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“Live Free or Die” is the official motto of NEW HAMPSHIRE, summing up a deeply held belief in rugged individualism and independence that goes back to colonial times. The state boasts densely forested mountains, whitewater rivers and challenging ski resorts, making it the premier state in the region for outdoor activities

The White Mountains

New Hampshire’s short Atlantic coastline is a stretch of mellow, sun-drenched beaches capped by Portsmouth, a well-preserved colonial town with a crop of excellent restaurants and stylish inns. Inland, there are more than 1300 lakes; the largest, Lake Winnipesaukee, is ringed with both tourist resorts and quiet villages. The magnificent White Mountains spread across northern New Hampshire, culminating in the highest peak in New England, formidable Mount Washington.

Thanks to their accessibility from both Montréal and Boston, the enchanting WHITE MOUNTAINS have become a year-round tourist destination. It’s a commercialized region, with quite a lot of development flanking the main highways, but the great granite massifs retain much of their majesty. Mount Washington, at 6288ft the highest peak in the entire Northeast, claims some of the most severe weather in the world. Much of the region is protected within the White Mountains National Forest, established in 1918 and covering almost 1250 square miles today.

Piercing the range are a few high passes, called “notches”, and the roads through these gaps, such as the Kancamagus Highway between Lincoln and Conway, make for enjoyably scenic routes. However, you won’t really have made the most of the White Mountains unless you also set off on foot, bike or skis across the long expanses of thick evergreen forest that encircles them.

The Appalachian Mountain Club (617 523 0655, outdoors.org) operates eight delightfully remote mountain huts in New Hampshire along a 56-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail, each about a day’s hike apart. Generally offering full service in season (June to mid-Oct, exceptions noted here), including mixed bunkrooms (blankets but no sheets), toilets, cold water and two hot meals per day for $106–141, they are a fairly popular choice – reservations are required (call 603 466 2727). Carter Notch, Lonesome Lake and Zealand Falls huts are open out of season (without heat, running water or food) for $30.

Hiking, skiing and cycling in the White Mountains

Hiking in the White Mountains is coordinated by the Appalachian Mountain Club or “AMC” (outdoors.org), whose chain of information centres, hostels and huts along the Appalachian Trail, traversing the region from northeast to southwest, is detailed here. Call t 603 466 2721 for trail and weather information before you attempt any serious expedition.

Downhill and cross-country skiers can choose from several resorts that double up as summertime activity centres. The Waterville Valley Resort (603 236 8311, waterville.com) and Loon Mountain (603 745 8111, loonmtn.com), both just east of I-93, are good for downhill, while Jackson (603 383 9355, jacksonxc.org), about fifteen miles north of Conway on Rte-16, has some of the finest cross-country skiing trails in the northeast. General information on the skiing centres is available from Ski NH (603 745 9396, skinh.com).

In the summer, the cross-country skiing trails can make for strenuous but exhilarating biking (you can take lifts up the slopes and ride back down). Both Waterville and Loon have bikes for rent on site for around $34 per day; Loon also runs a zip-line ($26).

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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25 fun things to do in new hampshire.

Outdoor adventures, amusement parks, museums and historic sites abound in the Granite State.

Top Things to Do in New Hampshire

Houses reflected off lake in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, in autumn.

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New Hampshire may be a small state, but it's packed full of attractions and activities for visitors. From its 18 miles of coastline to the centrally located Lakes Region to the looming White Mountains up north, New Hampshire offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Then there are the unique and family-friendly amusement parks, historic sites and thought-provoking museums to explore while vacationing in the Granite State.

With skiing in the winter, summer fun by the lakes and leaf peeping in the fall, this state is a year-round destination. Here are some of the best things to do and see in New Hampshire.

Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves

The Lost River Gorge is a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience in New Hampshire. Open seasonally from early May to mid-October, this attraction has a self-guided, 1-mile boardwalk loop trail with more than 1,000 stairs and guided lantern tours to explore the gorge after dusk. Make sure to dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.

Along the way there are scenic spots to stop and admire the Lost River and its cascading waterfalls in the gorge. If you're limber and not too claustrophobic, you might choose to maneuver through nearly a dozen boulder caves, including one particularly tight spot called the Lemon Squeezer. Visitors to this attraction in the White Mountains appreciate that any of the cave crawls can be bypassed. Lost River Gorge is around 5 miles from North Woodstock's Main Street, where The Wilderness Inn Bed & Breakfast welcomes overnight guests in a craftsman-style 1912 home.

Address: 1712 Lost River Road, North Woodstock, NH 03262

Mount Washington

Mount Washington Cog Railway going downhill with mountains in the background.

Courtesy of Mount Washington Cog Railway

Take in the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast at 6,288 feet. You don't necessarily have to be a hiker to experience the mountain's striking views or the summit-based Mount Washington Museum. From May to November, you can drive the 7.6-mile Mount Washington Auto Road up the mountain – just head to the base of the road, pay the per-passenger fee and start your ascent.

You'll want to download the Mount Washington Auto Road app to listen to an audio tour as you go up. For safety reasons, there are restrictions on certain vehicles as well as weight limits, so be sure to check them on the Auto Road website before heading out.

If you don't want to drive, there are also guided tours or the unique Mount Washington Cog Railway. You can even choose to take a seasonally available historic steam locomotive ride up the mountain. Past travelers appreciated the onboard live commentary that covers the history of the cog railway and mountain environment. Mount Washington is located in the White Mountains about 50 miles from Bretton Woods, home to the majestic Omni Mount Washington Resort with its relaxing spa and multiple dining options.

Address: 1 Mount Washington Auto Road, Gorham, NH 03581

Lake Winnipesaukee

Autumn foliage reflection along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in Meredith, New Hampshire.

The largest lake in the state at 72 square miles, Lake Winnipesaukee is one of New Hampshire's most popular summer vacation spots. Families flock to the lake to go boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking and canoeing on the clear water surrounded by thick forest and looming mountains. A popular excursion is a scenic boat ride on the historic M/S Mount Washington ship. The resort towns that ring the lake are chock-full of fun things for families to do, including beaches, an old-fashioned arcade, go-karting and mini-golf.

Lodging abounds in the area, from vacation homes and lakeside cottages to budget motels and small inns. Church Landing at Mill Falls in Meredith has a convenient and scenic location right on the lake, within walking distance of several restaurants and shops in town.

North Conway

Street buildings of North Conway, New Hampshire, in the evening.

In the heart of New Hampshire's Mount Washington Valley, North Conway is a fabulous vacation destination for fans of scenic railroads, historic covered bridges and outdoor adventures. The village is an especially popular spot in the winter months, as it's been ranked among the best ski towns in North America ; there are roughly a dozen ski areas within a short drive of the village and quintessential New England favorites like Zeb's General Store.

Outside of winter, the easy hike nearby to the picturesque waterfalls and pools at Diana's Baths is on a fairly flat gravel path, but the parking lot can get quite busy in the summer, so recent hikers advise you try to go early or late in the day. Visitors flock to North Conway's many shopping outlets and malls, with no general sales tax charged on goods in New Hampshire.

For a glamorous place to rest your head, consider a night at Stonehurst Manor , a beautiful 19th-century hotel with mountain views and wood-burning fireplaces. Another unique and fun option is Adventure Suites, which offers large suites with themes like a haunted castle or a nightclub – perfect for adventurous groups or families.

Hampton Beach State Park

Hampton Beach State Park sign.

Hampton Beach State Park is packed with people in the summer, especially on hot, sunny weekends. Walking the wide sandy beach or picnicking under an umbrella for the day is free at this coastal state park (though parking is not). Events take place on the beach throughout the summer, including the annual Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic, where invite-only sculptors build impressive works of art from 200 tons of imported sand. Recent visitors mention parking can be tricky, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot near the beach.

Across the street from Hampton Beach sits the legendary Hampton Beach Casino, which dates back to 1899. Not so much a popular place to gamble (though there are a few games of chance), this historic strip is filled with family-friendly arcade games, small amusement rides, snack and souvenir shops, and performances. If you want to stay overnight, check out the oceanfront Ashworth by the Sea, which has its own beachfront restaurant and rooftop bar.

Houses along street of Lincoln, New Hampshire, on a sunny day.

Lincoln is a great home base for exploring New Hampshire's White Mountains. The small town is home to Loon Mountain Resort for skiing and tubing in the winter as well as zip lining, gondola rides, biking and hiking in the summer. Other local attractions for warm weather visitors include Whale's Tale Waterpark, Granite State Scenic Railway and Alpine Adventures, which offers zip line tours, off-road adventures and an aerial challenge park. Lincoln is also home to Franconia Notch State Park, a treasure trove of natural wonders from waterfalls and swimming spots to popular hiking trails and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.

For winter visitors, check out Ice Castles in nearby North Woodstock for ice slides, an ice bar and sleigh rides. After your adventures, recharge by lodging at RiverWalk Resort at Loon Mountain – a top New Hampshire resort – which has pools and hot tubs below the mountains, a day spa, and a winery on-site.

Hood Museum of Art

Exterior of Hood Museum of Art with visitors walking toward it.

Michael Moran | Courtesy of The Hood Museum of Art at Dartmouth

Home to a wide range of art and artifacts, including Indigenous Australian contemporary art and a major archive of photojournalism, the Hood Museum of Art is located on the campus of Hanover's Dartmouth College . The collection is vast, with more than 65,000 pieces of art in the museum's care, though only a portion are on display to the public at any given time.

Recent museum enthusiasts note that with free admission, the museum is certainly worth an hourlong stroll through the exhibits; there are also free guided tours on occasion. Right next door to the Hopkins Center for the Arts and the Hood Museum is the elegant Hanover Inn – billed as the oldest continuously operating hotel in the state.

