6 Best Small Towns in New Hampshire For A Weekend Escape
Also known as the “Granite State”, New Hampshire is an important component of the famed New England region of the United States. With a population of just over 1 million residents, it is also amongst the least populous States in the nation. Still New Hampshire one of America’s most fascinating and beautiful places to visit, and any visit to the State would not be complete without an exploration of some of its most charming small towns. Here captivating history, stunning natural sights, and small town hospitality will surely make any weekend holiday a most memorable and pleasurable time.
Hanover
Situated along the banks of the Connecticut River, the town of Hanover was first incorporated back in 1761. Today it is home to a population of nearly 12,000 residents and it has frequently been named as one of the best small towns to live in by several publications. Known for its hot summers and mild winters, Hanover is also the site of Dartmouth College (1769), where the beautiful campus is a popular destination for students and visitors alike. Meanwhile outdoor adventurists will certainly want to take advantage of the Appalachian Trail which passes through town and ends up winding through the nearby White Mountains. And of course with an assortment of great restaurants, charming stores, and plenty of welcoming hosts, a stop in Hanover will certainly please all who visit.
Sugar Hill
Sugar Hill is a most scenic mountain town where a most modest population of 647 inhabitants reside. Amongst the State’s newest settlements, Sugar Hill was formally established in 1962 and is situated adjacent to the White Mountain National Forest. Indeed for some of the most stunning panoramic views in the New England region, Sugar Hill is the place to be. In addition the splendid fields of Lupine flowers attract many tourists in the summer, particularly during the annual Lupine Festival in June.
At the Festival a number of fun activities for the whole family can be enjoyed like wagon rides, open air markets, and plenty of live music and local food vendors. And of course in the downtown area, several great eateries and shops dot the landscape ready to serve a wide range of tastes. From satisfying one’s sweet tooth at Polly’s Pancake Parlor to enjoying the best in aged cheese at Harman’s Country Store, Sugar Hill is always ready to create a most charming vacation stopover.
North Conway
Known as a year round resort area, North Conway is situated in Carroll County and is near the White Mountain National Forest. Known for its eclectic range of outlet shops, visitors can find everything from modern day bargains to antique discoveries in North Conway’s stores. Meanwhile for the outdoors enthusiast hiking and biking at such sites like the Echo State Lake Park and Black Cap Hiking Trail is a great way to enjoy some of the best scenic views in the area. In the winter skiing the slopes of the Cranmore Mountain Resort is too a most popular activity. And of course visiting the historic Conway Scenic Railroad is a must for all visitors, where a ride on an old fashioned caboose is one of the most charming and memorable excursions for the solo traveller and families alike.
Bartlett
Just an 8 mile drive from North Conway, the town of Bartlett is too a most picturesque place right at the centre of the White Mountains. Founded in 1790 and home to just over 3,000 residents, Bartlett’s mountain vistas make it one of New Hampshire’s most popular outdoor destinations. Spend time at the stunning Rocky Gorge, the splendid Ripley Falls, or take part in some alpine sports at the Attitash Mountain Resort for great skiing and snowboarding slopes. In the summertime a waterpark at the same resort is another fun way to cool off, while at the nearby Story Land theme park, rides and fun attractions for the whole family can be enjoyed.
Jackson
The historic town of Jackson was founded back in 1800 and too offers majestic views of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Indeed this quiet resort town of just over 1,000 inhabitants is great place for easy access to the mountains and plenty of outdoor activities. Enjoy alpine skiing and snowboarding at the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation or the nearby Wildcat Mountain. Meanwhile in the summer a drive by the historic covered Honeymoon Bridge (1876) makes for a most unique and special photo destination right over the Ellis River. And with plenty of local shopping outlets, delicious restaurants, and warm hospitality, Jackson is an authentic slice of small town America with a most beautiful natural framing.
Meredith
Located in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Meredith is a major resort town that lies along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. Part of the foothills region of the White Mountains, Meredith is home to a population of some 6,652 residents who can all take advantage of fun access to plenty of water based activities. Enjoy boating, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and paddleboarding, or simply take in the stunning waterside vistas all along the Lake. In addition at the Mills Falls Market, a eclectic range of dining and shopping outlets are on hand ready to feed and entertain the hungry solo tourist or the whole family. Indeed whether its spending time on the water, gazing at the beautiful surroundings, or just casually shopping in town, Meredith is one of New Hampshire’s most alluring and beautiful small towns.
New Hampshire is a beautiful State that any traveller through America’s New England region will not want to pass over; indeed even for a quick weekend sojourn, New Hampshire’s small towns are great way to experience the State’s natural beauty and historic charm. From great views of the White Mountains to lake side activities and more, these small towns of the “Granite State” all reflect some of the very best in Americana. Fun and informative for the whole family, whether one spends a weekend or longer in these locales, what is certain is that a most memorable and special experience will be had for all.
