new hampshire to visit

Top New Hampshire Attractions

Things to do in new hampshire, explore popular experiences, popular cities in new hampshire.

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Boston to Kennebunkport with Optional Lobster Tour

WW2 Small Arms Experience

Tea Blending

Self Guided Haunted Walking Tour in Portsmouth (APP/GPS)

Kancamagus Scenic Byway Audio Driving Tour Guide

Public|Explore the Islands & Harbor Must See Hidden Sites|2-2.5hr

3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Littleton, NH

Superman Zipline Tour in Morningside

Boston to New Hampshire Fall Foliage White Mountains Day Trip

New Hampshire White Mountains Autumn Foliage Tour from Portland

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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

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15 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire

By Hannah Selinger

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

Drive to the top of Mt. Washington

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

Get out on the water on Lake Winnipesaukee

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

Go wine tasting in Amherst

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

Hike off of iconic Kancamagus Highway

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

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

Shop for antiques on Route 4 

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

Visit a waterfall in Pinkham Notch

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

Ride the Scenic Railroad in North Conway

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

Visit the Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough

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

Dive into history at Canterbury Shaker Village

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

Enjoy the sand dunes at Seabrook Beach

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

Test your nerves on the Yankee Cannonball

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

Ride Attitash’s Alpine Slide

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

Stroll down Portsmouth’s State Street

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

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

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

Experience farm-to-table dining in Manchester

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

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There’s nothing quite like summertime in New Hampshire. From heart-pumping hikes on some of the highest peaks in the northeast to soul-soothing swims in our crystal clear lakes, your perfect summer getaway awaits in the Granite State.

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14 Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Aug 5, 2022

From the historic seaport of Portsmouth and its nearby beaches to the majestic rock-bound peaks of the White Mountains and the vast northern forests, New Hampshire overflows with places to visit and things to do.

Cruise Lake Winnipesaukee on a vintage steamer, ride a train through spectacular fall foliage, photograph covered bridges and idyllic New England villages , or spend summer days watching the kids play in one of the White Mountains' many attractions for families.

Couples will find romantic getaways easy to plan, with country inns and cozy B&Bs in the mountains and overlooking quiet lakes.

The White Mountains alone could fill a vacation with things to see, including beautiful waterfalls and natural wonders like The Flume Gorge and Lost River. Mountain tramways and The Cog Railway ascend to the summits for even more panoramic views. So get started planning your next vacation with this list of the best places to visit in New Hampshire.

1. North Conway and Eastern White Mountains

2. portsmouth, 3. franconia notch and western white mountains, 4. lake winnipesaukee, 5. the seacoast: short and sandy, 6. mount washington, 7. monadnock region towns, 8. kancamagus highway, 10. lake sunapee, 11. hanover and the upper valley, 12. squam lake, 13. manchester, 14. the great north woods, map of places to visit in new hampshire.

North Conway's location, in the middle of the beautiful valley carved by the meandering Saco River in the heart of the White Mountains, makes it a natural center for skiing in New Hampshire in winter and outdoor sports in the summer.

Cranmore Mountain , one of the nation's first ski resorts, becomes a summer playground with its Aerial Adventure Park and Mountain Coaster.

Building on these assets, North Conway took advantage of New Hampshire's lack of a sales tax to become a center for name-brand outlet stores. Along with shopping in the outlets and in the boutiques and shops lining Main Street, one of the most popular things to do here is riding the vintage trains of the Conway Scenic Railroad , either south through the scenic Saco Valley or north into the rugged landscapes of Crawford Notch .

The Saco seems made for kayakers as it flows through the valley; you can rent kayaks or go on guided tours with Saco Bound.

Likewise, Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge, which form a scenic backdrop to the valley's west, seems put there for climbers, and are known as two of the country's best trad cliffs . Watching climbers scale these vertical faces is a popular spectator sport.

Hikers will find trails of all levels , from woodland walks to challenging climbs, making North Conway a good base for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

Read More: Best Things to Do in North Conway

Its deep harbor and the availability of an unlimited supply of tall pine trees sought by the British Royal Navy for shipbuilding combined to make Portsmouth one of America's most important Colonial seaports.

The wealth of its merchants is easily appreciated when visiting one of the several historic homes of that era, each with its own special features.

The elegant Warner House , for example, has the oldest colonial wall paintings in their original place, as well as the earliest example of Queen Anne furniture in America. The equally elegant Moffatt-Ladd House , built in 1763, has its original furniture; it and the Rundlet-May House are known for their period gardens.

For a sense of how people lived here during different periods of the city's four-century history, visit the 10-acre Strawbery Banke Museum , preserving homes and other buildings in the old port neighborhood. Rather than restored to the same period, these homes, lodgings, and shops are preserved as they appeared in various eras, and costumed interpreters demonstrate period skills and crafts. Eras represented range from the 1600s to a neighborhood market stocked with foods of the 1940s.

A reminder that even in the north, the wealthy in seaport towns and elsewhere were served by enslaved people, Portsmouth's Black Heritage Trail traces Black culture of the colonial and later periods. Sites include the docks where slaves were auctioned as they came off the ships, and a touching memorial park marking the location of a recently discovered African burial ground.

Portsmouth isn't all about history. Market Square and the adjoining Market Street are lined with independent shops and boutiques, including the ultimate book and toy store for children, G. Willikers! And Portsmouth's dining scene is enough to lure food lovers from Boston.

Along the waterfront, Prescott Park is filled with flowers in the summer, and often with music, as it's the venue for the Summer Music Concert Series . The city's main concert and performance venue is The Music Hall , with a year-round schedule of top names.

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

New Hampshire's notches are passes that have been scoured out into bowl-like shapes by glaciers, and Franconia Notch includes some of the best things to do in the western White Mountains. Interstate 93 becomes a two-lane road here to preserve the fragile ledges and wilderness character of the notch.

The Flume is the first stop heading north, a deep gorge with vertical sides carved by the small brook that still runs through it. An optional longer path leads past Table Rock, Avalanche Falls, Liberty Gorge Cascade, and through a covered footbridge. The Basin , a round pool carved out of solid rock, is just up the road.

For another dramatic rock formation, make a short detour to visit Lost River .

At the head of the notch is Echo Lake , where there's a beach and boat rentals. Behind it, a trail climbs to Artists' Bluff , overlooking Echo Lake and the ski slopes of Cannon Mountain .

Near the lake is the base for the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway , which has been airlifting skiers, hikers, and leaf-peepers to the 4,080-foot summit of Cannon Mountain since 1938. The views widen as the giant gondola climbs, and at the top, even more precipitous views are revealed by a walk along the Rim Trail .

Finding things to do around Lake Winnipesaukee is a lot easier than spelling its name. You can drive around it to visit lakeside towns, explore it by kayak, cruise it on a lake steamer, ride alongside it on a train, or just enjoy looking at the lake from an Adirondack chair on your hotel balcony.

And, of course, you can swim in it, at beaches in Weirs, Gilford, and Wolfeboro.

Things for families to do are clustered around Weirs Beach , where you can board the historic cruise boat, MS Mount Washington ; the US Mailboat MV Sophie C .; or the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad for a scenic ride to the lakeside town of Meredith . Nearby FunSpot has a huge arcade and the world's largest video game museum for rainy day fun.

More places to visit are on the eastern side of Lake Winnipesaukee, in Wolfeboro , quieter than Weirs Beach, with galleries, boutiques, and lakeside dining. Step back into the golden age of boating with a ride on the Millie B , a 28-foot mahogany replica of a 1928 Hacker-Craft.

New Hampshire's 18-mile coastline is the shortest of any state, but it packs a lot of summer fun into those miles. Hampton Beach , one of the best beaches in the Northeast , is 700 feet long and at high tide is 150 feet wide.

There's always a lot going on at Hampton Beach. On the boardwalk that lines the beachfront, the 1899 Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom is a live music and comedy venue and there are movies on the beach, fireworks, and frequent concerts at Hampton Beach State Park's Seashell Stage. Along the boardwalk, you'll find all the old favorite beach kiosks selling soft ice cream, cotton candy, beach toys and souvenirs.

North of Hampton, you'll find more beaches in the town of Rye, beginning with the long crescent of Bass Beach, followed by the wide sands of Jenness State Beach , where you'll often see surfers riding the waves. Farther north, Wallis Sands is protected by stone jetties and abuts the even longer stretch of Rye Beach.

Between the beaches is Rye Harbor , the departure point for several seagoing activities. A cute row of fishing shacks contain places to buy tackle or sign up for deep-sea fishing trips . Granite State Whale Watch operates whale-watching cruises .

From a picnic table or bench at Rye Harbor State Park, you can watch the boats go in and out between the breakwaters that protect the little harbor.

New Hampshire's tallest peak and the highest elevation in the northeast, Mt. Washington is the apex of the Presidential Range of the Appalachian Mountains. On clear days, you can see four states from its summit; when clouds roll in, you'll have trouble seeing your hand at arm's length.

You can explore Mt. Washington in several ways, each a different experience. You can drive your car to the summit on the fully paved Mt. Washington Auto Road , climbing more than 4,500 feet at an average gradient of 12 percent, through woodlands that become more dwarfed and twisted until they are replaced with a rock-strewn landscape and endless views. You can ride the same tortuous route in a van, or in the winter climb halfway on a track-wheeled SnowCoach.

The most popular way to the summit is from the other side on the Mount Washington Cog Railway . One of the most popular things to do in the state, The Cog has been carrying passengers up the mountain since 1869. There's plenty of time at the summit to explore the old TipTop House, see the weather exhibits, and take in the views.

You can also climb Mt. Washington from several different approaches. A favorite, with waterfalls and some of the best views, is the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail from the base of the Cog Railway.

Remember that the weather is capricious, and the mountain has claimed many lives. So pay attention to the forecast and to current precautionary warnings.

The southwestern part of the state, known by the name of its prominent mountain, is filled with classic New England villages . White church spires overlook well-kept village greens, and colonial-era homes provide the foreground for scenic views along the Connecticut River valley and of Mount Monadnock , America's most-climbed mountain .

Fall is perhaps the most popular time to visit, when picture-perfect villages such as Walpole, Fitzwilliam, Hancock, Jaffrey Center, and Park Hill in Westmoreland are framed in brilliant foliage.

Fall is also the most colorful time for one of the region's most popular things to do: photograph covered bridges . The town of Swanzey, south of Keene, has the most, and you can follow a route through four of them, with a fifth in neighboring Winchester.

This part of New Hampshire nurtures an especially vibrant cultural community. Throughout the Monadnock region, tourists can admire and buy art glass, handweaving, jewelry, baskets, furniture, and woodenware in craftsmen's studios and co-operatives.

The spine of the Appalachian Mountains divides New Hampshire's White Mountains region into two halves, connected at the center by the 2,855-foot Kancamagus Pass. The two-lane NH Route 112 climbs over the spine in a series of tight switchback turns on the western side and somewhat more gradually on the eastern.

Near the summit, viewing areas overlook layers of mountains and the undeveloped wilderness of the White Mountain National Forest, even finer vistas than you can see from the road itself. Note that unless you already have one, you'll need to stop at the Lincoln or Conway end to get a National Forest pass in order to park in these.

Along with the views, you'll be rewarded with several places to visit along the route. Most of these are on the Conway side, first the scenic Rocky Gorge and Lower Falls , both popular for swimming and picnics along the aptly named Swift River. Among the things to do along "The Kanc" is the short hike to Sabbaday Falls , a waterfall in a 40-foot gorge.

A historic house (there used to be an entire town here) and a covered bridge are also worth a stop, and if you're camping, there are two of the best campgrounds in New Hampshire . Jigger Johnson and Blackberry Crossing each has large, well-spaced tent sites in the forest along the banks of the Swift River.

New Hampshire's capital combines the charms of a traditional main street center with an arts and culture scene that would be the pride of a much larger city. The gold-domed State House (yes, it's real gold) is the centerpiece of Concord's attractive downtown, where you'll find independent shops and boutiques.

Highlights among these are the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen Gallery and Gibson's Bookstore , a Concord tradition since 1898, where you'll find an entire section devoted to books about the state and by New Hampshire authors. Step onto Warren Street for some sweet indulgences at Granite State Candies .

Not far from Gibson's, the Capital Center for the Arts hosts a full schedule of live performances in all genres, as well as films and simulcasts. For public lunch-hour concerts, recitals, and jam sessions, check the schedule of the Concord Community Music School . The intimate Red River Theatres features first-run independent films, classic and foreign films, and on-screen art exhibits.

For a look at the state's past, and an exceptional collection of works by the White Mountain Artists, step behind the State House to the New Hampshire Historical Society .

