Looking for New England charm, mountain views, and small-town hospitality? Head to Littleton! Nestled in the White Mountains, Littleton offers scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, a walkable downtown, and a creative, welcoming spirit. It’s the perfect base for exploring northern New Hampshire year-round.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Littleton is from late spring through fall (May to October). Enjoy wildflowers and hiking in summer or take in vibrant foliage during peak leaf-peeping season in early October. Winter brings snow sports and a cozy mountain-town vibe.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Littleton is located just off I-93, about 2.5 hours from Boston and 1.5 hours from Concord, NH.
  • By Air: The nearest major airports are Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) and Burlington International Airport (BTV), both about 2 hours away by car.
  • By Bus: Concord Coach Lines offers service to nearby towns, with car rental or taxi needed to reach Littleton directly.

Where to Stay

  • Thayers Inn – Historic downtown hotel with vintage charm and easy access to shops and dining.
  • Hampton Inn Littleton – Modern hotel just outside town with free breakfast and indoor pool.
  • Adair Country Inn & Restaurant – Elegant inn in nearby Bethlehem, perfect for romantic getaways or special occasions.

Top Attractions

Snap a Smile with an Icon - Photograph the Pollyanna of Littleton Statue

Snap a photo with the cheerful bronze statue honoring author Eleanor H. Porter, a Littleton native.

Snap a Smile with an Icon - Photograph the Pollyanna of Littleton Statue

© golittleton

  • What is the Pollyanna of Littleton statue?
    • The wonderfully uplifting statue of Pollyanna of Littleton offers visitors to Littleton the best-ever welcome. With arms flung wide and a broad smile on her face, the eternally cheerful Pollyanna stands tall in the heart of Littleton downtown.
  • Who was the author of Pollyanna?
    • Eleanor Hodgman Porter, the 1913 author of the famous children’s classic Pollyanna, was born and raised in Littleton.
  • Why was the Pollyanna statue built?
    • Today, the town honors her and her immortal character Pollyanna with a beautiful bronze sculpture, which demands to be included in your photos of the town.
  • What does the Pollyanna statue symbolize?
    • Reminding each and every one of us about the importance of maintaining an optimistic outlook on life, the Pollyanna Statue is loved by all.
  • What annual event is held in honor of Pollyanna?
    • Each year, the residents of Littleton gather to perform the mass Annual Pollyanna Wave.
  • Where is the Pollyanna of Littleton statue located?
    • Pollyanna of Littleton Statue, 92 Main Street, Littleton, NH 02561

Step Into Granite State Legacy at the First Congregational Church

Step Into Granite State Legacy at the First Congregational Church

© First Congregational Church

  • What is the First Congregational Church?
    • The twin green steeples of the First Congregational Church are a prominent landmark against the backdrop of the New Hampshire White Mountains.
  • When was the church originally established?
    • The church was first established in 1803, but the current church was built on Main Street in 1833 in the English Gothic style.
  • What are some architectural highlights of the church?
    • Highlights of the church building include an exceptional 1881 antique Hook and Hastings organ and a series of 15 Tiffany stained glass windows, which were added in 1902.
  • Is the First Congregational Church still active?
    • The church is still fully operational and attends to the spiritual needs of the Littleton congregation by offering church services, bible study groups, lectures, and a children’s nursery school.
  • Where is the First Congregational Church located?
    • First Congregational Church, 189 Main Street, Littleton, NH 03561, Phone: 603-444-3376

Where to Eat

Raise a Glass to Craft and Community at Schilling Beer Company

Raise a Glass to Craft and Community at Schilling Beer Company

© Schilling Beer Company

  • What is the Schilling Beer Company?
    • The Schilling Beer Company came about when three brothers and their father realized their dream of establishing a world-class craft brewery to serve the community in their hometown of Littleton.
  • Where is the brewery located?
    • The brewery enjoys an idyllic location along the banks of the Ammonoosuc River, right next door to the signature covered bridge that everyone comes to see.
  • What types of beers does Schilling Beer Company offer?
    • Visitors can enjoy a tasting flight of their huge range of European-style artisan beers in the Tap Room or outdoors on the river-facing terrace.
  • What food options are available?
    • They offer a selection of wood-fired pizzas and meat/cheese platters to enjoy alongside your brew. Additionally, food trucks are on site during the summer months.
  • Where is Schilling Beer Company located?
    • Schilling Beer Company, 18 Mill St, Littleton, NH 03561, Phone: 603-444-4800