Address: 6 E. Wheelock St., Hanover, NH 03755

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Rocket outside McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center in New Hampshire.

Courtesy of McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

Concord's must-visit McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center honors two New Hampshire residents: Alan B. Shepard Jr., who in 1961 was the first American to travel into space, and Christa McAuliffe, a teacher aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger that tragically exploded just after it launched in 1986. Visitors to this family-friendly attraction can learn about space travel and science through hands-on exhibits, demonstrations and planetarium shows.

Concord, the capital of New Hampshire, has plenty of hotel chains and budget-friendly lodging. If you're looking for something different and historic, consider The Centennial Hotel, located in a 19th-century Victorian mansion.

Address: 2 Institute Drive, Concord, NH 03301

Canobie Lake Park

Aerial over Canobie Lake Park in New Hampshire on a cloudy day.

Canobie Lake Park has been delighting visitors with its botanical gardens, swings, canoes and penny arcade since it opened in 1902. Today it's a fun-for-the-whole-family amusement park filled with exciting rides, a water park and carnival-style midway games – plus dining venues that serve quintessential New England favorites like lobster rolls and fried dough. Thrill rides at this amusement park include the spinning, strobe light-filled Psychodrome as well as a roller coaster called Untamed that sends riders on a beyond-vertical drop of 97 degrees.

The amusement park is open seasonally, generally from late May through late October. Check the Canobie Lake Park website calendar for specific days and hours of operation, as early and late in the season it's open on weekends only and often closed on Tuesdays throughout the summer. The park is located in Salem, in the southern part of New Hampshire. The closest hotel is the basic, budget-friendly Red Roof Inn Salem, which gets props from past travelers for its convenient location next to Interstate 93.

Address: 85 N. Policy St., Salem, NH 03079

Flume Gorge

River flowing under pedestrian bridge in New Hampshire.

Part of Franconia Notch State Park, the Flume is a scenic gorge with a 2-mile loop trail that allows visitors to admire the looming granite walls, rushing Flume Brook and even a classic New England covered bridge. The trail at this attraction in the White Mountains does include uphill walking and stairs, so you'll want to make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes . Admire plentiful mosses, ferns and flowers along the way.

Recent visitors note that the optional one-way Wolf's Den path, which involves crawling on hands and knees through boulders, is especially fun for kids. Make your reservations in advance to ensure that you'll be able to access the trail via the New Hampshire State Parks website . Nearby lodging includes Indian Head Resort in Lincoln, with resort rooms, cottages, bungalows and rustic houses.

Address: 852 Daniel Webster Highway, Lincoln, NH 03251

Guests sit in boat on river at Story Land, New Hampshire.

Courtesy of Storyland

For small children or nostalgic adults, this attraction is probably one of the most fun places in New Hampshire to spend the day. Story Land is located in Glen, near the east side of the White Mountain National Forest, and dates back to 1954. It features classic attractions that celebrate children's nursery rhymes and fairy tales, including Alice's Tea Cups and Cinderella's Pumpkin Coach – both make great photo opportunities.

As of 2024, kids can splash around in the new Moo Lagoon, a farm-themed water play area. Older kids can pilot the Swan Boats on a calm pond. More thrilling attractions include Dr. Geyser's Remarkable Raft Ride (be prepared to get splashed) and the Roar-O-Saurus wooden roller coaster. Nearby Nordic Village Resort in Jackson gets rave reviews from past travelers for its spacious accommodations that include studios, condos and townhouses – plus amenities like pools, hot tubs and saunas for relaxation.

Address: 850 state Route 16, Glen, NH 03838

Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park

This National Historical Park honors Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a prominent American sculptor who spent his later years (1885 to 1907) at this estate in Cornish. Visitors to this historic site can see his home, tour his studio and walk the grounds where his sculptures are on display. Recent parkgoers say they were in awe of the beautiful gardens.

Note that some areas are only open seasonally, with most indoor areas like the galleries closed from November to Memorial Day. In addition, there are wooded hiking trails up to 2 miles long on the 100-acre property, if you're looking to get a little exercise amid nature while visiting Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park. Cornish is located in central New Hampshire, near the Vermont border. Stay near the park at The Chase House, a historic and charming country inn that was the birthplace of Salmon P. Chase, Abraham Lincoln's secretary of the treasury.

Address: 139 Saint Gaudens Road, Cornish, NH 03745

Santa's Village

Kids play at a water playground at Santa's Village in New Hampshire.

Courtesy of Santa's Village

Just as the name suggests, Christmas-themed Santa's Village is a celebration of the jolly old fellow himself, as well as all things that make the holiday special, from elves and reindeer to sleighs and sweet treats. Family-friendly rides at this amusement park in Jefferson include the Reindeer Carousel, Christmas Ferris Wheel, Santa's Express Train and Yule Log Flume. There's also a water park that's open in the summer, with slides, gentle fountains of water and water spray zones.

Visitors have noted how clean and charming this amusement park is. Typically Santa's Village is open daily in the summer, with limited weekend hours in the late spring and from Labor Day through Christmas. Be sure to check the Santa's Village website for operating hours before you visit. One budget-friendly option for overnighting nearby is the Coos Motor Inn in Lancaster, located just over 5 miles north.

Address: 528 Presidential Highway, Jefferson, NH 03583

Strawbery Banke Museum

Interior of historic Strawbery Banke Museum in New Hampshire.

Courtesy of Strawbery Banke Museum

Set on 10 acres in downtown Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum brings centuries of U.S. history alive with costumed role-players who share what life was like in New England's past. Visitors can tour historic buildings, craft demonstrations and gardens to learn about the people who once made their homes in this waterfront neighborhood. Past travelers say a highlight of their visit is chatting with the craftspeople in period dress, such as barrel makers and boat builders.

As an outdoor history museum, Strawbery Banke is typically open daily from late April through August and open several days a week in September and October. In the winter months, try out outdoor ice skating on Puddle Dock Pond. Tickets can be purchased online or in person. If you're with kids, get a family admission ticket to save some money. Just around the corner from Strawbery Banke is The Sailmaker's House, an intimate and historic boutique hotel with just 10 guest rooms.

Address: 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth, NH 03801

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Castle in the Clouds

Exterior of Castle in the Clouds in New Hampshire on a sunny day.

Courtesy of Castle in the Clouds

This unique seasonal attraction in Moultonborough offers a variety of things for visitors to do, including special events like yoga classes and stargazing on the property. After taking a trolley from the Carriage House, you can tour a historic 16-room mansion that was built atop a mountain in 1913 and features some modern technological advances of the time, including a house-wide interphone system. Take a guided or self-guided mansion tour of the first two floors from late May to late October; guests can also opt for a guided tour of the mansion's basement for an additional charge.

There is an on-site gift shop, cafe and restaurant with outdoor seating offering sweeping mountain and lake views. You can spend the day hiking 28 miles of scenic trails, including gentle paths to waterfalls and more strenuous summit hikes. Trails in the Castle in the Clouds Conservation Area are free to access for hikes as well as winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Bed down at one of the hotels nearby on Lake Winnipesaukee, like Center Harbor Inn, which features a sandy beach plus kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals for guests.

Address: 455 Old Mountain Road, Moultonborough, NH 03254

Polar Caves

Walkway through Polar Caves in New Hampshire.

Courtesy of Polar Caves

The Polar Caves in Rumney were formed by a moving glacier 50,000 years ago. Visitors can pass through nine distinct boulder caves on a self-guided tour, while enjoying the cooler temperatures on a hot summer day. Squeeze through the many named granite spaces and features, such as Orange Crush and the narrow path of Devil's Turnpike. The caves are linked by a series of wooden boardwalks and stairs, and all cave entry is optional.

Be prepared to crawl, twist and get a little dirty if you choose to make your way through the natural obstacles, say past travelers. Visitors can also feed the fallow deer and ducks at the on-site animal park. Polar Caves is open seasonally, from mid-May through mid-October. Nearby Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Plymouth White Mountains offers daily free breakfast.

Address: 705 Rumney Route 25, Rumney NH 03266

Kancamagus Highway

Kancamagus Highway lined with colorful autumn foliage.

The Kancamagus Highway is a 34.5-mile National Scenic Byway that stretches from Lincoln to Conway in the White Mountains. This portion of state Route 112 is a wildly popular scenic drive in the autumn for its plentiful vistas of colorful fall foliage . Many pull-off points allow for stretching legs along this curvy, wooded highway, where you can take in views of mountains, waterfalls and rivers. Plan a stop at Russell-Colbath Historic Site, a museum that demonstrates what life in the region might have been like in the 19th century.

Along the highway, there are also parking lots at trailheads that allow you to traverse through the woods on foot. Past road-trippers note that cell service is very limited in this remote area. You won't really find any motels or hotels along this stretch of rural road that reaches 2,855 feet in elevation, though there are several White Mountain National Forest campgrounds right off of the highway as well as many overnight options in Lincoln and Conway.

Wildcat Mountain Ski Resort

Wildcat Mountain, with sign in foreground and ski slopes in background.

Courtesy of Wildcat Mountain

There are dozens of ski areas in New Hampshire. Wildcat Mountain stands out as a classic among them, offering a glimpse of the sport's roots in White Mountain National Forest. While exploring Wildcat's nearly 50 trails and 225 acres of skiable terrain, which include routes for all ability levels, take in the stunning views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range that earn Wildcat a reputation as one of the most scenic ski mountains in the East. There is on-site child care available for young children at The Lion's Den.

