7 Delightful Towns to Visit in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is a Northeastern US state known for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and New England charm. Its abundance of outdoor destinations also makes the Granite State a popular year-round getaway, with everything from dramatic mountains to pristine waterways providing the perfect playgrounds for both nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike. The state’s most iconic settings are undoubtedly in its small towns—the best places to chill out and enjoy a variety of activities, scenery, and attractions. From lake towns like Wolfeboro to White Mountain gems like Littleton, find the most delightful small towns in New Hampshire.
Wolfeboro
Known as “The Jewel of Lake Winnipesaukee,” Wolfeboro is a famed vacation destination with an idyllic combination of lakeside beauty and charm. With miles of shoreline on New Hampshire’s largest lake, Wolfeboro has an abundance of four-season recreation and spectacular Lake Winnipesaukee views. Additionally, its quaint downtown area is a popular destination in its own right and includes attractions like The Libby Museum of Natural History, The New Hampshire Boat Museum, and the Clark House Museum Complex.
Enjoy Wolfeboro’s scenic beauty with a visit to Front Bay Conservation Area, Cate Park, Brewster Beach, Carry Beach, and McKinney Park. Extensive town trail networks like the Bridge Falls Path, Abenaki-Sewall Woods Bike Paths, and the Cotton Valley Trail also offer additional opportunities for exploring. When the temperatures drop, visitors can also enjoy outdoor recreation at popular spots like Pop Whalen Ice Arena, and the Abenaki Ski Area. Lake Winnipesaukee also has its share of year-round activities, from boating, beaches, hiking, biking, fishing, and nature preserves in warm weather to cross-country skiing, ice fishing, ice skating, and snowmobiling in the colder months.
Hanover
Located in the Upper Connecticut Valley close to the Vermont border, Hanover is the perfect combination of scenic natural beauty and bustling, small-town atmosphere. Home to Dartmouth College, Hanover is extremely walkable and hosts many attractions, like The Hopkins Center for the Arts and The Hood Museum of Art.
Hanover also has an abundance of outdoor recreation. Fishing, paddling, and rafting on the Connecticut River are popular warm-weather pastimes; while the colder temperatures provide opportunities for cross-country skiing and winter sports at nearby ski areas. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy Hanover’s proximity to the famed Appalachian Trail, easily accessible from its downtown area. Storrs Pond Recreation Area is also just 10 minutes from Hanover and offers swimming, camping, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, and more. For more Hanover-area attractions, visit nearby small towns like Lebanon and Norwich (Vermont).
Littleton
Littleton is a delightful small town in New Hampshire nestled in the picturesque White Mountains. Explore the quaint community’s bustling Main Street, lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions, including Thayer’s Inn, the Littleton Historical Society Museum, and the Little Village Toy & Book Shop. While exploring the historic downtown area, visit the famed Pollyanna of Littleton, a bronze statue paying tribute to hometown author Eleanor H. Porter. On Main Street, follow the Pollyanna Gateway to the GoLittleton Glad Shop for local souvenirs and Pollyanna-themed merchandise celebrating the popular book series.
Littleton also has its share of scenic beauty. Follow the Riverwalk Covered Bridge to the bustling River District, complete with stunning Ammonoosuc River views, the Veterans Memorial Bridge, and popular local spots like Schilling Beer Co. For more outdoor recreation, enjoy hiking and breathtaking panoramic views on the Kilburn Crags Trail; mountain biking, hiking, and skiing on Parker Mountain; and year-round activities like scenic walking trails, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and wildlife watching at The Dells.
Plymouth
Plymouth is a quaint New Hampshire town in the White Mountains foothills. Located on the Pemigewasset River and home to Plymouth State University, Plymouth is known for its natural beauty and lively college town atmosphere—making it the quintessential New England getaway.
The university is the centerpiece of the small town’s bustling downtown district which includes an array of shops and restaurants, including the Lucky Dog Tavern & Grill, Café Monte Alto, and JJ’s Breakfast & Lunch Counter at New Berry’s on the Common. Visitors can also catch a show at Plymouth’s Flying Monkey Movie House & Performance Center. Plymouth is also home to a quaint Historic District. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the area includes notable landmarks like the Plymouth Common and its bronze Boy Scout Fountain, the Plymouth Town Hall and Courthouse, and the Plymouth Historical Museum.
