7 Serene Towns in New Hampshire for a Weekend Retreat
New Hampshire has Granite Formations, the White Mountain, Lake Winnipesaukee, Kancamagus Highway, and other natural charms the state is known for. Some of these attractions are primarily found in the small towns in the state, like North Conway and Meredith. If you are looking for serene places to go on vacation, this article will guide you. Enjoy a peaceful and pleasant retreat this weekend by visiting any of these seven towns in New Hampshire.
Bartlett
Bartlett used to be a feral wilderness. It was a land received as a souvenir from the French and Indian Wars of the 1700s. It was named in honor of Dr. Josiah Bartlett, a chief executive and governor.
Now, it is a tourist haven with scenic attractions and parks. Start your retreat at Bartlett Covered Bridge, one of the remaining covered bridges in New Hampshire. The Living Shores Aquarium offers watersport activities and exhibits for locals and tourists. Rent snowmobile gear and go on guided tours with Northern Extremes Snowmobile Rentals. Bartlett has ski resorts and areas that provide endless adventures for visitors, like Attitash Mountain Resort and Bear Notch Ski Touring Center. Explore Alpine Garden Winery, a local winery with tasty wild ciders. Reserve a room at The Villager Motel or Grand Summit Hotel at Attitash to further enjoy the town’s ambiance.
Exeter
The picturesque town of Exeter was previously home to the indigenous Abenaki people before the European colonization. The town is known for its pristine rivers and wildlife activities. To get the most out of the abundance of nature in the land, go park-hopping at Founders Park, Gilman Park, Robert H. Stewart Waterfront Park, and Swasey Parkway, where you can mingle with the locals, sit quietly by the riverbank, or go picnicking with friends and family.
Stay up-to-date on Exeter’s history at the American Independence Museum and Exeter Historical Society. Go shopping at Exeter Commons. Release pent-up stress at Soleil's Salt Cave. Check out the town’s art gallery, Art Up Front Street, for art exhibits and shopping. There are numerous accommodations in Exeter. Stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Exeter or The Exeter Inn.
North Conway
The resort town of North Conway welcomes tourists to a tranquil atmosphere with natural resources like Diana's Baths, a waterfall near the town. North Conway is situated in the White Mountains and is known as the "The Birthplace of American Skiing." Discover the majestic beauty of the White Mountain National Forest 14 minutes from the town.
You can spend your retreat exploring the Cranmore Mountain Resort, Eastern Slope Inn Resort, or the North Conway Grand Hotel. They are grand resorts in North Conway with great views, accommodations, and adventures. Visit parks such as Schouler Park, Echo Lake State Park, and Whitaker Woods, where you can go hiking and cross-country skiing. Ski lovers should check out the New England Ski Museum for some ski history.
Franconia
Franconia is a mountain town with many scenic mountains in its range. Explore this town by hiking to Mount Lafayette. If you are feeling adventurous, get to the peak of Cannon Mountain, where you can see the view of Echo Lake Beach from its foot. Check out the great stone face in this area, also called Old Man of the Mountain, one of the five granite cliff ledges in Cannon Mount, formed about 300 to 12000 years ago. Hike the Franconia Notch to the State Park or go on a short hike to the Artist's Bluff Loop Trailhead. Get on a horseback tour in Franconia Notch Stables. Learn some history on your trip at the New England Ski Museum and make a stop at the welcoming Franconia Inn.
Sugar Hill
Sugar Hill is one of the best towns in New Hampshire in which to reside. The name of the town is derived from the Sugar maple plants growing around the vicinity. The air in this town is clean, and it offers several recreational opportunities for visitors who love the outdoors.
During Winter, the Sunset Hill Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Center ski resort comes alive, bringing tourists great fun. Visit the Sugar Hill Historical Museum to get acquainted with the town’s stories. St. Matthew's Chapel is considered the most photographed chapel on the hill in the state. You can worship there or take memorable pictures of the building. Unwind at Schilling Beer Co. with a glass of beer and get some eats at Boo's Burgers. Retire for the day at Sugar Hill Inn.
Peterborough
In 1759, Peterborough had 50 residents, but it was not incorporated until a year later by Governor Benning. Pack Monadnock and Temple Mountain are situated within the town. Explore the mounts by hiking through the easy or challenging routes.
Visit the town’s Miller State Park, also known as the oldest state park in New Hampshire. Learn the town’s history dating back to the Abenaki people at The Monadnock Center for History & Culture. Get a drink at Coopershill or Harlow's Pub and eat at Twelve Pine or Peterborough Diner. If you are interested in breweries and quality beer, check out Post & Beam Brewing. Read a book while learning a craft or watch others do it at Peterborough Town Library. Watch theater performances at Peterborough Players. Support the locals and buy antiques at Bowerbird & Friends. Stay the night at Riverhouse or the serene Cranberry Meadow Farm.
Meredith
Meredith is another resort town along Lake Winnipesaukee. It used to be called Palmer’s town in honor of teacher Palmer until 1768 when it was renamed Meredith for Sir William Meredith, a British landowner.
Enjoy the scenic view of Lake Waukewan if you are looking for a quiet place to get away from the noise of the big cities. Kick off your vacation by playing your favorite childhood games at the American Classic Arcade Museum in Laconia, 16 to 18 minutes away from Meredith. Watch movies at BarnZ's Meredith Cinema and go shopping at Mill Falls Marketplace or Once New Vintage Wares & Salvage. Watch live shows at Interlakes Summer Theatre or Winnipesaukee Playhouse, and check out boat rentals at Meredith Marina & Boating Center so you can tour the town’s lakes. Get fresh seafood at Moulton Farm and shop handmade wines at Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery. Lodge at Mill Falls at the Lake or Meredith Inn.
Explore New Hampshire's Serenity This Weekend
Don’t miss out on some of the most scenic places in New Hampshire, which have classic experiences to offer every visitor. Some of these towns are close to each other or bordered by mountains and rivers. Take a hike or a boat to more than one town during your weekend retreat for more adventure.