The mountain continues to shine in summer with a roughly 1-mile hike to a waterfall and a more strenuous 8-mile trail with five peaks. Or, you can opt to get the same breathtaking views with a scenic chairlift ride. Book an overnight stay at The Glen House, the closest hotel to Wildcat; it offers various packages as well as a heated indoor saltwater pool.

Address: 542 state Route 16, Gorham, NH 03581

Currier Museum of Art

Exterior of Currier Museum of Art, with red sculpture at the front, in New Hampshire.

Courtesy of Currier Museum of Art

Manchester's Currier Museum of Art has a collection of more than 15,000 art objects, ranging from paintings and sculptures from the Renaissance and Baroque periods to contemporary works. Rotating gallery exhibits and special exhibitions showcase the varied collection. The Currier also offers access to two Frank Lloyd Wright homes, the only houses designed by the influential architect that are open to the public in New England.

Guided house tours are offered seasonally from April to December, but the Currier Museum of Art is open year-round. For accommodations nearby, the Ash Street Inn is a bed-and-breakfast located in a 19th-century Victorian home with all the modern comforts you need. It's a couple of blocks from the museum and within easy walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants.

Address: 150 Ash St., Manchester, NH 03104

Arcade games at Funspot in New Hampshire.

Courtesy of Funspot

A popular attraction for all ages in New Hampshire's Lakes Region, Funspot in Laconia houses what's billed as the world's largest arcade. It boasts more than 600 games, including classic video arcade games and pinball machines, a bowling alley, indoor mini-golf, and rides for young children. Kids love playing games to earn tickets to redeem for prizes, and you can spend a couple of hours playing old favorites like Space Invaders, Pac-Man and Asteroids.

With Funspot's plethora of classic games, many past travelers applaud the attraction for its nostalgic factor, while others say it's a good value for game tokens. The nearby Summit Resort has two-bedroom suites, making this lodging option a good fit for families.

Address: 579 Endicott St. N., Laconia, NH 03246

Jenness State Beach

With fewer bells and whistles than nearby Hampton Beach, Rye's Jenness State Beach is popular among families especially on sunny summer weekends, when you'll need to arrive early in the day to snag a metered parking spot, according to past visitors. The bathhouses offer restrooms, changing rooms and rinse-off showers. Lifeguards keep watch as kids frolic in the waves in the summer months. Dogs are not allowed on the sandy beach in the summer, but leashed pets are permitted in the off-season. Dunes Motor Inn, with fairly cost-effective rooms, is right across the street.

Address: 2280 Ocean Blvd., Rye, NH 03870

Bear Brook State Park

Lake at Bear Brook State Park in New Hampshire.

If you're looking to immerse yourself in nature on your trip to the Granite State, you can't go wrong with Bear Brook State Park, the largest developed state park in New Hampshire. Hiking, biking, camping, fishing, archery, kayaking and swimming are some of the activities you can enjoy in the warmer months in this recreational area. The park sits in the southeastern part of the state, near Manchester and Concord.

In this heavily wooded area, cell service may be limited – so past parkgoers recommend you come prepared with insect repellent and perhaps a paper map for navigation. Campsites are available at Beaver Pond, and cabins are offered at Bear Hill Pond, with advance reservations available online. Most of the closest lodging outside the park is near Concord and Manchester, including Tru by Hilton Concord, which is just off I-93 and offers free hot breakfast.

Aerial of Porstmouth harbor in New Hampshire.

Explore the charming Seacoast city of Portsmouth. Stroll the brick sidewalks of its lively downtown – featuring a vibrant restaurant scene, galleries, shops and historic buildings. Picnic or relax on a bench in 10-acre waterfront Prescott Park among gorgeous gardens and summer events like concerts, movies and theater performances. History lovers will enjoy hopping aboard the USS Albacore Museum, a decommissioned submarine that set a world record for speed in the 1960s. Or, opt for a tour of the Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden, a Georgian-style mansion that once housed General William Whipple, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

Though many attractions in town are seasonal, wintertime visitors still find plenty to delight in as Portsmouth has been named one of the prettiest and coziest towns in America to visit during the winter. Each year, the town's holiday festivities include a vintage trolley shuttle, an ice skating rink, a candlelight stroll, a gingerbread house contest and exhibition, and more. For lodging, consider the luxurious Wentworth by the Sea; The Inn Downtown, a boutique apartment-hotel with chic rooms in an early 19th-century building; or Ale House Inn, housed in a former brewery warehouse from the 1800s.

Wright Museum of World War II

If you're faced with a rainy day while visiting New Hampshire's Lakes Region, this museum is a formidable indoor alternative (and hard to miss, thanks to the tank poking out from one of its exterior walls). The museum has a collection of 14,000-plus items sourced both from the U.S. and the front lines of World War II as well as fully operational military vehicles. The museum aims to help visitors understand the role that Americans played in the Allied victory in 1945.

Visitors have praised the Wright Museum for being thoroughly informative and for showing what happened in the U.S. during the war, not just focusing on the battle zones. If you're hoping to stay nearby, the historic Wolfeboro Inn with a New England-style pub on-site is one charming option.

Address: 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, NH 03894

Echo Lake State Park

Hiker's boots on forest trail.

This relatively small but mighty state park located on the outskirts of North Conway is home to two stunning viewpoints. White Horse Ledge and Cathedral Ledge offer stellar views over Echo Lake and the surrounding forests. The trail up to Cathedral Ledge is shorter, at 1.2 miles, compared to 4.2 miles for White Horse Ledge. If hiking isn't your thing, you can swim and picnic by Echo Lake. Visitors praise the beautiful reflective waters of the lake and the easy walking trail that goes around it.

Address: 68 Echo Lake Road, North Conway, NH 03860

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Mariya Greeley is a writer based in Portland, Maine. She grew up in Hanover, New Hampshire, on the border of Vermont. Though Greeley has traveled to a dozen countries and lived everywhere from Maui, Hawaii, to Washington, D.C., New England remains her favorite corner of the world to explore – usually with a book or dog leash in hand – and share through her writing.

Timothy Forster hails from Montreal, Canada, right over the border from New Hampshire. The state's lakes and beaches are popular destinations for French Canadians, so he has no shortage of knowledge on what to do in the Granite State.

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50+ Things to Do in New Hampshire: Your NH Bucket List (2023)

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New Hampshire is one of America’s best-kept secrets, so if you didn’t realize there are so many fun things to do in New Hampshire, you’re probably not alone. Since it doesn’t have a sprawling city of millions, it’s not like everyone has a must do in New Hampshire list… but you should! New Hampshire has it all: the charm, quaintness, sites and activities, history, and gorgeous granite landscapes.

I was born and raised in NH, and just can’t seem to leave this beautiful corner of the country. What sets it apart for me is its amazing variety of sights, towns, and activities, that are all insanely accessible no matter what region you’re in. Since NH isn’t a large state, everything is at your fingertips. You can be in a city, on a mountain, then on the beach, all in the same day. Talk about bang for your buck. 

If you’re not convinced yet, I’m going to share 50+ of the best things to do in New Hampshire. Many of these are my personal favorites, and all are worth being added to your New Hampshire bucket list.

Let’s explore this great state!

Table of Contents

Lounge by the ocean at Hampton Beach State Park

Long sandy beach stretches near the ocean. There\'s a strip attached covered in hotels, buildings, shops, and more.

The beach is a major favorite among New Hampshire locals. It’s such an integral part of our summers that I was surprised to learn we actually have the smallest ocean coastline (about 18 miles) of any state. But we definitely know how to make good use of our humble blessings! 

Hampton Beach State Park is a wicked popular vacation spot between June and August. Read a book in the sand, grab a slice of pizza on Ocean Boulevard, or catch the sand sculpture competition in September; there are a ton of fun things to do in Hampton Beach, and cool hotels to stay at, too!

Explore the oldest European settlement in the state

Old pink building under a blue cloudy sky with a picket fence.

Located in my favorite coastal city of Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum is a 10-acre outdoor history museum imbued with over 300 years of U.S. history and one of the best things to do in Portsmouth New Hampshire !

Dating back to the 1600s, this is the oldest neighborhood in NH to be settled by Europeans. Composed of 32 restored historic buildings, heritage gardens, and costumed role-players, the museum will immerse you in its rich history. 

You can participate in hands-on traditional crafts, storytelling, and artifact viewing. If you’re a history buff, Strawbery Banke is a must .

Take a dip in Diana’s Baths

Waterfall cascades down into a river, surrounded by lush green forest.

It’s not hard to find cool things to do in the White Mountains because they are absolutely riddled with breathtaking natural formations, and Diana’s Baths is definitely one of them. Made up of a series of small waterfalls and pools, this 1-mile out and back trail in Bartlett is a short, easy walk, but packed with serene nooks to explore. 

Appreciate the beautiful waterfall views along your hike, wade in the clean mountain-water pools, or picnic on a summer day!

Take a  scenic train ride in the mountains

The Conway Scenic Railroad in North Conway Village offers family-friendly train rides through the Mount Washington Valley. This is definitely one of the top New Hampshire attractions for visitors to the state. 

Departing from a charming, sunny train station in North Conway , you can choose between two adventures: a heritage rail excursion to Conway and Bartlett, or a scenic roundtrip to Crawford Notch with plenty of vistas and rocky outcrops that’ll leave you in awe;; this is one of those very memorable  things to do with family in New Hampshire, especially if you live somewhere that doesn’t have mountains!

Drive, hike, or ride to the top of Mount Washington

Giant grey and green mountain under a blue sky. A train is moving on a train track in the foreground.

