Places to Visit in New Hampshire
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 two week road trip, I can’t wait to share my favorite finds. 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
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 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 Strolled 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 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 Sheraton Nashua for our two night stay.
One of my favorite strolls was through the Nashville 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 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. 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.
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
8. Plymouth
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 The Common Man Inn & Spa for two nights 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
9. 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
10. 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
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.