Outside of the downtown area, the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center honors two New Hampshire natives instrumental in the space program, with exhibits and hands-on activities on space exploration, aviation, and astronomy.

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

The shores of Lake Sunapee, like those of Squam Lake, show very little development, its waterside cottages well hidden by trees. This wooded shoreline combines with the backdrop of Mount Sunapee to make it one of the most scenic lakes in New Hampshire .

Along with swimming at the long beach in Sunapee State Park, the most popular things to do here are a cruise on the MV Mt. Sunapee II or a dinner cruise on the MV Sunapee Lake Queen. Beautiful all season, these trips are especially photo-worthy, when fall foliage paints the shores and mountain.

Skiers at Mount Sunapee Ski Resort get the best views of all, with the entire lake spread out at their feet; the chairlift takes foliage viewers there in the fall.

On the southern shore of Lake Sunapee, stop to tour the outstanding gardens and 22-room mansion of The Fells , among New England's finest summer estates.

The Connecticut River separates New Hampshire from Vermont for most of their border, forming a scenic backdrop to the towns and river-side farmlands along the region known as the Upper Valley.

Hanover, home to Dartmouth College, is at the heart of the region, and its cultural center with the Hopkins Center for the Arts ("The Hop") hosting national acts in a 900-seat concert hall and theater productions in its smaller Moore Theater. Adjacent is the freshly expanded Hood Museum of Art .

You can rent canoes and kayaks to explore the Connecticut River from the Ledyard Canoe Club and in the winter, rent skis or skates at the skating rink and cross-country center, or go downhill skiing at the college's Dartmouth Skiway in neighboring Lyme.

It's worth driving north to this pretty little town, set around its tidy common, or on to see the river valley views and the stately homes of Bullfinch Row in Orford . Follow the river south of Hanover to visit the sculptor's home and studio at the Augustus Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park in Cornish.

In Cornish, you'll also find the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge , the longest wooden bridge in the United States and the longest two-span, covered bridge in the world .

The beautiful and largely undeveloped Squam Lake is best known as the setting for the Katherine Hepburn film On Golden Pond , and it's just as idyllic in real life as in the movie. Unlike neighboring Winnipesaukee, Squam's shore is lined almost entirely with trees, with only a few cottages visible.

The Squam Lake Loon Initiative protects the resident loon population and there are strict limits on power boat speed; cottage lots are large and often passed through generations, so there is little opportunity for shore development.

Squam Lake lies in the towns of Holderness and Sandwich, both worth a stop. In Holderness, the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center has exhibits on local wildlife and offers narrated nature cruises on the lake.

On Route 113 between Holderness and Sandwich, look for a trailhead for the Old Bridle Path to the ledges on West Rattlesnake Mountain (named for the island below) for beautiful views of Squam Lake.

Center Sandwich is a postcard village, traditional white buildings arranged around a green and pond.

The red brick mill buildings that line more than a mile along the Merrimack River are only a fraction of those that made Manchester a major manufacturing center. In the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries, the Amoskeag Falls powered one of the world's largest mill complexes.

Today these buildings house offices, universities, eating places, and two museums. One of these, the excellent Millyard Museum , illustrates the role of the falls from Paleolithic times through the manufacturing era, highlighting the important role the waves of immigrants who worked here would have on Manchester.

The immigrant populations have changed over time, but still make Manchester a vibrant multicultural city. Visitors will notice this in the variety of restaurants: Nepalese, Caribbean, African, Mexican, Creole, Colombian, Greek, Pakistani, and Brazilian.

Manchester is a cultural center as well, home to one of New England's top fine arts museums, the Currier Museum of Art , and the New Hampshire Symphony Orchestra. At the restored 1915 Palace Theatre , you will find performances ranging from ballet and grand opera to improv, classic films, and children's theater.

Baseball fans can cheer for the Fisher Cats at the Delta Stadium in the city center.

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

North of the White Mountains, New Hampshire's terrain mellows into a scenic landscape of hills and low wooded mountains, thickly forested and largely unsettled. This northern tip is known as The Great North Woods, an appropriate name for the miles and miles of forest.

Lake Umbagog, which is shared with Maine, is a prime spot for kayaking, with paddle-in camping sites on the remote shores of the Lake Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge . Here and throughout the region, loons swim in the lakes and moose are not an uncommon sight along the roads (portions of Route 3 are known as " Moose Alley ").

On the western side, reached by a scenic drive over Dixville Notch , are the Connecticut Lakes , a series of five, connected bodies of water that form the headwaters of the Connecticut River. Loved for their superb fishing; placid waters for canoeing and kayaking; the abundance of wildlife; and, in the winter, the snowmobile trails that crisscross the lakes and woodlands; this region is a paradise for outdoor lovers.

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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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The 25 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire

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New Hampshire might be one of the smaller states in the US, but it packs a punch with its diverse regions and incredible natural beauty. It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise with its picturesque river valleys, scenic coastline, and soaring peaks offering endless opportunities for adventure. 

Beloved for its stunning fall foliage vistas, its picturesque roads lead to charming New England villages and postcard-worthy rural landscapes. History is around every corner of The Granite State, with the chance to explore its past at fascinating living history museums and natural wonders that date back to the Ice Age. 

New Hampshire is a beautiful destination year-round. You’ll find plenty of hiking, paddling, and lake-viewing opportunities in warmer months and skiing, ice fishing, and other winter sports excursions in winter. Families will find a range of exciting kid-friendly activities to add to their list, from themed amusement parks and train rides to beach destinations. 

With so much to see and do in New Hampshire, you’re spoiled for choice with adventures and activities. We’ve compiled a list of the best of the best, highlighting the top outdoor excursions, fall foliage viewing spots, and family destinations you should add to your New Hampshire bucket list. The best part of this small US state is that its attractions are all nearby, making an adventure-packed vacation to New Hampshire easily accessible! 

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25 cool and unique things to do in New Hampshire

1. reach the summit of mount washington.

Hiking enthusiasts can add Mount Washington to the top of their New Hampshire bucket list, as this is the highest peak in the northeastern US at over 6,000 feet. It offers spectacular vistas from the top, where you can marvel at landscapes in Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Quebec, and the Atlantic Ocean on a clear day! 

At the top sits Mount Washington State Park , a 60-acre slice of land that borders the White Mountain National Forest. If you’re not up for the strenuous adventure, you can also reach the summit of this towering mountain via the Mount Washington Cog Railway or the Mount Washington Auto Road. 

While both are worthwhile adventures, the Mount Washington Cog Railway is one of the most popular options. In operation since 1869, it’s often referred to as “the cog” and was the world’s first mountain-climbing railway of its kind. Taking about three hours, your round-trip journey includes a chance to marvel at the incredible panoramic views from a deck at the summit. 

Located on the scenic NH Route 16, the Mount Washington Auto Road is one of the most popular driving routes in the northeast. You can drive yourself from May to October or sign up for a guided tour to take in spectacular views into the Great Gulf Wilderness and the Presidential Mountain Range along the way.

2. Go Hiking in Franconia Notch State Park

Set in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, Franconia Notch State Park is an outdoor oasis in New Hampshire. In addition to its natural wonders, it offers scenic vistas around every corner and historic sites to explore. 

Spanning an eight-mile portion of Interstate 93 between the high peaks of the Kinsman and Franconia mountain ranges, this park is home to popular attractions like Flume Gorge and Echo Lake. It’s one of the best things to do in New Hampshire if you love the outdoors, as it offers endless recreation such as swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, as well as a range of winter activities. 

Walk through the renowned Flume Gorge , then ride the exciting Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway or browse exhibits in the New England Ski Museum . In warmer months, you can swim, canoe, and kayak at Echo Lake, ride your bike on the Recreational Trail, or hike the 1.5-mile Artists Bluff Trail for some of the best views of Franconia Notch. 

Other popular activities include fly fishing at Profile Lake, while those looking for a thrill can try rock climbing. Alternately, opt for a leisurely day of bird watching to see if you can spot hawks and falcons at Cannon Cliffs. Lafayette Place Campground and Cannon Mountain RV Park offer a base for overnight adventures. 

3. Follow the Boardwalk Path at Flume Gorge

Deserving of a spot of its own, Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch is one of the coolest things to do in New Hampshire.  A natural gorge that extends over 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty, this natural attraction is a must-see. 

Open to the public from mid-May through mid-October, its two-mile loop goes one way. Along the way, you can marvel at the moss and fern-covered granite walls that rise up to 90 feet in height. The walls are about 12-20 feet wide, which provides a unique walkway where you can experience this natural wonder. 

The path is two miles in length and will take you approximately 1.5 hours to explore. It’s worth taking the time to admire the photogenic natural surroundings, which include cascading waterfalls, historic covered bridges, glacier pools, and boulders. 

While you hike the trail’s wood boardwalks and stairs, make sure to take note of some of the highlights. Stop to see the bright red Flume Covered Bridge, massive Table Rock outcropping of pinkish Conway granite, 45-foot-tall Avalanche Falls, and boulder-roofed Bear Cave. 

4. Take a Scenic Drive on Kancamagus Highway

If you’re up for a scenic road trip in New Hampshire, plan a trip on the Kancamagus Highway from Conway to Lincoln. The 34-mile journey along Route 112 is not only an American Scenic Byway, but it’s also considered one of the best fall foliage viewing areas in the entire country! 

This picture-perfect road winds across the state and through the heart of the mountainous White Mountain National Forest , offering a number of vistas along the way. Especially scenic in the fall months, you’ll have the chance to capture views of the White Mountains, Swift River, Lower Falls, Sabbaday Falls, and the Rocky Gorge. 

Most travelers come here to get a glimpse of New Hampshire’s famous fall colors that offer a snapshot of quintessential New England scenery. With its tongue twister name, it’s known to locals as “The Kanc,” offering impressive vistas of the state’s bright red and orange landscapes and covered wooden bridges.

If you want to get out and explore, the region is known for its variety of memorable hiking trails and natural wonders. Stop at Covered Bridge Campground and walk across the wooden Albany Covered Bridge or add a visit to Lower Falls Scenic Area, Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, and Sabbaday Falls to your itinerary. 

5. Go Skiing in North Conway

Nestled in the picturesque White Mountains, North Conway is a hub for skiing in New Hampshire. Come winter, the area’s range of powder-fresh slopes and ski mountains are perfect for expert skiers and beginners alike.  

The most popular destination is Cranmore Mountain , a family-friendly spot with slopes for all ages and skill levels. This winter wonderland offers a long list of activities, including 56 trails with a variety of terrain as well as a snow tubing park, year-round Mountain Adventure Park, and ski and snowboard lessons. Only a quick five-minute drive from downtown, it’s also the area’s most accessible mountain. 

Attitash Mountain is another favorite ski spot nearby that is spread across two connected mountains, featuring 68 trails and 11 running ski lifts. Catering to novice skiers and experts, Wildcat Mountain is loved for its impressive views of Mount Washington, Presidential Range, and the Tuckerman Ravine. 

If you’re looking for a laid-back ambiance, head to King Pine Ski Area . More off the beaten path, this family-friendly ski resort offers a range of fun winter sports options, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and ice skating. Last but not least, Bretton Woods is the largest ski resort in New Hampshire, with 464 acres of skiing and snowboarding on 63 trails. 

6. Visit a Frozen Attraction at the Ice Castles

One of New Hampshire’s must-do things in winter, the Ice Castles in Woodstock is a unique winter wonderland that is fun for the entire family. Each year, this attraction creates a giant ice fortress that is roughly an acre in size, with its tallest points reaching about 25 feet in height. 

This popular winter attraction is a must-see, featuring interactive castles with intricate details, including LED lights frozen inside the 25 million pounds of ice. Adding to its magical ambiance, the castles feature ice-carved tunnels, fountains, slides, and frozen thrones.

While you can visit during the day, at night the spectacle is extra-special with the multicolored lights that allow it to glow from within. Other fun things to do at Ice Castles include a sledding hill, sleigh rides, and the Mystic Forest light walk.

After you explore the life-size fairytale playground, take a scenic stroll along an enchanting forest path or hop on a romantic horse-drawn ride. Along the way, you can marvel at the various ice sculptures that artisans spent hours shaping and discover an array of fun photo opportunities! 

7. Enjoy Saco River Valley Views at Echo Lake State Park

One of the best places in New Hampshire to enjoy the outdoors, Echo Lake State Park in North Conway is a delightful spot for recreation. In addition to its beautiful scenery, it’s an excellent destination for swimming and picnicking and boasts several hiking trails that wind around the lake and connect to Cathedral Ledge State Park . 