Introducing Mount Washington : the tallest peak in the Northeast (6288’),  home to the fastest wind gust ever recorded on earth (231 mph), and the muse for every single ‘This Car Climbed Mt. Washington’ bumper sticker. 

But really, this mountain is a glorious point of pride for New Hampshire and undoubtedly one of the coolest things to do in New Hampshire, and there are several ways to experience its majesty. Experienced hikers can climb. Those who want to sit back and savor the scenery can ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway , the world’s first mountain-climbing cog, to the top. 

Last but not least, you can drive the legendary Mount Washington Auto Road to the summit yourself, then proudly display your new ‘This Car Climbed Mt. Washington’ bumper sticker. You’ve earned it!

Bring your little ones to Story Land

If you’re looking for things to do in NH with kids, check this out: Nestled in the town of Glen, Story Land is a children’s amusement park that will spark your child’s imagination and have them buzzing from excitement. 

With over 30 attractions, “the land where fantasy lives” was created to make kids smile, but adults might be equally amused by this living fairytale!

Walk across an epic boardwalk in a gorge

Wooden walkway goes through a forest and leads to a waterfall with autumn colors.

I highly recommend Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park , which was created by the flow of Flume Brook and sits at the base of Mount Liberty. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in NH, and a visit here is certainly one of those must do things in New Hampshire that everyone should experience for themselves.

The 1.5 mile Flume Gorge loop takes you along stairs and a boardwalk within the gorge, where you can observe the lush flora and fauna up close and take in its 90-foot granite walls. It’s an unforgettable experience. 

I first visited Flume Gorge as a child, and it blew me away – I might as well have been in Terabithia. To this day, I’m still convinced it’s one of the most magical places in NH.  This is one of those special things to do with kids in NH that they will remember all their lives!

Enjoy the holidays year-round at Santa’s Village

Santa’s Village in Jefferson is a magical place for kids, plain and simple and is an obvious addition to any things to do in New Hampshire with kids list. And it’s exactly what it sounds like – a theme park that transports you to the North Pole. 

There’s food and shopping, a tiny train, holiday themed rides, elves, and meet-and-greets with Santa Claus himself! A visit to Santa’s Village should also be on the list for fun things to do in NH with toddlers, too! You’re never too young (or too old!) to enjoy a visit with Santa!

Learn about ocean science at the Seacoast Science Center

Located at Odiorne State Park, the Seacoast Science Center is a delightful, educational way to appreciate marine life and the ocean. If you’re looking for things to do in Rye NH, add this to the list!

The exhibits will teach you about marine mammals like whales and seals, beaches, and reefs. The best part is the touch tank, where you can pet a chain catshark or hold a sea star; this is one of the most fun things to do with kids in NH, and certainly one of the coolest Seacoast NH things to do, too.

Have a serene stay at a luxurious mountain hotel

Giant white resort with red roof has a green mountain behind it under a blue sky.

Why not experience NH in style? Located in Bretton Woods, a hotspot for skiers and adventurers, the Omni Mount Washington Resort is a breathtaking hotel; not only is this NH luxury resort with a spa one of the most fun things to do for adults in New Hampshire, but kids will have a blast too, making this a fun NH family activity!

In the 20th century, The Mount Washington was one the most luxurious hotels of its time. And the present popularity of this historical hotel lies in its massive size, and the nature that surrounds it – a stay here comes with 360-degree views of the White Mountains. Book a stay here if you want a one-of-a-kind NH experience!

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Watch a movie the old-fashioned way at a drive-in

Who doesn’t love a nostalgic drive-in theater experience? The Milford Drive-In Theater is one of the best things to do in Southern NH and is an old-fashioned two screen theater, one of the only drive-ins left in the state. Snag a spot early (first come, first served parking), buy your theater snacks at the concession stand and get cozy for the show; this could also be a romantic New Hampshire activity if you’re in the market for one of those. 

Get up close to nature at Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Looking for things to do in Holderness NH? Well, off the beaten path a bit, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is a great place to visit if you’re interested in natural science or seeing a variety of cool animals up close. There are so many programs and camps for kids in NH, live animal exhibits, walking trails, and education programs. The center even offers cruises on Squam Lake .

Overcome your claustrophobia inside the Polar Caves

On the list of unique things to do in New Hampshire, the Polar Caves were formed during the last Ice Age and created when a glacier moved across the landscape and deposited massive granite boulders. I think gorgeous granite formations like the Polar Caves are what make NH’s landscape so amazing. 

You can visit Polar Caves Park and meander along the stairs and boardwalks that will weave you in and out of the caves. Some portions consist of really narrow crevices though, so be prepared if you’re not a fan of small spaces!

Sit on a frozen throne at the Ice Castles.

Ice-covered scenery under a blue cloudy sky.

The Ice Castles , a frozen attraction in North Woodstock, is an incredible feat of human engineering and art, and definitely on the list of New Hampshire things to see in the winter. Built using hundreds of thousands of icicles by various artists, these castles have tunnels, ice thrones, sculptures, fountains, and more.  

It’s a magical, frozen kingdom that I really want to compare to a certain Disney movie… But maybe I should let it go. This is NH fun at it’s finest!

Jam out to live music in an oceanside park

There are some amazing memories to be made in downtown Portsmouth’s Prescott Park . A whole calendar of events happen here year-round. Not to mention, the location is fantastic! Right on the ocean, there are piers and beautiful gardens, and you’ll also be in spitting distance of Portsmouth’s best shops and restaurants.

One of the best ways to take advantage of Prescott Park is catching a live concert during their summer Concert Series . Lay out a blanket in the grass with loved ones and listen to your favorite band, with an ocean sunset and docking boats as the backdrop. This is where memories are made, especially if you’re looking for fun things to do for adults in NH; major date vibes, right?

Play PAC-MAN at the largest arcade in the world

Bet you didn’t know that Funspot arcade in Laconia is the largest arcade in the world – Guinness-certified! This place has over 600 games, 300 classic arcade games, a bowling alley, cash bingo, mini-golf, and even its own tavern, so if you’re looking for things to do in Laconia NH, check it out. If you can walk in and out of here in under an hour, you deserve a Guinness World Record yourself.

Stay in a unique cabin in the White Mountains

Log cabin surrounded by trees with fall colors under a blue sky.

If you haven’t noticed yet, the White Mountains region is the home of so many classic NH things to do. 

An awesome way to get up close and personal with these amazing mountain ranges is to find a unique cabin stay. I’d recommend looking for one in towns like North Conway , Bretton Woods, Jackson , or Franconia. 

If you need some inspiration, check out our hand-picked list of 14 amazing cabins in the White Mountains; when you’re looking for cool things to do in NH, can it get much cooler than staying in a quintessentially cozy New England cabin?

Peruse the galleries of an art museum

Yes, NH actually has a good arts scene! While there are plenty of great museums to check out in NH, two institutions really stand out: the Currier Museum of Art , and the Hood Museum of Art. Both of them are beautiful museums with world-class collections and great NH things to do.

The Currier (which made our list of best things to do in Manchester) has a strong European and American collection. 

The Hood Museum in Hanover is a Dartmouth College institution, and as such has really strong ties to Dartmouth’s history and community. But with a collection of over 65,000 pieces ranging from European, Indigenous Australian, Asian, and African art, the Hood Museum offers a powerful diversity of perspectives. 

Having previously worked for this museum myself, I can proudly say it’s an impressive institution.

Tour the historic home of a famous American sculptor

Big white home with black window settings. It\'s located on a hill with a set of steps leading up to it.

In the late 19th century, the great American sculpture Augustus Saint-Gaudens lived seasonally at a gorgeous estate in Cornish, NH. 

The grounds have since been turned into the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Park , where you can tour the home, walk the gardens, and view over 100 of Saint-Gaudens’ sculptures throughout the property. 

Visit a British colonial village dating back to the 1700s

The Fort at No. 4 Open-Air Museum is a historical site in Charlestown, established by European pioneers in the mid-1700s. 

You’ll get to explore the old, restored buildings, watch live reenactments, and view artifacts displays. The Fort will give you a better understanding of the fascinating, messy history of European colonization in New England, and is one of the more intellectually interesting things to do in New Hampshire. 

Have some fun in the sun at an amusement park

Amusement park ride swings multiple people on seats under a blue sky with clouds.

Looking for what to do in NH in the summer? Calling all roller coaster junkies: Canobie Lake Park in Salem is NH’s biggest amusement park and definitely one of the most fun things to do in New Hampshire!

Recently named in Time’s Money Magazine as one of America’s 10 best amusement parks , Canobie has over 85 games and rides and draws visitors from all over New England. 

Canobie really is a blast, and a great way to spend a summer day. Take a spin on the Xtreme Frisbee, if you dare!

Walk through New England’s largest outdoor sculpture park

Introducing the Andres Institute of Art , a lesser-known NH art institute but well worth the visit. One of the top things to do in New Hampshire for art lovers, the Institute is located along wooded trails in Brookline, and from dawn to dusk you are free to walk the paths and view over 60 sculptures created by various contemporary artists.

Take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway

Aerial view of the mountains in the fall with a road sweeping through it.

The Kancamagus Highway , a 34-mile scenic drive in Northern NH, is an amazing USA road trip experience . 

Officially designated an American Scenic Byway, this winding road cuts straight through the White Mountain National Forest and takes you over 2800-feet in elevation. Not only is it well worth the 2–3-hour drive, but you’ll have immediate access to the endless natural treasures of the White Mountains. 

Go in the fall if you can – many people consider this highway the best location for fall foliage leaf-peeping in the country, and certainly the best fall fun in NH!