Both Plymouth and the surrounding area are known for their breathtaking natural landscapes. To enjoy the region’s scenic beauty, explore outdoor activities like the Polar Caves in Rumney, Pemigewasset River recreation in Compton, and picturesque hiking trails in Thornton, less than 15 minutes from downtown Plymouth.
Gorham
Located in New Hampshire’s breathtaking Androscoggin Valley, Gorham is a cozy community near New Hampshire’s Presidential Range. Complete with a welcoming atmosphere and proximity to popular outdoor attractions, Gorham has something for everyone looking to spend a picture-perfect weekend in the Granite State.
Popular local activities include hiking, biking, and local waterfalls at nearby Pinkham Notch and hiking, biking, and guided kayak tours at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy their adventurous side with ATV riding at Jericho Mountain State Park and Ride the Wilds, which are also known for their spectacular scenic outlooks.
Gorham is also known for its mountain views and scenic drives, such as the Mt. Washington Auto Road, which showcase its beauty brilliantly. Known as “America’s original man-made attraction,” the nearly eight-mile road is a destination unto itself and includes gift shops, the Red Barn Museum, and the Glen House Hotel. For more local recreation, enjoy one-of-a-kind attractions like the Gorham Moose Tours, delve into the area’s railroading history at the Gorham Historical Society & Railroad Museum, and embrace local arts and culture at the Medallion Opera House.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a delightful New Hampshire town known for its scenic coastal beauty, historic heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. Though steeped in history, Portsmouth is also a bustling modern hub with a walkable downtown area and plenty of eclectic attractions.
Settled in the early 1600s and home to one of the oldest working ports in the US, Portsmouth has a rich historical tapestry. Delve into the coastal community’s past at destinations like the Portsmouth Historical Society, Seacoast African American Cultural Center, the Strawbery Banke Museum, and Langdon House, a National Historic Landmark.
Portsmouth is also home to four neighborhoods—the North End, Downtown, the Waterfront, and the West End—each with a character and charm all its own. Consisting of Market, Congress, and Pleasant Streets, the downtown area is the beating heart of Portsmouth packed with history, culture, cuisine, and entertainment. Popular Downtown destinations include The Music Hall, the Portsmouth Athenaeum, the Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden, and Market Square, where visitors can embark on a walking tour. Both the North End and the West End offer an eclectic array of eateries, breweries, and family-friendly activities. At the same time, the Waterfront encapsulates the best of Portsmouth Harbor with its spectacular views, lively eateries, and one-of-a-kind activities and festivals. While exploring the harbor, be sure to take in famous Portsmouth landscapes like Prescott Park, the Memorial Bridge, and the Moran tugboats moored at Ceres Street.
North Conway
North Conway is known for its spectacular setting on the doorstep of the White Mountain National Forest. However, the 700,000-acre wilderness is more than just a pretty backdrop; it also offers its share of outdoor activities. Hikers can bask in the area’s unparalleled mountain scenery with trails for all skill levels—from easier treks like the Lincoln Woods Trail to climbing the northeast’s tallest peak, Mt. Washington—there is an adventure around every corner.
A four-season destination, North Conway and the nearby White Mountain area offer activities like kayaking, hiking, biking, and boating throughout the warmer months, while the winter provides world-class opportunities for outdoor adventure. North Conway also has the distinction of being voted 2020’s “Best Ski Town” by USA Today because of its proximity to some of the state’s best ski resorts, including Cranmore Mountain Resort and Attitash Mountain Resort.
For more low-key North Conway attractions, explore the town’s historic side with a visit to the New England Ski Museum, enjoy local scenery with a journey on the Conway Scenic Railroad, visit one-of-a-kind destinations like Story Land amusement park, and take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Scenic Byway.
New Hampshire is famed for its scenic landscapes and quintessential New England charm. But the state’s diverse settings are more than a picture-perfect backdrop—they are also playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts looking for year-round adventure. White Mountain towns like North Conway and Plymouth are both beautiful and bustling, while cozy gems like Gorham and Hanover offer visitors an idyllic blend of recreation and relaxation. From dramatic mountain settings to quaint, historic villages and lakeside communities to bustling, eclectic neighborhoods, New Hampshire’s most delightful small towns have something for everyone.
