bigtravelbuzzNew Hampshire is a state in the New England region of the United States. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the White Mountains, the Lakes Region, and the Seacoast. Here are some things to do and places to visit in New Hampshire:
White Mountains National Forest: The White Mountains are a beautiful range of mountains that offer hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities. The White Mountains National Forest includes several popular attractions, including the Mount Washington Auto Road and the Flume Gorge.
Lake Winnipesaukee: Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire and a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding Lakes Region also offers hiking trails and scenic drives.
Portsmouth: Portsmouth is a charming coastal city in New Hampshire that is known for its historic architecture, art galleries, and shops. It also has several popular attractions, including the USS Albacore Museum and the Strawbery Banke Museum.
Franconia Notch State Park: Franconia Notch State Park is located in the heart of the White Mountains and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives. It is also home to the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
Mount Monadnock: Mount Monadnock is a popular hiking destination in southern New Hampshire. It is known for its panoramic views and is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset hikes.
Hanover: Hanover is a small college town in New Hampshire that is home to Dartmouth College. It offers several popular attractions, including the Hood Museum of Art and the Baker-Berry Library.
Kancamagus Highway: The Kancamagus Highway is a scenic drive that passes through the White Mountains and offers beautiful views of the surrounding scenery.
Mount Washington: Mount Washington is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States and offers hiking, skiing, and scenic drives. It is also home to the Mount Washington Observatory, which studies weather patterns in the region.
Manchester: Manchester is the largest city in New Hampshire and offers several popular attractions, including the Currier Museum of Art and the Palace Theatre.
New Hampshire is a beautiful state with something to offer for everyone. Whether you enjoy outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or historic landmarks, you will find plenty to do and see in New Hampshire.
Places to Visit in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is a state known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Here are some of the best places to visit in New Hampshire:
White Mountains National Forest: The White Mountains offer some of the best hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities in the Northeast. The White Mountains National Forest is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Lake Winnipesaukee: This is the largest lake in New Hampshire and a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding Lakes Region is also home to many hiking trails and scenic drives.
Portsmouth: Portsmouth is a historic coastal city that offers great restaurants, charming boutiques, and a thriving arts scene. Some of the top attractions in Portsmouth include the USS Albacore Museum and the Strawbery Banke Museum.
Franconia Notch State Park: This park is located in the heart of the White Mountains and offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives. The park is also home to the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
Mount Monadnock: This is the most climbed mountain in the world and offers stunning panoramic views. The hike to the summit is challenging, but the views are well worth the effort.
Hanover: This is a small college town that is home to Dartmouth College. Some of the top attractions in Hanover include the Hood Museum of Art and the Baker-Berry Library.
Kancamagus Highway: This is a scenic drive that passes through the White Mountains and offers beautiful views of the surrounding scenery.
Mount Washington: This is the highest peak in the Northeastern United States and offers hiking, skiing, and scenic drives. It is also home to the Mount Washington Observatory, which studies weather patterns in the region.
Manchester: This is the largest city in New Hampshire and offers several popular attractions, including the Currier Museum of Art and the Palace Theatre.
The Seacoast: New Hampshire’s coastline is short, but it is beautiful. The Seacoast region offers charming seaside towns, beautiful beaches, and plenty of opportunities for boating and fishing.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in New Hampshire. Whether you enjoy hiking, skiing, or exploring charming towns and cities, you will find plenty to do and see in this beautiful state.
Best Time To Visit New Hampshire
The best time to visit New Hampshire depends on what you want to do and see. Here are some general tips:
Fall (September to November): This is one of the most popular times to visit New Hampshire because of the beautiful fall foliage. The peak season is usually in October, but the colors can vary from year to year.
Winter (December to February): New Hampshire is known for its skiing and winter sports. Many ski resorts are open from late November to early April, so this is a great time to hit the slopes.
Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit if you want to see the state’s wildflowers and baby animals. The weather can be unpredictable, but it is generally mild.
Summer (June to August): Summer is a popular time to visit because of the warm weather and outdoor activities. Many lakes and beaches are open for swimming, and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore.
Overall, New Hampshire is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season. However, if you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when the weather is still pleasant but the tourist traffic is lower.
Things to Do in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is a beautiful state in the northeastern region of the United States, known for its picturesque landscapes, mountains, lakes, and forests. Here are some things you can do when you visit:
Hike in the White Mountains: New Hampshire is home to the stunning White Mountains, which offer a range of hiking trails, including the famous Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.
Visit the Lakes Region: New Hampshire has many beautiful lakes, including Lake Winnipesaukee, which is surrounded by charming towns and offers a variety of water sports.
Explore Portsmouth: Portsmouth is a charming coastal town with a rich history and architecture, including many colonial-era buildings.
Drive the Kancamagus Highway: The Kancamagus Highway is a scenic byway that offers stunning views of the White Mountains and the surrounding forests.