Go on a moose tour

Have you ever seen a moose? These majestic, often elusive creatures are all over New Hampshire, but you might have to get lucky to spot one on your own. Instead, join up with a guided moose tour , like Pemi Valley Moose Tours located in Lincoln NH . This group in particular has a 97% success rate when it comes to spotting moose during their 3 ½ hour, ride-along moose tours!

Shred the gnar at a mountain ski resort

Skiiers skiing down a slope under a blue sky.

Vermont isn’t the only ski-lover’s haven in New England! NH has got some amazing peaks to shred too. And Loon Mountain Resort might just be one of the best places for it! Located in Lincoln, this resort covers three peaks and offers skiing and snowboarding lessons, rentals, and views for days. If you’re looking for New Hampshire things to do in the winter , get out and play in the snow!

Become a wine connoisseur at a local vineyard

I love a nice wine tasting and was surprised to discover how many NH wineries and vineyards there are, some even offering stuff like a New Hampshire wine and dine full day tour!

LaBelle Winery in Amherst has great food, fruity wines, and a beautiful vineyard. Averill House Vineyard in Brookline is rustic and family-owned, located in a restored barn from the 1830s. There’s also Haunting Whisper Vineyard , Flag Hill , Fulchino Vineyard , and more. And most of these offer wine tastings, tours, and dining on site. Take your pick! This is definitely a fun New Hampshire activity for adults.

See a show at a historic theatre

Set of shops made of brick along the street. One of them has a blue sign that says \"Palace.\"

The Palace Theatre in Manchester is a great place to catch a live show, and is definitely one of those cool places in New Hampshire everyone should check out once. It offers a wide variety of productions, from plays to concerts to other performing arts events. We think it’s one of the top things to do in Manchester and definitely a fun pick if you’re looking for indoor activities in NH!

But it’s not just about the world-class performances they host. The Palace, which opened in 1915, is steeped in history, charm, and some even say hauntings ( it was featured on an episode of Ghost Hunters! ). So come for the show, stay for the ghosts if you’re looking for some spooky New Hampshire fun.

Peruse a farmers market on the seacoast

The Portsmouth Farmers Market is an open-air marketplace, where over 100 local vendors set up shop and sell their unique goods. It’s an awesome way to shop fresh, and support the region’s farmers, artisans, and craftspeople, definitely quaint fun Seacoast NH style . This farmers market runs from May-November.

Explore the inside of a Navy submarine

Old grey submarine on land, with the hatch open for tours to go inside under a light blue sky.

Have you ever wondered what the inside of a real submarine looks like? Well, satisfy your curiosity at the USS Albacore Museum . 

The USS Albacore is a preserved U.S. Navy submarine that was designed to conduct top-secret research in the 1950s. It sits in USS Albacore Park in Portsmouth now, where you can take a self-guided tour of its interior; this is definitely on the list of interesting stuff to do in NH for kids and adults!

Visit a mountaintop castle in the clouds.

Lucknow mansion, otherwise known as the Castle in the Clouds , is a massive mountaintop estate in Moultonborough, and a very cool way to explore New Hampshire!

Built by a wealthy businessman in 1913, the property has 5500 acres, a restaurant, and sprawling views of the lake and Ossipee Mountains. 

Come take a tour, learn about its fascinating history , appreciate the beauty, and enjoy the food. This historical mansion truly is a castle in the clouds, so if you’ve been looking for points of interest in New Hampshire, check it out!

Take a walk with a rewarding view at Cathedral Ledge

Granite cliff is seen on the left, with dense green forest rimming the ledge and a vast expanse of green forest in the distance meeting the next mountain range.

The Cathedral Ledge summit in Bartlett is a fairly low-commitment hike that offers a pretty big reward. Take this shaded walk along a mile-long auto road, up to Cathedral Ledge’s 1159-foot summit. There are plenty of options when it comes to New Hampshire outdoor activities, but at Cathedral Ledge you’ll find incredible views of the Saco River Valley and White Mountains from every direction.

Taste penny candy at an old-fashioned general store

If you’re nostalgic for those good ol’ days of candy counters and charming Yankee watering holes, you have to visit Zeb’s General Store in North Conway Village. It’s a really fun, whimsical spot for shopping while you’re exploring North Conway; it’s probably not the best shopping in New Hampshire, but you’ll find a wide array of old-fashioned candy, New England-made specialty foods, and unique souvenirs; this is one of those fun things to do in NH for kids that’s fun for the adults, too!

PS: Like old things? Check out our list of the best antique stores in New Hampshire .

Enjoy autumn like a local at the Deerfield Fair.

We love Fair Season in NH! It’s one of our quintessential fall activities. There’s just something about wearing flannel, petting farm animals, watching tractors race each other, riding rickety Ferris wheels, and eating shameful amounts of fried dough we can’t get enough of. 

The Deerfield Fair , held every September, has been operating for 144 years now. In 2019 this super popular fair attracted over 125,000 people in just four days! Oh, and if you do go, please try the apple cider donuts.

Spend an epic lake day at Lake Winnipesaukee

Wooden dock extending over a deep blue water with green forests on the opposite side. The sky is blue with white, fluffy clouds.

As the biggest lake in the state, Lake Winnipesaukee comes alive in the spring and summertime, and if you ask a local what to do in New Hampshire in the summer, chances are, they’re going to mention the state’s most well-known lake.

Located—shockingly—in the Lakes Region, there are so many ways to enjoy this gorgeous spot. Lounge on Weirs Beach, rent a boat from Goodhue Boat Co. , take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington , or shop and dine at Mill Falls Marketplace during your summer in NH!

Visit one of the oldest surviving businesses in the United States. 

First opened in 1781, the Old Country Store and Museum in Moultonborough is considered one of the oldest businesses – and possibly the oldest general store – in the U.S.

This sunny-yellow store with its original foundation still intact is brimming with little wonders, knick-knacks, locally made foods, New England souvenirs, and a candy counter where you can try old-fashioned candy. The top floor holds a small museum for the history of the store and Moultonborough and could definitely be one of the things to do with family in New Hampshire!

Explore a historical, eclectic museum

If you’re looking for things to do in Dover NH and a museum that exhibits a variety of items covering local history, natural science, and decorative arts sounds fascinating, the Woodman Museum in Dover might be just the place for you. Apart from cool intrigues and oddities displayed across four historical buildings, you’ll find the oldest sycamore tree in Strafford County, a lovely garden, and the oldest house in Dover (built in 1675!). 

Drink craft beer at NH Brewfest

What’s there to do in New Hampshire? Well, we like our beer! In fact, there are almost 100 craft breweries across the state, serving up their unique styles for every kind of beer lover. To make it easy on yourself, why not sample them all in one place at the NH Brewfest in Portsmouth ? This festival features over 150 beers from 50 NH brewers! There’s a good chance you’ll find a new favorite; this is squarely in the fun things to do for adults in NH category!

Attend the largest beer festival in New England

Friends hold beer and toast each other while smiling.

While NH Brewfest is perfect if you’re interested solely in NH brewers, the New England Brewfest highlights all of New England’s best. New England’s official beer festival, New England Brewfest , is held in Woodstock, NH (which we’re pretty proud of). 

In past years they’ve hosted Lone Pine Brewing Co. , Woodstock Inn , Allagash Brewing , Berkshire Brewing , and so many others; if the question is what are fun things to do in New Hampshire and you’re a beer connoisseur, you’re in luck with this answer!

Enjoy a downtown festival at the state capitol

One of the summer’s most fun festivals takes place right in downtown Concord , the state capitol. Market Days Festival is a three-day event along Main Street in August, with live music, street food, crafts, carnival games, and all kinds of shopping. 

So many local businesses set up booths and sell their services and goods at Market Days. This event is so much fun, and really uplifts the whole community. Festivals like this are fun things to do NH style!

Pick fresh produce at a family-owned farm

A pumpkin patch is seen on a farm with bright orange pumpkins lined up in rows to the left with a man and child carrying a large pumpkin together on the right, under light blue cloudy skies.

Apples , pumpkins , oh my. There are so many wonderful farms in NH, it’s hard to pick which ones to highlight. But I’ll give it a shot.

Lull Farm in Hollis is always bustling no matter what time of year. They have gorgeous flowers for sale, a bakery counter, and fresh seafood and dairy. Moulton Farm in Meredith  is a favorite of mine. They have an extensive amount of produce, a corn maze every fall, and delicious homemade pies. 

And finally, check out Applecrest Farm Orchards if you’re looking for one on the seacoast. It’ll satisfy all of you apple fanatics out there. 

Have dinner and brews at a popular brewpub

Sometimes you might just be craving some good American grub and a local craft beer. Well, Backyard Brewery & Kitchen has your back. 

Recently featured on Phantom Gourmet , this brewpub is a bustling locale. People rave about the handmade beer, wide-open interior and outdoor patio, and the mouthwatering prime rib. Looking for something delicious in New Hampshire? Here ya go!

Immerse yourself in the history of Canterbury Shaker Village

Multiple Shaker buildings are seen in the distance, with a green garden in the foreground.

Canterbury Shaker Village is over 200 years old, and as a National Historic Landmark it preserves the heritage of the Canterbury Shakers and educates the public on its historical significance. 

On your visit you can explore the Village grounds, take a guided tour, and check out various indoor exhibits. The unique architecture throughout the Village is a definite highlight!

Sample some wicked good chowda at Chowderfest

Chowder is a beloved New England soup. Probably because it’s comforting and hardy, and New Englanders definitely need hardiness to get through these killer winters. 

In any case, if you’re a fan of a good chowder, visit Chowderfest and Brews at Waterville Valley Resort . If you’re looking for things to do in New Hampshire in May, this is a good choice; for a small fee you can sample all the chowder your stomach can stand. Live music and local beer samples included!

