If you’re anything like me, you crave a mix of mountain views, small-town charm, and year-round adventures. When I first explored New Hampshire, I didn’t expect to fall for its quiet beauty quite so hard. You’ll see what I mean as soon as you hit the road.
Highlights:
- Explore the White Mountains/ I always find something new, whether you’re hiking, skiing, or taking the epic Mount Washington Auto Road.
- Visit Lake Winnipesaukee for boating and beach days. I’ve loved wandering lakeside towns like Meredith and Wolfeboro with a cup of local coffee in hand.
- Wander through Portsmouth’s cobblestone streets. I promise you’ll feel the historic charm before you even reach the harbor.
- Enjoy fall foliage drives on the Kancamagus Highway. I’ve never seen color like that anywhere else, and you won’t forget it either.
- Discover peaceful trails in Franconia Notch and Crawford Notch. When I need to reset, this is where I go, and you might want to, too.
Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire:
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Concord -
Visit the State House and explore museums on an easy educational trip.
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Portsmouth -
Stroll historic streets and enjoy harbor views on a romantic weekend escape.
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Nashua -
Shop local boutiques and walk river trails on an affordable day trip.
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Manchester -
Explore art spaces and visit breweries on a quick city weekend.
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Hanover -
Tour Dartmouth College and enjoy fall colors on a peaceful retirement getaway.
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Keene -
Admire colonial charm and browse downtown shops on a relaxing couples trip.
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Salem -
Explore local attractions and enjoy family-friendly fun on a summer weekend.
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Dove -
Visit children’s museums and walk riverfront paths on a fun kids trip.
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Rochester -
Discover local history and enjoy seasonal events on a cheap weekend escape.
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Plymouth -
Hike nearby trails and explore campus culture on an exciting fall trip.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is New Hampshire located?
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Why is New Hampshire a popular getaway destination?
- New Hampshire is a year-round travel destination, offering diverse attractions for all seasons.
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What historical and cultural attractions can visitors explore?
- The state is renowned for its historic homes and heritage museums, providing insight into its rich past.
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What types of destinations can visitors find in New Hampshire?
- New Hampshire offers a variety of experiences, including:
- Charming small towns
- Lakes and beaches
- Bustling, culture-filled cities
- Wide open spaces waiting to be explored
Best Time to Visit New Hampshire
- May to October – Warm weather and stunning scenery, perfect for hiking, lakes, and small towns.
- September to October – Peak fall foliage season with vibrant colors and crisp mountain air.
- June to August – Summer fun with lake retreats, festivals, and White Mountains adventures.
- November to April – Cold and snowy, ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy cabin stays.
- Late September – A sweet spot for early fall colors and fewer crowds on scenic routes.
Map:
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)