7 Towns in New Hampshire with Vibrant Downtown Areas

Situated in the northern region of New England, picturesque New Hampshire is known for its large expanses of wilderness, which is lush and green in the spring and summer months, a fiery mix of gold and red in the autumn, and transformed into a winter wonderland during the winter. In addition to miles and miles of pristine forests, New Hampshire boasts many small, quaint towns with vibrant downtown areas filled with specialty boutiques, antique shops, tasty eateries, and charming cafes. The next time you find yourself in this great state, check out one of these seven cute towns and their bustling downtown areas.

Exeter

The charming small town of Exeter is known as New Hampshire's Revolutionary War Capital and is located on the scenic Squamscott River in the state's southeast region. Exeter's biggest claim to fame is that Abraham Lincoln gave a speech there in 1860, and the town also boasts several historic sites and landmarks worth exploring, such as the American Independence Museum, located in the 1721 Ladd-Gilman House. The town also has a lively downtown area, where you can take a relaxing stroll along the river or have an al fresco lunch with a view at the pretty Robert H. Stewart Waterfront Park. The Swasey Pavilion, also known as the town's bandstand as it hosts live shows throughout the summer, is at the center of the historic downtown. If you want to learn more about the town's exciting past, walk over to the Exeter Historical Society, which dates back to 1928. Wind down with a local beer at the Sea Dog Brewing Company after exploring the rest of downtown.

North Conway

Situated in the breathtaking Mount Washington Valley, North Conway is a quaint mountain town that is revered for its spectacular skiing opportunities. Although North Conway offers many things, from exciting outdoor excursions to historical landmarks and cultural attractions, its downtown area is the destination's crown jewel. Downtown North Conway's historic streets are lined with specialty boutiques and eateries serving local cuisine, such as Peach’s Restaurant and Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub.

Visitors can also enjoy a sweet treat at the vintage candy counter at Zeb's General Store. After browsing the downtown area, hop on the North Conway Scenic Railroad, which dates back 50 years and takes riders on an almost 5-hour mountain adventure. Depending on the time of year you take the tour, you'll see a lush, green forest landscape or snow-capped mountain peaks.

Meredith

Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire's lake country, the lovely small town of Meredith is surrounded by natural beauty. If you're visiting during the warm summer months, spend time boating or fishing on Lake Winnipesaukee, Lake Squam, or Lake Winnisquam or lounging on one of the area's sandy beaches.

Meredith's history began in the early 1800s when the mill town drew laborers from all over. Today, the charming, small town has a welcoming atmosphere and a downtown worthy of at least a few days of exploration. If you want to sample both local wine and cuisine in one spot, head to downtown's Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery. On a nice day, spend some time strolling through the Mills Falls Marketplace, an open-air waterfront boardwalk filled with shops, vibrant flower gardens, and even a 40-foot waterfall, which is an ideal spot for photo ops.

Wolfeboro

The North Hampshire waterfront gem of Wolfeboro is known as "America's Old Summer Resort" and has been drawing in vacationing families and weekend travelers for many years. Located on beautiful Lake Winnipesaukee, Wolfeboro is the ideal getaway spot for tourists wanting to go boating or try their luck with the local fish.

After spending a day out on the water, make your way to downtown Wolfeboro, where you'll find a collection of unique boutiques, antique shops, cafes and restaurants, and art galleries. Some hotspots along Main Street include Nolan's Brick Oven Bistro for a meal and the Wolfeboro Inn for staying the night. Moreover, Cate Park is the premier outdoor destination for visitors wanting to take a walk along the waterfront, as it offers breathtaking views of the lake and marina. The best part is that it is within easy walking distance of downtown, so you don't have to choose between two fun activities.

Harrisville

Another quaint water-powered mill town in southwest New Hampshire, welcoming Harrisville, is a history enthusiast's paradise. The historic district was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1977, and visitors will find an abundance of beautiful, restored homes featuring Greek Revival architecture. Downtown Harrisville is a charming district that's home to the Chesire Mills complex, which dates back to the 1840s. The complex features a historic granite mill and workers' cottages, allowing visitors to step back in time. While strolling through downtown, check out the Harrisville General Store, a grocery store and eatery that's been in operation since 1838. If you want to take back a keepsake from this town, stop by Harrisville Designs Inc. along Main Street, where one can find fin yarns and handiwork.

Portsmouth

Pretty Portsmouth is a vibrant and historic seaport that was founded in the 1600s. Today, the charming town pays homage to its rich maritime history with its attractions, landmarks, and groups, including the Strawbery Banke Museum, the Langdon and Warner Houses, and the Portsmouth Historical Society. Along with these spots, the community features a quintessential New England downtown district, with the lively Historic Market Square in its heart. Set off on a downtown walking tour from the square, or go on an ocean adventure by booking a cruise with Portsmouth Harbor Cruises. To buy the ultimate sea-inspired treasure to take home, head over to Scallops on Market Street, which is a locally owned shop filled with seashells, minerals, and handmade jewelry and trinkets.

Dover

The sweet town of Dover is also located in New Hampshire's eye-catching seacoast region and offers visitors the best of all worlds. Although it has many big city amenities, it has still maintained its quaint, small-town charm. The best place to experience all that Dover offers is downtown, where the Cocheco River meanders, making a perfect backdrop for scenic walks, pictures, and outdoor meals. If you're traveling with kids, don't miss the Children's Museum, which has a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities to keep little ones busy for hours. As an extra treat, cross the street to Lickee's & Chew's Candies & Creamery, a unique medieval-themed ice cream parlor and dessert cafe. Also located in downtown Dover, the Woodman Museum offers a bit of everything, from natural science to art exhibits. For those lucky enough to visit Dover during the summer months, the Cochecho Arts Festival, an arts and music special event, awaits.

Wrapping Up

Although New Hampshire, and New England in general, is typically known for its rich maritime history and seaside views, the region's small, welcoming towns really bring visitors back year after year. These communities typically center around vibrant, bustling downtown districts filled with unique shopping and dining opportunities. They're also the perfect places to find handmade and locally produced gifts, food, beer, and other items to take home at the end of your journey.