10 Best Things to Do in New Hampshire

Visualize the stunning peak of Mount Washington, wreathed in a snowy blanket and standing tall against a crystal-clear blue sky. This majestic summit is the embodiment of New Hampshire, a state rich in natural beauty and an irresistible magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Hello, fellow adventurers! Welcome to New Hampshire, the Granite State, where the landscapes are as hardy and charming as the folks who live here. From the summits of the White Mountains to the depths of beautiful glacial lakes, and the quaint, historic towns in between, New Hampshire is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

  1. Mount Washington: The highest peak in the Northeastern US promises an exhilarating hike, while the Auto Road and Cog Railway offer equally spectacular views for those preferring a more laid-back ascent. Whatever your journey, the summit’s unparalleled vistas are worth every step or turn of the wheel.
  2. Franconia Notch State Park: Home to the famous Flume Gorge and the stunning Echo Lake, Franconia Notch is a natural playground packed with trails, waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views.
  3. Historic Portsmouth: This charming coastal town is steeped in history. Stroll through the preserved colonial homes in Strawbery Banke Museum or enjoy a picturesque harbor cruise.
  4. Lake Winnipesaukee: Dive into water sports, take a scenic drive around the shoreline, or cruise on the historic MS Mount Washington. New Hampshire’s largest lake promises fun and relaxation in equal measure.
  5. Kancamagus Highway: This scenic byway offers 34 miles of some of the most picturesque fall foliage in the country, along with pristine rivers, soaring mountains, and hiking trails.
  6. Canterbury Shaker Village: Step back in time at this historic site that offers a glimpse into the lives, traditions, and architecture of the Shakers, a religious sect that flourished in the 19th century.
  7. The Ice Castles: These spectacular, handcrafted ice structures in North Woodstock create a winter wonderland complete with ice slides, thrones, and LED-lit sculptures.
  8. Castle in the Clouds: This Arts and Crafts-style mansion offers stunning views over Lake Winnipesaukee, and the estate includes waterfalls, hiking trails, and a charming horseback ride.
  9. Monadnock State Park: Home to one of the most climbed mountains in the world, the park is a hiker’s delight with myriad trails and rewarding panoramic views at the summit.
  10. Currier Museum of Art: Art enthusiasts will love this art museum in Manchester, featuring European and American paintings, decorative arts, and sculpture, including works by Picasso, Monet, and O’Keeffe.

As you venture through the byways and trails of New Hampshire, the state’s enchantment begins to reveal itself. Each turn uncovers a new story, a new sight to behold, a new memory waiting to be made. And it’s here, beneath the towering peaks and atop the serene lakes, in the laughter echoing across the town squares and the silent reverence within the museums, that you realize you’re not just passing through New Hampshire—you’re experiencing it. So why wait? Let the Granite State surprise you, charm you, and invite you into its embrace. Pack your curiosity and let the adventure begin. New Hampshire is ready for you, are you ready for it?