If You’re Hungry for Hearty Plates, Slide Into a Booth at the Littleton Diner

If You’re Hungry for Hearty Plates, Slide Into a Booth at the Littleton Diner

© Littleton Diner

  • What is the Littleton Diner?
    • Your visit to Littleton would be incomplete without enjoying a meal at the nostalgic 30’s era Littleton Diner.
  • How long has the Littleton Diner been in operation?
    • Despite great competition from many fast-food outlets, the diner has stood the test of time since it opened in 1930 and continues to attract both regular customers and visitors.
  • What is the most popular meal at the Littleton Diner?
    • Breakfast is very popular at the Littleton Diner – prepare your taste buds for a feast of wonderful pancakes, waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage, and all the trimmings.
  • What is on the lunch and dinner menus?
    • The lunch and dinner menus include a selection of fresh salads and soups, followed by wraps, sandwiches, burgers, and hotdogs, along with many other traditional diner favorites.
  • Are there special menus available?
    • There is a special menu for seniors and one for children.
  • Where is the Littleton Diner located?
    • Littleton Diner, 145 Main Street, Littleton, NH 03561, Phone: 603-444-3994

More Local Attractions

  • Downtown Littleton – Stroll along Main Street for unique boutiques, art galleries, cafes, and the world’s longest candy counter at Chutters.
  • Riverwalk Covered Bridge – Walk across this scenic bridge for peaceful views of the Ammonoosuc River.
  • Moore Dam and Reservoir – Enjoy boating, fishing, and picnic spots with stunning mountain views.
  • Parker Mountain Trails – Explore a network of hiking and biking trails just minutes from downtown.

More Places to Eat

  • The Coffee Pot Restaurant – Classic diner-style breakfasts and friendly service right on Main Street.
  • Tim-Bir Alley Restaurant – Intimate fine-dining experience featuring locally sourced, creative dishes.

Local Events

  • Littleton Art Festival (September) – Celebrates local art with vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities downtown.
  • Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting (December) – Kick off the season with festive floats, caroling, and holiday cheer on Main Street.
  • Gathering of the Jack O’Lanterns (October) – Hundreds of glowing pumpkins line the riverwalk for a magical Halloween display.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Littleton, New Hampshire

  • Franconia (15–20 min) – Hike Flume Gorge, ride the Cannon Mountain tram, or explore Franconia Notch State Park.
  • Bethlehem (10–15 min) – Visit local art galleries, catch indie films at The Colonial, or stroll charming downtown streets.
  • Sugar Hill (15–20 min) – Snap photos of lupine fields, dine at Polly’s Pancake Parlor, or take in mountain views.
  • Whitefield (20–25 min) – Walk around Mirror Lake, golf at Mountain View Grand, or enjoy theater at the Town Hall.
  • Twin Mountain (25–30 min) – Access White Mountain hikes, fish scenic rivers, or explore peaceful backroads and forest trails.
  • Lisbon (10–15 min) – Walk the Ammonoosuc Rail Trail, enjoy riverside picnics, or visit local shops and eateries.
  • Lancaster (25–30 min) – Explore Weeks State Park, shop small-town boutiques, or attend local fairs and events.
  • Dalton (20–25 min) – Drive quiet country roads, hike wooded trails, or soak up rural New Hampshire serenity.
  • Woodsville (25–30 min) – Visit historic rail bridges, browse antique stores, or enjoy the small-town riverside charm.

FAQ

  • Where is Littleton located?
    • The charming town of Littleton lies nestled at the foot of New Hampshire’s stunning White Mountains, where it has often been named as one of the top ten small towns in America.
  • What is Littleton's Main Street like?
    • The town has a bustling Main Street, arguably one of the best in the country, filled with unique shops, boutiques, galleries, and interesting eateries.
  • What events and activities take place on Main Street in Littleton?
    • In summer, the Main Street is a-buzz with street performers, summer festivals, and more.
  • What attractions can be found in Littleton?
    • Attractions include the Littleton Grist Mill and an antique covered bridge over the river.
  • What outdoor activities are available in Littleton?
    • Walkers and hikers have access to over 22 miles of trails around the town or in the White Mountains.
  • What can you do in Littleton during winter?
    • In winter, you can enjoy skiing at Cannon Mountain.

Plan Your Trip