Follow the one-mile trail that wraps around the park’s natural wonder for spectacular views of the 700-foot-tall Cathedral Ledge, which towers over the lake. If you want to climb atop Cathedral Ledge, follow the hiking trails or the mile-long auto road to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views across the Saco River Valley to the White Mountains. 

Water sports are also popular on the lake, with canoeing, kayaking, and swimming being the area’s top activities. Formed during the retreat of the last Ice Age, the sheer granite face of Cathedral Ledge and White Horse Ledge is also a hotspot for rock climbers. In winter, activities like snowmobiling and ice fishing are available. 

If you want to camp overnight, head to the Saco River Camping Area in Mount Washington Valley. About five miles from Echo Lake State Park is the Beach Camping Area, a family-friendly spot set along the Saco River with a scenic view of the mountains. 

8. Hop Aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad

At the top of many New Hampshire bucket lists, a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad offers a scenic journey through the state’s most stunning landscapes. Departing from an 1874 Victorian Station in North Conway Village, these round-trip excursions are one of the best ways to see the Valley, no matter what time of year. 

There are various train trips to choose from here, starting with the kid-friendly Conway Valley Train, which is a 55-minute classic rural train journey that will take you back in time. For something a little longer, the Bartlett-Sawyer Excursion Train Ride takes you on a leisurely adventure through the Saco River Valley to Bartlett or Sawyer River. 

However, those looking for an epic train ride can hop aboard the Mountaineer, a five-hour excursion through the Mount Washington Valley and over the rugged Crawford Notch. The 1950s-era streamlined passenger recreates the experience of a post-World War II Transcontinental streamlined train, with upgrades including a premier travel class with panoramic views from its Upper Dome.  

This ride is particularly striking in fall when you can capture views of New Hampshire’s dramatic natural scenery at its peak. Along the way, you can marvel at sheer bluffs, steep ravines, cascading brooks and streams, and panoramic mountain vistas. 

9. Marvel at Waterfalls in Lost River Gorge

Lost River Gorge is considered one of New Hampshire’s greatest natural wonders, offering a self-guided journey past picture-perfect cascading waterfalls. Along the one-mile boardwalk, you can also take in stunning views of jagged rock walls, gigantic boulders, and rock-strewn glacial boulder caves. 

Located in Kinsman Notch, this area is noted for its picturesque natural beauty. The family-friendly destination appeals to all ages, featuring a wooden boardwalk trail carving through the gorge as it winds its way along the Lost River. 

Not only that, but the area also features a Forest Adventure Trail, treehouse, and suspension bridge. You can also test your bravery by climbing into the Giant Bird’s Nest, which offers endless views of the lush forest that surrounds it. 

After taking in the views, kids can pan for gemstones or fossils at the Lost River Mining Company. The unique mining experience allows you to search for treasures, which include shark’s teeth, amethyst, calcite, and pyrite. 

10. Enjoy Water Sports at Lake Winnipesaukee

Lake Winnipesaukee is one of the top destinations in New Hampshire if you want to unwind and relax. Of the 273 bodies of water in the Lakes Region, this natural wonder is one of the most picturesque, sitting at the foot of the White Mountains and offering access to quaint villages and public beaches. 

You can get out on the water on a dinner cruise and see why this gem is said to be the most scenic lake in New Hampshire, charter a boat to explore one of the larger islands nearby, or bring your rod and reel and lure in salmon, trout, and bass. In summer, swimming is popular, while winter brings ice fishing adventures! 

Nature lovers can stay on land and explore one of the preserves or learn about the Lakes Region’s flora and fauna at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center . Hiking is abundant, with trails offering views of Belknap Mountain, Mount Major, and West Rattlesnake Mountain. When snow arrives, snowmobiling and ice skating are available.

There are over 40 communities surrounding the lake, with Weirs Beach, Wolfeboro, and Laconia being some of the highlights. For an overview of the area, follow the almost 100-mile Lakes Region Tour Scenic Drive around the lake to explore the collection of charming towns. 

11. Explore Underground at Polar Caves

Polar Caves is one of the most unique things to do in New Hampshire, offering a fun day of exploring. Family-owned and operated for 98 years, this outdoor experience offers a chance for you to adventure through boulder caves that were formed during the last Ice Age when a glacier moved over the White Mountains. 

Offering a series of caves and passageways for exploring, self-guided tours at Polar Caves get you up-close with a series of fascinating ancient formations. Connected by boardwalks, the granite boulder caves at the base of Hawk’s Cliff are easily accessible.

You can duck, squeeze, and shimmy through the nine caves, then learn the history behind attractions like Polar Pinch, King’s Tut, The Bear’s Den, and Orange Crush. Afterward, you can enjoy lunch in the picnic area or pick up treats and trinkets in the Main Lodge. 

Kids will also love the park’s nature trails and rock garden, while an on-site animal park features a collection of rare and domestic animals. Say hello to white-tailed deer and Fallow Deer and bring quarters to feed them corn! 

12. Take a Refreshing Dip in Diana’s Baths

Located in the southeastern corner of New Hampshire, Diana’s Baths is a series of cascades on Lucy Brook, nestled within the White Mountain National Forest. A must-see at any time of year, this natural attraction in Bartlett is fed from Big Attitash Mountain. 

In summer, this hidden wonder is a great spot for a refreshing dip and a great place for kids and grown-ups alike who want to enjoy the natural water park. Featuring a tranquil setting, it is surrounded by boulders, ledges, swimming pools, and cascading falls. 

After a fairly easy 1/2-mile hike on a flat, wide gravel path, you’ll reach the base of the cascading falls and a shallow area. Once here, you can look upstream and capture a view of the photogenic cascades in all their glory.

In addition to a group of rock formations, you’ll find a series of shallow pools where you can dip your toes in the water or take a soak. After your swim, enjoy a lunch and waterfall view from the picnic area or bask in the sunshine on the smooth rocks. 

Diana’s Baths is currently suffering from over-tourism which is causing parking challenges, overcrowding, and an excess of trash from tourists. There are plenty of other amazing spots along the 32-mile byway that are less touristy and worth a visit including Rocky Gorge (pictured below) .

13. Play at the World’s Largest Arcade

One of the coolest things to do in New Hampshire if you’re a video game lover is visit the world’s largest arcade. Located in Laconia, this Funspot Arcade is officially ranked in the Guinness Book of World Records. 

The arcade actually caters to all ages, offering a collection of vintage video arcade games and pinball machines. You can expect to see throwbacks like Space Invaders, Frogger, and Pong that will take you back to the golden age of video games from the 70s and 80s, with the floor lined with row after row of vintage options like Tetris, Tron, and Toobin’. 

You won’t get bored here, as there are over 600 games, 300 of which are classic arcade games. Not only that, but visitors of all ages will love the 20-lane 10-pin and candlepin bowling center, cash bingo, and 18-hole indoor mini-golf. 

After hours of gaming, you can grab food at one of the arcade’s on-site restaurant options. The family-friendly Braggin’ Dragon is known for its 17-inch pizzas, while D.A. Long Tavern features craft beer, darts, and pool tables. 

14. Admire Art at Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site

You can step into the world of one of the greatest American artists at Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site , which includes the home, studio, artwork, and garden of Augustus Saint-Gardens. Learn more about this famous American sculptor, then follow one of the scenic hiking trails that wind through the woods. 

Located in Cornish, this 190-acre site features more than 100 of the sculptor’s artworks exhibited in its galleries. Get up close to expressive portrait reliefs and full-size bronze casts of some of his most famous works in New Hampshire’s only national park. 

Don’t miss the “Shaw Memorial,” which is widely considered his masterpiece and took him 14 years to complete. Also on display are the $10 and $20 gold pieces commissioned by President Roosevelt, which were minted from 1907 to 1933. Many consider the $20 gold piece to be the most beautiful of American coins! 

The area is also noted for its natural beauty, surrounded by a picture-perfect mountainous landscape. Capture the nature views that inspired Saint-Gardens by following one of the hiking trails, which feature interpretive panels about the area’s natural history. The short 0.25 Ravine Trail takes you to a swimming hole used by Saint-Gardens, while the two-mile Blow-Me-Down Trail ends at a millpond. 

15. Visit America’s Stonehenge

Nicknamed America’s Stonehenge , this archeological site in North Salem is one of New Hampshire’s long-time treasures. It first opened under the name “Mystery Hill Caves” in 1958 and is now a unique attraction for history enthusiasts. 

While it looks nothing like the actual Stonehenge in England, it does include a series of manmade chambers and stone walls. In addition to unique stone arrangements, there are ceremonial meeting places and a one-acre granite outcropping with a collection of rock structures built on top of it. It’s said the site is over 4,000 years old! 

The site is shrouded in legend, with its origin and purpose debated by scholars and amateurs alike for years. Most people believe that a native civilization must have made use of this area, as fragments of bowls and stone tools, as well as fire pits, have been unearthed during various excavations. 

Wherever it came from, there are ancient mysteries locked within this site that make it a cool day trip to see the winding maze of stone structures. History buffs won’t want to miss the giant astronomical calendar made of standing monoliths, while a hike around this area reveals a peaceful path with panoramic views of the lush forest. 

16. Walk Through Period Homes at Strawbery Banke Museum

Set in the heart of historic downtown Portsmouth , the Strawbery Banke Museum is a fascinating outdoor history museum. Within the 10-acre property, this popular New England attraction is dedicated to bringing 300+ years of American history to life. 

It’s one of the best things to do in New Hampshire if you’re a history buff, offering a glimpse into centuries of Portsmouth’s past. The 10-acre attraction is named after the first settlement here on the Piscataqua River, featuring almost a dozen historic homes filled with vintage furnishings. 

Representing four centuries of history, the houses offer insight into what life was like in this time period. Explore the area and you’ll find all sorts of homes – from the grand 1811 Federal-style mansion to a 1762 Georgian home. Some houses are adorned with furnishings that represent the era, while others feature cutaway displays and exhibits highlighting the tools that were used to construct them. 

Staffed with costumed role players, you can learn more about the rich history of the Puddle Dock neighborhood as you explore buildings from the late 1600s until the 1950s. See the fully-stocked Marden-Abbot House and Store that depicts life in the wartime 1940s, then catch one of the live trade demonstrations that include authentic cooking and weaving.

17. Wander Market Square in Portsmouth (& Prescott Park)

After a visit to the Strawbery Banke Museum, you can explore more of the charming coastal city of Portsmouth. Once one of the most important ports of the Colonial Era, this popular day trip from Boston is now one of New England’s most popular port towns. 

Start your visit in the buzzing Market Square, which is filled with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. You can also take a break in the leafy Prescott Park , a tranquil area set along the banks of the Piscataqua River, where you’ll find a collection of beautiful blooming flowers. It’s particularly noted for its tulip displays in spring!

History lovers will find plenty to explore in Portsmouth. The Moffatt-Ladd House is considered one of America’s finest Georgian mansions (where two signers of the Declaration of Independence lived), while the 1716 Warner House boasts the oldest painted murals in the US. 

Alternately, the Black Heritage Trail is a self-guided walking tour through the historic center that offers insight into the Black culture of the Colonial and Federal periods. For a scenic journey, hop on one of the cruises from Portsmouth Harbor to the Isles of Shoals for an excellent view of the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse and historic Fort Constitution.  

18. Stroll the Shoreline at Rye Beach

One of New Hampshire’s most charming seaside towns, Rye offers stunning ocean views and a laid-back atmosphere. This coastal gem has 17 miles of coastline where you can enjoy beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and easy access to nature. 

In summer, the coastline is a popular draw with local surfers, with surf shops dotting its main road. Catch the surfers in action or ride your bike to Rye Harbor, where you can catch a fishing tour or cruise to the Isles of Shoals and Star Island.

Go swimming, picnicking, and seashell collecting at Jenness State Beach , or drive 10 minutes to nearby Wallis Sands State Beach to hike its rocky walking paths and enjoy views of the Isles of Shoals in the distance. If you’re on a family vacation, head to Odiorne Point State Park and visit the kid-friendly Seacoast Science Center.

Make sure to wrap up your day with a seafood dinner, as you’ll find some of New England’s freshest offerings served at casual restaurants. Petey’s Summertime Seafood and Ray’s Seafood are two local favorites with items like lobster rolls, chowder, and jumbo shrimp on the menu. 

19. Learn About Marine Mammals at Seacoast Science Center

Located on the grounds of Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, the Seacoast Science Center offers science education through hands-on learning. At this family-friendly attraction, you can get up close to aquatic life, explore woodland paths, discover inhabitants of a tide pool, and learn about how to save seals and other marine mammals. 

