Places to Visit in New Hampshire
Searching for the best places to visit in New Hampshire? Well, you are in the right place! Towering mountains, shimmering lakes, the mystery of America’s Stonehenge, and charming small towns make New Hampshire a year-round adventure! From my many trips exploring the Granite State and a recent four week road trip, I can’t wait to share my favorite finds. If you base yourself in one of these towns and cities for a few days or as a local like we did, you can then explore all around and get the best value for your time.
Whether you’re chasing autumn foliage, hiking in the White Mountains, or strolling through history-rich villages, there’s always something magical waiting here that I think you will adore as much as I have.
1. Concord
An hour from Boston, Concord might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of New England adventures, but that’s exactly why I think it's the best place to start. It's both cozy and quietly buzzing, with indie bookstores that beg you to linger, family-run coffee shops roasting beans with serious passion, and little pockets of creativity tucked into repurposed mills and art spaces.
I adored Concord’s uniqueness such as an entire shop dedicated to maple products, and theaters where you can watch Broadway touring shows one night and a community talent performance the next. It’s an outdoorsy place with joggers along the Merrimack River trail, kayakers launching into calm waters, and in fall, streets so ablaze with fall foliage color that it feels like you're literally walking through a painting.
I've taken two separate trips as a local, both three days long. Our latest stay was a romantic one at 4-star The Centennial Hotel for three nights. While there, I visited he New Hampshire State House. It has a golden dome and has the honor of being the oldest capitol still in use! I also strolled on Main Street, stopped by the Capitol Center for the Arts, listened to the stories at the New Hampshire Historical Society and took a day trip to beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee in the summer.
My food highlight was farm to table Revival Kitchen & Bar. I ordered the maple-glazed pork belly sandwich with roasted apple aioli on brioche. It arrived rich and warm, the sweetness of the maple balancing the savory fat just right.
Plan your Concord visit:
- Drive Time from Manchester: ~25 minutes north
- Best Time to Visit: Spring for blossoms and outdoor patios, or autumn for crisp air and foliage
2. Portsmouth
I loved Portsmouth’s personality with a brewery in nearly every direction, quirky old taverns with creaky wooden floors, and locals who will passionately debate the best lobster roll in town. There’s also a playful streak, from quirky street performers to colorful murals tucked between colonial brick walls.
Tucked along New Hampshire’s tiny stretch of seacoast and just an hour from Boston which makes it an easy day trip, Portsmouth is a historic port town that’s also discovered its cool, modern groove. We based ourselves at 3-star The Hotel Portsmouth for two nights and then walked around there. There are cobblestone streets, colonial-era houses painted in cheerful hues, indie boutiques, seafood restaurants that actually smell like the ocean (in the best way), and a harbor dotted with sailboats. We spent quite a lot of time walking Downtown just enjoying the unique vibe.
It was the evening light that pulled me toward Black Trumpet Bistro, tucked into an old brick warehouse near the waterfront. The windows framed the Piscataqua River like a painting. I ordered the seared duck breast with black garlic glaze and polenta. The duck arrived perfectly pink, the glaze rich and earthy, almost smoky.
I think that Portsmouth is one of the best places to visit in New Hampshire. After all, where else can you explore historic gardens by day and sip oysters with champagne by night?
Plan your Portsmouth NH weekend:
- Drive Time from Boston: ~1 hour north
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for gardens, outdoor dining, and waterfront walks
3. Nashua
Nashua, New Hampshire’s second-largest city, had a lot going on. It’s a great mix of history, culture, and outdoor spaces so your trip can be a day or a week, trust me you won't be bored. I chose 3-star Sheraton Nashua for our two night stay.
One of my favorite strolls was through the Historic District, just north of Downtown. The area is full of well-preserved buildings, and I made sure to stop at the Abbott-Spalding Building, one of the oldest in the city, now operating as a museum with lots of local history to take in.
