7 Most Beautiful Historic Towns in New Hampshire
One of the original Thirteen Colonies, New Hampshire was named after the English county of Hampshire in 1623 when it was first settled by Europeans. This, along with the fact New Hampshire adopted statehood in 1788, has helped ensure that the “Granite State” today boasts a rich cultural heritage that’s well worth experiencing.
From the historic seaport of Portsmouth to the celebrations of American Independence on display in Exeter, these must-visit towns in New Hampshire each offer unique opportunities for adventurous travelers to sample the state’s rich cultural heritage for themselves.
Portsmouth
Named after the home port of Britain’s Royal Navy, Portsmouth, NH, was founded in 1653 and is one of the most culturally rich destinations in New England. The town's rich maritime heritage is best experienced around its picturesque harbor and historic downtown. Cultural standouts here include the Strawbery Banke Museum, a 10-acre outdoor attraction that features over 30 buildings dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
Another must-visit is Prescott Park, located along the Piscataqua River and beautifully landscaped with flower gardens, walking paths, and great waterfront views. It’s here visitors can experience the popular Prescott Park Arts Festival, a summer-long extravaganza of live music, theater performances, and movie screenings.
Exeter
Exeter is another great place to visit in New Hampshire that was named after a city in England. Founded in 1638 by a group of religious exiles from Massachusetts, this quintessential New England town boasts a picture-perfect downtown area with many well-preserved old buildings and interesting cultural attractions. The town is perhaps best known as the home of the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy, a world-renowned preparatory school whose beautiful campus attracts visitors for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
Another of Exeter's most notable attractions is the American Independence Museum with its extensive collection of documents, artifacts, and interactive exhibits from this pivotal period of US history. The building itself, Ladd-Gilman House, is a National Historic Landmark. Exeter Town Hall is a cultural landmark, too, and hosts performances and events throughout the year.
Hanover
The picturesque New England college town of Hanover is a must-include on any New Hampshire travel itinerary. Founded in 1761, Hanover is home to Dartmouth College, an Ivy League university that boasts an impressive collection of Georgian-era architecture. Highlights of a walking tour of the campus include the prestigious Hood Museum of Art, one of the oldest and largest college museums in the country; and the Hopkins Center for the Arts, which hosts numerous live performances, films, and lectures.
Interested in nature? Then head to the Connecticut River which borders Hanover for experiences including kayaking and canoeing. You can also explore the town’s scenic riverside trails, some of which connect to the epic Appalachian Trail.
Concord
Concord is worthy of a visit not just because it’s the capital city of New Hampshire, but also for its cultural richness. Despite being one of the largest towns on this list, Concord has done a great job of preserving its historical heritage, including in the area around the New Hampshire State House. Built in 1819 and one of the oldest state capitols in the country where the legislature still meets in its original chambers, this majestic old building can be visited as part of an informative (and fun) guided tour.
The Museum of New Hampshire History is another of the best attractions in Concord. Run by the New Hampshire Historical Society, it covers the state’s indigenous peoples and first settlers right up to the present day and include rare artifacts and documents, as well as fascinating displays. If there’s time, include a visit to the Capitol Center for the Arts to catch a Broadway show or comedy night
Peterborough
Located in the scenic Monadnock Region near the state border with Massachusetts, Peterborough is known culturally for having been the inspiration for Thornton Wilder's 1938 play, Our Town. Visit today and little appears to have changed, with the community still centered around the MacDowell Colony, one of the oldest and most prestigious artist retreats in the United States. Visitors can experience a little of this cultural phenomenon during community events like the MacDowell Downtown, a series of public presentations by Colony artists.
The Mariposa Museum and World Culture Center is another cultural landmark and features fascinating interactive exhibits that celebrate global cultures to foster better understanding and appreciation.
Littleton
Littleton’s location in the scenic White Mountains region makes it a must-visit for tourists seeking an authentic small-town New Hampshire experience. In addition to its pretty main street, the town is home to the Littleton Grist Mill. Located on the banks of the Ammonoosuc River, this historic mill dates back to the 18th century and has been restored to its former glory and now houses a museum and a shop where visitors can learn about Littleton's industrial past and purchase locally made goods.
Outdoor enthusiasts, too, can enjoy some fun cultural references while they explore. Highlights include the Pollyanna Gateway and the nearby Harmony Park, which provide a welcoming space for relaxation and play, featuring sculptures and musical instruments for public use. A great selfie spot here is the statue of Pollyanna, a tribute to Littleton's Eleanor H. Porter, author of the Pollyanna novels.
Keene
Keene’s focal point is its attractive Central Square, one of the most picture-perfect townscapes in New Hampshire. Highlights include the United Church of Christ steeple that dominates the square, a popular spot for events including the famous Keene Pumpkin Festival which sees the park transformed with thousands of lit jack-o'-lanterns.
Another notable Keene attraction is The Colonial Theatre, a historic venue that offers performances from live music and theater to films and community events. Outdoor experiences here include exploring the Ashuelot River, a popular spot for hiking, biking, and kayaking; and trekking the scenic 21-mile-long Ashuelot Rail Trail.
The Final Word
These seven small towns in New Hampshire – Portsmouth, Exeter, Hanover, Concord, Peterborough, Littleton, and Keene – each offer a unique glimpse into the heart and soul of New England. From the historic streets of Portsmouth to the college-based cultural attractions in Hanover and the political roots of Concord, these lovely travel destinations offer an opportunity to experience America’s rich culture firsthand.