One of the most popular exhibits is the Tide Pool Touch Tank, where you can actually hold a sea star, green sea urchin, and hermit crab. You can also observe fascinating live animals in the Gulf of Maine exhibit, including lobsters, mussels, dog whelks, and winter flounders. 

Learn about whales through Tofu’s story, a humpback that lived in the Gulf of Maine, and marvel at the 32-foot whale skeleton on display. The Edge of the Sea allows you to see animals under a high-powered microscope, while Working Underwater highlights the challenging world of undersea exploration. 

Little ones can explore the Discovery Dock, where they can become fishermen at sea. After you visit the museum, get outside and enjoy the picturesque rocky coastline that defines the 330-acre Odiorne Point State Park. In addition to a wooded picnic grove, there is a playground and miles of walking trails. 

20. Escape to the Coast in Hampton Beach

Nestled on a small strip of sand on the Atlantic Ocean coastline, Hampton Beach is just a short drive from Rye and one of the most popular beach destinations in the state. In addition to its sun-kissed beach, you’ll find an array of family-friendly activities to enjoy in this small town. 

Visiting Hampton Beach’s Funarama Arcade is a must, with video games, skeeball, and pinball machines lining this venue since 1905. For some adults-only fun, head to Hampton Beach Casino and try your luck at Craps, Poker, Black Jack, and Roulette. Other popular attractions in Hampton include the Casino Ballroom , which hosts world-class concerts and comedy acts.

Hampton Beach State Park offers year-round outdoor recreation, offering Atlantic Ocean-facing facilities and miles of sandy coastline to enjoy. Pack your sunscreen and enjoy a fun day of swimming, fishing, picnicking at this outdoor oasis. You can even stay overnight in the RV park.

Pick your own apples and purchase homemade pies at Apple Crest Farm Orchards , the oldest and largest farm in New Hampshire. If you want to learn more about the ocean and its marine life, visit the Blue Ocean Discovery Center , where you can explore its large touch tanks filled with crabs and periwinkles. 

21. Day Trip to the Picturesque River Town of Exeter

A popular stop on most New Hampshire bucket lists, Exeter is a picturesque river town located about 10 miles inland from the coast. Once a Revolutionary War capital, this town is rich in history and known for its beautiful scenery and small-town ambiance. 

You can take a step back in time with a visit to the American Independence Museum , which is a National Historic Landmark that boasts an original copy of the Declaration of Independence. If you time your visit right, history buffs can also attend the annual American Independence Festival in summer with battle reenactments. 

Take the afternoon to browse Exeter’s picture-perfect tree-lined streets, including the main stretch of Water Street with its collection of quaint boutique shops, antique stores, and art galleries. Pick up produce at the seasonal Exeter Farmers’ Market at Swasey Parkway, then sit and enjoy the tranquil water views by the Squamscott River. 

Exeter is home to a range of charming eateries, including Trackside Cafe with its tasty breakfast options. The Green Bean is an Exeter favorite with its homemade soups, salads, and sandwiches, while Laney & Lu Cafe serves fresh food made with local ingredients. 

22. Plan a Family Day Out at Story Land

Absolutely one of the coolest things to do in New Hampshire if you’re traveling with kids, Story Land is an exciting theme park attraction in Glen. This children’s theme park is packed with fun for the entire family, offering rides and entertainment for over 65 years. 

There are over 30 kid-friendly attractions at Story Land to keep you busy for an entire day, including the Roar-O-Saurus wooden roller coaster and the Bamboo Chutes ride that ends with a big splash. Hop on the Huff Puff & Whistle Railroad tour or ride in a Pumpkin Coach, then battle it out at the Splash Battle or say hello to the farm animals. 

If you’re more of a Christmas fan, make sure to add Santa’s Village in Jefferson to your New Hampshire itinerary. Designed for kids 13 and younger, this Christmas-themed amusement park has fun winter-themed rides like Rudy’s Rapid Transit Coaster, Santa’s Express Train, and The Great Humbug Adventure. There’s also an on-site water park for summer fun. 

Canobie Lake Park in Salem is another popular family destination in New England. With more than 85 attractions to choose from, including family and kid-friendly rides, water rides, and games, this park has been open for over 100 years. It also features a huge collection of arcade games and a range of family-friendly live shows. 

23. See the Highlights in Manchester

Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire and is considered a must-visit destination when exploring The Granite State. Serving as the state’s center of art and culture, it’s also beloved for its leafy parks and historic sites. 

Start your Manchester adventure at the Currier Museum of Art to see a collection of European and American artwork. You don’t even have to be an art enthusiast to appreciate masterpieces from the likes of world-renown artists like Matisse, Picasso, and Monet. 

You can also take a guided tour of the Zimmerman House , the only Frank Lloyd Wright home open to the public in New England. One of the city’s most historic landmarks is The Palace Theatre , which was built in 1914 and now hosts a range of live performances and plays. 

If you prefer to get outdoors, enjoy New Hampshire’s natural beauty at Massabesic Lake. This natural area is a great spot for fishing, biking around the lake, hiking, and paddling via kayaks and canoes. Sports lovers can also catch a game at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium , which is home to the New Hampshire Fisher Cats baseball team. 

24. Take a Trip Back in Time at Canterbury Shaker Village

A National Historic Landmark and museum, Canterbury Shaker Village sits among the picturesque rolling hills of central New Hampshire. A short drive from Boston and just south of the New Hampshire Lakes Region, this unique village serves to preserve the heritage of the Canterbury Shakers.

Sign up for a guided tour of this historic venue for an insider’s look at the property from knowledgeable guides, or explore the village on your own on a self-guided adventure. You can browse the village’s beautifully preserved 25 original and reconstructed Shaker buildings. 

It’s like a step back in time, where you can get an in-depth view of the daily life of the Shaker Community from long ago. Admire the architecture, as well as the vintage Shaker furniture, crafts, and objects on display. You can even visit a Bee House and Infirmary. 

Spread across almost 700 acres, you’ll also discover the village is home to beautiful forest and nature trails, as well as scenic gardens and ponds. In fall, the countryside scenery is picture-perfect with the changing colors of the leaves! 

25. Enjoy Panoramic Views From the Top of Mount Monadnock

Those up for a hiking challenge should add Mount Monadnock to their New Hampshire bucket list. One of the most popular hikes in the region, this 3,165-foot beauty towers 1,000 feet higher than any other peak in the area. 

The mountain is accessible from several towns and trailheads, each varying in degree of difficulty. Overlooking the lush forests and shimmering bodies of water and with views that extend all the way to the Boston skyline and Mount Washington, it’s easy to see why this is such a popular trek in New Hampshire. 

You can follow trailheads in Dublin, but the most popular option starts at Monadnock State Park in Jaffrey. The two-mile White Dot Trail is a common route up to the summit, while the 2.2-mile White Cross Trail offers a convenient way down. 

Along the way, you’ll have to traverse a variety of terrain. In addition to rock stairways, there’s part of the trail that becomes steep and includes large boulders that require some climbing. However, the stunning nature views will keep you motivated, especially as you reach the summit. Fall is a particularly photogenic time to hike this scenic trail. 

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in New Hampshire. What’s your favorite thing to do in The Granite State?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Hiking enthusiasts can add Mount Washington to the top of their New Hampshire bucket list, as this is the highest peak in the northeastern US at over 6,000 feet. It offers spectacular vistas from the top, where you can marvel at landscapes in Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, Maine, Quebec, and the Atlantic Ocean on a clear day!

If you’re up for a scenic road trip in New Hampshire, plan a trip on the Kancamagus Highway from Conway to Lincoln. The 34-mile journey along Route 112 is not only an American Scenic Byway, but it’s also considered one of the best fall foliage viewing areas in the entire country!

Nestled in the picturesque White Mountains, North Conway is a hub for skiing in New Hampshire. Come winter, the area’s range of powder-fresh slopes and ski mountains are perfect for expert skiers and beginners alike. The most popular destination is Cranmore Mountain, a family-friendly spot with slopes for all ages and skill levels. This winter wonderland offers a long list of activities, including 56 trails with a variety of terrain as well as a snow tubing park, year-round Mountain Adventure Park, and ski and snowboard lessons. Only a quick five-minute drive from downtown, it’s also the area’s most accessible mountain.

One of New Hampshire’s must-do things in winter, the Ice Castles in Woodstock is a unique winter wonderland that is fun for the entire family. Each year, this attraction creates a giant ice fortress that is roughly an acre in size, with its tallest points reaching about 25 feet in height. This popular winter attraction is a must-see, featuring interactive castles with intricate details, including LED lights frozen inside the 25 million pounds of ice.

Lost River Gorge is considered one of New Hampshire’s greatest natural wonders, offering a self-guided journey past picture-perfect cascading waterfalls. Along the one-mile boardwalk, you can also take in stunning views of jagged rock walls, gigantic boulders, and rock-strewn glacial boulder caves.

Located on the grounds of Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, the Seacoast Science Center offers science education through hands-on learning. At this family-friendly attraction, you can get up close to aquatic life, explore woodland paths, discover inhabitants of a tide pool, and learn about how to save seals and other marine mammals.

About the Author:

Born and raised in Florida, Charity moved to London after college and caught the travel bug. She then traveled full-time as a digital nomad for over a decade, living in the UK, New Zealand, China, and Thailand. With around 60-ish travel stamps in her passport, her favorite memories include skydiving in Switzerland, eating sushi in Japan, island hopping in the Philippines, and camping overnight in the Sahara Desert. She’s now a freelance writer living in Portugal with her husband and son.

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Nice article Charity North Conway is a winter paradise for skiing in New Hampshire. With diverse slopes and family-friendly spots like Cranmore Mountain, it’s perfect for all skill levels. North Conway’s charm and vibrant après-ski scene make it a must visit for creating lasting winter memories.

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30 Unforgettable Things to Do in the White Mountains, NH

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There are so many cool things to do in the White Mountains of New Hampshire! This part of the Granite State is one of the most beautiful places in New England and a true four-season destination. Whether you come for hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter, leaf-peeping in the fall, or maple sugaring in the spring, you’ll find plenty of adventures here.

A lot of people think that the White Mountains is mainly about getting outside and, frankly, getting dirty. Hiking for days on end, camping, getting covered with mud and coming home in need of a shower.

But it’s WAY more than that! Did you know there’s wine tasting here? And winter zip-lining? Great breweries and distilleries, an epic pancake house, outlet shopping that will knock your socks off?

The White Mountains has it all — and that’s why so many New Englanders come here year after year.

Now it’s time for us to share our favorite places with you. Here are the best things to do in the White Mountains, NH!

This post was most recently updated in May 2023.

Table of Contents

White Mountains NH FAQ

Some of the all-time best things to do in the White Mountains are taking the Mount Washington Cog Railway , hiking to Artist’s Bluff , and driving the Kancamagus Highway .

There are hikes to waterfalls for kids of all ages and abilities, and young kids will love Story Land . There are some great water parks here, too.

The best fall foliage is in early October , but it’s a busy and expensive time to visit. Summer is great for hiking and winter is fun, too.

Go brewery-hopping or wine tasting , go shopping in North Conway , or hit up Jackson for a museum and puzzle shop!

Hike to Artist’s Bluff

What makes a perfect hike in the White Mountains? An energizing journey, a well-marked trail, and a fantastic view. If that sounds good to you, you’ll want to hike the Artist Bluff Trail in Franconia, where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most famous views in the White Mountains.

The 1.5-mile trail begins at a parking lot just past Echo Lake (the one in the west), where you continuously ascend before heading a bit downhill again. At one point, you can take an optional turnoff to climb Bald Mountain. We consider this trail to be moderately difficult, and doable for older kids who are experienced hikers.

Finally, when it feels like surely you must have missed it by now, there it is — the pathway to the rock ledge overlooking Franconia Notch. And what a view it is. Mountain slopes in every direction, still navy waters in Echo Lake, and endless red and orange landscapes if you happen to enough to do the hike in early October.

Keep in mind that Artist’s Bluff gets very busy during peak foliage, and you could be sharing the view with dozens of other hikers — but visit at other times of year and you might have it all to yourself. (We also think Artist’s Bluff is one of the nicest places to propose in New Hampshire!)

Drive the Kancamagus Highway

Looking for a great scenic drive in New Hampshire? Go for the most scenic drive of all — the Kancamagus Highway . This American scenic byway takes you through the White Mountain National Forest, with Lincoln at one end and Conway on the other.

