits, natural science programming, and a love for all things nature-related.

During your tour of the facility, you’ll embark on a one-way trail whereupon you’ll encounter live animals like wild birds, amphibians, bobcats, otters, mountain lions, and so many others.

Best of all, the outdoor trail allows you to witness the animals in their natural habitat.

In addition to the live animal trail, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center provides river cruises where you can see wildlife with provided binoculars.

Other center attractions include a bald eagle adventure, a loon cruise, and private charters among others.

Additionally, the center is home to a handful of hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.

Finally, one of the most fun attractions at the center are the Hidden Stories that answer questions about animals along the tour trail; it’s sort of like a scavenger hunt.

Address: 23 Science Center Rd, Holderness, NH 03245, United States

23. Strawbery Banke Museum

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Situated in the Puddle Dock neighborhood of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Strawbery Banke Museum sits upon a 10-acre campus.

Significantly, the museum preserves and exhibits more than 300 years of NH history.

Through interestingly curated exhibits, costumed roleplayers, craft demonstrations, and other mediums, Strawbery Banke Museum shares a historically enriching experience with visitors.

Best of all, the museum is a place that can be enjoyed by families, adults, children, students, and all others who value state history.

During your visit to Strawbery Banke Museum, you’ll tour historical buildings, enjoy interactive exhibits, and spend time in lovely botanical gardens.

There are hundreds of beautiful and interesting exhibits to see like a historical craft house, a recreated Victorian garden, a Victorian-era hothouse, a World War II home, a Revolutionary War-era tavern, among so many more.

What’s best, each purchased ticket is good for two consecutive visits to the museum.

Of the top tourist attractions in NH, Strawbery Banke Museum is highly recommended.

Address: 14 Hancock St, Portsmouth, NH 03801, United States

24. Castle in the Clouds

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Open from late Spring to early Fall, Castle in the Clouds is one of many awesome tourist attractions in New Hampshire.

Situated atop the Ossipee Mountains, Castle in the Clouds is a 5,500-acre 1913 mansion with breathtaking views.

During a visit to the estate, tourists may tour the astounding and historic Lucknow Mansion, take a unique basement tour, and enjoy the exhibit gallery.

Located in the mansion’s carriage house, the exhibit gallery showcases historic memorabilia associated with Thomas Plant’s shoe manufacturing career.

In addition to touring the mansion, visitors to Castle in the Clouds may enjoy nearly 6,000 acres and 28 miles of hiking trails, duck feeding at the Shannon Pond, and skiing/snowshoeing during the winter months.

Finally, Castle in the Clouds is also home to mountaintop dining at Carriage House Restaurant or a light lunch or snack at Cafe in the Clouds.

With so many things to see in one breathtaking locale, Castle in the Clouds is a must-see NH attraction.

Address: Route 171, 455 Old Mountain Rd, Moultonborough, NH 03254, United States

25. Currier Museum of Art

Situated in the heart of Manchester, New Hampshire, the Currier Museum of Art is steeped in the arts, culture, and most of all, community.

Of note, the museum aims to connect a diverse breadth of art to similarly diverse audiences.

Through thoughtful displays of both historical and contemporary artwork, the exhibits at Currier Museum of Art are far reaching.

While visiting the museum, guests are treated to major works from different eras.

Works from the Renaissance to today, from places far and wide come together for a wonderfully enriching cultural experience.

Visiting the Currier Museum of Art is an immersive experience that can be encountered in many different ways.

For instance, you can enjoy self-guided tours through the many exhibits, tour two Frank Lloyd Wright homes, participate in audio tours or studio classes, etc.

During your visit, be sure to stop for a bite to eat at the Winter Garden Cafe and for some light shopping at the museum’s gift shop.

One of many wonderful places to visit in NH, you should make time to see the Currier Museum of Art.

Address: 150 Ash St, Manchester, NH 03104, United States

26. Canobie Lake Park

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Founded on the surface of Canobie Lake in 1902, this New Hampshire amusement park is a New England institution.

Originally founded as a trolley park, it is now a premier attraction for thrilling rides, family fun, exciting games, and more.

Of note, Canobie Lake Park has more than 85 rides from family rides to kid rides and thrill rides to water rides.

The rides run the gamut from being suitable for infants to well beyond.

In addition to all of the cool amusements, Canobie Lake Park has tons of great games too.

There’s a super arcade as well as awesome boardwalk-style games.

Each new game offers a new opportunity to win great prizes.

The park also has excellent live shows like weekly fireworks, kids’ dance parties, and character appearances.

Finally, after you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to head over to the food stands and eateries.

If you’re looking for something to do this weekend in NH, Canobie Lake Park is your place.

Address: 85 N Policy St, Salem, NH 03079, United States

27. Woodstock Inn Brewery

Woodstock Inn Brewery

If you’re looking for things to do in New Hampshire more suitable for adults, Woodstock Inn Brewery is a great place to visit.

Woodstock Inn Brewery is essentially a beer resort with tons to do and many things to see.

One of New Hampshire’s most visited country inns, it comprises 40 warm and uniquely styled guest rooms with superb amenities.

Amenities include cable, wi-fi, gas fireplaces, jacuzzi tubs, and more.

The property is also home to an indoor swimming pool and a fitness center.

Not surprisingly, the brewery is the resort’s greatest attraction.

While visiting the resort, visitors are welcome to brewery tours, each of which ends with a beer tasting.

If you prefer to skip the tour, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy the brewery’s fine selections nonetheless.

Moreover, Woodstock Inn Brewery has four distinct pubs all in one place with breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus to die for.

With so many things to see and do in one place, this New Hampshire resort is a great destination to check out.

Address: 135 Main St, North Woodstock, NH 03262, United States

28. Santa’s Village

Santa’s Village

Calling all Christmas lovers!

This Jefferson, New Hampshire gem is a Christmas-themed amusement park with family-friendly attractions for all to enjoy.

Santa’s Village has 23 Christmas and/or winter-themed rides like “Rudy’s Rapid Transit Coaster” and “The Great Humbug Adventure.”

What’s best, all of the park’s rides are designed for families with young riders.

In addition to these great land rides, Santa’s Village also has a waterpark on-site.

Santa’s Waterpark has an awesome splash park, thrilling water slides, a wave pool, and more.

In addition to the fabulous rides, Santa’s Village has many other excellent attractions.

Elf University, Santa’s Home, and Reindeer Rendezvous are among some of the darling park attractions that bring smiles to faces all year long.

Furthermore, the park hosts live shows every day as well as seasonal events.

The park has excellent dining and shopping options as well.

A visit to Santa’s Village makes every day feel like Christmas day.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in New Hampshire, we highly recommend spending a day (or more) at Santa’s Village.

Address: 528 Presidential Hwy, Jefferson, NH 03583, United States

29. Polar Caves Park

Polar Caves Park

Polar Caves Park , located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, is a set of naturally formed caves that came to be during the last Ice Age.

Formed of granite boulders, the cave system is a beautiful sight to behold.

Rain or shine, the park is open daily all year long for cave tours that are perfect for the whole family.

Visitors to the park are welcome to explore the nine caves and crevasses, each of which reveals unique aesthetic features and physical obstacles.

In addition to exploring the breathtaking granite caves, the park has an animal park where you can meet and visit fowl, deer, and others.

With the White Mountains as the backdrop for this epic experience, the views throughout your visit are priceless.

Following your time at the park, you’re welcomed to the main lodge to purchase souvenirs, gifts, and snacks.

This memorable attraction is one you won’t want to miss during your stay in New Hampshire.

Address: 705 Rumney Rte 25, Rumney, NH 03266, United States

30. The Northern Forest Canoe Trail

Ken Lund / flickr

Extending through many of the New England states and Canada, the Northern Forest Canoe Trail is an epic 740-mile marked canoe trail that passes through 22 rivers and streams.

A significant stretch of the trail passes through parts of New Hampshire, making it one of many wondrous places to visit in The Granite State.

In NH, the trail, in Errol-Berlin Corridor, runs through the Androscoggin River and passes many glorious sites.

During your New Hampshire leg of the canoe trail, you can hope to experience the remoteness of wilderness at its finest.

You may spot moose and other magnificent wildlife as well as rustic lodgings along the way.

If you’re planning to canoe some of this legendary, multi-state trail, be sure to check out the attraction’s website for trail maps and planning guides germane to the NH stretch.

A wonderful experience to take on, you’d be remiss to not visit the Northern Forest Canoe Trail.

Address: Errol, NH 03579, United States

31. McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

This air and space museum, in Concord, New Hampshire, is one of the coolest places to visit in The Granite State.

Rich in history, the center has two floors of interactive exhibits that will interest the whole family.

The center’s aim is to make learning exciting and accessible to all.

Significantly, it honors American space travelers who have given of themselves to give to all of us concerning the study of space.

Of note, the museum shares and displays exhibits on the science and history of outer space.

With permanent and rotating exhibits, outdoor and indoor displays, a full-dome planetarium, and educational programs out the wazoo, there is so much to see and learn at McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center .

Some of the current exhibits and shows include one on Alan Shepard, the first American in space, the Shackleton Research Station, Newton’s Cradle, and a crusader jet.

In addition to all of the wonderful displays, the center also has a delightful cafe and awesome science store.

Finally, McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is a super place to visit to learn about space science.

Address: 2 Institute Dr, Concord, NH 03301, United States

32. New Hampshire Telephone Museum

New Hampshire Telephone Museum

This museum is one of the most unique places to visit in NH.

Who would’ve thunk it?

A telephone museum?

That’s right, this clever attraction houses America’s history concerning telecommunications.

Packed full of telephones and other related systems from the onset of telecommunications, visitors are treated to some really interesting tidbits.

Through a guided tour of the museum, visitors learn about telephone history, inventions, innovations, patents, and figureheads.

Moreover, the museum’s astounding collection of telephone-related artifacts is worth a visit to this cool museum.

While visiting the New Hampshire Telephone Museum , you will see more than 1,000 interesting artifacts.

Furthermore, the museum hosts many distinctive special events.

One of the most lauded recent programs was an exhibit on the crosshairs of early railroad systems and telecommunications.

Other riveting programs include live readings of telephone tales, a talk on early telephones, and a discussion on the role of privacy in telecommunications.

Lastly, a visit to this museum is uber engaging and highly recommended.

Address: 1 Depot St, Warner, NH 03278, United States

33. USS Albacore Museum

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Commissioned in 1953, the USS Albacore has since been the model for modern-day submarines.

Its unique hull served as the prototype for the Navy’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet.

In 1985, upon its decommissioning, the USS Albacore came to rest at the USS Albacore Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Today, the museum is open seven days a week for guests to tour this historical site.

Guests are welcome to partake in self-guided tours of the boat and the property’s memorial garden.

Of note, visitors are permitted to board and explore this distinguished submarine.

You’ll have the opportunity to see the control room, engineering spaces, bunkrooms, and even look through the periscope.

Furthermore, you’ll be treated to stories told by real-life crew members, through their recorded tales, of the USS Albacore.

Other notable spaces at the museum include a propeller field, a memorial garden commemorating fallen shipmates, and an epic gift shop.

Address: 600 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801, United States

34. Fuller Gardens

Fuller Gardens

This beautiful, public botanical garden is situated on a working formal estate in North Hampton, New Hampshire.

Notably, the garden is a bit removed from the hubbub of modern-day, but you’ll feel like you’re a world away nonetheless.

Many of the numerous gardens were established in the early 1920s and have flourished ever since.

The gardens are opened seasonally to the public for self-guided tours.

If you’re looking for scenic places to visit in The Granite State, Fuller Gardens should make the cut.

Of the gorgeous gardens on the estate’s property, the formal rose gardens, fashioned in a Colonial sensibility, are the most popular.

With hundreds of varieties of roses blooming from early summer to early fall, you can be sure to catch colorful blooms anytime during that window.

Other popular attractions at Fuller Gardens include the Japanese Garden and a Dahlia garden among others.

Each of the many gardens is beautifully sculpted with gorgeously kept turf pathways leading to each.

Address: 10 Willow Ave, North Hampton, NH 03862, United States

35. The Woodman Institute Museum

The Woodman Institute Museum

This Dover, New Hampshire museum was established in the early 1900s as a place to educate, inspire, and provoke thought to all those who visited.

If you’re traveling with history buffs, this is the place for you.

The Woodman Institute Museum allows guests to explore and absorb history, natural sciences, and the arts.

