9 Underrated Small Towns to Explore in New Hampshire

As one of the most picturesque states in New England, New Hampshire is a hidden gem that attracts visitors from near and far. Known for its charming small towns, stunning natural landscapes, and rich history, the state offers a unique and inviting atmosphere. While cities like Manchester and Nashua are often highlighted, New Hampshire also has many lesser-known towns that provide an authentic and unforgettable experience. These quaint towns welcome visitors to discover the true essence of the Granite State, from the serene lakes and rivers of the Lakes Region to the majestic peaks of the White Mountains. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, New Hampshire's small towns feature diverse activities and attractions that will captivate and inspire.

Concord

Centered on the Merrimack River, Concord captivates visitors with its rich blend of natural and historical attractions. For nature lovers, the Susan N. McLane Audubon Center and Silk Farm Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal destination. This sanctuary features diverse habitats and walking trails, with opportunities to observe native wildlife and learn about local ecosystems. The center also hosts educational programs, making it perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. Carter Hill Orchard is another highlight, especially in the fall. Visitors can pick their own apples, enjoy fresh cider, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This family-owned orchard combines agricultural charm with recreational activities, providing a quintessential New England experience.

Another must-visit is the Capitol Center for the Arts, a premier venue showcasing various performances from Broadway shows to live music. This cultural hub enriches the city's vibrant arts scene and provides entertainment for all ages.

Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a charming town full of history, culture, and scenic beauty. A visit to the Strawbery Banke Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past. The museum is unique among outdoor history museums in preserving a complete neighborhood’s evolution over 350 years. For maritime enthusiasts, the USS Albacore Museum is a must-see. This museum features the USS Albacore, a pioneering research submarine. Visitors can explore the vessel’s innovative design and understand its role in advancing naval technology.

Market Square is the heart of downtown Portsmouth, bustling with shops, cafes, and historic architecture. It's the perfect place for a meal, with restaurants like The Friendly Toast and Cure awaiting exploration. Just a short walk from downtown, Prescott Park boasts a beautiful waterfront retreat with stunning gardens and picnic areas. Every section of the park is beautiful, from the North Pier area along the coast to the Trial Gardens near Mechanic Street.

Salem

Situated in Rockingham County, Salem is an amazing town often overlooked by tourists. Anyone who loves a thrill will enjoy this town, especially when visiting Canobie Lake Park. The park has 52 rides, games, live entertainment, and other attractions. Afterward, one can relax with a beer and delicious food at the Border Brewery, a small microbrewery that makes fantastic, fresh beer and has an excellent BBQ. Do check out their Jalapeno IPA and Maple Porter while you are there.

For those who prefer exploring something unique, America’s Stonehenge is a great place. It is a maze of man-made chambers, walls, and ceremonial meeting places, and it is supposedly over 4,000 years old, making it one of the oldest man-made constructions in the United States. Apart from these attractions, The Mall at Rockingham Park is a premium shopping destination for lovely souvenirs.

Keene

Keene is one of the most distinctive and picturesque towns in New Hampshire, filled with history, stunning natural landscapes, and classic New England architecture. For ski lovers, the first attraction, Granite Gorge Mountain Park, will be a definite hit. It's a beautiful place for freestyle skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and downhill mountain biking. The park also hosts events and activities like trail and mountain biking camps and local craft beer spotlights for the family to enjoy affordably. Another fantastic natural attraction is the Chesterfield Gorge Natural Area, featuring the 0.7-mile Wilderness Loop Trail that follows Wilde Brook through the gorge. This easy-to-moderate hike allows visitors to admire the gorge's rock formations, brooks, waterfalls, and cascades. The loop trail can be completed in under an hour, making it a perfect short adventure for nature enthusiasts.

Those interested in getting wet adore Spofford Lake, a beautiful spot in Keene. The lake's crystal-clear waters and largely shallow areas make it perfect for swimming. Whether picnicking, swimming, or boating, this lake will indeed please. Back in town, families can check out the Cheshire Children's Museum. The museum features interactive exhibits, themed playrooms, and toddler-friendly areas, ensuring young visitors a fun and educational experience.