When I needed a break from sightseeing, I found some peace and greenery at Greeley Park. It’s a huge, relaxing spot with gardens, trails, and even a boat ramp. I caught a summer concert in Greeley Park one day too.
On our third day, we checked out Mine Falls Park and I wished we got to it sooner because it was a highlight, perfect for walking, cycling, picnicking, or even kayaking along the river. And if you happen to visit in October, don’t miss the Art Walk Weekend! The creative energy is infectious. Nashua has that just-right balance of laid-back charm and things to do, and it’s easy to enjoy at your own pace.
Last but not least, I had an unexpected gem of a meal at Stella Blu, a cozy tapas spot with a creative twist. I had the short rib sliders and truffle fries, all paired with a lavender gin cocktail. Chic and intimate, it felt like a tucked-away spot only locals would whisper about.
- Drive Time from Boston: Approximately 1 hour north
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for outdoor activities and festivals; winter for snow sports and cozy downtown experiences
4. Manchester
Manchester surprised me with its confident reinvention from a former factory town to a place humming with cafes and ambition. I had come for the 550 Art Center but ended up checking into 3-star Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Downtown for two nights because there was so much to see and do. I drove up from NYC so I was happy to stay longer but if you are coming from Boston, Manchester is an easy, fun day trip from there.
I loved the red brick mills turned creative havens, side streets humming with cafes.... Inside the 550 Art Center, you can see art canvases the size of walls! I lingered in a studio where artists had left their brushes soaking in turpentine, their work in progress.
I had lunch at The Bridge Cafe on Elm. I ordered the roasted turkey cranberry sandwich with herbed mayo on fresh multigrain bread. It smelled like Thanksgiving (savory and warm) and the cranberry hit sweet against the toasted crunch.
Plan your Manchester NH vacation:
- Drive Time from Boston: ~1 hour north
- Best Time to Visit: Fall for foliage against brick, or spring for gallery events
5. Hanover
Hanover is a charming town, with scenic views, and a great mix of indoor and outdoor things to do. Set right along the Connecticut River, it’s the kind of place where you can shift between quiet nature time and hands-on museums without missing a beat. I was glad I brought my son along because we started our trip at the Montshire Museum of Science, which was huge hit. It’s very interactive for kids. From there, I dove into some history at the Old Constitution House and the Enfield Shaker Museum, both full of stories that bring the region’s past to life.
For fresh air and adventure, we hiked a (short!) section of the legendary Appalachian Trail. It was peaceful and beautiful, and I imagined how magical it's in the fall.
I wanted to mention that in winter, the Dartmouth Skiway and Saskadena Six ski areas offer great local slopes (my sister-in-law is a skier and she's still raving about her trip).
I thought that just the elegant lunch at Pine was worth a day trip (it's inside the Hanover Inn just steps from Dartmouth’s campus). I had the grilled trout with roasted root vegetables and a crisp local cider. Refined yet approachable, it felt very Ivy League-meets-farm-to-table. It was polished and relaxing all at once.
- Drive Time from Boston: Approximately 2 hours northwest
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for vibrant foliage and outdoor activities; winter for skiing and cozy cultural events
6. Keene
I think Keene one of the best places to visit in New England for small-town vibes. It's definitely the perfect weekend getaway from Boston. For me, the town has hits the sweet spot of relaxation and things to do.
I loved strolling through the picturesque downtown, where historic and modern buildings sit side by side, filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants. Central Square is the beating heart of this great town.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting Stonewall Farm, a real working farm that’s great for kids and adults alike. From there, I took a scenic drive to spot some of the region’s beautiful covered bridges, definitely worth the detour. If you’re into hiking, the Mount Monadnock area is full of trails with incredible views. I also stopped by the Wyman Tavern Museum and the Horatio Colony Museum to learn more about the town’s rich past. Both are housed in beautifully preserved historic homes. After a full day, I had a delicious New Hampshire-style dinner, then capped off the night with a show at the Colonial Theatre. Keene is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept local secreit. It's quiet, welcoming, and full of personality.