The museum consists of four historic houses that each tell a new story.

The Woodman House is home to rocks, minerals, fossils, and taxidermy.

The Damm Garrison House contains Colonial Era artifacts.

The John Parker Hale House tells the story of one of America’s preeminent abolitionists.

The Keefe House is the museum’s library wherein a distinguished collection of city records is stored.

During a visit to the museum, guests have the opportunity to meander the four houses, appreciate the historical pieces, and travel back in time in this well-curated museum.

If you’re looking for a great historical attraction, The Woodman Institute Museum is a great choice.

Address: 182 Central Ave, Dover, NH 03820, United States

36. Benson Park

Anthony Dezenzio / Shutterstock

Benson Park is a spacious and endearing recreational park in the heart of Dover, New Hampshire.

Situated on 166-acres of forestry, the park is home to many outdoor recreational areas.

They offer the best activities that bring visitors face to face with nature.

Within the park are many amenities perfect for a day trip with friends and family.

Some of the park’s amenities include bathrooms, playgrounds, picnic tables, and nature trails.

If you are looking for a peaceful day in nature, Benson Park is the place for you.

Another park attraction is Friends of Benson Park which is an old barn that’s been converted to a small museum that houses local historical artifacts.

The Benson Park Trail has several hiking trails, suitable for hikers of all skill levels, with interesting historic buildings along the way.

The Hudson Dog Park is a fenced-in space where your pooch can run wild.

Finally, a 9/11 memorial sits on the park property whereupon visitors can pay respects to local men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

All in all, Benson Park is a lovely attraction for visitors to NH to enjoy.

Address: 19 Kimball Hill Rd, Hudson, NH 03051, United States

37. Chutters Candy Store

Chutters Candy Store

This charming and old-time candy store has been a presence in Littleton, New Hampshire since the 1800s.

Rich in history and family appeal, the store is named after its original owner, a congressional minister, and a well-loved community member.

More than 100 years following its establishment, Chutters Candy Store is still renowned for its hospitality and the amazing assortment of delightful treats.

With four NH locations dispersed throughout the state, you can likely find a location no matter where in the state you’re traveling to.

Within the store, there are more than 500 candy varieties to taste and purchase.

From homemade fudge and chocolates to jelly beans and gummy bears to everything in between, children and adults alike are drawn to this epic sweets shop.

No matter what your poison, you can scoop candy by the pound into bags that you can tailor to suit your fancy.

Address: 43 Main St, Littleton, NH 03561, United States

38. Loon Mountain

Rise Up Aerial / Shutterstock

This all-season resort is a vacation destination in and of itself.

The mountain-top resort has all you need for a week’s or weekend’s worth of fun for friend groups and families.

In warm-weather months visitors to Loon Mountain can enjoy loads of recreational mountain fun.

For instance, the mountain offers the following summer activities: gondola sky rides, bike riding, disc golf, cave tours, hiking, yoga, and more.

Moreover, during the winter months, visitors can enjoy their favorite snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.

Besides all of the wildly exciting recreation at Loon Mountain, the resort is also home to two restaurants: Summit Cafe and Boyle’s Break House.

Furthermore, the resort’s event calendar is always jam-packed with theme nights, games, and live music.

Lastly, the resort has awesome amenities like a tune & repair shop, equipment rentals, ski school, and more.

This year-round resort is a must-see when visiting NH.

39. Gunstock Mountain Resort

Gunstock Mountain Resort

Gunstock Mountain Resort is an all-weather resort that’s opened seasonally for summer and winter adventures.

Situated amid Gilford, NH and within the Belknap Mountain Range, Gunstock Mountain Resort is the range’s second highest peak with an elevation of nearly 2,500 feet.

During the summer months, the resort emerges as Adventure Park, a place where visitors come from far and wide to engage in a litany of amazing outdoor adventures.

For instance, at Adventure Park, visitors can zipline, take scenic lift rides, partake in Segway tours, check out an aerial obstacle course, ride an epic mountain coaster, hike, fish, swim, and so much more.

Winter at Gunstock Mountain is made for snow sports.

Thrill-seekers come from all over the East Coast to ski, snowboard, snow tube, race, take on terrain parks, and enjoy awesome night sessions.

Moreover, during both the Summer and Winter seasons, camping is available at the resort.

Finally, the resort’s premier restaurant, The Patio Restaurant at Gunstock, is a delightful little gem to patronize all year long.

Address: 719 Cherry Valley Rd, Gilford, NH 03249, United States

40. Alpine Adventures

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Alpine Adventures , in the gorgeous White Mountains of New Hampshire, is an industry leader in outdoor adventures.

Home to the first and best zipline canopy tour in all of New England since 2006, Alpine Adventures is not for the faint of heart.

Situated amidst 300 private acres of mountain forestry, the backdrop for this establishment’s outdoor adventure land is breathtaking.

The greatest attraction at Alpine Adventures has always been the Treetop Canopy Tour which sends you zipping along 200-foot to 1,000-foot lines through the treetops of the mountains.

This tour is an epic two-hour-long adventure.

In addition to the Treetop Canopy Tour, Alpine Adventures is also home to the SkyRider and Super SkyRider Ziplines, off-roading adventures, and an aerial challenge park.

If you’re into adrenaline-pumping thrills, Alpine Adventures delivers big time.

Address: 41 Main St, Lincoln, NH 03251, United States

41. Mystery Hill

jazzmodeus / flickr

This unique attraction is better known as America’s Stonehenge .

Situated in Salem, New Hampshire and scattered across 30-acres of privately owned land, Mystery Hill is home to a mystery indeed.

Essentially, several unique archaeological formations litter the property.

Visitors come from all over the country to basque in the curiosity of the large and inexplicable rock structures.

Although visitors come to see the unique stone formations, Mystery Hill is home to other diverting attractions.

Upon the private property, guests can snowshoe in daylight or by candlelight, get to know the seven friendly alpacas who live at Mystery Hill, and stroll the property’s many hiking trails.

Mystery Hill also hosts fun special events throughout the year like gemstone mining, summer solstice and spring equinox ceremonies, and other unique events.

Address: 105 Haverhill Rd, Salem, NH 03079, United States

42. Charmingfare Farm

Charmingfare Farm

This farm, which is more like a zoo, resides in Candia, New Hampshire and is a super place to visit for families with children.

Besides being home to many adorable animals, the farm has wonderful events and sights dispersed throughout the expansive property.

Because Charmingfare is a real working farm, a visit to the attraction is immersive.

Tractors plow, roosters crow, barn cats chase mice, fields are planted, and so on.

But at Charmingfare Farm , visitors are privy to all the inner workings of farm life.

During a visit to the farm, guests can interact with the farmers, learn about farm equipment, meet and feed the livestock, pick pumpkins, ride horses, take hayrides, and more.

The farm hosts special events throughout the year too.

At Christmastime, guests can enjoy magical sleigh rides, and during warmer months live music, festivals, and other events can all be enjoyed at Charmingfare Farm.

Address: 774 High St, Candia, NH 03034, United States

43. Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden

travelview / Shutterstock

This National Historic Landmark in Portsmouth , New Hampshire is rich in history and a perfect destination for sightseeing in The Granite State.

The Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden is essentially a museum house that preserves the history of William Whipple, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Built in the mid-1700s, the house was occupied by the same wealthy family for more than 150 years.

The Gregorian-style home sits upon the Piscataqua River and has sweeping waterfront views.

Touring the home offers insight into historical architecture, furnishings, and aesthetics.

The marvelous antiques within the walls of the Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden are breathtaking and highly interesting.

Beyond the house, the property’s gardens are another magnificent sight to behold.

Formal gardens, terraces, and flower beds set the scene for romantic musings on this most delightful of historical properties.

Address: 154 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801, United States

44. Children’s Museum of New Hampshire

Children’s Museum of New Hampshire

The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is a place for children to learn through play and interactivity.

With amazing arts, science, and cultural activities by the dozens, a day at the museum is both educational and amusing.

With sprawling exhibit areas and diverse programming, a day at the museum is entertaining for the whole family.

A preeminent attraction for children and families, this NH museum is a must-see.

Of note, at the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire visitors engage in play-based learning and interesting workshops.

Some of the most popular exhibits include a play patio, a build your airplane area, a Dino Detective experience, and a STEAM lab.

A visit to the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is both enriching and entertaining.

This is an experience parents can feel good about giving their children.

Address: 6 Washington St, Dover, NH 03820, United States

45. SEE Science Center

Tracy Lee Carroll / flickr

This small but popular children’s center in Manchester, New Hampshire offers a wide variety of educational experiences for little ones.

If you’ll be in or around Manchester during your trip to NH, and you’ll be traveling with small children, this attraction is a must-do.

SEE Science Center helps to develop and nurture a love for the sciences in all who visit the center.

Significantly, SEE Science Center engages visitors in hands-on exhibits featuring lights, sound, magnets, genomes, and so much more.

The center hosts daily educational presentations, summer camps, workshops, and traveling exhibits.

Furthermore, SEE Science Center is home to a killer LEGO project, a bubbles exhibit, a moonwalk presentation, and other highly interesting features.

Other cool center features include a gravity video game and a giant DNA model.

No matter how old your children are, there are thought-provoking exhibits at every corner that are entertaining and educational for the whole family.

Address: 200 Bedford St, Manchester, NH 03101, United States

46. Canterbury Shaker Village

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

This National Historic Landmark sits upon nearly 700 acres of forestry and is home to a restored community of original Shaker-style homes.

Established in the late 1700s, the Canterbury Shaker Village was home to a religious group that we know today as the Shakers.

Essentially, the village was established as a self-contained community of like-minded worshippers.

The homes built on this settlement are the site of this preserved community.

Canterbury Shaker Village is a preserved society that allows visitors to learn and understand a unique and often misunderstood way of life.

It is a place for self-professed “learning, reflection, and renewal.”

During a tour of Canterbury Shaker Village, guests can meander about the village, tour the restored homes, enjoy well-tended gardens, reflect at old mill ponds, observe unique architecture, get to know Shaker agriculture, and appreciate Shaker design elements.

Guests are also welcome to check out the many hiking trails that weave around the village.

Address: 288 Shaker Rd, Canterbury, NH 03224, United States

47. Milford Drive-In Theatre

Milford Drive-In Theater

This old-fashioned drive-in theatre has been drawing crowds since its establishment in 1958.

Although it was originally a one-screen theatre, in 1984 a second screen was added to the expansive property.

Presently, the theatre is the only operating drive-in in southern New Hampshire and as such, visitors come from far and wide to experience this antiquated way of enjoying films.

Notably, the theatre shows both new releases and re-released films in an array of rotating genres.

With two 84-foot screens and plenty of space for many to drive in at a time, buying tickets is super simple.

If you’ve never experienced a drive-in before, you simply park your car and tune in to a given radio station for its accompanying audio.

One of the unique things about going to Milford Drive-In Theatre is you can bring your dog along for the show too.

Finally, an awesome concessions menu will make the movie even more enjoyable with selections like popcorn, slushies, cotton candy, and other delightful confections.

Address: 531 Elm St, Milford, NH 03055, United States

48. Diana’s Baths

Allard One / Shutterstock

This scenic attraction located in Bartlett, New Hampshire is a series of small waterfalls in the state’s White Mountains.

No matter the time of year, anytime is a good time to enjoy the splendor of these natural beauties.

Situated along the Lucy Brook, Diana’s Baths are a great place for families to explore the falls, rocks, crevasses, ledges, and other natural features.

Of note, the waterfalls rise 75-feet above the brook and are accessible by a short, flat hiking trail.

Depending on weather conditions, the intensity of the waterfalls can vary from time to time.

When water levels are at their peak, access to the falls could be a bit more dangerous and require wading through shallow pools of water.

When water levels are low, passage to the falls is relatively dry and simple.

Once you’ve approached the falls, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the peace and serenity of the sounds and views.

Don’t forget to pack your camera because the landscape is insane.

Address: 3725 West Side Rd, Bartlett, NH 03812, United States

49. Seacoast Science Center

ARK NEYMAN / Shutterstock

As previously noted, Seacoast Science Center sits amidst the Odiorne Point State Park in the town of Rye, New Hampshire.

The mission of the center is to educate visitors about the importance of taking care of our planet.

Most notably, the center’s prime focus is on maintaining the ocean’s health.

Through interactive exhibits and educational programs, Seacoast Science Center educates and inspires the public to promote a healthy Earth.