Sip on a latte at a cozy café

A barista is adding a swirl of white foam latte art to a cappuccino in a grey cup.

NH’s coffee scene doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. And while we’re no Portland, there are some undeniable gems sprinkled around New Hampshire. 

Second to none is Apotheca in Goffstown , a café and flower shop combo that will spark your imagination and your taste buds. They have whimsical, earthy decor, comfy repurposed furniture, local artisan crafts and gifts, gorgeous flower arrangements and incredible coffee. What more do you need?  

Honorable mentions include Portsmouth Book & Bar , Local Moose Cafe , the Metropolitan Coffee House , and Union Coffee Co.

Take the family to Chucksters Family Fun Park

This amusement center in Chichester is jam-packed with fun activities, making it one of the top things to do in NH with kids. From a bumper boat pond to ziplining, go-karts, batting cages, a climbing wall, and mini golf, you won’t experience a single moment of boredom. 

Take a walk in the woods to the ruins of a castle

Ruins of an old brick castle in the forest, surrounded by fall foliage.

Located within the Madame Sherri Forest in Chesterfield , you’ll find something bewildering: the ruins of Madame Sherri’s Castle , where the iconic “staircase to nowhere” spirals up into the sky. This is definitely a unique New Hampshire thing to do!

There’s a fascinating history to this abandoned castle. It was built by the eccentric Parisian costume designer, Madame Sherri, to entertain New York City’s rich and famous in the Roaring Twenties. It’s fun to visit and imagine all the scandalous ragers taking place in those woods.

Drive through a magical tunnel of Christmas lights

If you love peeping amazing Christmas lights displays in December, look no further than the NH Motor Speedway in Loudon . While this speedway is normally used as a race car track, it is converted each holiday season into a magical 2.5-mile tunnel of Christmas lights that you can drive your car through. It’s worth waiting in line for as a super fun Christmas in NH thing to do!

Go on a shopping spree at the Merrimack Outlets

The Merrimack Outlets is a large, modern shopping center that has a nice food court, outdoor walking paths and over 100 outlet stores. There are so many upscale brands here that you won’t find anywhere else in the state, like Barbour, Coach, Lucky Brand, and Michael Kors, def some of the best shopping in New Hampshire!

Go flower-peeping at the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival

Tall purple flowers are blooming in thick grass, under the sun setting in the distance.

For nature-lovers and photographers who love capturing lightning in a bottle, you’ll want to attend the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival in the White Mountains. 

The town of Sugar Hill is way off the beaten path, but it possesses a secret treasure: endless fields and gardens of lupines. These beautiful purple, white, and pink flowers bloom for just a few short weeks in June. 

Attending the Sugar Hill Lupine Festival is one of the best things to do in NH in June to catch them at their glorious peak; the rolling hills explode with color, but only for a brief moment.

Ride the Alpine Slide at Attitash Mountain Resort

If you’re looking for NH things to do in summer that deliver big on fun, check out the alpine slide at Attitash Mountain Resort, the longest mountain coaster in North America! This qualifies as a fun thing to do in New Hampshire with kids and adults alike!

Spend a day on the river

a serene new hampshire river bordered by fall colored trees with a red covered bridge in the distance

New Hampshire isn’t just about the lakes; there’s also plenty of river fun to be had here! Adventurers can find a variety of rivers that are great for various outdoor activities. There are slow-moving rivers perfect for a lazy day of river tubing. And at the opposite end of the spectrum, there are some rivers with sections of exciting rapids, where folks can paddle on a white-water rafting excursion.

Don’t forget about the other fun river activities you can try, too, like fishing, swimming, or kayaking!

Take a trip to outer space

The McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center is the perfect place to make your dream of going to space come true, without actually leaving earth.

This center has an observatory and interactive space exhibits, where you can learn all about astronomy, aviation, space science, and real-life astronauts such as the courageous Christa McAuliffe, so if you’re a big space buff, this might just be the best thing to do in New Hampshire for you!

But the best part? The planetarium shows. Recline in their domed theater, and feel like you’re literally flying through the stars. 

The answer to “what is there to do in New Hampshire” is basically EVERYTHING! Have fun making and then crossing items off of your New Hampshire bucket list!

Which of these top things to do in NH is your favorite?

More resources to help you plan your New Hampshire travels:

  • 15 Picturesque Covered Bridges in New Hampshire to See ASAP!
  • 11 Incredibly Fun Things to do in Exeter NH
  • 16 Things to Do in Keene NH (and Nearby!)
  • 14 Fantastic Things to Do in Littleton, New Hampshire 12 Fantastic Things to Do in Lebanon NH (+ Nearby!)
  • 10 Incredible Things to do in Peterborough NH
  • 13 of the Coziest + Best Cabins in New Hampshire
  • Top Places to Go Dog Sledding in New Hampshire

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15 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire

By Hannah Selinger

New Hampshire

The Granite State might be small, but it's also geographically diverse. From ocean beaches to lakes, mountains to quaint cities, this state has pretty much everything you can ask for in terms of activity. Whether you’re heading to New Hampshire for a weekend away or for a quick, one-day excursion, there’s something for you. Here are the 15 best things to do in New Hampshire while you’re there.

Mount Washington New Hampshire

Drive to the top of Mt. Washington

Mount Washington, the Northeast’s highest peak, is known for its particularly erratic weather patterns (and, among the daring, for its hike-in ski slope known as Tuckerman Ravine). Drive to the top via the Mt. Washington Auto Road , a steep and narrow 7.6-mile summit on winding roads that yields views all the way to New York (on clear days). No auto summit of Mt. Washington would be complete, however, without the obligatory “This Car Climbed Mt. Washington” bumper sticker every car summiting since the 1950s has received.

Lake Winnipesaukee New Hampshire

Get out on the water on Lake Winnipesaukee

New Hampshire’s largest lake, Lake Winnipesaukee , occupies 69 square miles in the state’s east. Enjoy everything the lake has to offer at the Ekal Activity Center , in Meredith, which offers antique boat rides, private charters, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboard rentals.

LaBelle Winery Amherst New Hampshire

Go wine tasting in Amherst

LaBelle Winery produces a line of award-winning wines for visitors to sample on site. The tasting room offers 35 different wines, as well as curated tours of the property, which opened in 2012. LaBelle also operates two restaurants, in Amherst and Derry , with food designed to pair with its signature wines.

Kancamagus Highway New Hampshire

Hike off of iconic Kancamagus Highway

New Hampshire’s famed Kancamagus Highway offers 34.5 miles of trails with scenic views within the state’s White Mountains Region . Over 25 hiking trails sprout from the Kancamagus, from the challenging, nine-mile Moat Mountain Trail to the easy, half-mile Rail and River Trail . Both seasoned hikers and novices can enjoy the unspoiled beauty of New Hampshire through this trail network.

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Shop for antiques on Route 4 

Route 4 is known as New Hampshire’s Antique Alley , home to the state’s oldest antiquing district, with more than 500 dealers spread across the towns of Lee, Northwood, Epsom, and Chichester. Antique Alley has been a premier destination for New England antiquing for more than 40 years.

Glen Ellis Falls at Pinkham Notch New Hampshire

Visit a waterfall in Pinkham Notch

New Hampshire is home to more than 100 waterfalls, but Glen Ellis Falls, a 64-foot-high waterfall on Pinkham Notch’s Glen Ellis Falls trail , is a spectacular beauty. The waterfall is off-limits to swimming, but still provides some of the state’s most sought-after photographs.

Conway Scenic Railroad New Hampshire

Ride the Scenic Railroad in North Conway

Take a ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad, a trip that departs from North Conway Village’s 1874 rail station. The Railroad offers several different experiences, ranging from the one-hour leisure ride to the five-hour Crawford Notch Mountaineering train, which climbs up through New Hampshire to explore stunning vistas. First-class cars, outfitted with lounge chairs and screening rooms, are also available for those seeking an upgrade.

Castle in the Clouds New Hampshire

Visit the Castle in the Clouds in Moultonborough

This 1913 mountaintop estate sits on more than 5,000 acres of magnificent land. Visitors can tour the property, take advantage of hiking and walking trails, dine at the estate restaurant, and even feed the ducks at Shannon Pond. Originally owned by shoe manufacturer Thomas Plant, the property has a dedicated exhibit to the history of its ownership on-site.

Shaker Village Canterbury New Hampshire

Dive into history at Canterbury Shaker Village

This national historic landmark consists of 24 original Shaker buildings, four reconstructed Shaker buildings, and 694 acres of conserved land. The village was established in the late 1700s and remained an important part of New Hampshire’s religious history until 1992, when the final practicing Shaker in residence died. Today, visitors can tour the homes and grounds for a sense of how the Shakers lived.

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Enjoy the sand dunes at Seabrook Beach

New Hampshire’s slim coastline runs about 18 miles from the Massachusetts to Maine borders. Still, the state is home to unblemished beaches, with tufted dunes, soft sand, and a bit of a surf break. Seabrook Beach , New Hampshire’s southernmost ocean beach (it’s known, familiarly, as “The Line,” since it’s adjacent to the Massachusetts border), offers plenty of space for sunbathing, and close proximity to the area’s famed competing beach pizza vendors. Cristy’s Pizza and Tripoli Pizza Bakery make sweet, square, and optionally Provolone-topped slices of pizza that are legendary among locals.