Visit the Flume Gorge: The Flume Gorge is a natural wonder in Franconia Notch State Park, featuring a narrow gorge with towering walls and a cascading waterfall.
Experience fall foliage: New Hampshire is famous for its vibrant fall foliage, with many scenic drives and hiking trails offering stunning views of the changing leaves.
Ski in the winter: New Hampshire has several ski resorts, including Bretton Woods, Loon Mountain, and Waterville Valley, offering a range of skiing and snowboarding options.
Visit the Mount Washington Cog Railway: The Mount Washington Cog Railway is a historic railway that climbs to the top of Mount Washington, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Explore the White Mountains National Forest: The White Mountains National Forest is a vast area of protected wilderness, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Visit the Canterbury Shaker Village: The Canterbury Shaker Village is a living museum that offers a glimpse into the life and culture of the Shakers, a religious community that once thrived in the area.
How to get around in New Hampshire
Getting around in New Hampshire largely depends on your mode of transportation and your destination.
Car: Driving is the most common way to get around in New Hampshire. There are several major highways, including I-93 and I-89, that connect different parts of the state. Car rentals are available at the airports and in major cities.
Public Transportation: The state has a limited public transportation system, primarily in the form of buses and trains. The Concord Coach Lines and Greyhound Lines are popular bus services connecting major cities in the state. Amtrak’s Vermonter and Downeaster trains also pass through the state.
Bicycle: Biking is a great way to explore New Hampshire, especially in the warmer months. There are several bike trails, including the 60-mile long Northern Rail Trail, and many rural roads with light traffic.
Taxi and Ride-hailing Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are available in major cities, but they may be limited in smaller towns.
Walking: New Hampshire is a pedestrian-friendly state, especially in small towns and cities. Walking is a great way to explore the downtown areas and to enjoy the scenic beauty of the state.
Where to eat in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers a variety of dining options, ranging from seafood shacks to fine dining restaurants. Here are some of the best places to eat in the state:
The Common Man: The Common Man is a New England institution, serving classic American fare in multiple locations throughout the state. Try their famous pot roast or lobster mac and cheese.
The River House: This seafood restaurant in Portsmouth offers fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning views of the Piscataqua River. Try their clam chowder or lobster roll.
Moxy: Moxy is a popular restaurant in Portsmouth that offers creative, modern American cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Try their tasting menu or small plates.
The Black Forest Cafe: This German bakery and cafe in Amherst offers delicious pastries, sandwiches, and German specialties like schnitzel and bratwurst.
The White Mountain Cider Company: This restaurant in Glen offers farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients. Try their cider-brined pork chop or roasted beet salad.
The Woodstock Inn Brewery: This brewery and restaurant in North Woodstock offers pub fare and craft beer in a cozy, rustic setting. Try their award-winning Pig’s Ear Brown Ale or maple-glazed salmon.
The Red Arrow Diner: This classic diner in Manchester has been serving up comfort food since 1922. Try their famous mac and cheese, or the “Triple D” breakfast featured on the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”.
La Carreta Mexican Restaurant: This authentic Mexican restaurant in Nashua offers a variety of dishes made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Try their homemade guacamole or chicken mole.
Luca’s Mediterranean Cafe: This family-owned restaurant in Keene offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine, including gyros, falafel, and hummus.
The Old Salt Restaurant at Lamie’s Inn: This seafood restaurant in Hampton offers classic New England seafood dishes like clam chowder, lobster bisque, and seafood platters.
Famous street stalls in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is not particularly known for its street food scene, but there are a few street stalls and food trucks that offer delicious and unique eats. Here are some popular street stalls in New Hampshire:
Fishnet Seafood: This food truck serves up fresh and delicious seafood in Portsmouth, including lobster rolls, fried clams, and fish tacos.
The Inside Scoop: This ice cream truck in Concord offers a variety of homemade ice cream flavors, including unique options like Lavender Honey and Chocolate Habanero.
Fried Dough at the Rochester Fair: The Rochester Fair, held in September, is known for its fried dough stands, offering the classic fair treat topped with sugar or maple syrup.
The Wandering Gourmet: This food truck in Concord offers creative and flavorful dishes, including Korean BBQ tacos and mac and cheese balls.
Wild Cheffy: This food truck in Tamworth offers gourmet dishes made with wild game meats, including venison chili and bison burgers.
Cupcake Queen: This food truck in Portsmouth offers a variety of delicious cupcakes, including flavors like Red Velvet, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Lemon Raspberry.
Kona Ice: This food truck in Nashua offers refreshing shaved ice in a variety of flavors, including Blue Raspberry, Cherry, and Tiger’s Blood.
The Soup Guy: This food stall at the Portsmouth Farmers’ Market offers homemade soups made with local and seasonal ingredients, including options like Tomato Bisque and Butternut Squash.
Holy Grail Food and Spirits: This food truck in Epping offers pub-style food, including burgers, hot dogs, and fries.
