New Hampshire Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and activities to do in New Hampshire with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip to this beautiful state in New England today!


Introduction to New Hampshire

Welcome to the beautiful state of New Hampshire, located in New England, in the northeastern part of the United States. Known for its stunning nature, friendly locals, and rich history, New Hampshire is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

This comprehensive tour guide for New Hampshire will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip. From the best places to visit, to the most exciting activities and the top-rated accommodations, this guide has got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in New Hampshire

New Hampshire has a wealth of attractions, ranging from world-class museums and historical sites to pristine natural parks and scenic trails. Here are some of the top places to visit in the state:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Strawbery Banke Museum - An open-air museum showcasing 300 years of Portsmouth’s history and culture.
  • Currier Museum of Art - A museum of European and American art dating from the medieval period to present day.
  • Mount Washington Cog Railway - An iconic steam-powered train that climbs to the summit of Mount Washington.
  • Castle in the Clouds - A historic mansion that offers stunning views of the White Mountains.
  • Canterbury Shaker Village - A living history museum dedicated to the Shaker way of life.

Natural Attractions of New Hampshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • White Mountain National Forest - A vast wilderness area with breathtaking views, hiking trails, and countless outdoor activities.
  • Franconia Notch State Park - A park with scenic vistas, hiking trails, and the Flume Gorge, a natural chasm.
  • Lake Winnipesaukee - A massive lake with plenty of opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing.
  • Kancamagus Highway - A scenic drive through the White Mountains with beautiful fall foliage.
  • Mount Monadnock - A popular mountain for hikers and climbers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with a vast network of trails offering stunning views of the landscape. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Mount Monadnock - A challenging hike that rewards climbers with sweeping views of southern New Hampshire.
  • Franconia Ridge Loop - A difficult hike with panoramic views of the White Mountains.
  • Mount Major Trail - A short but steep hike to stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee.
  • Kancamagus Highway - A scenic drive along winding roads, with multiple hiking trails that offer views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in New Hampshire: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, there are plenty of other exciting activities to do in New Hampshire. Here are some of the best:

  • Skiing and Snowboarding - New Hampshire is home to several world-class ski resorts, including Loon, Bretton Woods, and Mount Sunapee.
  • Zip-lining and Canopy Tours - Experience the thrill of flying through the trees with a zip-lining or canopy tour.
  • Dog Sledding - Take a tour through the snowy wilderness on a dog sled.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing - Explore New Hampshire’s lakes and rivers with a paddle in hand.
  • Whale Watching - Take a guided boat tour to spot whales and other marine life in the Atlantic Ocean.

Week-Long Itinerary for New Hampshire

With so much to see and do, a week in New Hampshire will be packed with exciting activities and experiences. Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Explore Portsmouth and the Strawbery Banke Museum.

Day 2: Take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway and hike one of the trails in the White Mountains.

Day 3: Visit the Mount Washington Cog Railway and explore the top of Mount Washington.

Day 4: Take a tour of the beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee.

Day 5: Go skiing or snowboarding at one of New Hampshire’s world-class ski resorts.

Day 6: Visit the Currier Museum of Art and explore the Castle in the Clouds.

Day 7: Take a dog sledding tour or go on a whale watching trip.

Food and Drink Scene of New Hampshire

No trip to New Hampshire would be complete without experiencing its vibrant culinary scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • New England Clam Chowder - A creamy soup with tender clams and crispy bacon.
  • Maple Syrup - A sweet, golden syrup that is a staple in New Hampshire cuisine.
  • Lobster Rolls - Succulent lobster meat served on a buttered bun, a New England classic.

Local Beverages

  • Apple Cider - A refreshing drink made from fresh-pressed apples.
  • Pumpkin Beer - A seasonal beer made with pumpkin puree, spices, and traditional beer ingredients.

Where to Stay in New Hampshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

New Hampshire offers a variety of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top picks:

  • The Omni Mount Washington Resort - A historic luxury hotel with stunning views of Mount Washington.
  • Woodstock Inn & Resort - A charming country inn with modern amenities.
  • Top Notch Resort - A luxurious resort with a wide range of activities and amenities, including a spa and golf course.
  • AMC Huts in the White Mountains - Rustic accommodations for hikers and adventurers.