It’s incredible how much there is to see along this highway. You can drive from end to end in a little under an hour, but you could easily spend the whole day here! Some of the highlights are Sabbaday Falls, a lovely waterfall a short walk from the highway; Rocky Gorge, a dynamic waterfall area leading to the Lower Falls; several scenic overlooks with panoramic views over the landscapes; the Russell-Colbath House, where a local historian will tell you spine-tingling stories; and the Albany Covered Bridge, dating back to 1857.

There are campgrounds along the Kancamagus, but no hotels, gas stations, or restaurants, so bring a full tank and a lunch!

If you’re up for a hike, hiking the Lincoln Woods Trail to Franconia Falls is a flat but long journey, while Champney Falls is more of a challenge, even taking you up to Mount Chocorua if you want to go further.

While you can safely drive the Kanc year-round, there’s nothing like driving it during peak foliage in early October. And be sure to pick up a Kancamagus Highway audio guide , which tracks you via GPS and narrates what you’re seeing.

Read More: Guide to Driving the Kancamagus Highway, NH

Ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway

If you’re looking for the most interesting way to get to the top of New England’s highest peak, you can’t do better than the Mount Washington Cog Railway ! This traditional train became the world’s first mountain-climbing railway when it was built in 1868, and to this day it’s the most unique journey you can take in the White Mountains!

Hop on the vintage train and soon you’ll be chug-chug-chugging your way up to the top. You’ll pass Profile Rock, evoking the Old Man of the Mountain, and ascend the 37.41% grade Jacob’s Ladder, the second steepest mountain railway in the world. Then the mountains of the Presidential Range will appear to your left: Mount Clay, Mount Jefferson, Mount Adams, Mount Jefferson.

And finally you’ll be at the Mount Washington Summit! You’ll have enough time to take in the views, pose with the Mount Washington Summit sign, and have a nose through the Extreme Mount Washington Museum. And before you know it, it’s time to head down the mountain again.

Prices range from $72 and $89, depending on the seat chosen.

Keep in mind that the Mount Washington Cog Railway departs from Marshfield Station in Bretton Woods — an hour’s drive from the Mount Washington Auto Road entrance on the other side of the mountain in Gorham.

Read More: Guide to Riding the Mount Washington Cog Railway

Explore the Flume Gorge

The Flume Gorge, located near Lincoln in Franconia Notch State Park, is one of the most popular places to visit in the White Mountains — and for good reason. This narrow granite gorge was originally formed more than 200 million years ago, and today you can walk along boardwalks taking you straight through it.

As you climb up the boardwalks, you’ll hear the rushing waters of Flume Brook grow louder and louder. Vegetation sprouts out of every square inch here, mosses and tiny ferns dotting the landscape, and everything is between two giant slabs of granite. The air smells incredibly fresh and lovely.

Eventually you’ll get to the top of the gorge, where Avalanche Falls greet you thunderously.

The entire gorge is one of the most photogenic places in New Hampshire, and this will be one of the places you’ll still be dreaming of long after your White Mountains trip.

Entry to Flume Gorge costs $18 for adults and $16 for kids if reserved in advance, and $21 for adults and $19 for kids at the window. Kids under 5 are free.

Enjoy the Best Fall Foliage Of Your Life

Do you dream of getting to see real New England fall foliage once in your life? Head to the White Mountains. They will deliver a thousand times over. Even if you’re a lifelong New Englander, like many White Mountains visitors are, there’s just no comparison anywhere else in the world.

So how do you plan a trip around leaf-peeping in New Hampshire?

First of all, aim for the right time. Early October is generally your best bet for peak foliage in the White Mountains, though keep in mind this can vary from year to year. Sometimes if foliage isn’t quite hitting yet, it helps to go further north or to a higher elevation. The converse is true, too.

Secondly, book your accommodation as early as possible. Fall foliage is the busiest and most expensive time of year in the White Mountains (as well as the only time the region gets lots of international tourism), and small inns tend to book out immediately. (I made bookings in May for the Sugar Hill Inn in October, and could only get a single Wednesday night!)

Thirdly, go through our New Hampshire fall foliage guide to figure out your priorities for your visit. Choose your regions and activities and anything that needs to be booked in advance, like the Mountaineer on the Conway Scenic Railroad, book it as soon as you can!

Read More: New Hampshire Fall Foliage: Where and When to See It

Ski the White Mountains

Looking to hit the slopes this winter? There are plenty of ski resorts in the White Mountains ! Whether you’re looking to learn to ski, bring the whole family, or tear down the mountain solo, there’s a resort for you.

For resorts that have something for everyone, we’re big fans of Waterville Valley and Loon Mountain Resort. These two ski areas have excellent facilities that cater to both beginners and more experienced skiers, and make particularly good options for families or mixed groups. Attitash Mountain Resort is another great option for families with young kids.

If you’re a skilled skier looking for a challenge, we recommend hitting up Cannon Mountain or Wildcat Mountain. These two resorts aren’t the fanciest ones around, but they deliver some of the most hardcore slopes in the Granite State. Olympian Bode Miller, a NH native, trained at Cannon Mountain.

No matter where you go, pick up some new gear at Lahout’s Ski Shop. This New Hampshire mainstay is the oldest ski shop in America, and you can find their shops in Lincoln and Littleton.

Read More: Best NH Ski Resorts

Enjoy North Conway

North Conway is the most popular resort town in the White Mountains — and all of New Hampshire! A true year-round travel destination, North Conway is one part quaint mountain village, one part shopping mecca, and one part launching pad into the mountains.

Don’t miss North Conway Village, the prettiest part of town with a classic New England feel. Here you can visit some of New Hampshire’s most beloved shops, like Zeb’s General Store and The Penguin toy store, and grab an inventively flavored coffee at The Met Coffee House before jumping on the Conway Scenic Railroad , anchored at its retro yellow train station.

North Conway is also home to the Settlers Green Outlets, which draw shoppers year-round (and have zero sales tax — thanks, New Hampshire!). Grab breakfast at a classic spot like Peach’s , or hit up Moat Mountain Brewery for a hearty lunch or dinner with a sampler of eight — yes, eight — beers! Take the kids on an easy hike to Diana’s Baths, or gear up to hike the Appalachian Trail nearby.

Whether you stay in one of North Conway’s classic B&Bs or a cabin in the woods nearby, you’ll soon see why thousands of New Englanders return to North Conway every year.

Read More: 31 Fun Things to Do in North Conway, NH

Imagine waking up to the calmness of the White Mountains, the scent of evergreen trees filling the air. Imagine winding down your day with a campfire and a s’more or two before heading to bed, crickets chirping around you. The White Mountains are an enormously popular camping destination, and for good reason.

Whether you prefer to camp by tent, camper, or RV, there are plenty of campgrounds in the White Mountains with generously wooded sites.

We’re big fans of White Lake State Park in Tamworth, which has excellent swimming, and Lafayette Place Campground is a popular spot near Cannon Mountain. The Kancamagus Highway is home to several campsites within the White Mountain National Forest, including Passaconaway Campground and Blueberry Crossing Campground .

Not much of a camper yet? We recommend checking out Huttopia White Mountains in Albany, close to North Conway and the end of the Kancamagus Highway, where they have a camp of fully equipped tents already set up, steps from Iona Lake. Some of the nicer tents even have private bathrooms in them. It’s the perfect way to try out camping if you don’t have any equipment!

Breweries of the White Mountains

We love the brewery scene in New Hampshire! Across the Granite State, there are so many innovative breweries churning out far more than just New England IPAs!

We have several favorite breweries in the White Mountains that are worth visiting. Rek-Lis Brewing in Bethlehem is the ideal place to celebrate a successful hike, with lots of unusual beers on tap, plus delicious burgers and poutine in a convivial setting.

Ledge Brewing Company , just north of North Conway, delivers plenty of tasty home-brewed goodness — along with a tap made out of a giant slab of granite.

And Schilling Beer Company in Littleton is justifiably famous as one of New Hampshire’s best breweries, with a rotating slate of European-style beers you’ll struggle to find at other places in the Granite State.

Read More: The Best New Hampshire Breweries

Ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway

Feel like taking a ride to the top of the White Mountains? Head straight to the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway in Franconia, where you can take a gondola to the top of Cannon Mountain. This was America’s first aerial tramway and is still the only one in New Hampshire.

From the top, you have sweeping views through Franconia Notch, as well as the Green Mountains in Vermont. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Maine, New York, and Canada!

At the top of the mountain are walking paths through the pine-scented forest that lead you to more viewpoints. We especially love coming here during fall foliage when oranges light up the mountains. You can also connect to hiking paths taking you down the mountain and beyond.

The ride costs $28 for adults and $23 for kids.

Once you’re back at the bottom, visit the Old Man of the Mountain museum on site, head next door to the free New England Ski Museum or head downhill to pay tribute to the Old Man of the Mountain at the memorial that re-creates the profile-shaped rock following its 2003 collapse.

Hit Up an Indoor Water Park

Yeah, it’s chilly in the White Mountains for most of the year — so we have some indoor water parks! You can enjoy yourself year-round, even if it’s snowing outside.

Kahuna Laguna Water Park is located at the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort in North Conway. Open to resort guests only, this water park is a fun-filled family resort with wave pools, water slides, and more! (January 2023 update: Kahuna Laguna has been temporarily closed due to a massive fire at the resort in 2022, and we hope they will rebuild and reopen again soon.)

Alternatively, the Hampton Inn and Suites North Conway has a small water park on the premises, with two waterslides emptying out into a pool, plus a splash area. Sometimes that’s all you need for a great time! It’s open exclusively to hotel guests.

And if you’re up for an outdoor water park during the summer months, hit up Whale’s Tale Waterpark in Lincoln! It’s just a stone’s throw from Franconia Notch State Park and full of family-friendly rides and activities. And while it’s way more than just a water park, Santa’s Village in Jefferson hosts lots of water rides (one favorite: Ho Ho H2O) and places to cool off!

Read More: Best Outdoor and Indoor Water Parks in New Hampshire

Have a Festive Christmas Season in the White Mountains

Ever thought of coming to the White Mountains in late November or December? These months are a bit of a quiet time, as it’s past foliage time but before the ski resorts really get going. And lots of Christmas activities take place!

The Rocks in Bethlehem is one of our favorite Christmas tree farms in New Hampshire , thanks to their Christmas Memory Package . You can visit, harvest your own Christmas tree, enjoy a sleigh ride, and stay at a nearby hotel overnight.

Jackson puts on the Jingle Bell Chocolate Tour in November and December, where you travel by Austrian sleigh to different small businesses around town and receive chocolate treasures from each of the owners. It’s a festive way to get to know Jackson in style! Plus, CHOCOLATE.

The town of Littleton puts on a Christmas parade the Friday after Thanksgiving. And of course, Santa’s Village , the popular kids’ theme park in Jefferson, is popular throughout the summer and is also open on December weekends. Both the Conway Scenic Railroad and the Hobo Railroad offer Christmas trains .

And did you know that you can actually cut down your own Christmas tree in the White Mountain National Forest? We were floored to learn this! All you need is a permit that costs $5 . The rules are strict, so be sure to follow them.

Read More: Christmas Events in New Hampshire

Squeeze Into Caves at Lost River Gorge

At first glance, Lost River Gorge in North Woodstock looks like another Flume Gorge — only privately owned, rather than part of Franconia Notch State Park. Indeed, there are many similarities, like the wooden boardwalks that take you through the gorge, moist air and lush greenery surrounding you.

But Lost River Gorge has something else — boulder caves! There are tons of these caves along the trail, from the Bear Crawl to the Judgement Hall of Pluto — and some of happen to be perfectly kid-sized, like the Lemon Squeezer. Your kids will delight in discovering secret hideaways where adults can’t fit!

(Not a cave fan? No worries. Every single cave is optional and you can skip them entirely while staying on the trail.)

Entry costs $23 for anyone over 4 when purchased in advance or $26 at the window.

For more cave fun, be sure to visit the Polar Caves in Rumney. Either place is fun for an afternoon of scrambling through the woods.

Stay in a Cozy B&B

The White Mountains are home to so many wonderful bed and breakfasts — they make a wonderful weekend getaway. North Conway alone is home to some of the best bed and breakfasts in New Hampshire, though if you look carefully, you’ll find them hidden into nooks and crannies in the White Mountains.

So which B&Bs are worth a special stay? In North Conway, we’re big fans of the Cranmore Inn , an excellent luxury B&B with rich furnishings just a two-minute walk from North Conway Village. You can enjoy their hot tub and heated pool, as well as many fireplaces.

Jackson is another excellent B&B destination, and we love how it feels like a quieter, more adult-oriented getaway from North Conway. The Christmas Farm Inn is one of our favorites in Jackson, boasting an excellent restaurant and spa among its amenities.

