Things to Do in New Hampshire for Every Traveler
Wondering what to do in New Hampshire? Well, you don’t have to guess anymore. Here’s your insider’s guide to the must-see spots and hidden gems all across the Granite State.
It features the best things to do in New Hampshire, from thrilling mountain ascents to serene lakeside retreats.
This list ensures you make the most of your visit, so get ready to explore the best of New Hampshire’s natural wonders, historic sites, and local culture at your own pace.
1. Casinos In New Hampshire
Imagine the clatter of chips and the surge of excitement as you immerse yourself in New Hampshire’s bustling casino ambiance. Gaming enthusiasts love the array of enticing games, with favorites like real cash slots, blackjack, and poker taking center stage.
At the Filotimo Casino located in Dover, traditionalists can indulge in a true-to-life craps experience featuring actual dice tossing on a real table—opting for tactile authenticity over digital interfaces.
But these casinos are more than just their collections of games—they embody community spirit coupled with unparalleled service quality. They’s operated by New Hampshire Group, LLC and include establishments like Filotimo Casino & Wonder Casino, among others.
This ensures that wherever you are within the Granite State’s borders, lively entertainment is close at hand. The “Play Like A Rebel” brand amplifies this, offering countless gaming options statewide to guarantee each encounter feels fresh.
And these casinos pledge not merely amusement but also to contribute beneficially to local communities—for residents or visitors alike.
2. Discovering the White Mountain National Forest
Journey into the White Mountain National Forest, an outdoor paradise with over 1200 miles of trails for hiking. From strolls to challenging hikes above treeline, every adventurer can find their ideal path.
Traverse scenic routes leading to grand peaks like Mt. Washington and Mt. Chocorua, their rugged beauty beckoning you. As you explore this wilderness wonderland, embrace Leave No Trace principles to protect this pristine environment for future visitors.
Nestled within these mountains, you’ll encounter:
- A sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts
- A scenic drive immersed in nature’s grandeur
- A vibrant forest bursting with sights and sounds
- Chances to camp under starry skies or wander freely—each moment connecting you deeply with nature’s wonders, leaving indelible impressions amidst awe-inspiring landscapes.
3. Adventures on Lake Winnipesaukee
The glistening expanse of Lake Winnipesaukee invites adventure-seekers to New Hampshire’s largest lake, offering a variety of water activities. On this majestic body of water, you can:
- Explore the depths through scuba diving and snorkeling
- Experience thrills with water skiing and wakeboarding
- Boaters relax, swimming or sailing the lake. Anglers cast for various warm and cold fish.
Around Lakes Region, you feel alive on Lake Winnipesaukee’s waters. Boating its surface or swimming its refreshing pools. Fishers find tranquility in pursuing fish amidst New Hampshire’s pristine nature.
On land, adventures continue. Historic Wolfeboro and Weirs Beach towns offer a charming mix – history and relaxation intertwined.
You can stroll quaint Weirs Beach boardwalks. Savor local cuisine delights. Or enjoy nostalgic arcade entertainment.
Each town circling Lake Winnipesaukee has its unique story. Beckoning visitors to explore scenic locales, forging memories.
4. Skiing and Snowboarding in the Mountains
In winter’s snowy embrace, mountains become havens for snow lovers. Loon Mountain Resort boasts 400 skiable acres and 73 trails for all skill levels.
The South Peak expansion brings fresh excitement – additional slopes and lifts ensuring thrilling runs. Meanwhile, Cranmore Mountain Resort provides 56 trails alongside a modern children’s learning center utilizing Terrain Based Learning.
Loon Mountain is situated on the Loon Mountain range. The resort caters well to both seasoned skiers and beginners getting ready for their first experience, with plenty of lessons and rental gear available – including cross-country skiing.
When it’s time for a break from the cold outside, nothing beats cozying up to a warm fire and sipping rich hot chocolate. As you carve your way through the powdery slopes, you’ll be struck by how ski resorts in New Hampshire are more than just places. They are heartfelt adventures meant to awaken one’s sense of wonder.
5. Visit Charming Seaside Towns
Shift from the towering peaks of North Conway to New Hampshire’s mesmerizing coastal towns, where the ocean’s soothing rhythm beckons. Immerse yourself in Portsmouth’s diverse outdoor pursuits amidst a backdrop steeped in cultural vibrancy.
Navigate the waves on a sailing excursion or indulge in land-based diversions, including theater, music, and delectable dining experiences that promise to tantalize your taste buds.
Meander through tax-free boutiques and explore historical landmarks as you peel back layers of this seaside gem. Guided walking tours enrich your exploration.
