From the windswept, sandy shores kissing the Atlantic to the granite summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England, New Hampshire unfurls a diverse and captivating landscape. This "Live Free or Die" state provides a stunning backdrop for a multitude of memorable experiences, year-round. Whether you’re drawn by the vibrant hues of autumn foliage or the crisp, snow-dusted peaks of winter, New Hampshire offers an unforgettable escape. During the warmer months, outdoor concerts by the sea resonate with the energy of summer, while epic road trips reveal the state’s abundant wildlife. Thrill-seekers can find their adrenaline rush at the state’s exhilarating amusement parks. As the temperatures drop, New Hampshire transforms into a wonderland of historic sites, offering opportunities to explore ancient ruins, marvel at natural wonders, and delve into the world of art within its historic museums.
No matter the season, New Hampshire promises a vacation filled with discovery and adventure. Let’s explore twenty of the top experiences that await you in the Granite State:
1. Ride a Chairlift to See Fall Foliage
As autumn paints New Hampshire in fiery hues of red, orange, and gold, scenic drives become a quintessential experience. But for a truly immersive encounter with the fall foliage, consider taking a chairlift ride. Many ski resorts fire up their lifts again in September, granting leaf-peeping riders a breathtaking spectacle of color-changing deciduous trees. Imagine gliding above a sea of vibrant foliage, the crisp air filling your lungs as you take in the panoramic views.
Cannon Mountain in Franconia is particularly renowned for its chairlift rides. On a clear day, the views from the summit are so expansive that you can see as far as Vermont, Maine, New York, and even Canada! For a more adrenaline-fueled experience, Wildcat Mountain offers the Ziprider, a 2,100-foot zipline that allows you to zoom through the colorful canopy, adding an exhilarating twist to your leaf-peeping adventure.
2. Visit the State Capital
Concord, the heart of New Hampshire’s government, offers much more than just political intrigue. This vibrant city boasts a thriving scene of shopping and dining, making it a worthwhile destination for an overnight stay or a delightful lunch stop on your way to the ski slopes.
Explore the wonders of the universe at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, a space museum that honors New Hampshire’s contributions to space exploration. Sample locally crafted brews at one of the city’s many small breweries, each offering unique flavors and atmospheres. Step back in time at Gibson’s Bookstore, an independent bookstore that has been captivating readers for over a century. Concord truly has something for everyone.
Antique enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise along Antique Alley, the oldest antique shopping district in the state. Browse through numerous galleries and small shops, uncovering hidden treasures and unique pieces. For a chance to bid on intriguing items, visit the Concord Auction Center, which hosts auctions every Thursday night.
3. Walk the Flume Gorge at Franconia Notch State Park
Located near the northern town of Lincoln, Franconia Notch State Park is home to two of New Hampshire’s most iconic natural landmarks: the Old Man in the Mountain (sadly, no longer standing) and the Flume Gorge. While the Old Man in the Mountain may be gone, the Flume Gorge is still worth the trip! It’s a natural wonder that is a must-see destination.
The Flume Gorge is a dramatic 800-foot-long crack in the rock that begins at the base of Mount Liberty. The gorge’s complex geological history dates back to the Jurassic period and the Ice Age, shaped by the relentless forces of nature. Legend has it that the gorge’s existence was discovered in 1808 by a 93-year-old woman on a fishing trip. Today, a well-maintained wooden walkway guides visitors through the chasm, allowing them to witness the breathtaking beauty of waterfalls cascading down the rock walls.
4. Explore America’s Stonehenge
Unravel the mysteries of America’s Stonehenge, an enigmatic site in Salem, New Hampshire. This collection of cave-like stone dwellings and astronomically aligned rock formations has baffled researchers for centuries. With no definitive answers as to who constructed these ancient structures, you’re guaranteed to be intrigued as you explore the ruins.
The site is estimated to be over 4,000 years old, adding to its mystique and historical significance. During the winter months, snowshoe rentals are available, allowing you to venture into the snowy landscape and witness the megaliths under a blanket of white.
5. Take the Kids to an Amusement Park
New Hampshire is a haven for family fun, boasting some of the region’s best theme parks for young children. Story Land and Santa’s Village are perennial favorites, offering a world of enchantment and simple magic. Imagine the joy on your child’s face as they glide in a swan boat, climb aboard Cinderella’s pumpkin coach, or feed Santa’s reindeer.
For older children and thrill-seeking adults, Canobie Lake Park, a New Hampshire institution since 1902, provides a blend of antique rides and modern marvels, such as the Untamed steel coaster. If you’re seeking aquatic adventures, head to Water Country, one of New England’s largest water parks, for a day of splashtastic fun.
6. Sunbathe at Hampton Beach
Despite having only 18 miles of coastline, New Hampshire makes the most of its Atlantic Coast. Hampton Beach, the state’s largest beach, is a popular destination for sunbathers, swimmers, and families. The beach is open to the public for free, but be prepared to pay for parking.
During the summer months, Hampton Beach comes alive with activity. The invigorating surf attracts swimmers and surfers alike. The boardwalk is lined with eateries, arcades, and a variety of amusements, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. From free nightly concerts at the bandshell to headline performances at the historic Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, there’s always something happening. Special events, such as Monday movies on the beach, Wednesday night fireworks, and the annual Master Sand Sculpting Competition, add to the excitement.
7. Road Trip Along Kancamagus Highway
In a region renowned for its scenic drives, New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway (pronounced kanc’-ah-MAU’-gus) stands out as a true gem. This 34.5-mile route through the White Mountain National Forest is considered by many to be New England’s best byway.