Canobie Lake Park New Hampshire

Test your nerves on the Yankee Cannonball

Canobie Lake Park , in Salem, has been open since 1902, when it was established as a lakeside trolley park. Thirty-four years later, the amusement park welcomed the addition of the Yankee Cannonball, a wooden roller coaster that was built in 1930 for use at Westbury, Connecticut’s Lakewood Park. (It was later relocated.) The historic ride, in all its rickety splendor, is one of New Hampshire’s most iconic activities.

Attitash Mountain Resort Alpine Slide New Hampshire

Ride Attitash’s Alpine Slide

In winter, Attitash Mountain Resort , which abuts the White Mountain National Park, draws expert skiers from all over the Northeast. In non-ski season, the resort operates two alpine slides that wind passengers down the ski mountain. Take the Flying Yankee chairlift to the top and enjoy the scenic ride down from the 1,750-foot mountain.

Portsmouth New Hampshire

Stroll down Portsmouth’s State Street

Located on the Piscataqua River (and just a bridge away from Kittery, in southern Maine ), Portsmouth, a traditional New England city, is marked by Colonial and Federal architecture. The city’s beating heart is the historic downtown area, where shops and restaurants draw visitors from all over. State Street, downtown’s main thoroughfare, offers a walkable view of the city, as well as plenty of nearby shopping and dining options.

New Hampshire McAuliffeShepard Discovery Center

Reach for the stars at Concord’s McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

The name Christa McAuliffe is legendary in New Hampshire: the 37-year-old teacher from Concord was aboard the doomed 1986 mission of the Space Shuttle Challenger . In 1990, this space center —dedicated not only to McAuliffe, but also to astronaut Alan Shepard, a New Hampshire native—opened to the public. The museum offers educational experience for kids and adults alike, and features a state-of-the-art planetarium with rotating shows.

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Experience farm-to-table dining in Manchester

The Foundry Restaurant is tucked into Manchester’s Millyard District , an area of historic brick buildings and former textile factories. The restaurant, which opened in 2015, is the city’s largest certified farm-to-table operation, with produce, dairy, and protein representing The Granite State’s local farms.

Omni Mount Washington Resort

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New Hampshire Hiking and Trekking Tours in the White Mountains

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NEW HAMPSHIRE HIKING ADVENTURES

Our New Hampshire hiking tours feature some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery east of the Mississippi River.

A New Hampshire hiking vacation is something that should be on every adventurous traveler’s and nature lover’s life list. It is home to some of the East Coast’s most impressive mountain peaks, mostly in the famous White Mountains. Mount Washington, the most well known of these mountains, is a towering summit with incredible views, alpine lakes, amazing mountain huts, and truly spectacular hiking. The famous Appalachian Trail runs across the wind-swept ridges of the White Mountains, adding another element of fame to this already world-class destination. And, with charming mountain towns and ski villages available to compliment the hiking, New Hampshire is an all-around wonderful vacation destination.

Wildland Trekking’s New Hampshire hiking tours are in the White Mountains, and feature hut to hut treks through some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery east of the Mississippi River. We provide everything including hut reservations, local transportation, gear, meals and professional guides. We offer two White Mountains hut to hut treks : a classic hike across the amazing Presidential Peaks (including Mount Washington); and a trip that explores the deeper wilderness, wildlife and waterfalls of the White Mountains – Pemigewasset Wilderness & the Appalachian Trail .

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New Hampshire

New Hampshire things to do and accommodations in NH: Tour Guide.com is a virtual tourism guide of the state of NH offering detailed information about New Hampshire’s Hotels, NH Restaurants, NH State Parks, Campgrounds, Live Webcams in NH, Scenic Sites, and much more!

NH Tour Guide.com is your #1 source for in-depth information about places in the state of New Hampshire and NH travel info for tourists visiting the New Hampshire USA. We offer many listings of places in New Hampshire like NH hotels , bed and breakfast , inns , NH resorts , cabin rentals , NH vacation rentals , campgrounds , vacation places, NH ski areas and trail conditions , snowmobiling , Fall Foliage , NH Waterfalls , NH attractions, and family fun in New Hampshire… We offer reports from people (and ourselves) that have actually been to the places you are interested in knowing more about.

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Lake Winnipesaukee

Newfound lake, lake winnisquam, lake sunapee, highland lake, lake opechee, ossipee lake, a family midweek summer escape, a late-summer stay.

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A fido-friendly new hampshire getaway, a wellness seeker’s guide to the lakes region, a summertime girls’ weekend getaway to the lakes region, lakes region, nh, where there is water, there is life. truer words were never spoken..

The aptly named Lakes Region, just south of New Hampshire’s storied White Mountains, is home to no fewer than 273 bodies of water. Ideally situated less than two hours from Boston, the Lakes Region is perfect for an afternoon drive, a weekend rendezvous with your favorite fishing rod or a midsummer’s family beach vacation. The scenery is spectacular, the attractions are unmissable and the recreational opportunities are limitless. Ready to dive in?

No matter the reason or the season for your visit, there’s something for everyone here. To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve put together some suggested itineraries.

Seeking trip ideas? Take a scroll…

A foodie's lakes region spring sampler, a history buff's perfect lakes region weekend, an active couple's fall getaway, a multigenerational summer escape, free download, get your free guide to the best of the lakes region, upcoming events, there’s always something happening in the new hampshire lakes region, meredith sculpture walk, meredith nh.

Year-round juried exhibition featuring 30+ works of art in Meredith village. Sculpture Walk Menu  

EcoTours – Newfound Lake – Grey Rocks Conservation Area, Hebron NH

Soak in the sights and sounds of Newfound Lake on a two-hour boat tour, exploring the history and ecology of the area. EcoTours run from Memorial Day through early September. […]

“Baskets: Carriers of Life and Spirit”. – New Exhibit at Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum, Warner NH

View our new exhibit in the Contemporary Art Gallery called “Baskets: Carriers of Life and Spirit”. Guided tours are offered daily at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm pending staff availability […]

Plan Your Trip

There are so many ways to spend your days in the lakes region of new hampshire, limitless lodging options.

From campsites and cottages to brand-name hotels and resorts, there’s something for everyone in the Lakes Region.

RELAXATION & RECREATION

The only difficult thing about playing in the Lakes Region is deciding what to do first.

DELICIOUS FOOD & DRINK

The flavors of New Hampshire come alive with a variety of dining options, from bistros to barbeques.

FINELY CRAFTED FUN

From art galleries to gourmet groceries, shoppers just can’t seem to get enough of the Lakes Region.

REGIONAL REAL ESTATE

Relocating or searching for the perfect waterfront cottage? The Lakes Region is your home for all seasons.

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Your guests will delight in a true vacation experience when you host your event in the Lakes Region.

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Best Things to Do Near the University of New Hampshire

If you are taking a tour of our University of New Hampshire Durham campus this summer and looking for a way to extend your trip into a full day, weekend or vacation, you’re in the right place! There are so many things to do near the University of New Hampshire.  Welcome back to our quiz series . Get ready to take the quiz* below to see where you should take a day trip near UNH .

* Count how many of each letter you choose and add them up at the end for your results.  There are no wrong answers. Take the quiz as many times as you want to help you decide where to visit in Seacoast New Hampshire and Maine.

Aerial view of Portsmouth, NH

Aerial view of Portsmouth, NH

Question #1:

How far from unh are you willing to travel.

A) 20 minutes

B) 15 minutes

C) 10 minutes

D) 30 minutes

E) Anywhere from 10-30 minutes

Newmarket, NH

Newmarket, NH

Question #2:

What is your ideal day trip location.

A) A coastal town with plenty of dining, shopping and arts venues

B) An eclectic mix of  cafés,  dining and shopping options

C) A charming downtown and a walk by the water

D) A sunny beach

E) Beautiful ocean views

UNH students eating ice cream in downtown Portsmouth, NH

UNH students eating ice cream in downtown Portsmouth, NH

Question #3:

Where do you want to grab a meal after touring unh.

A) Award-winning restaurants on the waterfront

B) The top-ranked café and coffee shop in New Hampshire

C) A café that doubles as a bookstore or a cat café

D) A sandwich shop by the beach

E) An ice cream shop by the ocean

Beach in Rye, NH

Beach in Rye, NH

Question #4:

What do you want to do after touring unh.

A) See an arts or theatre performance

B) Spend the day shopping in a downtown

C) Go for a scenic walk

D) Spend the day at the beach

E) Explore historic sites by the ocean

Your Results:

You should visit: Portsmouth, NH

Only 20 minutes from our campus, Portsmouth is a favorite coastal vacation destination. There’s something for everyone, from many performance arts venues and a summer theatre and concert series in Prescott Park on the water, to a variety of award-winning restaurants and plenty of shopping. Enjoy a day walking around this historic coastal town. Explore our perfect Portsmouth day trip.

You should visit: Dover, NH

About 15 minutes from campus, Dover features a thriving downtown, surrounded by the Cocheco River and mills. Grab coffee and food from Breakaway Cafe, voted one of the best cafés in New Hampshire. Visit Just the Thing for fun vintage and secondhand finds or stop by Lickee's & Chewy's for novelty candies and out-of-this-world milkshakes.

You should visit: Newmarket, NH

Just down the road from UNH (about 10 minutes away), Newmarket, NH, features a scenic walk through historic mills by the water and much more. Explore Crackskull's to pick out books while you pick up your coffee, or meet cats at The Tipsy Tabby cat café. Pick up lunch from one of the many cafés and restaurants downtown.

You should visit: Rye, NH

About 30 minutes from UNH, take in panoramic ocean views while driving up Ocean Boulevard in Rye, NH. Enjoy a beach day at Hampton Beach, explore the Seacoast Science Center and Odiorne Point State Park, or even take a surfing lesson at Jenness Beach.