Next day, I had a hearty brunch at The Farm Café. I had the buttermilk pancakes with local maple syrup and a side of maple sausage. It was warm, filling, and surrounded by the kind of charm only a walkable college town can deliver. The vibe was sweet, simple, and very New Hampshire.
- Drive Time from Boston: Approximately 2 hours northwest
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for festivals and foliage; winter for snow sports and cozy downtown experiences
7. Squam Lakes
Squam Lake in central New Hampshire just 2 hours from Boston feels like stepping into a peaceful retreat tucked away in the Lakes Region. Located near Holderness, just a short drive from Lake Winnipesaukee, it offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, which I’ve always thought was its most appealing feature.
You can take a boat tour on Squam Lake, which is a brilliant idea if you want to really appreciate its natural beauty. Gliding across the glassy water, you can spot loons, eagles, and often a family of ducks trailing along. Every trip feels unique, and the guides always share fascinating stories about the history and wildlife. It’s also fun to remember that the movie On Golden Pond was filmed here, adding a touch of Hollywood charm to the experience.
My favorite stop was the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, where I wandered along winding trails through pine forests and wetlands, spotting native wildlife and learning about the delicate balance of this northern ecosystem. Even in early spring, the center was alive with birdsong, and the crisp air smelled of pine, earth, and thawing snow.
Afterward, I like to grab a great burger at Walter's Basin.
- Location: Map & Directions
For me, a Squam Lake day trip is an awesome way to recharge—it’s calm, beautiful, and never fails to remind me why New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is so special.
8. Dover
You can't not visit Dover, New Hampshire’s oldest town! It honestly felt like walking through a living history book. Settled way back in 1623, this place is packed with stories, and you can feel it in the architecture and along the brick-lined streets.
I took a self-guided walking tour around downtown and loved seeing the old cotton mills, now restored and filled with quirky shops, art galleries, and cozy restaurants. It’s that perfect blend of old and new that makes exploring so fun. We checked into The Garrison Hotel & Suites Dover-Portsmouth for two nights.
For families, the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire is a must. It's super interactive and great for all ages. But if you’re into the offbeat (like I am), you’ve got to check out the Woodman Institute Museum. It’s one of the most wonderfully weird museums I’ve ever visited, full of oddities, local artifacts, and just the right amount of eccentric charm that completely won me over.
We followed the Riverwalk from downtown to the Cocheco River, where you can canoe or kayak in the warmer months. There are also plenty of hiking trails nearby, and if you time your trip right, Dover puts on some pretty fun festivals and community events throughout the year. It’s a town that’s easy to love, especially if you enjoy mixing history with a little adventure.
My highlight? In the morning, garden breakfast at Flight Coffee Co. as amazing. I ordered a maple latte and the breakfast sandwich with egg, cheddar, and caramelized onion jam on ciabatta. The bright, plant-filled café and friendly energy made it a perfect start before exploring the shops and waterfront trails nearby.
- Drive Time from Boston: Approximately 1.25 hours north via I-95 and NH-16
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for outdoor festivals and scenic river views; winter for cozy downtown experiences
9. Lincoln, NH
Lincoln, New Hampshire, tucked right in the heart of the White Mountains, has always been one of my favorite spots for a day trip when I’m craving mountain air and adventure. Why? First off, it’s about two hours north of Boston, and the drive itself is spectacular, with winding roads, covered bridges, and peaks rising in the distance. By the time I roll into town, I already feel like I’m on vacation.
Although it works great as a day trip, I like to stay overnight at 3-star RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain which gives us more time to explore.
What I love most about Lincoln is how much there is to do in every season. In the summer, we’ve hiked trails in Franconia Notch State Park, explored the Flume Gorge, and taken scenic drives along the Kancamagus Highway. In the fall, it transforms into an exciting fall foliage destination, with fiery colors surrounding every turn. Come winter, Lincoln becomes a basecamp for skiing and snowboarding at Loon Mountain, which is a dream for anyone who loves snow sports.
