Explore New Hampshire

New Hampshire, a U.S. state in New England, is defined by its quaint towns and large expanses of wilderness. In the north, White Mountain National Forest is known for winter sports areas and Mt. Washington, the region’s highest peak, with a cog railway to its summit. Also in the White Mountains are moose, black bears and part of the Appalachian Trail. ― Google

Capital: Concord

🕒 Best Time to Visit:

  • Fall (September–October): World-renowned foliage season; vibrant autumn colors and cool weather.

  • Summer (June–August): Perfect for hiking, lakes, and beach escapes.

  • Winter (December–March): Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy getaways.

  • Spring (April–May): Quiet and scenic with wildflowers and maple sugaring.

✈️ How to Get There:

  • By Air:

    • Manchester–Boston Regional Airport (MHT): Main airport, near southern NH.

    • Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): About an hour from southern NH.

    • Portsmouth International Airport (PSM): Regional option with limited flights.

  • By Car:

    • Easily accessible from I-93, I-89, and I-95.

    • Scenic drives include Kancamagus Highway and Route 302.

  • By Train:

    • Amtrak Downeaster runs between Boston and Portland, ME, with a stop in Dover, NH.

🌟 Top Attractions:

  • White Mountains: Home to Mount Washington (the tallest in the Northeast), Franconia Notch, and tons of hiking and skiing.

  • Kancamagus Highway: Stunning scenic byway, especially in fall.

  • Lake Winnipesaukee: Large lake for boating, beaches, and charming lakeside towns like Meredith and Wolfeboro.

  • Portsmouth: Historic seaport with colonial architecture, art galleries, boutiques, and seafood.

  • Concord: The state capital with the New Hampshire State House and local museums.

  • Mount Monadnock: One of the most-hiked mountains in the world.

🚴 Activities to Do:

  • Hiking & climbing: Hundreds of trails in the White Mountains and Monadnock Region.

  • Skiing & snowboarding: Visit Loon Mountain, Bretton Woods, Cannon Mountain, and Attitash.

  • Boating & swimming: At Lake Winnipesaukee, Squam Lake, and the Connecticut River.

  • Fall foliage tours: Drive or take scenic trains like the Mount Washington Cog Railway.

  • Camping & stargazing: In White Mountain National Forest.

  • Maple syrup tours: In spring — many local farms offer tastings and tours.

  • Visit covered bridges: There are 50+ charming historic bridges throughout the state.

🏨 Accommodation:

  • Luxury:

    • Omni Mount Washington Resort (Bretton Woods): Historic grand hotel in the mountains.

    • Wentworth by the Sea (New Castle): Coastal elegance with history.

  • Mid-Range:

    • The Common Man Inns: Rustic-chic chain found in various towns.

    • The Hanover Inn (Hanover): Near Dartmouth College with New England charm.

  • Budget:

    • Motels and B&Bs throughout small towns and lake regions.

    • Cabin rentals and campgrounds in state parks and the White Mountains.

  • Unique:

    • Historic inns in towns like Jackson, Littleton, and Exeter.

    • Lakeside cottages and ski lodges for seasonal escapes.

🍽️ Food and Restaurants:

  • Must-Try New Hampshire Foods:

    • Maple syrup – especially in spring.

    • Apple cider donuts

    • Seafood – especially lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fried clams along the Seacoast.

    • Cheddar cheese and farm-fresh dairy

    • Pumpkin everything in the fall.

  • Top Restaurants:

    • Moxy (Portsmouth): Modern American tapas with local ingredients.

    • The Black Trumpet (Portsmouth): Farm-to-table dining with global flavors.

    • The Inn at Pleasant Lake (New London): Gourmet fine dining in a classic inn setting.

    • White Mountain Cider Company (Glen): Great for cider, brunch, and seasonal dishes.

🧑‍🌾 Local Culture:

  • Independent Spirit: Known for the state motto: “Live Free or Die.”

  • Outdoor Lifestyle: Hiking, skiing, and lake life are deeply woven into daily life.

  • Town Meetings & Local Governance: Community participation is a way of life.

  • Colonial Heritage: Historic sites, museums, and buildings from the 1600s–1800s.

  • No Sales Tax: Shop freely—clothing and goods are tax-free.

  • Fairs & Festivals: From maple festivals and craft fairs to classic small-town parades.