In the western mountains, the Adair Country Inn has some of the most glorious grounds we’ve seen, and spacious rooms with jacuzzi tubs, and an excellent restaurant on site.

And if you love small historic inns with character, we’ll recommend the Sugar Hill Inn , which while quirky (super creaky floors!), has loads of charm and serves a fantastic breakfast.

Read More: Best Bed and Breakfasts in North Conway

See a Moose in the Wild

Ever seen a moose in the wild? New Hampshire is a great place to go on a moose safari! From May through September, you can go searching for moose in the wilderness, thanks to a specially outfitted bus and guides that live for tracking them down!

You should know that there are a few different companies that offer New Hampshire moose tours, and while they’re all based in the White Mountains, they drive up into the Great North Woods, where you’re far likelier to see moose.

For that reasons, we at New Hampshire Way recommend Gorham Moose Tours . Being based in Gorham rather than North Conway or Lincoln, they’re far closer to the action and you’ll spend less time on the way to Moose Country. (To put things in perspective, we saw our first moose in the wild by Umbagog Lake close to the Maine border, about an hour’s drive from Gorham, but 90 minutes from North Conway and nearly two hours from Lincoln.)

There’s nothing like seeing a moose in the wild. They are majestic creatures and so peaceful. But as soon as you see the actual size of them in real life — especially if you spot a beefy male with antlers — you’ll realize why there are BRAKE FOR MOOSE signs all over the White Mountains!

Go Wine Tasting at Seven Birches Winery

Wineries in the White Mountains? 20 years ago, decent wineries in New Hampshire, period, would have been unthinkable. But today you can find wineries in all 50 states, and sometimes in improbable locations!

Seven Birches Winery is located at the Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain in Lincoln, and they offer a popular wine tasting experience . On this tour, you’ll chat with local winemakers, learn about what goes into making wines in this unorthodox environment, and then do some tasting — both young wines and finished wines.

Stick around after the tour to enjoy another glass and beautiful views over the landscape.

Hike to a Waterfall

The White Mountains are full of gorgeous waterfalls! And there are tons of hikes leading to them.

One of our favorite New Hampshire waterfall hikes is to Arethusa Falls, a 2.8-mile out-and-back moderate hike that makes an excellent afternoon excursion. Another option is Franconia Falls, a longer but mostly flat 6.8-mile out-and-back hike with a natural swimming hole that is beautifully framed by fall foliage in early October.

If you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly hike to a waterfall, we suggest the 15-minute walk to Sabbaday Falls along the Kancamagus Highway , or perhaps a visit to Diana’s Baths in Bartlett, an area full of waterfalls and pools where you can actually climb in!

Want an even easier option? Glen Ellis Falls is just a 10-minute walk from the parking lot, and the Silver Cascade is right on Route 302 in Crawford Notch, and it has a parking lot right across the street. Couldn’t be easier!

Spend a Day in Downtown Littleton

New Hampshire is no stranger to picture-perfect downtown areas, from Keene to Portsmouth . But our favorite downtown area in the White Mountains is the town of Littleton . With a population of just under 6,000, Littleton packs art, nature, and a lot of fun into its downtown!

Find your way to Littleton and check out all the interesting shops and restaurants on offer. We’re big fans of the Little Village Toy and Book Shop , with tons to browse for both kids and adults; Chutters Candy Shop is home to the Guinness record-breaking longest candy shop in the world, and Schilling Beer Company brews up fantastic European-style beers.

Take in the Riverwalk Bridge and the views along the Ammonoosuc River, and if you’re staying for longer, you can’t beat a nice meal at Tim-Bir Alley or fresh pancakes at the Littleton Diner the next morning! This is the kind of small town that people don’t think exists anymore — so go and enjoy it!

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

Have a Picnic at Echo Lake State Park

First off: there are two Echo Lakes in the White Mountains! One is in Franconia, the one you see from Artist Bluff, but Echo Lake State Park is located in Bartlett. This park has a lovely lake with a beach and lots of park benches. We think it makes a great spot for a picnic during your time around North Conway.

You can spend a day at the lake, which is a gorgeous shade of green, but we think it makes more sense as a shorter stop during a day of adventuring. You have an excellent view of Cathedral Ledge rising above the lake, and reflecting perfectly if it happens to be a still day.

Side note: if you have very young kids (think toddlers or young preschoolers), Echo Lake might be a good first hike ever to take them on. It takes adults about 10 minutes to walk around the lake, so perhaps 20-30 for your group, and it’s a flat trail.

Take the Kids to Story Land

If you have young kids and are visiting the White Mountains, you must take them to Story Land! Located in Glen, just north of North Conway, Story Land is a small amusement park with a fairy tale theme that has been welcoming guests for more than 65 years.

Story Land is more for young kids than older kids — we recommend it for toddlers through elementary school-aged kids. Here you can enjoy more than 30 rides and attractions, from the Great Balloon Chase to the Roar-O-Saurus Coaster, from Cinderella’s Castle (with the glass slipper on display!) to Mother Goose Manor.

You can take a ride in a pumpkin coach, sit with Humpty Dumpty, or climb into the shoe where the old woman lived. Tickets start at $39.99.

Speaking personally — hi, editor Kate here! — as a kid who traveled to the White Mountains every summer, Story Land was always the highlight of my year. We at New Hampshire Way know your kids will enjoy it just as much.

Eat All the Pancakes at Polly’s Pancake Parlor

The town of Sugar Hill, next door to Franconia, is one of the most beautiful rural towns in the White Mountains. You’ll constantly want to stop the car and photograph a barn set against the mountains, a quaint white church, the old-fashioned red fire truck in the town center.

But the absolute must-do in Sugar Hill is to stop at Polly’s Pancake Parlor , where they’ve been dishing up pancakes from scratch for more than 75 years. Served with real New Hampshire maple syrup, of course!

Today you can try all kinds of pancakes — oatmeal, cornmeal, buttermilk, gingerbread, pancakes, topped with blueberries or chocolate chips or coconut! They make gluten-friendly rice pancakes, and you can even get a pancake sampler if you want to try a few different ones! It’s the perfect fuel for a day of mountain exploration.

To avoid the peak crowds, we recommend hitting up Polly’s for lunch rather than breakfast, ideally on a weekday. After all, who doesn’t love having breakfast all day?

Hike the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire

The Appalachian Trail runs 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine, but many Appalachian Trail hikers share that the White Mountains are the most beautiful (and most challenging!) part of the epic trail. And they’re not wrong!

The New Hampshire portion of the trail runs 161 miles, a journey that takes most hikers around two weeks. But you don’t need to hike the trail in its entirety — there are plenty of day hikes on the Appalachian Trail that are beautiful, fun, and let you head home for the night before heading out again.

Some of our favorite NH Appalachian Trail day hikes include Zealand Falls and Thoreau Falls; North Kinsman via Lonesome Lake; and Franconia Ridge. Hikes are available for all levels of fitness.

Keep an eye out for the white blazes on the trees, a staple of the Appalachian Trail throughout the US, and consider being a “trail angel,” offering encouragement to any bedraggled thru-hikers you see. This place is all about the community!

Read More: Hiking the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire

Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad

You can’t miss the station in the heart of North Conway Village — it’s pale yellow, built in a “Russian Victorian” style in 1874, and holding court on Schouler Park. This is home to another famous scenic train ride in the White Mountains: the Conway Scenic Railroad .

There are three kinds of train rides: the one-hour Conway Valley Train, two-hour Sawyer River Valley Train, and four-hour Mountaineer Train. You should know that the Conway Valley Train and Sawyer River Valley Train are not the most scenic of rides — they tend to be more historic rides with occasional glimpses of beautiful scenery. These tend to be more suited for train enthusiasts.

The REALLY beautiful ride, however, is the Mountaineer, taking you all the way up into Crawford Notch through some of the most spectacular White Mountain scenery you’ll ever see, especially if you go during peak foliage. Yes, it’s a four-hour train ride — but if you want to see beautiful scenery, this is the train you take!

Read More: Is the Conway Scenic Railroad Worth It?

Go Ziplining with Alpine Adventures

Forget hiking up mountains — wouldn’t it be more fun to fly between them? That’s certainly the case at Alpine Adventures in Lincoln, who deliver a number of adrenaline-fueled adventures in the White Mountains.

Alpine Adventures has zipline courses up in the White Mountains — and they operate them year-round, including a winter zipline. They also offer off-road tours, a giant slide, and Thrillsville, a self-guided adventure course located right at their headquarters in downtown Lincoln.

It’s popular for first-time Alpine Adventures visitors to say, “I have to come back and do this for foliage season.” Absolutely! As fun as ziplining is, there’s nothing like doing it underneath the red, orange, and yellow colors of New Hampshire fall foliage !

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

Have a Winter Getaway in Jackson

Located just 10 minutes from North Conway, Jackson is often cited as a small-town alternative to its busy neighbor down the road. We love experiencing Jackson’s small-town charm any time of year — Jackson Falls , the Museum of White Mountain Art , White Mountain Puzzles — but we especially love visiting this White Mountain town in the winter.

Jackson is home to the most extensive collection of cross-country skiing trails in the Granite State, making it a bucket list item for cross country enthusiasts! At Nestlenook Farm , you can go on sleigh rides , go ice-skating, or try your hand at snowshoeing the trails.

For downhill skiing, Black Mountain is right in town, or you can head up Route 16 to Wildcat Mountain, one of the more challenging New Hampshire ski resorts .

We especially love the bed and breakfasts in Jackson, which know how to bring the romance for a winter getaway. We’re especially fans of the Christmas Farm Inn , with a wonderful restaurant and a spa on site; and the Inn at Thorn Hill , a luxurious option with decadent suites, restaurants, a tavern, and its own spa.

Read More: 16 Best Things to Do in Jackson, NH

Try Local Spirits at White Mountains Distilleries

Distilleries have been popping up all over the Granite State in recent years, and we love how there are so many new spirits to try! They make fantastic gifts, too — especially their quintessential New England blends.

One place worth visiting in the White Mountains is Cathedral Ledge Distillery in North Conway, which happens to be New Hampshire’s only organic distillery. They offer tastings of their spirits (we especially love their horseradish vodka and maple liqueur) and they offer distillery tours if you book in advance.

Another spot on the southern edge of the White Mountains is Tamworth Distilling in Tamworth. This distillery offers tastings and the entire facility is a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. Take a look at their extensive selection of bar accessories and gifts. We especially love their Old Man of the Mountain Bourbon and Deer Slayer Venison-Flavored Whiskey.

Marvel at the Ice Castles

Each year, ice sculptors come to the White Mountains to build a wonderland made of snow and ice. This is Ice Castles — a celebration with locations throughout the United States, but every year they come back to North Woodstock, just west of Lincoln.

The structures at Ice Castles include ice slides and snow tunnels (perfectly sized for both kids and adults), ice caverns and mazes, the Mystic Forest Light Walk and Winter Fairy Forest, and snow tubing and sleigh rides.

We recommend timing your trip just before sunset so you can see how the Ice Castles look in both light and darkness. It’s a wonderful winter outing for the whole family — especially if you top it off with a hot chocolate afterward!

No kids in your party? Hit up the Polar Pub for a boozy beverage that gives new meaning to the expression “on the rocks.”

Read More: 26 Things to Do in New Hampshire in the Winter

Stay in a Cozy Cabin with a Hot Tub

There’s nothing like staying at a cabin in the heart of the White Mountains. But what’s even better? Staying in a cabin with a hot tub! There are plenty of cabins with hot tubs in the White Mountains, most of them clustered around North Conway and Jackson.

We went through the complete list of New Hampshire cabins with hot tubs and realized that a lot of rentals claim a bathtub with jets is a hot tub. NOT REMOTELY TRUE! For that reason, we went through the list with a fine-tooth comb and picked out the cabins that actually have real hot tubs .

Whether you ward off cool fall White Mountain breezes with a dip into the tub, or get out and roll in the snow during a winter visit (you do you!), getting away to a White Mountains cabin with a hot tub will give you a vacation you’ll remember forever.

Read More: 27 New Hampshire Cabins with Hot Tubs

Drive the Mount Washington Auto Road

The Mount Washington Cog Railway might be one of the most unique journeys in New Hampshire, but if you’re looking for a more badass way to get to the top of Mount Washington, check out the Mount Washington Auto Road ! This is actually one of the oldest attractions in the White Mountains, dating back more than 150 years when horse-drawn carriages made the journey.