Lincoln has a joyful small-town vibe. I like to stop into the local cafés like Moose on the Run Cafe for coffee and check out the gift shops.
What makes Lincoln feel like a gem to me is that it offers the best of both worlds, untamed natural beauty and easy access to restaurants, shops, and activities. It’s the kind of place where every visit feels fresh, whether you're chasing waterfalls, riding the gondola at Loon, or simply soaking up the mountain scenery.
- Location: Map & Directions
For me, a Lincoln day trip is a destination where the White Mountains come alive, making every hour spent there memorable and refreshing.
10. Plymouth
A one hour 40 minute drive from Boston, Plymouth turned out to be the perfect base for exploring both the White Mountains and the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. The town is surrounded by natural beauty and offers just about every kind of outdoor activity you could ask for. We based ourselves at 4-star The Common Man Inn & Spa for two days and I loved how romantic the inn was. I treated myself to a massage one afternoon too.
Right near town, I found Langdon Park, which was great for an easy hike and even had a little river beach, perfect for relaxing after a walk. There’s a playground too, so it’s a nice spot for families. In winter, the trails turn into cross-country ski paths, giving the place year-round appeal.
Just a bit outside of town is Tenney Mountain, which is packed with things to do. There is rock climbing, biking, kayaking, fishing, and in the winter, skiing with options for guided lessons. One of the most fun things is Adventure Gorge, where you take a chairlift up the mountain, then fly back down on a 3,000-foot zip-line. I didn't want to do the zipline but it looked like lots of fun if you want a rush.
After a day of outdoor adventures, I wrapped things up in town with a cozy dinner and a live show at the Silver Center for the Arts. Plymouth has that great mix of nature, adventure, and community. You can be out in the mountains by day and enjoying local arts and food by night.
My food highlight was the comfort food feast at The Main Street Station. I had the chicken pot pie and a slice of house-made apple crumble. With views of the White Mountains and the charm of a quiet college town, it was the kind of place where everything feels like home.
- Drive Time from Boston: Approximately 2 hours north
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for hiking and cultural events; winter for skiing at Tenney Mountain
11. Laconia
Want a lakeside day trip less than two hours from Boston? Check out Laconia, New Hampshire! Located right between Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam, it’s the heart of the Lakes Region and an easy day trip from Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. Whenever I arrive, the sight of the water and the bustle of downtown instantly puts me in a vacation mood.
One of my favorite parts of visiting Laconia is spending time at Weirs Beach. The boardwalk here is full of arcades and ice cream shops in July. I love walking along the water, especially in the summer, when the atmosphere is buzzing with families and visitors soaking up the sunshine. A ride on the M/S Mount Washington cruise ship is incredibly fun for kids.
Laconia is also famous for its annual Motorcycle Week in June. The town transforms into a spectacular gathering place for bikers and fans, and even if you’re not riding, it’s exciting to be part of such a legendary tradition.
You can stop at Cafe Dejavu for great pancakes and relax by Opechee Bay after. With mountains in the distance and lakes all around, the scenery is always awesome.
- Location: Map & Directions
Laconia is truly a hidden gem in the Lakes Region. Why Because it combines water, community, and energy in a way that makes your day trip super memorable.
12. Rochester
We made my way to Rochester, tucked into the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire, and was pleasantly surprised by the mix of small-town charm and big-city-style attractions. I chose Governor's Inn & Restaurant because it was my husband's birthday and I wanted something special.
Art lovers will feel right at home in Rochester. We stopped by one of the rotating exhibits from the Rochester Museum of Fine Arts, and later caught a show at the Rochester Opera House, which totally exceeded my expectations. It’s one of those places where creativity is clearly part of the town’s heartbeat.
We also dipped into local history at the Historical Society’s Museum on Hanson Street, which gave me a better appreciation for how Rochester has evolved over time. Then I headed outdoors to explore the Mount Isinglass Recreational Area and Pickering Ponds, both great spots for hiking and getting a dose of fresh air.