What to Buy in New Hampshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring home a piece of New Hampshire with these local products and souvenirs:

  • Maple Syrup - A sweet and delicious reminder of your trip to New Hampshire.
  • Handmade Pottery - Beautiful pottery made by local artisans, available at craft fairs throughout the state.
  • Birch Bark Decorations - Intricate and unique decorations made from birch bark, a traditional Native American craft.

Local Culture and Customs of New Hampshire

New Hampshire is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. Here are a few things to keep in mind during your visit:

  • Tipping - Tipping is customary in the United States, with 15-20% of the total bill being the standard.
  • Politeness - New Hampshirites place a high value on politeness and good manners.
  • Recycling - New Hampshire has a strong culture of recycling, so be sure to properly dispose of your waste.

Best Time to Visit New Hampshire

The best time to visit New Hampshire depends largely on your interests. Summer and fall are the most popular seasons, with warm weather, beautiful landscapes, and numerous outdoor activities. Winter offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as charming holiday festivities. Spring is a beautiful time to visit New Hampshire as well, with blooming flowers and lush greenery.

Do’s and Don’ts of New Hampshire

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to New Hampshire:

Do:

  • Do explore the charming towns and villages throughout the state.
  • Do try the local cuisine and drinks, including maple syrup and pumpkin beer.
  • Do take advantage of the state’s outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter, as New Hampshire has a strong culture of recycling and environmental stewardship.
  • Don’t skip the museums and historical sites, which offer a window into New Hampshire’s rich history and culture.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and gear for the season and activities you plan to do.

Safety and Health

New Hampshire is a safe destination, with low crime rates and a friendly local community. However, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your visit:

Safety in New Hampshire

  • Be aware of wildlife, including bears and moose, and keep a safe distance.
  • Follow proper trail etiquette when hiking and biking, including staying on designated trails and carrying out all waste.
  • Be cautious when driving on icy roads during the winter months.

Health in New Hampshire

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen to protect against the sun’s rays.
  • Check for ticks, which are common in wooded areas and can carry Lyme disease.

Getting to New Hampshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to New Hampshire is easy, with several transportation options available:

Airports Near New Hampshire

  • Manchester-Boston Regional Airport - Located in Manchester, NH, and served by several domestic airlines.
  • Boston Logan International Airport - Located in Boston, MA, and served by many domestic and international airlines.

Bus Stations Near New Hampshire

  • Concord Coach Lines - Offers bus service throughout New Hampshire and to Boston.

Other Options

  • Amtrak - Provides train service from Boston to several New Hampshire locations.
  • Car Rentals - Several car rental companies are available throughout the state.

How to Get Around in New Hampshire

Getting around New Hampshire is easiest by car, as the state has several highways that connect its major cities and towns. However, there are several other options available:

  • Public Transportation - Several bus companies, including Concord Coach Lines, offer service throughout the state.
  • Biking and Walking - Many towns and cities have bike lanes and pedestrian paths, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
  • Ridesharing - Services like Uber and Lyft are available in larger cities and towns.

Where to Go Next from New Hampshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

New Hampshire is close to several other popular destinations in New England, including:

  • Boston, MA - A bustling city with a rich history and cultural scene.
  • Portland, ME - A charming port city with great shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
  • Vermont - Known for its beautiful landscapes and charming towns and villages.

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to plan your trip to New Hampshire. With its stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state. Start planning your trip today and discover the best of New Hampshire!

From left to right: Mount Clay, Mount Jefferson, Mount Adams and Mount Madison — Presidential Range, White Mountains From left to right: Mount Clay, Mount Jefferson, Mount Adams and Mount Madison — Presidential Range, White Mountains Administration Building, Holderness School Administration Building, Holderness School Main Street, Concord Main Street, Concord Flume Gorge, Franconia Notch State Park Flume Gorge, Franconia Notch State Park


    Dartmouth Lake Sunapee
    Great North Region
    Lakes Region
    Merrimack Valley
    Monadnock Region
    Seacoast
    White Mountains