Both Hampton Beach and Rye offer distinct seaside pleasures — Hampton Beach is renowned for its pristine shoreline and an inviting boardwalk dotted with retail outlets and seafood eateries.
The area’s allure is amplified by Hampton Beach State Park, presenting yet more vistas of the stunning coast for visitors to savor. In Rye, tranquility reigns supreme on serene beaches while attractions like Odiorne Point State Park ensure solace seekers find their haven beside the Atlantic surf.
As dusk falls or during jaunts around town, specific offerings unfold before you—these beachfront communities epitomize what it means to experience quintessential New England charm.
6. Scenic Drives Along Kancamagus Highway
Seize the wheel. Embark on a journey along the Kancamagus Highway, 34 miles unveiling New Hampshire’s grandest vistas. Lovingly called ‘The Kanc’, this National Scenic Byway enchants during peak foliage mid-September to early October.
Autumnal hues kaleidoscope the landscape. Hancock and Sugar Hill overlooks reveal new Osceola Range and Pemigewasset Wilderness panoramas at every turn.
‘The Kanc’ beckons exploration beyond driving. Hiking trails and natural attractions dot the route, leading to picturesque ponds and breathtaking wonders.
Solitude or adventure, this scenic drive showcases beauty awaiting around every New Hampshire bend.
7. Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
Escape into nature on the Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop, an 8.6-mile wilderness trek in New Hampshire.
Hikers encounter gushing waterfalls on Falling Waters Trail, summit Mount Lafayette’s towering heights and gaze across the Presidential Range’s panoramic vistas. Though challenging, conquerors bask in unforgettable scenery and triumph.
For a successful hike:
- Pack sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles.
- In colder seasons, bring microspikes and check weather advisories.
- Start at Lafayette Place East parking area.
- Follow marked trails for thrilling yet manageable adventures.
- Return via Old Bridal Path for scenic views back to the start.
New Hampshire’s trails offer exceptional outdoor discovery for every adventurer – seasoned or novice – across scenic havens like the Connecticut River Valley.
8. Historical Sites and Museums
Portsmouth has sites bringing its past to life. Notable museums and historical places to look at include:
- Strawberry Banke Museum: Visit wonderfully preserved old buildings and gardens. Wander through history!
- USS Albacore Museum: Check out the submarine USS Albacore. See what maritime life was like.
- Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden: This place shows off old living quarters. The house and garden are well-kept.
Visiting these spots adds to understanding Portsmouth’s long history. They’re worth seeing.
After exploring history, check out downtown’s lively art galleries and eateries. The present thrives next to the past.
Each corner unveils new discoveries. Whether you love history or expanding your mind, New Hampshire’s rich historical roots await.
9. Culinary Delights and Local Products
In New Hampshire, the culinary scene delights the senses with farmers’ markets farm-to-table restaurants celebrating local products, fresh produce, dairy, seafood, and crafts.
From May to October, these lively markets feature live music and community spirit. Dining spots like The Farmers Dinner and Covered Bridge Farm Table take pride in locally sourced ingredients, serving authentic, delicious dishes.
- Farmers’ markets and farm-to-table restaurants showcase local bounty.
- Fresh produce, dairy, and seafood abound.
- Crafts enliven the scene.
- These vibrant markets, with live music and community spirit, thrive from May to October. Restaurants like The Farmers Dinner and Covered Bridge Farm Table pride themselves on local ingredients, offering dishes both authentic and delicious.
Specialty markets like Independence Inn Farmers Market and Tamworth Farmers Market unveil a trove of locally sourced goods and artisanal foods.
Bantam Grill and Petey’s showcase New Hampshire’s finest flavors, ensuring each meal celebrates the local landscape’s offerings.
Whether a foodie or someone appreciating good food, New Hampshire’s culinary delights mustn’t be missed.
10. New Hampshire’s Artistic Journey
Nature’s seasonal dance mirrors New Hampshire’s vibrant arts scene. Prominent art destinations like Dartmouth College’s Hood Museum in beautiful Hanover open doors to global artistry across eras.
Guests embark on an odyssey through paintings, sculptures, and more. Manchester’s Currier Museum showcases European and American masterpieces, from Picasso’s avant-garde gems to Monet’s iconic brushstrokes.
These cultural hubs unveil New Hampshire’s profound art legacy, as deeply rooted as its natural splendor. Whether art aficionados or casual admirers, visitors discover galleries and museums that unlock the state’s innovative spirit and historical tapestry – a shining jewel in New England’s crown.
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