Ian Bronson
Have you explored the charm of New Hampshire’s picturesque towns? Each one offers a unique blend of historic charm and natural beauty. From quaint villages to tranquil retreats, New Hampshire is full of surprises—like the oldest floating post office in the United States. Keep reading to discover the best-kept secrets of the Granite State.
Jackson
Take a step into a New England fairy tale. Jackson’s Honeymoon Bridge, built in 1876, is a picture-perfect welcome into this charming village. When winter arrives, cross-country skiers glide through an extensive 100-mile trail network. Autumn, however, steals the show with the 41st Return of the Pumpkin People.
North Conway
Ever wondered what it’s like to ride a vintage train through mountain passes? The Conway Scenic Railroad offers just that, chugging through Crawford Notch with unbeatable views. Thrill-seekers test their skills at Cathedral Ledge’s sheer cliffs, while others paddle across Echo Lake’s glassy waters.
Franconia
In Franconia, Notch State Park’s steel profile sculptures remember the fallen “Old Man of the Mountain” rock formation. Ancient forces carved the dramatic beauty of the Flume Gorge, where 70-foot granite walls formed by geological processes surround boardwalk paths. For panoramic vistas, ride Cannon Mountain’s aerial tramway—the first of its kind in North America.
Fitzwilliam
Strolling through Fitzwilliam feels like a walk through a history book. The town green, lined with well-preserved colonial homes, reflects its 18th-century roots. Nearby, hikers take on Mount Monadnock, one of the world’s most-climbed mountains. In July, Rhododendron State Park blooms in a rare display that draws in nature lovers.
Weirs Beach
Hear the hum of vintage pinball machines and the distant whistle of a departing train. Weirs Beach, a classic lakeside retreat, has entertained visitors for over a century. The Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad traces the lake’s shoreline, while Laconia Motorcycle Week roars through annually every June.
Lincoln
If adventure had a hometown, it might be Lincoln. Winter here brings in the icy wonders of the annual Ice Castles exhibit, while summer hikers squeeze through boulder passages at Lost River Gorge. The gondola at Loon Mountain transports visitors to a mountaintop where the views stretch beyond the White Mountains.
Littleton
A town with a candy counter stretching 112 feet? That’s Littleton, home to Chutters, the world’s longest selection of sweets. Sweet optimism runs deep here—symbolized by the Pollyanna statue and the cheerful downtown. The Riverwalk Covered Bridge offers an escape over the Ammonoosuc River, with boutique shops and inviting cafes.
Hanover
Ivy-clad buildings and a live arts scene define Hanover, home to Dartmouth College. The Hood Museum of Art houses an impressive collection, while the Appalachian Trail weaves right through town. Outdoor lovers and intellectuals alike gather at the busy farmers’ market with regional flavors.
Exeter
Once New Hampshire’s capital, Exeter’s past is written in its streets. The American Independence Museum preserves an original Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence. Along the Squamscott River, a view beneath the town’s historic brick buildings appears. The Phillips Exeter Academy’s Georgian architecture adds to its appeal.
Portsmouth
Salt air, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old architecture define Portsmouth’s lively waterfront. The Strawbery Banke Museum takes visitors to different eras, from colonial life to the World War II years. Prescott Park bursts with color in the warmer months, and historic taverns make every visit scenic and delicious.