The Kancamagus Highway is picturesque year-round, but it’s especially breathtaking during the fall foliage season. As you drive along this scenic route, you’ll be surrounded by a kaleidoscope of colors, with opportunities to stop at overlooks, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
8. Fly Like an Eagle
Experience the sensation of flight at Skyventure New Hampshire in Nashua. This attraction allows you to defy gravity in a vertical wind tunnel, simulating the feeling of skydiving without the need to jump out of an airplane.
The activity is safe for almost anyone ages three and up, making it a fun and unique experience for the whole family. Imagine the thrill of floating effortlessly in the air, feeling the wind rushing past you as you soar like a superhero.
9. Drink Beer at Anheuser-Busch Brewery
Enjoy free beer and admire magnificent horses at the Anheuser-Busch brewery in Merrimack. The free brewery tour includes the chance to sample several beers for participants 21 or over, but the highlight of the visit is seeing the famous Budweiser Clydesdales.
For an even more special experience, time your visit for the first Saturday of any month, when Clydesdale Camera Day is held. Visitors can meet and take pictures with a Clydesdale free of charge from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
10. Visit a Castle in the Clouds
Discover a hidden gem overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee at Castle in the Clouds. This unique estate offers a glimpse into the life of its former owner, a man who experienced both immense wealth and tragic loss.
Tour the castle, explore the scenic grounds, and hike to waterfalls within the 5,200-acre estate. Enjoy lunch at the Carriage House Cafe, which offers light fare and stunning views of the lake.
11. Ride the Rails
Climb aboard a train for an old-fashioned way to admire New Hampshire’s natural wonders. Several memorable excursions await visitors to the Granite State.
The Mount Washington Cog Railway is an engineering marvel that has been transporting passengers to the summit of Mount Washington since 1869. From the base in Bretton Woods, the train climbs along the steepest track in America to the highest peak in New England (6,288 feet above sea level).
Train enthusiasts can also explore trips offered by Conway Scenic Railroad or enjoy a picturesque lakeshore journey aboard the Winnipesaukee Railroad.
12. Go Moose Spotting
Embark on a wildlife adventure in search of moose along Route 3, which runs north from Pittsburg to the Canadian border. Known as "Moose Alley," this scenic drive winds past covered bridges, wooded expanses, and pristine lakes that form the Connecticut River’s headwaters.
Keep your eyes peeled for these gangly creatures as you drive along the road. Even if you don’t spot a moose, you’re still in for a wild ride through some of New Hampshire’s most beautiful landscapes.
13. Admire Art at Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site
Art lovers shouldn’t miss a visit to sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ estate in Cornish. Now a national park, this historic home and its sculpture-dotted grounds offer an enchanting experience with minimal crowds.
View replicas of Saint-Gaudens’ most intricate and important works, cast from original molds. Learn about the sculptor’s life and process, and find inspiration in this artistic haven, as did the many Cornish Art Colony members who followed Saint-Gaudens to New Hampshire.
14. Experience Shaker Living
Step back in time and experience the unique lifestyle of the Shakers at Canterbury Shaker Village in Canterbury. For over 50 years, members of the Shaker religion have lived and worked at this site, preserving their traditions and way of life.
Visitors can explore restored buildings, purchase crafts and food made by the community, and take tours of the village. Demonstrations and classes on woodworking, letterpress printing, spinning, basket weaving, broom making, and more provide insight into the Shaker way of life.
15. Buy a Quilt
Find the perfect souvenir of your New Hampshire road trip at Pickering Farm in Richmond. This quilt shop, located within a historic barn, offers a stunning selection of quilts crafted from antique reproduction fabrics from 1780 to the 1930s.
Makers will be especially happy browsing through the hundreds of books and patterns, samples, and patterns. Classes are also offered for those who want to learn the art of quilting.
16. Pet a Goat
For animal lovers of all ages, The Friendly Farm in Dublin is a must-visit destination. This five-acre property is home to a variety of friendly animals, including pigs, chickens, cows, geese, ducks, and goats.
Wander the grounds and interact with the animals up-close-and-personal. The Friendly Farm is open from early summer through Labor Day weekend (and then weekends in the Fall).
17. Take the Mount Washington Auto Road
Drive to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England, via the Mount Washington Auto Road. This historic road, which has been traveled since 1861, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Be prepared for a harrowing drive due to the steepness of the climb. Many suggest taking a guided van tour to fully appreciate the spectacular views without the stress of driving.
18. Grab a Beer at Tuckerman Brewery
Sample locally crafted beers at Tuckerman Brewery in Conway. This brewery, located near the White Mountains, has been a New Hampshire favorite since 1998.
The tasting room is open daily, and each Saturday the brewery hosts local performances from local musicians. Enjoy the free tunes and toss back a few cold ones in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
19. Catch a Show at the Hopkins Center for the Arts at Dartmouth
Enjoy a world-class performance at the Hopkins Center for the Arts (The Hop) at Dartmouth College in Hanover. This artist space hosts ensembles performing everything from modern dance to gospel choirs, and classical music to jazz bands throughout most of the year.
Before the show, head upstairs for a spectacular view and a cocktail at the Top of the Hop bar.
20. New Hampshire Offers Something for Everyone
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family fun, New Hampshire has something to offer every traveler. From the majestic peaks of the White Mountains to the sandy shores of the Atlantic Coast, the Granite State promises an unforgettable vacation.