Seacoast Science Center exhibits bring visitors face to face with marine life like whales and other mammals, reefs and ecological diversity, the NH coast, and more.

Some of the center’s popular exhibits include touch tanks, animal observation tanks, mammal fossils, a discovery dock, and a program about underwater exploration.

After exploring the center to your heart’s content, be sure to cap your visit with a stop to the gift shop where you can pick up some unique souvenirs and merchandise.

50. The Ice Castles

Keith J Finks / Shutterstock

The New Hampshire Ice Castles are an awe-inspiring attraction that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

The Ice Castles are a winter wonderland constructed of thousands of icicles.

Established in 2011, this astounding attraction brings smiles to the faces of families from all over the country.

The castles were conceived of one winter in Utah , when founder Brent Christensen needed to get his six stir-crazy kids out of the house.

His first ice construction was an ice cave in his backyard that chased away his children’s winter blues.

Presently, visitors can explore the gorgeous NH Ice Castles all winter long.

Typically, the castles open, with the cooperation of Mother Nature, in late December.

One of the features of this most delightful castle is the many ice slides that visitors can enjoy.

Another popular Ice Castles attraction is the horse-drawn sleigh rides through the woods of NH.

Lastly, if you plan to travel through NH in the winter, be sure to give the Ice Castles a spot on your itinerary; it is a truly astounding place to visit.

51. Funspot Family Entertainment Center

Funspot Family Entertainment Center

This awesome family attraction, situated in Laconia, New Hampshire, is an iconic arcade with hundreds of awesome retro games.

With one of the most prolific collections of 1970s and 1980s arcade games, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

The arcade itself was founded in 1952 by Bob Lawton who can still be found working at the center to this day.

Of note, the arcade is home to more than 600 video games, half of which are classic arcade games.

In addition to the hundreds of exciting and amusing arcade games, Funspot Family Entertainment Center also houses a 20-lane bowling alley, indoor mini-golf, kiddie rides, bingo, and more.

On-site visitors can also enjoy a bite to eat at the Braggin’ Dragon Restaurant or a beverage at the D.A. Long Tavern.

With so much to do under one roof, it’s no wonder families have been flocking to Funspot Family Entertainment Center for nearly 70 years.

Address: 579 Endicott St N, Laconia, NH 03246, United States

52. The Palace Theatre

Built in 1914, The Palace Theatre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This performing arts center hosts a professional theatre company as well as youth/teen acts throughout the year.

The theatre’s two goals are in preserving the history of the building while meeting the cultural and entertainment needs of their community.

With more than 800 seats, show tickets are typically not hard to come by.

No matter when you’ll be passing through NH, the jam-packed events calendar at The Palace Theatre means you can always catch a unique show.

Upcoming shows included famous comedy acts, revival plays, dance performances, child-friendly performances, and more.

All shows are performed by professional performers so you can be sure to experience a world-class show.

If you’re planning a great date night, the theatre partners with many local restaurants that can easily round out the evening.

Be sure to look up The Palace Theatre if you’re looking for a great night out on the town.

Address: 80 Hanover St, Manchester, NH 03101, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To New Hampshire

New Hampshire is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful states in the US .

With tons of outdoor attractions like state parks, nature centers, and farms that allow visitors to reconnect to nature, it’s no wonder travelers flock to NH every year.

The NH cultural scene is also booming with theatres, amusement parks, wineries, breweries, and so much more.

Whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, with family, or for a romantic getaway, NH has something, many things, for every sensibility.

There are tons of things to do in New Hampshire as evidenced herein.

Be sure to add some of these amazing attractions to your New Hampshire plans.

Happy travels.

Welcome to the New Hampshire Live Free and Explore Resources Page!

The “Helpful Links” are a work in progress and a quick way to learn more about New Hampshire and its seven regions. As I create new posts and content, I add related links here as well.

The “Favorite Pictures” section is a quick way to tour past adventures that hopefully pique your interest in exploring a full post.

Explore the “Historical Marker” section for some amazing facts and history about New Hampshire. I add new markers as the opportunity presents itself.  I highly recommend Michael Bruno’s book “Cruising New Hampshire History” if you would like to start your own challenge or just learn more about NH History.

New Hampshire has gorgeous historic bridges ! If you appreciate the history and craftsmanship of covered and stone arch bridges, you will be amazed by New Hampshire’s many gems.

Be sure to subscribe to stay updated on the latest posts and content. Follow us on social media and share with family and friends. I send a favorite pic from each post with every update.

Helpful Links

• Quick Links
• Links by category
• Links by Region

Quicklinks:

• Mount Washington Observatory
• New Hampshire Fish and Game
• NH Chronicle
• New Hampshire Living
• New Hampshire Magazine
• New Hampshire Made
• NH State Parks /
• NH Tour Guide
• Stay Work Play New Hampshire
• US News Best States Report
• Visit NH.gov
• Visit New Hampshire / New England

Links by Category

Agriculture:.

• New Hampshire Orchard Directory
• NH Maple Producers Association

Air Travel:

• Dillant Hopkins Airport, Keene
• Manchester-Boston Regional Airport
• Pease International Airport, Portsmouth
• Sky Bright, Laconia

Amusement Parks:

• Amusement Parks
• Jericho ATV Festival
• NH ATV Club

Beaches & Swimming:

• Seacoast Beaches
• Swimming Holes, Ocean and Lake Beaches
• Beaches Near Me
• Lakes Near Me
• Bicycle New England
• NH Bike Trails
• New England Mountain Bike Association / NH
• New Hampshire Rail Trails Coalition
• A Guide to New Hampshire Breweries / Here in NH
• Breweries / Visit New Hampshire
• NH Breweries / Brewtrail
• NH Business Directory / Chamber of Commerce.com
• NH Business Review
• New Hampshire Campground Owners Association
• NH State Parks
• Hampton Beach Village District
• Portsmouthnh.com
• Best Colleges in NH / U.S. News
• Claremont: River Valley Community College
• Community College System of New Hampshire
• Concord: Granite State College
• Concord: New Hampshire Technical Institute
• Durham: University of New Hampshire
• Hanover: Dartmouth College
• Henniker: New England College
• Keene: Keene State College
• List of Colleges in NH
• Manchester: Southern New Hampshire University
• New Hampshire College and University Council
• Plymouth: Plymouth State University
• Rindge: Franklin Pierce University

Covered Bridges:

• New Hampshire’s Historic Covered Bridges
• Dining Directory by Town
• Restaurants in New Hampshire / Trip Advisor

Events / Festivals / Fairs:

• Colebrook, The Great North Woods Sled Dog Challenge
• Deerfield Fair
• Hampton, NH Special Olympics Penguin Plunge
• Hampton Beach Sculpting Classic (Facebook)
• Hampton Beach Seafood Festival (Facebook)
• Hillsborough, Living History Event
• Hillsborough Summer Fest
• Keene, Monadnock International Film Festival

Keene Pumpkin Festival

• Laconia Motorcycle Week
• Laconia,   NH Pumpkin Festival
• Lincoln, New England Brewfest
• Loudon, Gift of Lights
• Milford Pumpkin Festival
• New Hampshire Magazine, Fairs and Festivals
• NH Guide to Annual Events
• Plymouth, New Hampshire Music Festival
• Sunapee, League of New Hampshire Craftsmen Fair
• Swanzey, Cheshire Fair (FB)
• Woodstock, NH Ice Castles

Gift Stores:

• Live Free or Die Gifts
• Chesterfield: Pine Grove Springs Golf Course
• Jackson: Eagle Mountain House and Golf Club
• Kingston: Apple Hill Golf Course
• Keene: Bretwood Golf Course
• New Hampshire Golf Association
• Portsmouth: Pease Golf Course
• Sandbornton: Steele Hill Resorts
• 20 Must do hikes in New Hampshire
• Hike New Hampshire
• Horatio Colony Preserve
• IT’S NOT ABOUT THE HIKE
• New England Hiking 4000 footers
• The Winnipesaukee River Trail
• Belknap County History and Geneology
• Berlin and Coos County Historical Society
• Carroll County Historical Societies
• Cheshire County Historical Society
• Cruising New Hampshire History / Historical Markers
• Grafton County Historical Society
• Historical Societies of NH Directory
• Hillsborough County Historical Society
• Historical Societies of Rockingham County
• Merrimack County Historical Society (FB)
• Mount Kearsarge Indian Museum

New Hampshire Historical Society

• New Hampshire Historical Markers
• New Hampshire Preservation Alliance
• Strafford County Historical Society
• Sullivan Historical Societies 
• Best Hospitals in New Hampshire U.S. News
• List of NH Hospitals 
• New Hampshire Hospitals / NHPR
• Take Me Fishing.org
• NH Judicial Branch Self Help Center
• NH Legal Assistance
• NH Bed and Breakfast Association
• Unique Lodging & Vacations NH
• Places to Stay and Visit NH
• Bank of NH Pavillion
• Music, Concerts & Gigs

New Hampshire Photography:

• Partridge Brook Reflections

News (TV, Newspaper, Radio):

• New Hampshire Public Radio
• New Hampshire Union Leader
• Newspapers by Town
• Radio stations by town
• Canoeing and Kayaking
• Kayaking and Canoeing in NH / 10 Best

Real Estate:

• NH Realtors.org
• Realtor.com NH Real Estate
• Zillow / NH
• NH Retreat Finder
• All School Districts in NH
• List of Non-Public Schools
• NH Department of Education

Self Storage:

• Neighbor Self Storage
• League of New Hampshire Craftsmen
• New Hampshire Live Free, Shopping in NH

Snowsports:

• Cross Country
• Ride and Ski Card

Snowmobiling:

• NH Snowmobile Association
• Snowmobile Museum

Snowshoeing:

• Alpine Adventures
• Great Glen Trails
• Aerial America, New Hampshire

Web Services:

• Keene Web Works
• NH Winery Association
• Visit New England / NH
• NH Outdoors

Monadnock Region

• Discover Monadnock
• Gilsum Rock Swap
• Harris Center for Conservation Education
• Horatio Colony Museum
• Miller State Park
• Monadnock Dining
• Monadnock Region.net
• Monadnock State Park
• Monadnock Travel Council
• Pack Monadnock / Trail Finder
• Pathways for Keene
• Peterborough

Seacoast Region

• Fort Constitution
• Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce
• Odiorne State Park, Rye
• Portsmouth NH.com
• Restaurants / Portsmouth NH.com
• Seacoast Science Center
• Strawberry Banke Museum
• Wentworth By The Sea

White Mountains Region

Bretton woods.

• Cog Railway
• Food and Drink White Mountains
• Kancamagus Highway
• Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves
• Mount Washington
• Omni Mount Washington Hotel & Resort
• Plymouth Historical Society
• Plymouth State University
• The White Mountains New Hampshire
• Wildcat Mountain
• Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce

Dartmouth / Lake Sunapee Region

• Harding Hill Farm, Sunapee
• Lake Sunapee Living
• Lake Sunapee Restaurants
• Mount Sunapee
• Places to Work in the Dartmouth-Lake Sunapee Region
• Sunapee Cruises/Dinner and Lake Cruises
• The Shaker Museum
• Trailside Sugarhouse, Andover
• Winslow State Park/Mount Kearsarge
• 6 Saplings Sugarhouse, Wilmot

Merrimack Valley Region

• Cities and Towns in the Greater Merrimack Valley
• Concord.gov
• Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce
• Restaurants Merrimack Valley
• The Scenic Railriders, Concord
• The Deerfield Fair

Great North Woo ds Region

Beaver brook falls wayside.

• Dixville Notch State Park
• Full Send Bar and Grill
• NH Living / Dining in the Great North Woods
• Pittsburg ATV Club
• Pittsburg, New Hampshire
• Pittsburg, New Hampshire Cabin Rentals on Back Lake
• The Balsams Grand Resort and Hotel
• The Buck Rub Pub and Lodge
• The Great North Woods Region, “Visit New England”

Lakes Region

Castle in the clouds.

