New Hampshire combines natural beauty, quaint towns, and a diverse landscape of towering mountains, expansive lakes, and coastal areas.
- Mount Washington: Rising majestically at 6,288 feet, Mount Washington is the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Take the Mount Washington Cog Railway, the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, and be rewarded with panoramic views from the summit.
- Franconia Notch State Park: Located in the heart of the White Mountains, Franconia Notch State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Explore beautiful hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, relax by Echo Lake, or take the aerial tramway up Cannon Mountain for an vista.
- Portsmouth: As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Portsmouth hosts a historical district filled with 18th-century architecture, boutique shops, and a culinary scene. Don’t miss a visit to Strawbery Banke Museum, which showcases over 300 years of local history.
- Lake Winnipesaukee: With more than 250 islands and crystal-clear waters, Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire. Embark on a scenic cruise or rent a kayak to discover hidden coves, picture-postcard beaches, and lakeside towns.
- The Flume Gorge: Nature’s masterpiece awaits at the Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park. Wander along the boardwalk through towering granite walls and witness the power of water as it cascades through the gorge, creating a natural spectacle.
- The Currier Museum of Art: Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester. From European masterpieces to contemporary works, this museum showcases a wide variety of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
- Conway Scenic Railroad: Take a step back in time with a nostalgic train ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad. Admire the scenic beauty of the Mount Washington Valley as you chug along in vintage cars, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- The Rocks Estate: Experience the essence of New Hampshire’s rural charm with a visit to The Rocks Estate in Bethlehem. Enjoy a scenic walk, pick your own Christmas tree, or participate in educational programs that showcase the region’s natural heritage.
- Castle in the Clouds: Perched atop the Ossipee Mountains, Castle in the Clouds offers visitors a glimpse into the Gilded Age. Explore the exquisite mansion, stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds, and soak in the vistas of Lake Winnipesaukee below.
- Sculptured Rocks Natural Area: Tucked away in Groton, Sculptured Rocks Natural Area is a hidden gem renowned for its geological wonders. Admire the swirling potholes and sculpted rock formations created by the Cockermouth River, offering a and landscape.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Destinations:
- Lost River Gorge and Boulder Caves: Venture into the Lost River Gorge near North Woodstock for an underground adventure. Brave narrow passages, traverse boulder caves, and witness cascading waterfalls as you explore this hidden labyrinth of natural beauty.
- Umbagog Lake State Park: Escape to the tranquility of Umbagog Lake State Park, tucked away in New Hampshire’s Great North Woods region. Find solitude among the waters, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, making it a haven for birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking.
- Weeks State Park: Located atop Mount Prospect in Lancaster, Weeks State Park offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Climb the historic stone fire tower for a vantage point, or explore the park’s walking trails for a serene escape.
- Isles of Shoals: Embark on a boat tour to the Isles of Shoals, a remote rocky archipelago located a few miles off the New Hampshire coast. Uncover the history, visit secluded beaches, or spot seals and seabirds in their natural habitat.
- Sculptured Rocks Turtle Island: Hidden within the Sculptured Rocks Natural Area is the Turtle Island, a small river island that can be accessed via a walking trail. Unwind in this natural oasis, watch the river flow by, and appreciate the beauty of this secret sanctuary.
- Odiorne Point State Park: Escape the crowds and explore the many wonders of Odiorne Point State Park