The Mount Washington Auto Road is a 7.6-mile journey, taking about 30 minutes to get to the summit, and around 30-45 to get down (it’s smart to take a few breaks to enjoy the scenery and give your car a rest). As you drive upward, it’s fascinating watching the scenery change, from thick forests to short scraggly trees to a moon-like barren landscape!

Once you’re at the summit, get that photo in front of the Mount Washington sign and take in the views. That is, if you’re lucky enough to have a (somewhat rare) clear day up there!

And, of course, once you’ve done this, you get one of the ubiquitous “This Car Climbed Mount Washington” stickers that you see throughout New England. Put it on your bumper or keep it at home — you definitely earned it.

Keep in mind that the Mount Washington Auto Road entrance is off Route 16 in Pinkham Notch, just south of Gorham — an hour’s drive from where the Mount Washington Cog Railway departs near Bretton Woods. Don’t get those two mixed up!

Read More: Guide to Driving the Mount Washington Auto Road

Conquer the NH 48

You’ve already done a few hikes in the White Mountains. You’re ready to take on a few of the harder ones. But why not go a bit further? The NH 48 is the ultimate challenge for New Hampshire hikers — climbing all 48 of the Granite State’s 4000-footers!

At the beginning of your journey, you can start with easier peaks like Mount Tecumseh, the shortest of the 4000-footers, or Mount Pierce, an easy hike with a beautiful view as payoff.

As you get better, prepare to tackle the harder hikes, like Mounts Adams, Jefferson, Isolation, and Lafayette. Finish with Mount Washington if you’d like — though many NH 48 finishers tend to do it a bit earlier in their journey!

If you’ve finished the NH 48, you can consider yourself in an elite club in the state of New Hampshire!

Read More: Guide to Conquering the NH 48

How Much Time Do You Need in the White Mountains?

It depends entirely on how much you want to do — but generally, we find that people don’t spend long enough here. There are many travelers who plan a big all-of-New-England road trip, and when they do that, they only give a day or two to the White Mountains. Which is a shame!

Realistically, if you’re planning a big trip, we recommend spending a week or longer in the White Mountains. That will allow you to do a few of the most popular activities (Mount Washington Cog Railway, Flume Gorge, time in Littleton, time in North Conway, an epic hike or two) and have time to do your own thing as well.

And if that’s not an option, you can have a really great long weekend getaway here. Plenty of New Englanders have the White Mountains as their regular weekend getaway destination!

As always, it depends on how much you want to do. But adding on an extra day or two wouldn’t do much harm!

Best Time to Visit the White Mountains

While we say that the White Mountains of New Hampshire are a year-round travel destination, it’s really more of a three-season destination. Summer brings hikers, campers, and lots and lots of families. Fall brings leaf-peepers and international visitors, and this is the busiest and most expensive time of year to visit the White Mountains. Winter brings skiers and adults looking for cozy getaways. (Spring is mud season. Welcome to Northern New England!)

You can visit the White Mountains at any time of year and have a great time, but be realistic about what you want to do. If hiking is a priority, we highly recommend coming during the summer, especially if you’re from a warmer climate. It gets pretty cold in the White Mountains at night, even during the summer.

We will reiterate that the best time for fall foliage in the White Mountains is in early October — though sometimes Mother Nature is fickle and this can vary. It’s imperative to plan a fall trip as early as possible, because everything books up fast. You can learn more in our fall foliage guide here.

How to Get to the White Mountains

If you’re flying in, the closest airport to the White Mountains is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in Manchester, NH. Manchester is about a two-hour drive from North Conway and a 75-minute drive from Lincoln.

However, Logan Airport in Boston isn’t much further away and gets many more flights, especially international flights. It might be significantly cheaper or easier for you to fly into Logan. Boston is a 2.5-hour drive from North Conway and a two-hour drive from Lincoln.

If you’re visiting the eastern side of the White Mountains, like North Conway, flying to Portland, Maine, is closest of all (90 minutes from North Conway).

The White Mountains are best seen by car. As much as we wish that there were decent public transportation in the White Mountains, it barely exists.

Where to Stay in the White Mountains

There are so many different places to stay in the White Mountains — so much that it could (and soon will be) its own post.

The two most popular places to stay in the White Mountains are North Conway and Lincoln, the two big hubs. They both make good places to stay, but there are a few other places we love, like Jackson (10 minutes north of North Conway) and the Franconia area (Franconia, Sugar Hill, Bethlehem, Littleton, 30 minutes north of Lincoln).

Where to Stay in North Conway

• Luxury: Cranmore Inn — Super-nice B&B, well worth the splurge
• Mid-Range: Kearsarge Inn — Really nice and welcoming but not as painfully expensive
• Budget: Colonial Motel — It’s a motel but quite decent; has some jacuzzis in the main room!
• See our full North Conway hotels guide here

Where to Stay in Lincoln

• Luxury: RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain — Super luxe and modern; don’t miss the winery tour on site
• Mid-Range: Woodwards White Mountain Resort — Quiet and set-back, with a pool
• Budget: Riverbank Motel & Cabins — Great value cabins and awesome staff
• See our full Lincoln hotels guide here

Other Places to Stay in the White Mountains

• Thayers Inn — Historic inn in the heart of downtown Littleton, the best town in the White Mountains with the best brewery in the state
• Sugar Hill Inn — Quirky, historic inn with small rooms and creaky floors, and a GREAT restaurant
• Huttopia White Mountains — Easy done-for-you camping in Albany, near North Conway, some tents with bathrooms inside them
• New Hampshire Cabins with Hot Tubs — The best of the best, right here!

Find deals on places to stay in the White Mountains here.

Are the White Mountains Worth It?

If you’ve gone through this entire post and still aren’t sure whether the White Mountains are for you, let me assure you once more — this is a very, very special destination. The White Mountains are absolutely gorgeous, full of adventure, and have something for every kind of traveler.

Come to the White Mountains! You’re going to love it here.

More White Mountains Town Guides:

• 31 Fun Things to Do in North Conway, NH
• 27 Epic Things to Do in Lincoln, NH
• 16 Best Things to Do in Jackson, NH
• 23 Fun Things to Do in Littleton, NH

More on the White Mountains:

• A Guide to Driving the Kancamagus Highway
• A Guide to Glen Ellis Falls, NH
• A Guide to Jackson Falls, NH
• A Guide to the Mount Washington Cog Railway
• Hiking the Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire
• Snow and Ice Climbing in the White Mountains, NH
• A Guide to Driving the Mount Washington Auto Road

Best of New Hampshire:

• 50+ Best Things to Do in New Hampshire
• 13 Best Beaches in New Hampshire
• New Hampshire’s Best Breweries
• New Hampshire Fall Foliage Guide

What’s your favorite thing to do in the White Mountains? Share away!

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Top New Hampshire Attractions

Things to do in new hampshire, explore popular experiences, popular cities in new hampshire.

Ways to tour New Hampshire

Boston to Kennebunkport with Optional Lobster Tour

WW2 Small Arms Experience

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Kancamagus Scenic Byway Audio Driving Tour Guide

Public|Explore the Islands & Harbor Must See Hidden Sites|2-2.5hr

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What travellers are saying.

10 things to do in NH this weekend: Seacoast Eat Local, NH Opera Idol and more

Decent weather's in the New Hampshire forecast. Among the events, Dinosaur World Live is Friday at The Colonial Theatre in Keene.

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.

• Dinosaur World Live on Friday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m. at The Colonial Theatre in Keene. More info .
• Movies on the Map: “Mami Wata” on Friday, April 26 at 7 p.m. at the Hopkins Center for the Arts on the Dartmouth College campus in Hanover. More info .
• Sam Robbins performing at The Music Hall Lounge on Friday, April 26, at 8 p.m. in Portsmouth. More info . See also: In-studio visit with Portsmouth's own Sam Robbins
• Independent Bookstore Day 2024 on Saturday, April 27 at various locations. Find a participating bookstore near you .
• Seacoast Eat Local’s Spring Celebration on Saturday, April 27 from noon to 3 p.m. at Throwback Brewery in North Hampton. More info . See also: Taste of Spring at the Claremont Opera House
• Hood Museum of Art Community Day: “Gilded” on Saturday, April 27 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Hood Museum of Art on the Dartmouth College campus in Hanover. More info . More at the Hood Museum: Artist Talk: Titus Kaphar
• Apple Hill String Quartet on Saturday, April 27 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Brewbakers Cafe in Keene. More info .
• You can eat it once, but can you eat it twice? on Sunday, April 28 from 1:45 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Belknap Woods, hosted by the Squam Lakes Association. More info . See also: Hiking The Wapack Trail To Binney Pond And Pratt Mountain , hosted by the Harris Center for Conservation Education.
• NH Opera Idol on Sunday, April 28 at 3 p.m. at the Bank of New Hampshire Stage in Concord. More info . Also, The Capitol Center for the Arts, Bank of New Hampshire Stage, welcomes Michael Glabicki of Rusted Root, withi Dirk Miller , on Friday, April 26, at 8 p.m.

Let us help you plan your weekend. Subscribe today!

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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

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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• 6 Cutest Small Towns In New Hampshire To Visit In 2024

In the heart of New England , New Hampshire entices visitors with its blend of artistic flair and outdoor splendor. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, including the majestic White Mountains and tranquil lakeshores, the Granite State is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. But beyond its natural beauty, New Hampshire boasts a vibrant arts scene, with charming towns like Peterborough, Newmarket, Littleton, and Wolfeboro. From scenic hiking trails in Gilford to bustling art galleries in Plymouth, New Hampshire’s rich cultural heritage amidst stunning natural surroundings is waiting to be discovered in 2024.

Often referred to as “The Oldest Summer Resort in America,” visitors to Wolfeboro might feel like they’ve stepped back in time to a place where nothing has changed. With a Norman Rockwell-esque appeal, the town traces its history back to 1759. Visitors can stroll along the town's waterfront promenade, Wolfeboro Bay, and admire views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains. Cute shops line downtown Wolfeboro’s Main Street, like Black Paper Store & Gift Shop, which first opened its doors in 1867 as “Black’s Paper Store” and has morphed into a one-stop-shop for just about everything—books, art supplies, snacks, and souvenirs. The historic Wolfe’s Tavern has been a place to “eat, drink, gather” for over 130 years.

Don’t be surprised to spot brightly painted pianos in and around town during the summer of 2024. The pianos are part of the Street Piano Project, a visible and hands-on way to engage the community to share in the joy of music, and an initiative of Great Waters that sponsors the annual Great Waters Music Festival held in Wolfeboro and nearby Moultonborough. After an outdoor concert in Wolfeboro, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and hiking in nearby parks, such as Wentworth State Park on the shore of scenic Wentworth Lake and the Cotton Valley Rail Trail, a 12-mile hard-packed trail for walking, cycling, wildlife viewing, and exploring railway motor cars.

Fifteen miles from Portsmouth is the historic mill town of Newmarket. Incorporated in 1727, industries like textiles and shoe manufacturing flourished in the city thanks to its location along the Lamprey River. Today, visitors to Newmarket can walk or cycle along the picturesque riverside. Downtown Newmarket is full of unique shops and cafés like the Big Bean, who serve an endless coffee mug in the morning and an espresso mudslide in the evening, or Crackskull’s Coffee & Books, where they offer store credits for best-loved and slightly-used books.

For cultural travelers, the Stone Church, built initially as a meeting house in 1832, has a storied past. It was the first Catholic Church in Newmarket, a roller skating rink, and a playhouse, and then became The Newmarket Heel Factory during the town’s shoe-making heyday. The Stone Church became a music club in 1970 and is now a musical mecca in this small town, having hosted more than 15,000 shows and attracting musicians like Bonnie Raitt, Ritchie Havens, Suzanne Vega, Phish, and Carlos Santana.

Plymouth is a small college town in the stunningly beautiful and rugged White Mountains. The highest point in the area, Plymouth Mountain, rises between Newfound Lake, the Tenney Mountain wind farm and ski area, and downtown Plymouth. It may well be the town’s best-kept secret as the few trails accessing it are mostly locally known. One of the most popular hikes is the Plymouth Mountain Sutherland Trail, a 4-mile out-and-back, moderately strenuous hike with an elevation gain of 1400 feet. Another outdoor activity in Plymouth is the nearby Polar Caves Park. The caves were formed during the Ice Age and named after the "polar" breath that emanates from the caves, even on the hottest summer day.