• Castle In The Clouds Events
• Castle In The Clouds Weddings
• Lakes Region Conservation Trust
• Lake Winnipesaukee / Things to do

MS Mount Washington

• Museum of the White Mountains Plymouth
• NH Boat Museum
• New Hampshire Motor Speedway
• NH Lakes Region Tourism Association
• Squam Lakes Association
• Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
• Tilton Town History
• Weirs Beach
• Where to dine / Lakes Region

State Of New Hampshire

• New Hampshire Employment Security
• Granite State Stats
• Top Companies Across NH
• Stay Work Play 
• Granite State Stats by County
• Granite State Stats by Planning Region

Cities and Towns

• Granite State Stats by City and Town

Favorite pictures

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

The Gilsum Rock Swap and Mineral Show

Scenic RailRiders, Concord

Ashuelot River 2022 White Mountains Foliage Tour

2022 White Mountains Foliage Tour

Beaver Pond 2022 White Mountains Foliage Tour

St Matthews Chapel Sugar Hill 2022 White Mountains Foliage Tour

Castle In The Clouds Falls of Song

Hampton Beach Sandsculpting

Squam Lake Natural Science Center

West Rattlesnake Mountain

Lake Warren

The Memorial Arch of Tilton

Mount Monadnock Sunrise

Wildcat Looking East

Hampton Beach

Walldogs Keene

“Amazing Carvings by Josh” Albany, NH

Weirs Beach Laconia

President Franklin Pierce

Antrim Peterborough

Mount Monadnock

Hampton Beach Seafood Festival

Gibson’s Bookstore Score

Cathedral of the Pines Rindge

Weirs Beach Endicott Rock

Cathedral of the Pines

State Capitol

Lake Nubanusit

Beaver Pond Kancamagus

Westmoreland, Park Hill Meeting House

New Hampshire’s Connecticut River

Keene Sunset Rock

Omni Mount Washington Hotel

Beaver Brook Falls

Bacon Bridge, Pittsburg (Connecticut River)

Table Rock, Dixville Notch

Bacon Bridge, Pittsburg

Lake Warren Alstead

Portsmouth & NH’s Seacoast Region

Historical Markers

Historical Marker Ahead

Amherst, Birthplace Horace Greely

Andover, Potter Place

Antrim, New Hampshire’s Last Soldier of the Revolution

Antrim, Cork Plain Bridge

Ashland, George Hoyt Whipple

Bartlett, Lady Blanche House

Bath, Bath New Hampshire

Bath, Bath Bridge

Bean’s Grant, Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bedford, Colonel John Goffe

Bennington, Factory Village

Berlin, The City That Trees Built

Berlin, The Avenues Neighborhood

Berlin, Maynesborough’s First Resident

Bethlehem, Pierce Bridge

Bethlehem, Francis Glessner Lee

Canaan, Noyes Academy

Carroll, Mount Washington Hotel

Carroll, Bretton Woods Conference

Carroll, The Crawford Family

Carroll, Zealand and Henry

Campton, Blair Bridge

Charlestown, Carlton “Pudge” Fisk

Charlestown, John Stark’s expedition to Bennington

Charlestown, Fort At No 4

Chesterfield, Pierce Shops

Chesterfield, Chief Justice Harlan Fiske Stone

Chesterfield, Methodist Meeting Place

Clarksville, 45th Parallel

Claremont, Union Church

Claremont, Historic Handshake

Claremont, First Roman Catholic Church

Concord, State Capitol

Concord, Sunset Baseball

Concord, Turkey Pond

Concord, Franklin Pierce

Concord, The Pennacook

Concord, Cival War Mustering Camps

Concord, Presidential Primary

Concord, Concord Coach

Concord, Ratification of the Federal Constitution

Concord, The Pierce Manse

Concord, White Park

Concord, Mary Baker Eddy

Concord Bridges House

Conway, White Mountain School Of Art

Cornish, The Cornish Colony

Cornish, Winston Churchill

Cornish, Salmon Portland Chase

Cornish, Cornish / Windsor Bridge

Derry, Robert Frost

Derry, General John Stark

Derry, Pinkerton Academy

Derry, Old Academy Building

Dixville, Dixville Notch

Dunbarton, Molly Stark House

Enfield, The Enfield Shakers

Enfield, Downtown Enfield Village

Epsom, Major Andrew MCCLARY

Exeter, Revolutionary Capital

Exeter, Exeter Town House

Exeter, Abraham Lincoln Speaks in NH

Fitzwilliam, Brigadier General James Reed

Francestown, Soapstone

Francestown, Levi Woodbury

Franklin, Indian Mortar Lot

Gilsum, Gilsum Stone Arch Bridge

Goshen, Captain John Gunnison

Greenfield, Town Meeting House

Greenland, Weeks House

Hanover, Basic Computer Language

Haverhill, Haverhill – Bath Bridge

Haverhill, Haverhill Corner Historic District

Hebron, Home Site of Nathaniel Berry Govenor

Hillsborough, Pierce Homestead

Hillsborough, Stone Arch Bridges

Hinsdale, Hinsdale’s Auto Pioneer

Hinsdale, Newhall and Stebbins

Holderness, Samuel Livermore

Jefferson, Cherry Mountain Slide

Keene, Keene Glass Industry

Keene, Hampshire Pottery

Keene, Jonathan Myrick Daniels

Laconia, Veteran’s Association

Lancaster, Wilder Holton House

Lempster, Lighting Up Rural New Hampshire

Lincoln, Betty and Barney Hill Incident

Lisbon, Old Coal Kiln

Littleton, Willowdale Settlement

Milan, The Nansen Ski Jump

Milford Captain Josiah Crosby Lieutenant Thompson Maxwell

Milford, Bernice Blake Perry

New Boston, Home Of The Molly Stark Cannon

Newbury, Center Meeting House

Newcastle, William & Mary Raids

Newmarket, Wentworth Cheswill

Newport, Joel McGregor

Newport, Sarah Josepha Buell Hale

North Hampton, Breakfast Hill

Northwood, First New Hampshire Turnpike

Northwood, Lafayette’s Tour

Orford, The Ridge

Pembroke, Watering Trough

Pembroke, First Meeting House

Pembroke, Suncook Village

Pembroke, Pembroke Street

Peterborough, Revolutionary War Drummer William Diamond

Peterborough, Settler’s Rock

Peterborough The Macdowell Graves

Pinkham’s Grant, First Ascent of Mount Washington

Pittsburgh, Republic Of Indian Stream

Plainfield, Kimball Union Academy

Plymouth, Smith Bridge

Plymouth, Stream Gaging in NH

Portsmouth, Portsmouth Plains

Portsmouth, Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion

Portsmouth, North Cemetery

Portsmouth, John Langdon

Portsmouth, John Langdon 2

Richmond, Hosea Ballou

Rindge, Second Rindge Meeting House

Rumney, Loveland Bridge

Rumney, Baker River

Rye, Isles Of Shoals

Rye, Odiorne’s Point

Rye, Atlantic Cable Station

Stewartstown, Metallak

Stewartstown, 45th Parallel 2

Stoddard, Stone Arch Bridge

Stoddard, Stoddard Glass

Sugar Hill, First Ski School In America

Surry Mountain Gold Mine and Lily Pond

Sutton, John Sargent Pillsbury

Swanzey Homestead Woolen Mills Dam

Swanzey Denman Thompson

Tamworth, First Summer Playhouse

Tamworth, Chocorua Legend

Temple, Temple Glass Factory

Tilton, Lochmere Archeological District

Walpole, First Connecticut River Bridge

Weare, Piscataquog River Mill Sites

Weare, East Weare Village

Wilmot, Mason’s Patent

Historic nh bridges.

Albany Covered Bridge, Albany

Ashuelot Covered Bridge, Winchester

Bacon Bridge Pittsburg

Bath Village Covered Bridge, Bath

Blacksmith Shop Bridge, Cornish

Blair Covered Bridge, Campton

Blow-Me-Down-Bridge, Cornish

Bump Covered Bridge, Campton

Carleton Bridge, Swanzey

Columbia Bridge, Columbia

Coombs Covered Bridge, Winchester

Corbin Bridge, Newport

Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge, Cornish

Cresson Covered Bridge, Swanzey

Dingleton Hill Bridge, Cornish

Gilsum Stone Arch Bridge, Gilsum

Groveton Bridge, Northumberland

Hancock-Greenfield, Covered Bridge

Happy Corner Bridge, Pittsburg

Haverhill Bath Covered Bridge, Bath

Henniker Stone Arch Bridge, Henniker

Hillsborough Stone Arch Bridge, Hillsborough

Jackson XC Covered Bridge, Jackson

Jackson Covered Bridge, Jackson

Keniston Covered Bridge, Andover

McDermott Covered Bridge, Langdon

Meriden Covered Bridge, Plainfield

New England College Covered Bridge, Henniker

Looking through New England College Covered Bridge at Henniker Stone Arch Bridge

Old Stone Arch Bridge, Keene

Packard Covered Bridge, Lebanon

Pier Train Bridge, Newport

Prentiss Covered Bridge, Langdon

River Road, Pittsburg

Saco River Bridge, Conway

Rowell Covered Bridge, Hopkinton

Slate Covered Bridge, Swanzey

Smith Millenium Covered Bridge, Plymouth

Stoddard Stone Arch Bridge, Stoddard

Squam River Bridge

Swift River Bridge, Conway

Swiftwater Covered Bridge, Bath

Thompson Covered Bridge, Swanzey

Wrights Train Bridge, Newport

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Your Guide to Wandering

Best Places in New Hampshire: 21 Towns and Attractions to Visit

Ready to visit the best places in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire is a stunning state in New England, the northeastern region of the United States. It offers visitors the chance to explore a range of beautiful landscapes- majestic mountains, endless forests, lakes, and a small 18-mile stretch of Atlantic coastline.

New Hampshire is known for its abundance of outdoor activities such as skiing, kayaking, hiking and camping. Check out the variety of quaint towns and cities to explore, full of history and culture. Fall is a particularly great time to visit New Hampshire, as the leaves turn a breathtaking array of vibrant colors.

I’m a New England native and New Hampshire still is one of my favorite places to visit any season!

But first, do you have these items for your trip? Rental Car : I recommend  Rentalcars.com  for the cheapest prices! Activities :  Viator  is my favorite resource to book fun tours and day trips! Accommodation :  Booking.com  has a variety of hotels, but also rentals and b&bs

Best Places in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a 4 season destination with its beautiful Atlantic coast and lake region to explore in the summer months, its colorful hikes, and cozy quaint towns to visit in the fall and winter.

1. Lake Winnipesaukee

Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire, boasting more than 288 miles of shoreline and over 40 communities to explore. Whether you want to go swimming, boating, fishing, or just relax on the beach, Lake Winnipesaukee is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in New Hampshire!

Check out Weirs Beach for a quintessential Lake Winnipesaukee experience. Not only is it one of the most popular beaches on the lake, but it’s also home to a charming boardwalk with plenty of eateries and arcades like FunSpot, where you can play classic arcade video games.

If you are seeking a more nature-centered experience, check out hikes at nearby Mt. Major or check out the Lake Winnipesaukee Museum in Wolfeboro to learn about the lake’s history, as well as its unique wildlife, including loons and bald eagles.

North Conway is a small town in New Hampshire known for its stunning scenery and vast outdoor activities. Outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and even four-season fun can be found in North Conway making it an ideal destination for adventurers.

It was named one of the Top 10 Best Small Towns in America for Adventure, offering an exciting winter ski scene with six mountain resorts providing state-of-the-art lifts and trail grooming.

It is also conveniently situated near the beautiful Kancamagus Highway, offering even more opportunities to explore and discover what New Hampshire has to offer.

In the summer North Conway has activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and shopping. Cranmore Mountain provides a thrilling Aerial Adventure Park and Mountain Coaster, while Attitash offers an alpine slide, water slides, mountain bike trails, and horseback riding. Wildcat Mountain has a zipline and views of Mt. Washington.

Shopping is also available at Settlers Green Outlet Village with tax-free boutiques and designer outlets, or visitors can find unique gifts at Penguin Gallery. Zeb’s General Store offers local products like berry jams and maple syrup. Check out Conway’s vintage train, Conway Scenic Railroad, built in 1874.

Day tripping from Boston? Click here to book your visit to North Conway to see its famous fall foliage!

3. Portsmouth

The charming town of Portsmouth is one of the top vacation spots in New England and one of the best places to visit in New Hampshire. You can find fabulous boutique shopping and seafood restaurants along the cobblestone streets of downtown.

Take a stroll through the 10-acre waterfront Prescott Park for some fresh air, or visit the amazing Strawbery Banke Museum for an immersive look into history. Visitors can explore 70 different sites around the city on the Portsmouth Harbor Trail, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings and Landmarks.

Visitors can tour some of the historic buildings such as the 1716 Warner House with its original Colonial wall paintings and Queen Anne furniture. The 1758 John Paul Jones House allows visitors to explore collections of china, silver, glass, portraits, and clothing.