If you’re up for more outdoor time, Baxter Lake and Sunrise Lake are perfect for camping, boating, and just soaking in the scenery. We ended my visit with a scenic drive through the countryside. Fall colors were just starting to pop, and it felt like a postcard come to life. Rochester definitely makes it easy to slow down and enjoy both the arts and the outdoors.
- Drive Time from Boston: Approximately 1.25 hours north
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for outdoor activities and cultural events; winter for cozy downtown experiences and holiday festivities
13. Rye, NH
Rye, New Hampshire, is one of my favorite coastal towns to escape to when I want a quieter, more relaxed vibe by the ocean. Just a short 15 minute drive south of Portsmouth, it feels like a hidden gem compared to the busier beaches nearby. The long stretches of sand, rocky coves, and salty breeze always remind me why the New Hampshire seacoast, though small, is so special.
Jenness Beach is usually my first stop—it’s less crowded than Hampton and perfect for a peaceful walk, swimming, or even watching surfers catch waves. I find the atmosphere joyful, with families, locals, and day-trippers all enjoying the shoreline without it ever feeling overwhelming. On cooler days, I love strolling along the rocky sections of Rye’s coast, where tide pools reveal crabs, starfish, and other little ocean surprises.
Another brilliant idea when visiting Rye is to explore Odiorne Point State Park. I enjoy wandering along the trails in the summer, taking in coastal views, and learning a bit of history at the Seacoast Science Center. It’s exciting to have both natural beauty and educational exhibits in one place, especially if I’m traveling with friends or family.
For a bite to eat, I can’t resist stopping at a local seafood shack. Fresh lobster rolls and fried clams taste even better when eaten with the sound of the ocean in the background. It’s those simple, coastal meals that make a Rye day trip feel absolutely spectacular.
- Location: Map & Directions
For me, Rye captures the cool balance of quiet beauty and seaside fun. It’s the kind of place where I can unwind, explore, and leave with the refreshing sense that I’ve discovered one of New Hampshire’s most underrated treasures.
14. Salem
We made a stop in Salem, and it turned out to be the perfect little base for exploring southern New Hampshire, and even parts of Boston, since it’s right near the state line. Despite its small-town feel, there’s plenty to do here, especially if you're traveling with family. We spent a fun day at Canobie Lake Park, which has over 40 rides, including lots of kid-friendly options. During the summer, they even host outdoor concerts. It had that nostalgic amusement park vibe that’s hard to beat. My son said it was "teenager approved!"
Another favorite stop was America’s Stonehenge, a mysterious and super intriguing spot with ancient rock formations and an astronomical calendar that still has people guessing. I loved hiking the trails around the site, and the petting zoo was a nice bonus for families.
If you’re visiting in the fall, Salem Town Forest is a gorgeous place for a hike. The foliage is unreal. And when I was ready to wind down with a little shopping, the Mall at Rockingham Park delivered with over 150 stores and plenty of dining options. Salem may be small, but it packs in a great mix of fun, nature, and convenience.
The flavorful Mediterranean dinner at Black Water Grill was so appreciated because we were starving by the end of such a long, fun day. I had the chicken souvlaki with lemon rice and a cucumber mint martini. With its relaxed ambiance and surprising depth of flavor, it felt like a mini escape to the Aegean, right in southern New Hampshire.
- Drive Time from Boston: Approximately 1 hour north
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall for outdoor activities and festivals; winter for holiday shopping and indoor attractions
15. Odiorne Point State Park
I loved wandering this rocky stretch of New Hampshire’s seacoast with tidepools brimming with sea stars, crabs, and barnacles, it felt like a living outdoor classroom. The salty breeze, crashing waves, and weathered granite outcrops in Odiorne Point State Park gave it a rugged beauty that felt both wild and peaceful.
Just a short drive from Portsmouth, this 330-acre park was the perfect blend of nature and history. From WWII-era bunkers tucked into the landscape to wide-open ocean views, every turn offered something unexpected.