Valley Wanderer: This food truck in Haverhill offers a variety of sandwiches, including options like the Valley Club (turkey, bacon, and avocado) and the Sloppy Joe.
Where to stay in New Hampshire
Luxury accommodation
New Hampshire offers a variety of luxury accommodations, ranging from grand hotels to cozy resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay for a luxurious experience:
Omni Mount Washington Resort: This grand resort in Bretton Woods offers elegant rooms and suites, as well as a variety of activities, including golf, skiing, and horseback riding. The resort also features a spa, several restaurants, and stunning views of the White Mountains.
Wentworth by the Sea: This historic hotel in New Castle offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of dining options. The hotel is located on the waterfront and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Manor on Golden Pond: This boutique hotel in Holderness offers elegant rooms and suites, as well as a spa, indoor pool, and a gourmet restaurant. The hotel is located on a scenic lake and offers activities like kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
The Inn at Thorn Hill: This romantic inn in Jackson offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa, fine dining restaurant, and stunning views of the White Mountains. The inn also offers packages that include activities like hot air balloon rides and skiing.
The Wolfeboro Inn: This charming inn in Wolfeboro offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa, fine dining restaurant, and stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee. The inn also offers a variety of packages that include activities like boating and golfing.
The Bedford Village Inn: This elegant inn in Bedford offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa, fine dining restaurant, and beautiful gardens. The inn is located just a short drive from Manchester and offers easy access to the surrounding area.
Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa: This grand resort in Whitefield offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and a variety of dining options. The resort is located on a scenic hilltop and offers stunning views of the White Mountains.
The Wentworth Inn: This historic inn in Jackson offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a spa, fine dining restaurant, and stunning views of the White Mountains. The inn also offers packages that include activities like skiing and golfing.
Where to stay in New Hampshire
Budget accommodation
New Hampshire offers a range of budget-friendly accommodations, including motels, hostels, and campgrounds. Here are some options for budget accommodation in New Hampshire:
White Mountains Hostel: This hostel in Conway offers budget-friendly dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, as well as a common area, kitchen, and outdoor fire pit. The hostel is located in the heart of the White Mountains and offers easy access to hiking and skiing.
The Balsams Grand Resort Hotel: This historic hotel in Dixville Notch offers budget-friendly rooms, as well as a variety of activities, including hiking, skiing, and golf. The hotel is located on a scenic hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Lafayette Place Campground: This campground in Franconia Notch State Park offers budget-friendly campsites, as well as showers, restrooms, and a camp store. The campground is located near hiking trails and offers easy access to attractions like the Flume Gorge.
Econo Lodge: This budget-friendly motel chain has several locations throughout New Hampshire, offering comfortable rooms at an affordable price. Some locations offer amenities like breakfast, Wi-Fi, and outdoor pools.
Woodstock Inn & Brewery: This inn in Woodstock offers budget-friendly rooms and suites, as well as an on-site brewery and restaurant. The inn is located near hiking trails and attractions like the Clark’s Trading Post.
The Notch Hostel: This hostel in North Woodstock offers budget-friendly dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, as well as a common area, kitchen, and outdoor fire pit. The hostel is located near hiking trails and attractions like the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
Franconia Notch Motel: This budget-friendly motel in Franconia offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, as well as amenities like breakfast, Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool. The motel is located near attractions like the Franconia Notch State Park.
Covered Bridge Campground: This campground in Albany offers budget-friendly campsites, as well as showers, restrooms, and a camp store. The campground is located near hiking trails and attractions like the Conway Scenic Railroad.
Travel Tips New Hampshire
If you’re planning a trip to New Hampshire, here are some travel tips that can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable:
Plan your trip based on the season: New Hampshire has distinct seasons, each with its own attractions and activities. If you’re interested in skiing or winter sports, visit during the winter months. If you prefer hiking and outdoor activities, plan your trip for the spring, summer, or fall.
Rent a car: While there are some public transportation options in New Hampshire, having your own car will allow you to explore the state more easily and at your own pace. Consider renting a car if you’re flying into the state.
Pack for the weather: New Hampshire’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for a range of temperatures and weather conditions. Layers are key, as temperatures can vary widely throughout the day.
Take advantage of outdoor activities: New Hampshire is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and water sports. Make sure to plan time in your itinerary to enjoy some of these activities.
Explore the small towns: New Hampshire is home to many charming small towns, each with its own character and attractions. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these towns and experience their unique culture.
Visit the state parks: New Hampshire has many beautiful state parks, including Franconia Notch State Park and White Lake State Park. These parks offer a variety of outdoor activities and stunning natural scenery.
Try the local cuisine: New Hampshire is known for its seafood, maple syrup, and craft beer. Make sure to sample some of the local cuisine during your trip.
Check for seasonal events: New Hampshire hosts many seasonal events throughout the year, including fall foliage festivals and winter carnivals. Check for events happening during your trip and plan accordingly.