Finish your visit with a nice meal at La Maison Navarre Café or Ristorante Massimo located in or near Market Square. With so much to explore, Portsmouth certainly is one of the best places to visit in New Hampshire.

Tour Portsmouth by bike! Click here to book a 2-hour bike ride adventure along New Hampshire’s coast.

4. White Mountains

The White Mountains of New Hampshire offer some of the best hiking in the Northeast. From a gentle stroll, full-on backcountry expedition, or scenic drive, there’s a way for everyone to enjoy the mountains.

For a more challenging hike, head to the Presidential Range for some of the highest peaks in the Northeast. The Appalachian Trail runs through this section of the mountain and provides access to popular destinations such as Mt Washington, Adams, and Jefferson which offer spectacular summit views.

You’ll also find numerous other trails that wind around waterfalls, over rocky ledges, and through alpine meadows where wildflowers bloom in the summer.

Feeling adventurous? Book a paddling tour with views of the White Mountains!

5. Kancamagus Highway

The Kancamagus Highway is a 34-mile stretch of road between Conway and Lincoln, New Hampshire. It is part of the White Mountain National Forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain range.

Along the way, travelers will find numerous scenic overlooks, as well as plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic or just take in the scenery. The highway is one of the best places in New Hampshire to experience fall foliage, with brightly colored maples and birches lining the way.

Many day hikes start from one of the many trailheads along The Kancamagus Highway. For level trails with waterfall access, check out Diana’s Bath and Sabbaday Falls , both close to North Conway and each a short walk through the forest.

Experience the Kancamagus Highway with a self-driving audio tour! Click here to book!

Concord, the capital city of New Hampshire, has a population of just over 43,000 people, and many great historic and outdoor attractions to explore. The State House dates back to 1819 and offers guided tours. Other historic sites to explore include the National Historic Landmark and McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center.

Concord is also home to a vibrant downtown with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. You can find some unique gift shops on Main Street or take in some live music at one of the local pubs. Concord to a great base to explore nearby Canterbury Shaker Village and Manchester.

Concord has some of the best food in New Hampshire . Concord is bustling with American seafood and meat classics, but many restaurants have popped up with an international and modern twist. Check out award-winning restaurants The Barley House and Tavern and Revival Kitchen.

7. Hampton Beach State Park

Located right on the Atlantic, Hampton is sure to provide you with all of the relaxation and entertainment that you could need! Whether it’s taking a dip in the ocean, exploring shops and restaurants along the boardwalk, or watching an outdoor movie at Hampton Beach State Park, there is something for everyone in this lively spot.

The beach itself is a sight to behold. The white sand and blue waters provide the perfect backdrop for your beach day, while the boardwalk offers plenty of places to sit back, relax, and people-watch. There are attractions nearby such as amusement parks, historic sites, and nature trails that offer incredible views of the Atlantic.

The best part about Hampton Beach is that it’s never overly crowded. Even during peak season , you won’t have to worry about being overwhelmed by other visitors as there’s plenty of room for everyone to enjoy the area. It is also very family friendly with full amenities, weekly summer fireworks and events for kids.

8. Mount Monadnock

Mount Monadnock is a popular destination for hikers! The 3,165-ft summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape – perfect for those looking to get away and enjoy some fresh air and nature.

With five main trails ranging in difficulty and 35 miles of alternative routes, it’s easy to tailor your Monadnock hike to suit your skill level and preference. The most popular route is the White Arrow Trail, which is 2.3 miles long and begins at the Old Toll Road trailhead.

On sunny days, the mountain may be busy so be sure to plan ahead! An easy day trip from Boston , Mount Monadnock is one of the best places in New Hampshire for hiking and outdoor adventures.

Keene, New Hampshire is an idyllic place full of charm and historical beauty. Downtown offers picture-perfect views with a unique mix of old and new. You can explore the sights on foot, including the iconic Colonial Theater which hosts lots of music, film, and cultural events.

Every year during autumn, Keene also celebrates its famed Pumpkin Festival which always draws in huge crowds. Keene has a large student population which is accompanied by a cool restaurant and bar scene.

10. Bretton Woods Resort

Bretton Woods Resort offers 100 ski runs, which makes it the largest ski resort in New Hampshire. The resort caters to skiers of all levels, from beginners to experts. Brenton Woods has a ski school that offers classes for beginners, so don’t worry if you’re new to skiing.

The resort has ten lifts that make it easier for the large quantity of winter visitors to access the slopes. And one of the best things about Bretton Woods is that it receives a lot of snow.

Apart from skiing, Bretton Woods also offers plenty of activities like snowshoeing, ice-skating, and tubing. For those who need a break from physical activities, Brenton Woods has areas to recharge after hitting the slopes. There are plenty of nearby spas, dining, and shopping options that cater to visitors’ needs.

Brenton Woods has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The resort used to be a popular vacation spot for the rich and famous as multiple U.S. presidents and celebrities used to stay at the resort. The resort is surrounded by breathtaking scenery that makes it an ideal vacation destination.

11. Dartmouth College, Hanover

If you’re a history buff and love architectural marvels, the Dartmouth College campus should top your list of places to visit in Hanover. The college was founded in 1769 and holds a rich history that’s reflected in its academic buildings. There are plenty of opportunities to take a guided tour of the campus and learn the school’s history.

Hanover’s Main Street is filled with boutiques, bookstores, cafés, and restaurants that offer an array of cuisine. Among the best restaurants is Lou’s Restaurant and Bakery, known for its brunch and homemade pies. You can also check out Murphy’s on the Green, a classy American eatery.

Hanover is a town that is heavily influenced by student-life activities and the student population. You can head down to the Hanover Inn, where the locals gather and check out community events, such as farmers’ markets, music festivals, and art exhibitions.

Hanover’s location also makes it a great starting point for outdoor activities in the nearby mountains. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, a day trip to Mount Moosilauke or the part of the Appalachian Trail that runs through Hanover is worth considering.

12. Mount Washington Park

The Washington Auto Road, constructed in 1861, is a steep and winding road that covers 7.6 miles of unguarded roads, making it one of the steepest roads in all of America. It has an average gradient of 11.6%, beginning at the base of 1,527 feet and ending at the peak of 6,145 feet.

It is a journey that should only be undertaken by drivers with extensive driving experience, as it requires knowledge of steep inclines and declines. You will need to double-check your vehicle’s readiness, including good brakes, and fill up your tank.

As you drive up the Washington Auto Road, you will notice that the trees gradually disappear, and the landscape transforms into one with boulders strewn about. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the summit, where the view expands over four states.

13. Mount Washington Cog Railway

Another option you have while exploring Mount Washington is taking a thrilling ride on the Cog Railway built in 1869. The journey toward the summit is approximately 45 minutes, and the round trip takes about three hours, including the time you spend atop the mountain.

At the summit check out the Sherman Adams Visitors Center where you will find a small museum, a cafeteria, and the Mount Washington Observatory, a research station that studies extreme weather conditions. The abrupt and extreme shifts in the weather are prevalent on Mount Washington.

Be warned that weather can be extreme at the summit! In 1934, the wind here was recorded at 231 miles per hour, making it the fastest non-tornado wind flow ever recorded globally. Wind speeds exceeding 74 miles per hour are frequent, and rainfall and snowfall can occur anytime throughout the year.

14. Manchester, New Hampshire

Manchester, the largest city in New Hampshire, offers a perfect blend of urban and outdoor adventures. This dynamic city is easily accessible from Boston, Lake Winnipesaukee, and the White Mountains National Forest, making it a prime location to explore different parts of the state.

The first stop in Manchester should be the Currier Museum of Art, where you can admire a great collection of works by legendary artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Matisse. Additionally, it is worth taking a guided tour of the stunning Frank Lloyd Wright Zimmerman House, next door.

As the city rests alongside the river Merrimack, exploring the banks and its hidden gems is a must. The Palace Theatre and Manchester’s City Hall Plaza are worth visiting. Take your time strolling through the Millyard Museum, located within a historic textile factory, now converted into a vibrant business district.

If you’re traveling with kids, the SEE Science Center offers an interactive and hands-on learning experience. Apart from the SEE Science Center, check out the Amoskeag Fishways Learning and Visitors Center, where one can witness the wild Atlantic salmon’s migration in the nearby staircase channel.

15. Isle of Shoals

The Isles of Shoals is a cluster of nine islands, four of which are part of New Hampshire (the others are part of Maine ). These islands have a fascinating history that includes tales of shipwrecks, pirates, artisan communities, and buried treasure. The Isles of Shoals have been inhabited by fishing communities for over 400 years.

Today, the islands are a popular leisure destination for locals and visitors alike. Star Island is the only accessible island via ferry boat service from the mainland. The Isles of Shoals Steamship Company in Portsmouth takes passengers to Star Island for a three-hour shore stop.

One of the main attractions of the Isles of Shoals is the Oceanic Hotel on Star Island. It has been a landmark and tourist attraction for more than 100 years. The hotel’s historical charm and architecture make it a unique destination for visitors. The island also has a 200-year-old chapel and buildings from the 19th-century village.

16. Littleton

Nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Littleton is a charming town. With its cute main street, covered bridge, bronze Pollyanna statue, and rich history, this town has something for every type of traveler.

Take some time to shop local at unique stores such as The Nest, Balance Bethlehem, and First Impressions. If you love history and culture, check out the Littleton Museum. Here, you’ll find permanent gallery exhibits and a fascinating look at the town’s evolution.

Don’t miss out on the Thayers Inn Hotel, an impressive building with striking architecture. There’s also The Beal House, which is rumored to be haunted for those who love a good ghost story.

Next up, make sure to visit the Riverwalk Covered Bridge located at 18 Mill Street. It’s a perfect photography spot and a great place to tick off your New England covered bridges bucket list.

If you’re feeling hungry, grab a bite at the Littleton Diner before catching a show at The Littleton Opera House. The Littleton area also has a candy store worth visiting in Chutter’s. It’s home to an extensive collection of candies, including a 112-foot long candy counter.

Just north of Littleton, Christmas fans will find themselves in a magical location when they reach Santa’s Village in Jefferson. This festive amusement park is dedicated to winter and is open all year round. It features theaters, rides, and various characters from Santa’s workshop.

Want to see more covered bridges? Click here to book a covered bridge biking tour!

17. Lincoln

Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Lincoln is a beautiful town bustling with a variety of activities and adventures. From skiing to moose tracking, and natural gorges to indoor theatres, Lincoln offers the perfect blend of excitement, nature, and art.

One of New England’s favorite ski resorts, Loon Mountain Resort offers excellent skiing, as well as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and tubing. If you’re looking for more winter fun, head to the ice castle installations in Lincoln. It’s an enchanted winter playground of ice sculptures that provides an exciting blend of art, and snow!

For unique activities in Lincoln, take an unforgettable climate-controlled moose safari with Pemi Valley Moose Tours. You’ll have the opportunity to come up close with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

After exploring nature, head over to Jean’s Playhouse, Lincoln’s indoor theatre. They offer a variety of shows, ranging from classic plays and music to contemporary theatre pieces.

Feeling thirsty? Click here to book a winery tour in Lincoln!

18. Franconia Notch State Park

Nestled in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire, Franconia Notch State Park and Flume Gorge provide visitors with breathtaking views of wildlife, greenery, and lakes. The park’s hiking trails and natural formations offer an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and everyone in between.

The Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway is one of the oldest aerial tramways in North America. It took its first passengers to the 4,080-foot summit high above Franconia Notch in 1938. The ride to the top on the scenic tramway takes about ten minutes and passengers are rewarded with stunning views of the White Mountains.

The entrance into the park requires a State Park fee. For adults, it is $4, and for youths aged 6-11, it is $2. Anyone under 5 or over 65 gets in free all day.

Specific attractions such as the Flume Gorge, the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, and the discovery pass (which includes both) are sold separately.

19. Flume Gorge

One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Flume Gorge. The 800-foot-long crack in the rock at the base of Mount Liberty is an incredible natural wonder. The Flume Gorge walls rise 70 to 80 feet above the brook that flows through it, and visitors can follow it on a boardwalk just feet above the water.

Franconia Notch has miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. The trails meander through the woods and offer a chance to see wildlife up close. The campground is open year-round and is perfect for overnight stays.

If you’re looking for a place to cool off, Echo Lake State Park offers a beautiful sandy beach and boat rentals.