I spent the afternoon exploring winding trails, pausing at quiet coves, and learning about local ecology at the Seacoast Science Center before unwinding by the rocky shore with a picnic. We stayed at The Inn At Rye Place for the night (but its an easy day trip from Portsmouth as well).
16. Claremont
Claremont, New Hampshire, has always felt to me like one of those underrated towns that surprises you with its history, character, and riverside beauty. Tucked along the Connecticut River and near the Vermont border, it’s an easy drive from the Upper Valley or southern New Hampshire, and the setting alone makes it worth the trip. The mix of brick mill buildings and surrounding hills gives the town a unique, old-meets-new atmosphere. If you are driving from Boston, it's around 2 hours or you can fly to Claremont Municipal Airport. Windsor Mansion Inn offers a lovely setting for a romantic two day weekend stay.
I recommend starting downtown, where the restored mill district shows off Claremont’s industrial past. Walking along the Sugar River, I can see the old brick facades blending with new shops, cafés, and art spaces.
One of my favorite stops is the Claremont Opera House, a beautiful historic theater that hosts concerts, plays, and community events year-round.
- Location: Map & Directions
For me, Claremont is one of the best NH day trips. Why? I love how the town has embraced its history while creating fresh energy for visitors and locals alike in a unique way.
17. White Mountains National Park
I loved escaping into this vast wilderness of jagged peaks, dense forests, and sparkling alpine lakes — it felt like stepping into New England’s wild heart. The crisp mountain air and sweeping ridgelines made every hike feel both exhilarating and grounding.
My top favorite towns to stay in the White Mountains are: Sugar Hill, Jackson, Bretton Woods, Littleton, Lincoln, North Conway and Woodstock. If you are planning a special celebration, stay at Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa or the Omni Bretton Arms Inn.
Stretching across northern New Hampshire and into western Maine, this 800,000-acre expanse is full of trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. I spent my days in White Mountains National Park summiting rocky ridges, wandering through hardwood forests painted in autumn colors, and cooling off in cold mountain streams. Even just driving along the Kancamagus Highway was a highlight, with every turn revealing another postcard-worthy vista.
18. North Conway
North Conway, New Hampshire, has always been one of my favorite mountain towns to escape to when I need fresh air and a change of pace for a day or two. Nestled in the White Mountains and just south of Mount Washington, it’s about two and a half hours from Boston, making it a brilliant idea for a day trip or a quick weekend getaway. The drive up the Kancamagus Highway alone feels like a reward with its sweeping mountain views and scenic overlooks. For an overnight stay check out Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites North Conway.
When I arrive in town, I’m immediately struck by the mix of small-town charm and outdoor adventure. I love browsing the local shops, picking up treats at Zeb’s General Store, and wandering through art galleries before grabbing lunch at a cozy café. The energy feels joyful, yet laid-back, which is exactly what I’m looking for in a mountain town.
Outdoor adventures are endless here. In the summer and fall, I’ve hiked trails to waterfalls, like Diana’s Baths, or tackled more challenging routes up Cathedral Ledge. In the winter, it transforms into a ski hub, with Cranmore Mountain right in town and several other resorts just a short drive away. No matter the season, the scenery is absolutely spectacular.
- Location: Map & Directions
What makes North Conway feel like such a gem to me is how it balances natural beauty with fun attractions. The Conway Scenic Railroad is a highlight, offering a nostalgic ride through the mountains that’s perfect for the whole family.
Conclusion
If this is your first trip to New Hampshire, brace yourself, you are in a for a treat (and a bit of planning because there are so many unique spots to choose from !) Every town had its own personality, yet there was a common thread of warmth, beauty that made me feel welcome wherever I went.
Not sure where to start? Let the season decide for you. In the spring, look for gardens, colorful local festivals, in the summer head towards the coast, in the fall, well...you can just look up and admire colors changing and taste amazing farm-to-table food from local harvests, and in winter head for a nearby slope to do some sledding or skiing.
More to explore...
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