The town is also home to Plymouth State University, which hosts events such as concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions open to the public. History enthusiasts can visit the Plymouth Historical Museum and stroll down its 19th-century Victorian Main Street, displaying numerous historical artifacts and large-scale scenes depicting a vibrant community. While in town, don’t miss the Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center in downtown Plymouth, which was originally a vaudeville and silent film theater. Today, the theater hosts folk, blues, and rock music, art exhibits, and community theater, yet it still pays tribute to its silent film past with its 2024 Silent Film Series, “L’ARGENT.”

Gilford offers a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Visitors can explore the scenic shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake at 71 square miles. “Lake Winni,” as the locals know, is a perfect location to enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors can set sail on a small sailboat or rent an inflatable pedal kayak from Fay’s Boat Yard. Moreover, there are many public beaches around the lake for swimming, including the 600-foot Ellacoya State Beach in Gilford.

On a clear day, above Lake Winnipesaukee, visitors can spot the White Mountains from the Gunstock Mountain Resort, a premier winter and summer destination in Gilford. The resort features miles of dog-friendly hiking trails, a stocked pond for fishing, mountain biking trails, and adrenaline-pumping activities at Gunstock’s Adventure Park. Some of the most popular activities are ziplining, traversing a 90-obstacle aerial treetop adventure, taking a mountain coaster ride, or a scenic chairlift ride to the summit.

Finally, Gilford is home to the BankNH Pavilion—an outdoor amphitheater that hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year. During the summer of 2024, visitors can catch Hootie & the Blowfish, New Kids on the Block, or Willie Nelson & Family as part of the Outlaw Musical Festival.

Along the Ammonoosuc River, Littleton is a cute, cozy, and charming town with a main street worth exploring. Bursting with New England charm, there are so many funky and eclectic shops, like Chutters, a candy shop that holds the world record for the longest candy counter at 112 feet, and the Coffee Pot, which serves breakfast and lunch all day and still has time to bake fresh bread daily. Meanwhile, those looking to take back some souvenirs can stop to shop at the Bella Funk Boutique and Little Village Toy & Book Shop.

The Littleton Opera House has been a cultural landmark in the community since its construction in 1895. The opera house features stunning Victorian-era architecture, with a grand auditorium adorned with ornate detailing. Today, it continues to serve as a hub for arts and culture in the region. In the summer of 2024, it will host Studio Two, a Beatles tribute band voted “The Best Beatles Tribute Band in New England” by The Boston Globe.

Peterborough

As one of New Hampshire’s oldest towns, Peterborough (founded in 1737) is a cute town surrounded by luscious forests and stunning scenery. It is perhaps most well-known as the location of MacDowell, which, until 2020, was known as “The MacDowell Colony.” Founded in 1907 by renowned composer Edward MacDowell, MacDowell is an artists’ retreat providing residencies for hundreds of artists annually. Its alum list includes composer Leonard Bernstein, playwright Thornton Wilder, and writer Jonathan Franzen. An art town through and through, Peterborough is also home to the Mariposa Museum & World Culture Center and numerous local downtown art galleries.

Established in 1891, Miller State Park in Peterborough is the oldest state park in New Hampshire. It spans over 500 acres and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and Mount Monadnock. The park is known for its extensive network of hiking trails, including the Wapack Trail, a 21-mile footpath. Standing at an elevation of 3,165 feet, Mount Monadnock offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Wapack Range, the Monadnock Region, and the distant Boston skyline on clear days. After Mount Fuji in Japan , Mount Monadnock is the second most summited mountain in the world.

The six cute small towns of Wolfeboro, Newmarket, Plymouth, Gilford, Littleton, and Peterborough in New Hampshire offer a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, and charming attractions. From the oldest summer resort in America to the longest candy counter in the world to the second most summited mountain in the world, New Hampshire has a lot to offer visitors in 2024. Moreover, visitors can take in the views without the hustle and bustle of urban centers.

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Survey of New Hampshire and Maine residents shows great enthusiasm for April 8 eclipse

DURHAM — Almost all of those who went to see the total eclipse in New Hampshire and Maine were very satisfied, despite half of the New Hampshire eclipse-goers spending more than five hours traveling, according to new polls by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center. 

On April 8, the northern parts of New Hampshire and Maine were plunged into darkness for up to three and a half minutes as the moon passed completely in front of the sun during the  first total eclipse  in the region since 1959.

Most people in both states saw at least a partial eclipse. Seacoast residents were able to see between 94 percent and 96 percent totality.

In New Hampshire, high traffic didn’t break high spirits

The Granite State Poll conducted by the UNH Survey Center found that 15 percent of New Hampshire residents  traveled outside of their town  or city to see the eclipse. Sixty-six percent of those travelers saw a total eclipse.

Among those who traveled to see the eclipse, 30 percent said they spent more than eight hours traveling. Almost half spent more than five hours traveling. The New Hampshire Department of Transportation said they saw over 1.6 million cars pass through the toll system, and that the high number of vehicles and limited capacity, particularly through Franconia Notch,  impacted traffic.

Despite this, 92 percent of those who traveled to see the eclipse, partial or total, were very or somewhat satisfied with their trip.

More: I went to Lancaster, NH to see eclipse in its totality: Here's what it was like

Forty-eight percent of Granite Staters stayed home but took time out of their day to see the eclipse. Forty-two percent of those people cited traffic as the primary reason why they decided not to travel. 

Over half said they were happy with  viewing opportunities locally , which on the Seacoast included  viewing parties at the Portsmouth and Dover libraries.

Just 12 percent did not see the eclipse at all, most citing a lack of interest or availability. 

Twenty percent of them said too high cost was the reason for their decision. Most travelers spent less than $100 on their trip, but 8 percent spent over $500.

In Maine, high satisfaction locally and up north

Almost one in five Mainers  traveled to see the eclipse, according to the Pine Tree State Poll from the UNH Survey Center, and 91 percent of them saw the total eclipse.

Traffic for Mainers was better than in New Hampshire: just two percent said their travels took more than eight hours. It took somewhere between one and four hours for almost half of the people who traveled to see the eclipse.

Their shorter travel times may be part of the reason 97 percent of travelers were satisfied with their trip.

Out of the non-travelers, 72 percent still saw the eclipse, purposely or not. They too were happy with viewing opportunities locally.

Just like in New Hampshire, most people who didn’t see the eclipse weren’t available or interested. Twenty-seven percent cited cost as the reason they didn’t take time to see the eclipse; of those who traveled in Maine, the median respondent reported spending $13. 

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DNC votes to restore New Hampshire’s delegates for this summer’s convention

The Democratic National Committee voted Tuesday to reinstate New Hampshire’s delegates ahead of this summer’s convention in Chicago, ending months of fighting over the state’s 2024 presidential primary.  

“We as a committee and as a national committee have gone through a difficult number of weeks and months of getting to this point, and I know that New Hampshire has gone through a difficult number of weeks and months where some things we’d like to have seen take place did not,” Jim Roosevelt, a co-chair of the DNC’s Rules and Bylaws Committee, said at a meeting Tuesday. “As it happens, all that is behind us now. We have worked out compliance with our rules and with the charter.”

New Hampshire, which state law requires to hold the first presidential primary, had refused to comply with a new Democratic calendar that moved South Carolina to the front of the line. As a result, President Joe Biden did not file to appear on the ballot for its unsanctioned Jan. 23 primary, which took place more than a week before South Carolina’s contest. Biden still won New Hampshire with about 64% of the vote through a write-in campaign. 

Roosevelt told committee members during a livestream Zoom meeting, “We’re pleased to move forward in partnership with our colleagues from the great state of New Hampshire reaching a successful resolution that ensures that New Hampshire’s delegates are represented at the Democratic National Convention this summer.”

When Biden visited New Hampshire in March to open his first coordinated campaign office in the state, he told supporters that, without getting ahead of the DNC’s process, he expected New Hampshire’s delegates to count, according to two people in the room. 

Before the state Democratic Party held a delegate selection meeting Saturday, it invited members to participate in a party-run primary in which Biden was the only candidate on the ballot. Two dozen people participated, which the DNC viewed as a sanctioned primary affirming New Hampshire’s right to its delegates at this summer’s convention, said a source familiar with the process. 

“New Hampshire is delighted to express our support for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in Chicago,” state Democratic Chairman Ray Buckley told NBC News. “We are extraordinarily proud of the diverse and perhaps history-making delegates that have been selected to represent us.” 

Buckley said many of the delegates being sent to Chicago are under age 36 and that some identify as LGBTQ.

Asked about the chaos surrounding the order of the Democratic primaries this cycle, Buckley said the party was ready to move on.

“We prefer looking forward to the general election, where we’re going to re-elect Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, a Democratic governor, both congressional seats and majorities in the State House,” Buckley said. “We are so over this.” 

Buckley added that New Hampshire’s retaining its first-in-the nation primary status in 2028 will “be a worry after the election.” 

“We have got to save democracy first,” he said. 

Emma Barnett is a 2024 NBC News campaign embed.

New Hampshire’s GOP Is Taking a Stand—Against the Polio Vaccine

The granite state could be the first to ditch polio and measles requirements for child care..

Julia Métraux

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

New Hampshire could soon beat Florida—known for its anti-vaccine Surgeon General —when it comes to loosening vaccine requirements. A first-in-the-nation bill that’s already passed New Hampshire’s state House, sponsored only by Republican legislators, would end the requirement for parents enrolling kids in child care to provide documentation of polio and measles vaccination. New Hampshire would be the only state in the US to have such a law, although many states allow religious exemptions to vaccine requirements. 

Currently, Republicans control  New Hampshire’s state House, Senate and governor’s office—but that isn’t a guarantee that the bill will be signed into law, with GOP Gov. Chris Sununu seemingly flip-flopping when it comes to disease control. Sununu did sign a bill in 2021 allowing people to use public places and services even if they did not receive the Covid-19 vaccine. But the next year, the governor vetoed a bill that would bar schools from implementing mask mandates. 

The polio vaccine, first offered in 1955, and the MMR shot, which treats the highly infectious measles, mumps, and rubella viruses, are two very crucial vaccines both in the US and internationally. Since the year 2000 alone, vaccines against measles are estimated to have saved over 55 million lives  around the world. 

The CDC recommends that kids get their first dose of MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, and a first dose of the polio vaccine at around two months old. All states currently require children to have at least started vaccination against measles and polio in order to enroll in child care, according to the nonprofit Immunize.org. A CDC report found that for the 2021-2022 school year, around 93 percent of children had received the MMR and polio vaccines by the time they entered kindergarten. That figure drops to less than 80 percent for both vaccines—the lowest rate in the country—in Alaska, where a measles outbreak could be devastating. 

Rises in anti-vaccine sentiments have largely been linked to concerns that vaccines cause health issues, like the debunked claim that the MMR vaccine leads to kids being autistic. What parents may want to keep in mind is that polio and measles themselves are disabling conditions: according to the World Health Organization , 1 in 200 polio infections leads to irreversible paralysis. Children who get measles can experience symptoms including swelling of the brain . Death is always a possibility, too. 

“Childhood vaccines have helped protect generations of Americans from potentially devastating vaccine-preventable diseases,” S. Wesley Long, a professor of pathology and genomic medicine at the Houston Methodist medical center, told Mother Jones . “Many of these diseases still exist around the world, and we rely on our collective immunity, often from childhood vaccines, to prevent these diseases from circulating in our population.”

The bill would strike language requiring that immunization records be submitted to child care agencies, but would keep those requirements for students enrolling in kindergarten through 12th grade. As of 2022, according to the nonprofit ChildCare Aware of America , there are some 700 licensed child care centers and homes in New Hampshire (which doesn’t require the Covid-19 vaccine for enrollment in child care, either, despite its efficiency in reducing both death rates and acute symptoms). 

Vaccine hesitancy is rising among parents of young children. A 2023 survey from the Pew Research Center found that around half of parents with kids four or younger thought that not all standard childhood vaccines—a list that also includes hepatitis B, rotavirus, DTaP and chickenpox—may be necessary. Anti-vaccine misinformation plays a role in this phenomenon, which began before the Covid-19 pandemic, but has certainly increased since. In a 2019 UK report , about 50 percent of parents of young kids encountered false information about vaccines on social media. 

While it’s nice when a beloved celebrity makes a comeback, comebacks of the very infectious measles and polio epidemics are less welcome. As New Hampshire’s state epidemiologist, Dr. Benjamin Chan, said during a state Senate hearing on the bill, “as vaccination levels decrease, this is putting our children and our communities and our childcare agencies at risk.”

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• 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, escape to nh for a relaxing getaway, the adventurer's guide to new hampshire.

For the adrenaline-seekers, the fun-lovers and the bold—New Hampshire is the perfect playground for epic summer adventures and unforgettable memories.

The Ultimate Family Vacation

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, trips for all 4 seasons.