20. Castle in the Clouds

Are you looking for a dreamy destination on top of a mountain with great scenic views? Then Castle in the Clouds in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire should be your next vacation spot. This classic 1918 manor is an architectural masterpiece that covers an enormous area of 5,200 acres.

The manor was commissioned by Thomas Gustave Plant, who made his riches through the shoe business. In 1913, at the age of 51, Plant handed over his retirement project and commissioned the construction of Castle in the Clouds.

The mansion is opened for tours where visitors get to explore the beautiful rooms with antique furnishings and incredible views. While visiting Castle in the Clouds, visitors must stop at the on-site restaurant. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, so visitors can enjoy their meals while taking in the stunning views.

For those who love adventure, hiking the Shannon Pond trail is an excellent way to spend your day. The trail takes you to Shannon Pond, which is surrounded by natural beauty, and you can also get a great view of the mansion from there. Visitors can occasionally spot animals like moose, deer, and other wildlife along the trail.

21. Storyland

Storyland has been creating magical memories for families since its opening in 1954. The park’s immersive attractions are based on beloved childhood classics like Cinderella, Goldilocks, and Humpty Dumpty. But what sets Storyland apart from other children’s theme parks is their clever and original play areas and experiences.

Take a ride in a pumpkin coach, a swan boat, or sail in a pirate ship. Kids can also “drive” parents on a track and through covered bridges in an antique car. With a full-sized pumpkin carriage and an immersive Cinderella’s Castle, children can feel like they’ve escaped into a fairytale world.

If water rides are more your family’s speed, the park has a range of splash pads, fountains, and other water-based attractions to enjoy during the hotter months. Even the littlest ones will love climbing aboard the Buccaneer Pirate Ship, which soars high into the sky before plunging back down into a splash pool.

And for those looking for a bit of nostalgia, Storyland hosts a special “Nostalgia Nights” event for adults to relive their own childhood memories.

Where to Stay in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers tons of affordable places to stay- from rustic ski cabins to historic farmhouses.

Best Place to stay near Lake Winnipesaukee

Sutton House Bed and Breakfast is an historic Victorian-era home, this Center Harbor B&B features an outdoor pool overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee.

The Center Harbor Village Historic District is 6 minutes’ walk from the Sutton House B&B, which is within 15 minutes’ drive of the Castle in the Clouds. Squam Lake Wild Life Center is 10 minutes’ drive away, while the Loon Center is only 5 minutes’ drive from the property.

Click here to book your stay in Lake Winnipesaukee!

Best Place to Stay near Portsmouth

The Hotel Portsmouth is located in the historic Haymarket Square area and is just a 10-minute walk from Prescott Park on the Portsmouth waterfront. The Strawbery Banke Museum is half a mile away and Kittery Outlets is less than a 10-minute drive away.

Click here to book your stay in Portsmouth!

Best Place to Stay near Conway

Kearsarge Inn offers individually decorated rooms that include a fireplace, and seating area.

North Conway Country Club and Mount Washington Observatory is less than half a mile away from Kearsarge Inn. Story Land amusement park is 10 minutes’ drive.

Click here to book your stay in Conway!

Explore More Places to Stay in New Hampshire

Frequently asked questions: best places new hampshire, what is the best walkable city in new hampshire.

The charming town of Portsmouth is one of the best places in New Hampshire and one of the most walkable cities in New Hampshire. You can find fabulous boutique shopping and seafood restaurants along the cobblestone streets of downtown.

Why do people love New Hampshire?

New Hampshire is so special because of its stunning scenery all year round. The summer offers opportunities to explore the lake region, and hike, while the fall and winter offer chances to experience the fall foliage and ski resorts.

Is Vermont or New Hampshire better?

Neither- New Hampshire and Vermont are very similar in terms of their natural beauty, fall foliage, hiking and world class ski resorts. Check out the top things to do in Vermont!

Wrap-up: Best Places New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a hidden gem that offers a plethora of activities, experiences, and attractions to its visitors. No matter what your interests are, New Hampshire has some of the best places to visit in New England.

Franconia Notch State Park, White Mountain National Forest, Strawbery Banke Museum, USS Albacore Museum & Park, and the Omni Mount Washington Resort are just some of the highlights that make New Hampshire worth visiting.

Plan your trip now and discover why New Hampshire is one of the best-kept secrets in the Northeastern United States!

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 5, 2024

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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Your Ultimate Guide To Spring Attractions And Activities In New Hampshire

Super-rad musician, scholar, photographer, and traveler. The Mountain West and larger PNW = home, but can be found wherever there's adventure.

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Spring is the season of renewal, and there’s no better place to experience it than in New Hampshire. As winter’s frosty curtain lifts, our state emerges from its snow-dusted hibernation in a symphony of flavors and fragrances. The air, still crisp but tinged with promise, carries the whispers of maple-laden forests and blossoming fields of wildflowers just waiting to be explored and admired by travelers and residents alike. Whether you’re looking for adventure, romance, or relaxation this spring, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your mood and style in the Granite State! Venture into the heart of New Hampshire’s wine country , to the state’s prettiest botanical gardens, or don a picnic basket for a nostalgic outing in a quiet, canopied setting; New Hampshire has a little something for everyone in spring, and you’ll never run out of things to do and see.

Flower Blooms In New Hampshire

Botanical gardens in new hampshire, parks to visit in new hampshire this spring, spring hikes in new hampshire, spring picnic spots in new hampshire.

From rolling hills to postcard-worthy towns, New Hampshire becomes a real-life canvas painted with delicate daffodils, majestic tulips, radiant rhododendrons, and sprawling lupine fields come spring. As the snow melts away, flower enthusiasts are treated to a spectacular display of nature’s beauty, with blooms gracing gardens, parks, and countryside vistas alike. From the iconic Seacoast to scenic mountain trails lined with a kaleidoscope of wildflowers , experiencing these magnificent flower blooms is an unforgettable springtime delight in the Granite State.

1. Fields of Lupine Festival

• Location: Sugar Hill, NH and surrounding towns
• Popularity: Very Popular
• Price: Free

2. Tulip Fête

• Location: Hancock, NH
• Price: Free Farm Admission

This spring, escape the hustle and bustle and step into a world where time slows down. New Hampshire’s botanical gardens invite you to explore their hidden corners, where every leaf and petal tells a story. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or a curious wanderer, New Hampshire’s prettiest botanical gardens promise a symphony of natural wonders and a bevy of educational opportunities. So go ahead, lose track of time, and let the leaves whisper their secrets!

3. Bedrock Gardens

• Location: Lee
• Popularity: Hidden Gem
• Price: Free to visit, donations encouraged

4. Distant Hill Gardens

• Location: Walpole
• Price: Donation-Based Admission

5. Fuller Gardens

• Location: North Hampton
• Price: Admission Fees Vary

From the rugged peaks of the White Mountains to the tranquil shores of its pristine lakes, New Hampshire’s prettiest state parks invite visitors to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of the Granite State. While the stunning sights are captivating year-round, spring is extra special as the waterfalls flow at their peak, rivers are coursing, and our stunning mountains retain a light dusting of snow as a backdrop. Whether hiking along scenic trails, picnicking amidst towering trees at Weeks State Park, or soaking up the mountaintop seclusion at Crawford Notch State Park, New Hampshire’s gorgeous state parks promise unforgettable experiences for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, and you’ll find endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation no matter where you go.

6. Franconia Notch State Park

• Location: Franconia, NH
• Popularity: Very Popular, Busy on Weekends
• Price: Day-Use Fee

7. Odiorne Point State Park

• Location: Rye, NH

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8. pawtuckaway state park.

• Location: Nottingham, NH
• Popularity: Very Popular, Especially on Weekends

9. White Lake State Park

• Location: Tamworth, NH
• Popularity: Popular, Especially in Summer

Springtime hiking in New Hampshire is an experience like no other. As the trails thaw, they invite adventurers to witness the state’s natural beauty waking up from its winter slumber. Imagine the crunch of fresh leaves under your boots and the melody of a nearby stream as your soundtrack. Every step brings a new discovery, from budding trees to playful wildlife. From the iconic chasm of Franconia Notch and Bridal Veil Falls to pretty hidden gems beyond the White Mountains, there is no shortage of NH trails to explore – and we’ve rounded up just a few paths that are extra magical in spring!

10. Arethusa Falls Trail

• Location: Crawford Notch State Park
• Popularity: Popular, Especially in Spring

11. Franconia Ridge Loop

• Location: White Mountain National Forest
• Popularity: Very Popular, Especially in Spring

12. Mount Monadnock Trail

• Location: Monadnock State Park
• Price: State Park Day-Use Fee

There’s something extraordinary about picnicking in New Hampshire during spring. Picture this: you’re sitting on a soft blanket, surrounded by lush greenery, with a gentle breeze rustling the leaves. You’ve got your favorite snacks spread out before you as you bask in the warm sunshine. The sound of birdsong is in the air, and every so often, a flower petal floats down onto your picnic blanket. If budget-friendly is on your to-do list this season, picnicking is a romantic thing to do that checks all the boxes! It’s these simple moments that make springtime picnics in New Hampshire absolutely unforgettable. There are endless picnicking spots to check out around the state, ranging from quiet, flower-enveloped city parks to secluded lakeside spots and overlooks in the mountains. Take your pick!

13. Prescott Park

• Location: Portsmouth, NH
• Popularity: Very Popular in Spring

14. Star Island, Isle of Shoals

• Location: Isle of Shoals
• Price: Varies

15. Kezar Lake

• Location: Sutton, NH

New Hampshire’s natural landscapes come alive with vibrant colors and wildlife every spring, offering a unique experience for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether it’s the thrill of ziplining at Candia, maple sugaring in the trees, summiting Mount Washington, or experiencing the charm of a historic covered bridge, New Hampshire’s best spring activities are all worth diving into!

Of course, while we highly encourage getting outdoors to enjoy the magic of the new season, a road trip is the perfect way to enjoy the sights on a chilly spring day. The Kancamagus Highway is a thrilling and gorgeous drive through northern NH that features some spectacular waterfalls. Or, make time for a weekend getaway in scenic North Conway .

8 Spots Along The Kancamagus Highway In New Hampshire That Everyone Should Stop And Visit

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Explore New Hampshire

These 11 Unique Places To Stay In New Hampshire Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

When my family and I first started our hunt for unique stays our journey took us to New Hampshire . This state will always hold a special place in my heart with its gorgeous lakes and towering mountain peaks. We spent countless hours hiking through the forest and vacationing in the granite state and we made dozens of family memories we cherish greatly. So if you are like us and absolutely love this state then why not make it your next trip for vacation, but not just any regular trip? With these unique places to stay in NH your next adventure is sure to be an unforgettable one.

Treehouse Rentals In New Hampshire

Tiny house rentals in new hampshire, castle rental in new hampshire, glamping in new hampshire, on the water rentals in new hampshire.

Large sections of the state are filled with beautiful forests so to take full advantage of this natural resource why not stay the night among the trees? Sleeping among the canopy of trees is one of the best experiences around and these treehouses afford quite a bit of luxury as well.

1. Four Season Treehouse, Sanbornton

• Address: Sanbornton, New Hampshire
• Size: 1 bedroom and 1 bath
• Price: $355 /night
• Amenities: Barbecue grill and free wifi
• Rating: 5 Stars

This cozy treehouse in Sanbornton is the perfect escape during any season. In the warmer months take a quick walk down to a private community beach for a little fun in the sun, and when those colder months come rolling in, gather around a fire or enjoy some ice fishing. The space inside is akin to a tiny house with clever use of space but still affording enough space for a full bathroom, mini kitchen, living space, and a loft bedroom. Small enough to fit everything you need and still have a family of 4 housed inside this can easily be a relaxing “get away from it all” kind of vacation. Sanbornton is close enough to lovely little towns to explore like Tilton, Franklin, and Laconia so make sure you venture out and take advantage of these beautiful towns while you stay in this treehouse .

2. Treehouse Life, Munsonville

• Address: Munsonville, New Hampshire
• Size: 1 bedroom and 1/2 bath
• Price: $295 /night
• Amenities: Fireplace and free wifi

Strip off the busyness of life and leave it all behind for a quiet retreat to this treehouse . Located in the southwestern corner of the state you will be surrounded by forests and beautiful scenery. Enjoy scenic sunsets and starry nights, warm yourself by the outdoor fire pit, and allow the crackling of the fire to soothe you. The space inside is cozy but will provide everything you need for a weekend getaway to an extended stay.

