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:

Concord

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Concord - Visit the State House and explore museums on an easy educational trip.                                     

Portsmouth

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Portsmouth - Stroll historic streets and enjoy harbor views on a romantic weekend escape.                                     

Nashua

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Nashua - Shop local boutiques and walk river trails on an affordable day trip.                                     

Manchester

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Manchester - Explore art spaces and visit breweries on a quick city weekend.                                     

Hanover

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Hanover - Tour Dartmouth College and enjoy fall colors on a peaceful retirement getaway.                                     

Keene

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Keene - Admire colonial charm and browse downtown shops on a relaxing couples trip.                                     

Salem

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Salem - Explore local attractions and enjoy family-friendly fun on a summer weekend.                                     

Dove

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Dove - Visit children’s museums and walk riverfront paths on a fun kids trip.                                     

Rochester

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Rochester - Discover local history and enjoy seasonal events on a cheap weekend escape.                                     

Plymouth

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Plymouth - Hike nearby trails and explore campus culture on an exciting fall trip.                                     

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is New Hampshire located?
  • Why is New Hampshire a popular getaway destination?
    • New Hampshire is a year-round travel destination, offering diverse attractions for all seasons.
  • 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.
  • 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)