You should visit: Kittery, ME

Just 20 minutes from campus and over the bridge from Portsmouth, explore Kittery, Maine. Experience history and scenic views at Fort Foster and Fort McClary, shop at the Kittery Outlets and take an ice cream or a sandwich to the beach. Read about your perfect Kittery day trip.

related posts:

24 hours in kittery, maine .

Just  20 minutes from campus , you can travel to the  coast of Maine  and experience the ocean, historic landmarks, dining and shopping in Kittery, Maine!    travel to kittery

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Just came back from a tour with this company to New Orleans. Spent 3 days at the filthiest hotel I've ever been in - Hilton Garden Inn. Breakfasts were disgusting or non existent facilities like the pool not working stains on the bathroom and one guest found a cockroach in her shower. It was out by the airport so nothing to do in our free time.. The company claims to "sleep" in these hotels. We were offered paltry $200 refund which doesn't make up for the thousands this tour cost.

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Here in New Hampshire, our highways and byways don't just go from here to there. The roads crisscrossing every New Hampshire region offer the freedom to design your own day trips. They cut through the White Mountains, trace New England's most powerful rivers, meander through timeless villages, climb New England's highest mountain, and lead to family-friendly roadside attractions. More than 1,000 miles in New Hampshire are designated as fall foliage drives and cultural byways. Whether your ride is a motorcycle or a minivan, these driving tour guides will help you choose a direction for your next carefree day on the road in New Hampshire.

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  1. Visit NH : Visitors Guide

    Order Your Free Visitor's Guide. Plan your New Hampshire vacation. Home. Visitors Guide. The 2024 New Hampshire's Visitor Guide will be available for order early summer - check back later to place your order! Until then, you can view the 2023 Online Visitors Guide at any time by clicking here.

  2. Visit NH : Welcome to New Hampshire

    There's nothing quite like summertime in New Hampshire. From heart-pumping hikes on some of the highest peaks in the northeast to soul-soothing swims in our crystal clear lakes, your perfect summer getaway awaits in the Granite State... there's always a new reason to visit.

  3. The BEST New Hampshire Tours and Things to Do in 2024

    The best indoor activities in New Hampshire for rainy days are: From Boston: Full-Day Historical Lexington & Concord Tour. From Boston: Quincy, Plymouth, and Mayflower II Day Trip. See all best indoor activities in New Hampshire on GetYourGuide.

  4. New Hampshire Home Page

    New Hampshire offers great vacations. People travel from everywhere to enjoy the state's vacation attractions and activities. From the Great North Woods to the Lakes Region to the ocean beaches, New Hampshire is a vacation destination beloved by adults and families for its outdoor activities, mountains, beaches, and fun family attractions. Generations of families travel to vacation spots like ...

  5. THE 10 BEST New Hampshire Tours & Excursions

    1. Boston to New Hampshire Fall Foliage White Mountains Day Trip. Witness the magnificence of New England's fall foliage by going on this themed tour from Boston that showcases the region…. 2. WW2 Small Arms Experience. You have seen these iconic weapons used in countless movies and video games.

  6. THE TOP 10 New Hampshire Tours & Excursions (UPDATED 2024)

    8. Explore Portsmouth, New Hampshire on two wheels with this half-day, self-guided bike tour. Choose your own pace and cycle between landmarks at your leisure. See local sites like Prescott Park, Fort Stark State Historic Site, and the Wentworth-Gardner House.

  7. New Hampshire Way: Your Ultimate NH Travel Guide

    Welcome toNew Hampshire Way This site is your ultimate resource for New Hampshire travel! We are a team of New Hampshire travel experts, natives, locals, and frequent visitors who share our expertise first-hand with you. Looking for NH inspiration? Sign up for updates. Subscribe to the Blog LATEST ARTICLES 15 Fun Things To Do In […]

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    Visitor Information. If you're looking for information to plan your New Hampshire vacation, you're in the right place! Use the links below to request more information, or contact us today with any questions.

  9. Book an Outdoor Guided Adventure in New Hampshire

    Alpine Adventures. 41 Main Street Lincoln, NH, 03251 Phone: 603-745-9911. Lots of ways to experience pure exhilaration at this mountain adventure center. Explore the glorious White Mountains at Alpine Adventures, where exhilaration takes several forms. You can soar 200 feet above the forest floor on three different zipline courses, for ...

  10. New Hampshire Travel Guide

    The White Mountains. New Hampshire's short Atlantic coastline is a stretch of mellow, sun-drenched beaches capped by Portsmouth, a well-preserved colonial town with a crop of excellent restaurants and stylish inns. Inland, there are more than 1300 lakes; the largest, Lake Winnipesaukee, is ringed with both tourist resorts and quiet villages.

  11. New Hampshire Travel Guide

    Guide to Skiing the Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington. New Hampshire Fall Foliage Driving Tours. Best Places to Stay in New Hampshire for Fall Foliage. The Best Ziplines in New England. A Tour of New Hampshire Waterfalls. Top 10 Things to Do in New Hampshire's White Mountains.

  12. New Hampshire Home Page

    Visit New Hampshire has the ultimate vacation and travel guides for your next visit. Check out our website for fun activities and events in New Hampshire. Maps; ... Guided Adventures Outdoor Adventures State and Local Parks Walking and Hiking New Hampshire Gardens Biking Zip Line Canopy Tours Dog Parks -- Off Leash Tennis. On the Water.

  13. 25 Fun Things to Do in New Hampshire

    Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves. The Lost River Gorge is a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience in New Hampshire. Open seasonally from early May to mid-October, this attraction has a self-guided, 1 ...

  14. 50+ Things to Do in New Hampshire: Your NH Bucket List (2023)

    The Ice Castles, a frozen attraction in North Woodstock, is an incredible feat of human engineering and art, and definitely on the list of New Hampshire things to see in the winter. Built using hundreds of thousands of icicles by various artists, these castles have tunnels, ice thrones, sculptures, fountains, and more.

  15. Visitors

    An overview of visitor information available in the State's networks of websites. Access to New Hampshire's statewide geographic information system (GIS) data sets. Create online maps providing land use planning information about your town or region. Maps can be drawn which show protected lands, transportation network, or water resources.

  16. 15 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire

    New Hampshire's famed Kancamagus Highway offers 34.5 miles of trails with scenic views within the state's White Mountains Region. Over 25 hiking trails sprout from the Kancamagus, from the ...

  17. New Hampshire Hiking Trips & Tours

    Wildland Trekking's New Hampshire hiking tours are in the White Mountains, and feature hut to hut treks through some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery east of the Mississippi River. We provide everything including hut reservations, local transportation, gear, meals and professional guides. We offer two White Mountains hut to hut treks ...

  18. New Hampshire's Guide to All Places and Things to do in NH

    New Hampshire things to do and accommodations in NH: Tour Guide.com is a virtual tourism guide of the state of NH offering detailed information about New Hampshire's Hotels, NH Restaurants, NH State Parks, Campgrounds, Live Webcams in NH, Scenic Sites, and much more! ... NH Tour Guide.com is your #1 source for in-depth information about ...

  19. Visit NH : Lakes Tour

    Lakes Tour. Length: 97 miles. Towns: Alton, Ashland, Center Harbor, Gilford, Holderness, Laconia, Meredith, Moultonborough, New Hampton, Ossipee, Sandwich, Tamworth, Tuftonboro and Wolfeboro. Highlights: Circumnavigate New Hampshire's largest lake - Lake Winnipesaukee - and stop for a mountain hike, a walk through the region's friendly ...

  20. New Hampshire Tours

    East Coast Fall Foliage Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tours Bundle (20+ Tours) Driving / Walking. Each Tour 2 - 3 Hours. Each Tour 40+ Audio Stories. 200+ Reviews. $ 229.99 $ 74.99/ Person.

  21. Discover NH's Lake Region: Tourist Guide

    Discover the pristine beauty of NH's Lake Region with our comprehensive tourist guide. Read about the best attractions and activities in the NH Lakes Region. ... just south of New Hampshire's storied White Mountains, is home to no fewer than 273 bodies of water. ... Guided tours are offered daily at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm pending staff ...

  22. Visit NH : Ultimate New Hampshire Fall Foliage Road Trip Guide

    When To Visit New Hampshire for Fall Foliage. Typically, peak season lies around the first week of October to the third week of October before the leaves completely change. Obviously, weather and external circumstances can play a role in the exact timing each year. In 2021, peak foliage hit most of New Hampshire the week of Columbus Day.

  23. Best Things to Do Near the University of New Hampshire

    If you are taking a tour of our University of New Hampshire Durham campus this summer and looking for a way to extend your trip into a full day, weekend or vacation, you're in the right place! There are so many things to do near the University of New Hampshire. ... College Survival Guide: Student Support Services . Monday, June 17, 2024. View ...

  24. COUNTRY HERITAGE TOURS

    1 review of COUNTRY HERITAGE TOURS "Just came back from a tour with this company to New Orleans. Spent 3 days at the filthiest hotel I've ever been in - Hilton Garden Inn. ... NH Rivers Guide Service. 10. Fishing, Boat Tours. Air Planning. 1. Private Jet Charter. Bradford Ski Area. 23. Ski Resorts. Angelinas Travel. 0. Travel Services. MBTA ...

  25. Visit NH : Scenic Drives

    Scenic Drives. Here in New Hampshire, our highways and byways don't just go from here to there. The roads crisscrossing every New Hampshire region offer the freedom to design your own day trips. They cut through the White Mountains, trace New England's most powerful rivers, meander through timeless villages, climb New England's highest mountain ...