3. Treetop Luxury Escape, Lincoln

• Address: Lincoln, New Hampshire
• Price: $419 /night
• Amenities: free wifi

Sometimes the location of a unique stay alone can alone be the reason to book a night but this Treetop Luxcury Escape has both quality and location in its favor. Lincoln is a lovely little mountain town sitting on the west side of the White Mountains. Take a trip into this national forest and explore places like the Kancamangus Highway and continue all the way through to Conway and with a quick turn you will be in the phenomenal mountain town of North Conway . You can also extend the scenic drive on a loop and head through Bartlett which is also a great location, before you circle back around to the treehouse. Go for a hike and explore numerous trails, waterfalls, and stunning overlooks. If you make your trip in the winter then the town of Woodstock is a must to visit and see the stunning Ice Castles . Then again you may just choose to stay put you will be surprised by just how lovely a stay in a tree house can be. The craftsmanship is second to none with fine details all throughout the treehouse from reused and repurposed wood and metal. Guests will be amazed by the overall design making this a perfect place to stay on a vacation.

Tiny houses have become extremely popular over the years and the trend just keeps getting better. People have taken the idea and have made them truly one-of-a-kind properties, so when you are looking for unique rentals in New Hampshire , this is a great place to start. When I have stayed in tiny houses before it makes me realize I can always live with less stuff. So jump into the same great experience and book a small space to make big family memories.

4. Cardinal, Dorchester

• Address: Dorchester, New Hampshire
• Price: $210 /night

Trail Stays takes local craftsmen and builds tiny houses as a tonic for our busy modern world. There are 5 other tiny houses spread out throughout the property with plenty of privacy between them. The Cardinal is a bunk bed design with a large picture window by the bed so you will never be without a great view of the forest. The purpose of these tiny houses is to provide a retreat from the hectic modern life and reconnect with nature. So unplug and book a couple of nights to spend a romantic getaway to enjoy some quality time with the ones you love the most. These tiny houses are also centrally located so you can take a trip up to the White Mountains National Forest , Explore the surrounding towns of Lake Winnipesaukee , or be within an hour and a half drive to Manchester.

5. Tiny Pine Lakefront Cabin, Tilton

• Address: Tilton, New Hampshire
• Price: $315 /night
• Amenities: free wifi, lake view, and fireplace

I don’t know about you but I always love a quiet retreat to a lake. There is something so peaceful about sitting by the shore of a calm body of water nestled into the pine trees. That is exactly what you will find with Tiny Pine . This tiny cabin makes good use of the outside space with string lights hanging and illuminating the place at night while guests can grill and have a campfire. Access to the lake can be found with only a short walk to the dock where you can take out the peddle boat or kayaks for a day in the water. Rest and relax inside with a spacious open living area for a tiny house. Cozy up by the fireplace or cook a full meal in the stocked kitchen. If you would like to venture out for the afternoon the Tanger outlet mall is only a short drive with lots of good restaurants in the area. Down the road, you will also find Pirates Cove minigolf which was always a favorite of mine whenever vacationing in the area.

When searching for cool places to stay in New Hampshire you might be hard-pressed to find something better than this one. Who wouldn’t want to live like kings and queens in your very own castle? Live out your very own fairytale ending at this extraordinary vacation rental .

6. A Gothic Castle, Fitzwilliam

• Address: Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire
• Size: 8 bedrooms and 5 1/2 baths
• Price: $1,800 /night
• Amenities: Pool, hot tub, free wifi, and gym

Have you ever wanted to live in a castle? Now is your chance because this wonderful castle puts England back in New England! This gothic castle is located on a hill overlooking the water and has beautiful a mountain view. Fitzwilliam is a little town just north of the Massachusetts border on the southwestern side of the state with Nashua only a little over an hour's drive or you can explore the lovely back country roads leading to Keene . This is also one of the closest places to Boston so if you are flying in from far away this is a great spot to visit. Perhaps you are feeling up for a hike then Mount Monadnock is just north of here if you would like a challenge. In the winter guests can enjoy some groomed trails for a little cross-country skiing. The castle itself is the luxurious star of the show. Inside you will find European touches from the molding to the fantastic woodwork, exploring this castle is a fully immersive experience. Spend your time searching every nook and cranny because there are hidden doors and secret passageways to other guest rooms all throughout this fairytale rental .

Glamping is another rising trend that ranges from luxurious unique stays to simpler designs where you might have to “rough it” just a little. Either way, these places can be really fun places to stay in New Hampshire . So when you are looking to do some camping with a little pizzazz look no further than these glamping options.

7. Open Air Cabins, Lyman

• Address: Lyman, New Hampshire
• Price: $100 /night
• Rating: 4 Stars

For those who love camping then the closer you can get to the great outdoors the better. That is what you will find with these rustic open-air cabins . There is a privacy canvas that can be folded down but other than that it's just a platform, roof, and the open air. Some may be looking more to “the inn” kind of vibe but this is much more historical and rustic. Those who are truly looking to experience nature will find this to be a very attractive option when it comes to camping. If you prefer the property has plenty of other rustic options like enclosed cabins and more. The Ogontz Resort houses lots to explore and do with a private lake where you can go canoeing, a dining hall, and plenty of hiking trails. The resort also serves breakfast in the morning so you can almost call this a glamping bed and breakfast. This is a historic resort where they maintain the weathered charm of those who came before so if a rustic retreat is your thing then this is the place for you.

8. Yurt Home, Bretton Woods

• Address: Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
• Size: 3 bedrooms and 2 baths
• Price: $416 /night
• Amenities: free wifi and hot tub
• Rating: 4.9 Stars

If you prefer the glamorous side of camping more then this yurt home will be more your style. This home was inspired by the unique design of a yurt but could be more described as a cabin or a house. There are plenty of modern amenities sprinkled throughout so you won’t miss a single modern convenience. The property outside is just as beautiful with an ice rink in the winter, a fire pit, and a bubbling hot tub. During your stay make use of the close by river for a little bit of tubing in the summer or a swim. Nearby there are plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives after all you are in the White Mountains, which is my favorite place in New Hampshire. Head over to Crawford Notch State Park for amazing hikes like Mount Willard, or go to Franconia Notch State Park and take a short hike up to Artist Bluff for one of the best views in all of the state. Travel to the other side of Mount Washington and get a ticket to the Cog Railway which takes you all the way up to the top of the mountain.

9. Authentic Nomatic Tipi, Chatham

• Address: Chatham, New Hampshire
• Size: 1 bedroom
• Price: $80.50 /night
• Amenities: Barbeque grill

This authentic tipi was made by Nomadic Tipi and sits on a raised platform. The wood stove inside should keep things plenty of toasty during your stay, although you may want to make your stay in the summer months. The Tipi sits on a property known as Toadhill right on the northeastern part of the state right next to Maine. Head south through Gorham and you can find the town of Jackson and get views of Mount Washington there is also a famous covered bridge you will want to visit on your way. You can even drive to the top for an epic adventure. If you positively love unique stays then this place is filled with them from converted buses, yurts, tiny house trails, and so much more. The Tipi is designed to be a no-frills stay where one can connect with nature, that being said there is no running water or electricity so it is a great opportunity to unplug and get away from it all. On the property, there are trails for hiking and biking so you can really reconnect with nature. Toadhill also plans an annual music festival so make sure to keep up to date on all thats happening there by visiting the Toadhill website.

Isn’t there something just so tranquil and peaceful about being right on the water? When you look at the rivers and lakes in New England I have to say I think New Hampshire has the best ones. Everything from trickling mountain streams to the lakes region of the state is just beautiful. So stay right on the water with some unique stays or better yet, stay right on the water.

10. The Lincoln Cottage, Gilford

• Address: Gilford, New Hampshire
• Size: 5 bedrooms and 3 baths
• Price: $995 /night
• Amenities: Free wifi, hot tub, and boathouse

Lake Winnipesaukee has to be the most beautiful lake in all of New England. I have driven by it so many times, I have taken a boat out in the water, and I have seen it in all its stunning glory in every season. I could never get enough of the views and if you stay at the Lincoln Cottage you don’t have to ever take your eyes off this natural wonder. Perched high on a hill overlooking the lake this mansion certainly is unique all while maintaining a historic charm. The house has received plenty of modern updates over the years but none of it takes away from the quintessential New England look we all love. On the property is also a boat house so bring your own vessel of choice and take a spin out on the lake. The mansion is huge with plenty of space for a large group and still has room to explore even more. Nearby there are so many great things to see and do like Gunstock Ski Resort , Weirs Beach , Funspot , and scenic train rides. Those staying in this luxury lake house will not be disappointed.

11. Harborside, Laconia

• Address: Laconia, New Hampshire
• Price: $400 /night
• Amenities: Pool and hot tub
• Rating: 4.8 Stars

What better way to enjoy Lake Winnipesaukee than to stay on a houseboat floating on the water itself? Get your sea legs ready because you will be boarding the docked Harborside for a night unlike anything else. Allow the cadence of the water to relax you to sleep and enjoy the top-notch quality on board. While you stay on this houseboat you can also you all of the amenities of Akwa Marina. Enjoy the large beach, the fish-shaped swimming pool area with a hot tub, a restaurant, fire pits, beach volleyball, and so much more. You probably won’t want to leave, but if you do then there are nearby arcades, mini golf, shopping, and tons to do in this lovely little town.

Have you ever spent the night at any of these unique places to stay in NH? Which ones are your favorite and which ones will you add to your bucket list this year? There is so much to see in do in the wonderful state of New Hampshire it truly is a special place even if you have to travel halfway across America just to get there.

Looking for more to do in New Hampshire ? Check out these other unique stays from some of the best hotels to boutique hotels and yes Adventure Suites is in there, how could you not put that on the list? Spend a day in the lovely town of Portsmouth or the town of Concord .

The post These 11 Unique Places To Stay In New Hampshire Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

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13 most romantic getaways in new hampshire.

From Portsmouth to the famous Omni Mount Washington Resort, these are the most romantic getaways in New Hampshire.

Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire

Courtesy of Chesterfield Inn

The Chesterfield Inn offers cozy accommodations for couples.

Couples may be surprised to find that New Hampshire is filled with an array of enchanting destinations. From the majestic White Mountains to the quiet of Squam Lake, this quintessential New England getaway has been capturing the hearts of travelers for generations. Whether your ideal romantic getaway includes winter sleigh rides, an autumn road trip or exploring a seaside town, the Granite State has you covered. Read on to discover the most romantic getaways in New Hampshire.

• Omni Mount Washington Resort
• Church Landing at Mill Falls

North Conway

• Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa
• Wentworth by the Sea
• Adair Country Inn
• Chesterfield Inn
• The Glen House Hotel
• Sugar Hill Inn

Getty Images

This seaside city, situated along the tranquil Piscataqua River, is one of New Hampshire's most popular destinations for couples. Here, twosomes can gaze at period furniture at The Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden or walk hand in hand through sprawling Prescott Park, a waterfront public park boasting manicured gardens and peaceful fountains. Meanwhile, history buffs won't want to miss the Strawbery Banke Museum, where costumed actors reenact what life was like in New England hundreds of years ago. Don't forget to make time for a stroll through Market Square – this quaint downtown area is lined with art galleries, antique shops and historic buildings, the latter of which house restaurants, breweries and more.

Where to stay: After a day of exploring, head back to your cozy digs at The Hotel Portsmouth. Boasting plush bedding, private baths and flat-screen TVs, this charming hotel scores major points thanks to its convenient and walkable location in downtown Portsmouth. To really sweep your partner off their feet, book your stay in The Loft. This bi-level suite comes equipped with a king bed, two bathrooms, a claw-foot soaking tub and a living room. A light breakfast is also included in rates.

Omni Mount Washington Resort: Bretton Woods

Courtesy of Omni Hotels & Resorts

Located in the heart of the White Mountains, the Omni Mount Washington Resort is ideal for couples seeking a luxurious respite in nature. Whether you're lounging by the pool, snuggling up by the fire or basking in stunning views from the seasonal rooftop bar, this grand property is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. For maximum comfort, recent guests recommend opting for a spacious room in the Presidential Wing, which features deluxe bathrooms and private patios or balconies.

In addition to ample amenities and lavish accommodations, this mountain resort offers countless activities for you and your sweetie to enjoy. When you're not challenging your beau to a tennis match or teeing off on Omni Mount Washington's championship golf courses, try soaring above the Presidential Range on a thrilling canopy tour. Or, put your equestrian skills to the test on a guided horseback ride through the White Mountains. An autumn visit allows couples to witness some of New England's best fall foliage , while winter travelers can take advantage of the resort's many cold weather activities, including scenic gondola rides, skiing, tubing, sleigh rides and more.

After a day packed with activities, soothe your aching muscles with a couples massage at the on-site spa before settling in for a romantic dinner for two at Stickney's, a steakhouse featuring a seasonal menu.

Address: 310 Mount Washington Hotel Road, Bretton Woods, NH 03575

Church Landing at Mill Falls: Meredith

Situated on Lake Winnipesaukee's Meredith Bay, this charming lakeside hideaway is one of four properties that make up the village-style resort Mill Falls at the Lake. The Adirondack-style inn is loved by travelers for its homey atmosphere, complete with rustic touches like wood furnishings and stone fireplaces.

Begin your morning with a relaxing outdoor yoga session, then get out on Lake Winnipesaukee on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Couples can also use the resort's complimentary bikes to explore nearby Main Street, which is dotted with restaurants, local boutiques and antique stores.

If you'd rather spend your romantic getaway being pampered, opt instead for an indulgent massage or hydrating facial at Cascade Spa. In the evening, feast on lobster rolls and ribeye at Church Landing's cozy Lakehouse Grille before roasting marshmallows over the outside fire pit. When it's time to hit the hay, twosomes will enjoy perks like luxurious down bedding, lakefront views, and patios or balconies in all guest rooms.

Address: 281 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, NH 03253

North Conway is especially popular in winter, thanks in large part to its abundance of great ski areas . However, couples will find plenty of things to do year-round. Top activities include hiking to the Diana's Baths waterfalls, driving the famous Kancamagus Highway, and riding the Conway Scenic Railroad through Mount Washington Valley and Crawford Notch. Just don't leave without picking up some delicious treats from the Bavarian Chocolate Haus, an old-fashioned chocolate shop selling house-made truffles, fudge, nonpareils and more.

Where to stay: Bed down at White Mountain Hotel & Resort , a family-owned and -operated establishment that boasts a heated outdoor pool, a nine-hole golf course and Finnish saunas. The resort is adjacent to Echo Lake State Park, so couples can explore the region's hiking trails after filling up on creative New England cuisine at Ledges Restaurant.

Another top-notch lodging option is Stonehurst Manor . In addition to elegant 19th-century furnishings, guest rooms include details like opulent four-poster beds, fireplaces and whirlpool baths. For added ambiance, plan your trip for January to experience the hotel's annual Ice Bar, a full-size outdoor bar that is carved entirely out of ice.

Read: The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa: Whitefield

Courtesy of Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa

Overlooking New Hampshire's spectacular White Mountain National Forest, the historic Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa is one of New England's premier destinations for couples. Equipped with both an outdoor and an indoor pool, clay tennis courts, a nine-hole golf course, an ax-throwing arena and a working farm, Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa has no shortage of fun activities for you and your other half to enjoy. When you're not shooting pool in the game room, snuggle up at the on-site movie theater for a romantic date night – there are more than 500 titles to choose from.

Couples can savor delicious farm-to-table fare at the Harvest Tavern, or reserve a table at the 1865 Wine Cellar for a one-of-a-kind fine dining experience. After filling up on specialties like seared quail and veal tenderloin, retreat to one of the resort's elegantly appointed guest rooms, all of which boast plush bedding and flat-screen TVs. For the best views of Mount Lafayette and Cannon Mountain, book a southern-facing room.

Address: 101 Mountain View Road, Whitefield, NH 03598

Filled with countless activities and several top-notch hotels, the town of Lincoln fits the bill for a romantic getaway in New Hampshire. Head to Franconia Notch State Park to explore the spectacular Flume Gorge, a natural gorge extending along the base of Mount Liberty, or soar over the treetops on a scenic gondola ride. There are myriad ways to spend your time in Lincoln, but couples would be remiss to skip the premier Ice Castles, a unique frozen experience that features crawl tunnels, slides, a bar and more – built entirely out of ice.

Where to stay: After exploring the region's top attractions, snuggle up at one of Lincoln's high-end hotels. RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain is loved by travelers for its lagoon-style swimming pool – which transforms into an ice skating rink come winter – and on-site Italian restaurant, not to mention the property's Seven Birches Winery.

If you're looking for something more intimate, consider staying at Red Sleigh Inn. This five-bedroom lodge receives glowing reviews from visitors thanks to its unmatched hospitality, clean accommodations and contactless check-in process.

Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa: New Castle

Courtesy of Wentworth by the Sea, A Marriott Hotel & Spa

Couples looking to celebrate their love in style should look no further than Wentworth by the Sea, a Marriott Hotel & Spa . Boasting stellar ocean views and steeped in old-world charm, this 19th-century hotel on New Castle Island was made for twosomes seeking time alone in a scenic seaside setting.

Not only were recent guests blown away by the beautiful grounds, but they raved over the friendly staff and well-appointed guest rooms (which feature marble bathrooms, large windows, minifridges and flat-screen TVs). For further amenities like a fireplace, a kitchenette, a whirlpool bathtub, a balcony and additional living space, couples can splurge on a waterfront Marina Suite. In addition to cushy accommodations, the hotel boasts a full-service spa, three hot tubs and two heated pools. In the evening, lovebirds can dine on flavorful entrees (think: grilled mahi-mahi and crab-stuffed haddock) at SALT Kitchen & Bar while sampling vino from the extensive wine list.

Address: 588 Wentworth Road, New Castle, NH 03854

Adair Country Inn: Bethlehem

Courtesy of Adair Country Inn & Restaurant

Once a private residence located less than 3 miles from the town of Littleton, this quaint property was converted into an inn in 1992. While some rooms feature modern furnishings like granite countertops and jetted tubs, others have maintained their rustic charm. Book your stay in the Bickford room for details like a four-poster bed, wingback chair and dormer windows, or enjoy perks like a private patio and cathedral ceilings in the Sinclair Suite. Recent travelers raved over the excellent service and well-kept grounds, saying a romantic stroll through the property's fairytale gardens is a can't-miss.

For further pampering, opt for the "Romantic Getaway" special, which includes extras like fresh flowers, candles and sparkling wine. Later, retreat to the dining room, where you can taste specialties like venison-stuffed mushroom caps and sauteed scallops.

Address: 80 Guider Lane, Bethlehem, NH 03574

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Chesterfield Inn: West Chesterfield

This classic New England B&B beckons to couples seeking a romantic getaway off the beaten path. The property boasts three buildings where twosomes can stay: The Main Inn, The Cottage and the Johanna Wetherby Building. No matter which residence you choose, you will be treated to modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and spacious private baths; past guests especially loved the comfortable beds and beautiful mountain views. Plus, many accommodations offer jetted tubs, private entrances, balconies or patios, and fireplaces.

Up the romance factor even further with the "Date Your Mate Package," which includes a three-course dinner, a bottle of prosecco and breakfast in bed. For couples with a sweet tooth, the "Death by Chocolate" package comes with decadent treats like chocolate-covered strawberries and L.A. Burdick hot chocolate.

If you can tear yourself away from your elegant digs, head off campus to one of the region's numerous apple orchards or sugarhouses for a maple syrup tasting. Time your visit for fall to explore nearby Pisgah State Park's vibrant foliage, or travel during the colder months to see the inn transform into a winter wonderland.

Address: 20 Cross Road, West Chesterfield, NH 03466

Jackson attracts couples who are looking for a classic New England mountain getaway. Snap a photo under the covered Honeymoon Bridge, hike to Glen Ellis Falls or arrive in winter to enjoy an Austrian sleigh ride with your honey at Nestlenook Farm.

Where to stay: After an exhausting day of activities, bed down at the Inn at Ellis River. Many guest rooms here come with balconies, jetted tubs and fireplaces; all are decorated with antique period furnishings. Time your visit for December, when the property hosts its annual Inn-to-Inn Holiday Cookie Tour, an event that anyone with a sweet tooth will love. Another great place to hang your hat in Jackson is The Inn at Thorn Hill & Spa, a regal property with a wine cellar and a library. For the most impressive views of Mount Washington, opt for the Presidential Suite, which comes outfitted with a king bed, gas fireplace, a deep soaking tub and two wingback chairs.

The Glen House Hotel: Gorham

Courtesy of The Glen House Hotel

Nestled in New Hampshire's White Mountains, this four-season property is the perfect place for lovebirds to rekindle their romance. In summer, you and your beau can rent bikes to explore nearby Great Glen Trails, or get out on the Androscoggin River in a kayak. In winter, enjoy thrilling activities like cross-country skiing , tubing and snowshoeing, or hop on the Mt. Washington SnowCoach for a narrated adventure tour of the region. Meanwhile, couples who visit between late May and late October will be able to drive the legendary Mt. Washington Auto Road to the mountain's summit – the highest peak in the Northeast.

No matter what time of year you visit The Glen House Hotel, recent visitors say the property's spacious and clean accommodations won't disappoint. Each of the hotel's nearly 70 guest rooms come outfitted with full-length armoires, vanity mirrors and flat-screen TVs; for extra perks like a balcony and picturesque mountain views, consider splurging on one of the property's premium rooms. Explore beyond your luxury digs to find an indoor saltwater pool, a panoramic deck with a fire pit and The Notch Grille, the on-site restaurant serving up everything from sumptuous burgers and lobster rolls to filet mignon.

Address: 979 state Route 16, Gorham, NH 03581

To enjoy the unspoiled natural beauty of New Hampshire's Lakes Region away from the crowds, head to Squam Lake. This quiet getaway northwest of Lake Winnipesaukee is cherished by travelers for its peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife. While you're here, keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, loons and great blue herons, and don't forget to visit the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center to hike the live animal exhibit trail.

Where to stay: Twosomes will want to book their stay at The Manor on Golden Pond , which offers amenities like a relaxing spa and afternoon tea, as well as thoughtfully appointed accommodations with wood-burning fireplaces and secluded decks.

Another top lodging option, The Inn on Golden Pond, grants access to outdoor fire pits, a private beach and more.

Sugar Hill Inn: Sugar Hill

Built in the 18th century as a quaint family farmhouse, this quintessential New England B&B is now a sanctuary for lovebirds. In addition to the historic main building's eight cozy rooms and suites, Sugar Hill Inn has expanded to include several small vacation cottages featuring luxurious amenities. These secluded residences boast private baths, gas fireplaces, a porch and original artwork; some even come equipped with double whirlpool tubs, saunas and rain showers. All accommodations include a daily breakfast and a variety of small afternoon bites.

While you're here, say goodbye to stress with a relaxing hot stone massage, then join a guided hike or rock climbing experience with one of Sugar Hill Inn's trusted vendors. When your stomach starts to rumble, previous guests highly recommend the property's dining room, where you can savor delicious entrees made with fresh local produce and herbs grown in the on-site garden. If you're really looking to wow your significant other, book the inn's "Romantic Getaway" package, which includes Champagne and chocolates upon arrival, handmade souvenir mugs, and two four-course dinners.

Address: 116 state Route 117, Sugar Hill Road, Sugar Hill, NH 03586

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Romantic Getaways in Maine
• The Most Romantic Getaways in Vermont
• The Most Charming B&Bs in the U.S.

Tags: Travel , Couples Vacations , New England Vacations , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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10 things to do in NH this weekend: Earth Day, 'Willy Wonka' and more

Kick off Earth Week with Discover WILD New Hampshire Day and an Earth Day celebration at the NH Audubon.

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.

• More at The Music Hall: Wild & Scenic Film Festival
• Orquesta Akokan on Friday, April 19 at 7 p.m. at Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club in Portsmouth. More info .
• Dartmouth’s New Music Festival on Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20 on the Dartmouth College campus in Hanover. More info .
• Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka” from Friday, April 19 through Sunday, May 19 at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre. More info .
• See also: Ducks & Doughnuts , hosted by the Tin Mountain Conservation Center
• See also: Nature@Nite: What-a-HOOT! at the Seacoast Science Center
• NH Audubon Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the NH Audubon Massabesic Center in Auburn. More info .
• Art Outdoors: An Afternoon Painting from Nature on Saturday, April 20 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Holderness Free Library. More info .
• Special Film: “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” on Saturday, April 20 at 7 p.m. at the Showroom in Keene. More info .
• Rob Zappulla Orchestra on Saturday, April 20 at 7:30 p.m. at The Claremont Opera House. More info .

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