Hampton

Hampton is a vibrant coastal town known for its stunning beaches and lively boardwalk. Hampton Beach State Park, located at the southeastern tip of New Hampshire, is a popular destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a pristine sandy beach stretching for miles along the Atlantic Ocean, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and RV camping. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking in designated areas with tables and grills, perfect for a seaside meal. If you prefer a less crowded beach, then head to North Beach. There is plenty of room on this beach to stretch out as a family, and the waves here are great for surfing and skimboarding.

Another must-visit attraction for ocean enthusiasts is the Blue Ocean Discovery Center, located near Hampton Beach. This interactive center hosts engaging exhibits focused on marine life, coastal ecosystems, and environmental conservation. One can explore touch tanks displaying tide pools with animals local to the region. Apart from all these, the Ocean Gaming Casino is a fun place to hang out and play roulette. The poker rooms and casino here boast dozens of tables with scenic views of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.

Laconia

Laconia is a charming town between Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam, offering stunning views and vibrant outdoor activities. The town’s natural attractions are the most beautiful places to explore. Weirs Beach is a popular destination known for its sandy shores, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and a boardwalk filled with arcades and shops. Nearby, Ahern State Park provides a peaceful retreat with wooded trails and picnic areas. Apart from that, Lake Winnisquam is a perfect location for those seeking a more laid-back, quieter adventure.

For a more towny experience, one can visit Winnipesaukee Pier, located at Weirs Beach. This historic spot entertains visitors with its vibrant atmosphere, featuring shops, dining, and live entertainment. It's an ideal place to enjoy stunning lake views. Further inland, the Laconia Antique Center is a must-visit place. It houses a diverse collection of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items, providing a glimpse into the past and a place to take back some souvenirs as a memory.

Derry

Located in Rockingham County, Derry is an underrated town with a rich history. History enthusiasts visiting town head straight to the Robert Frost Farm State Historic Site. The farm offers a glimpse into the life of the renowned poet Robert Frost, who lived here from 1900 to 1911. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, wander in the fields and woods behind the house, and follow the new self-guided nature and poetry trail. Taylor Mill State Historic Site is another notable attraction. This historic sawmill, built in the 19th century, provides visitors with an educational experience about early American industry.

For wine enthusiasts and golfers, The Links at LaBelle Winery is a unique destination. This winery offers a beautifully maintained nine-hole golf course, delightful wine tastings, and delicious dining options, making it an ideal relaxing spot. With all these wonderful mixes of historical and recreational attractions, Derry makes it a delightful destination in southern New Hampshire.

Conway

Conway is a year-round resort town situated at the edge of the scenic White Mountains in New Hampshire. The town features excellent ski resorts, diverse shopping, great restaurants, and beautiful wilderness areas. Cranmore Mountain Resort is the main attraction in Conway, providing a starting point for new adventures. Hiking, tubing, skiing, and sightseeing are just a few ways to have a blast here. For more sightseeing, one can hop on the Conway Scenic Railroad, offering train rides around Conway. This heritage railroad will mesmerize you with its scenic train rides through Mount Washington Valley and Crawford Notch.

After the outdoor exploration, most visitors adore spending time at Diana’s Baths. It is a series of small waterfalls fed by Big Attitash Mountain. During the summer, baths here are perfect for children and adults to enjoy nature’s tranquility. The town also boasts a diverse shopping scene, from charming local boutiques to larger retail outlets. Whether you're looking for charming gifts or a delicious meal, Conway has something to satisfy every taste.

Guilford

Located on the southern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, Gilford might seem like a small town, but don't let that fool you, as there is a vibrant community and a host of attractions to make it a perfect tourist destination. Gunstock Mountain Resort, nestled in the Belknap Mountain range, provides stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee and year-round activities. In the winter, visitors can indulge in skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. The resort also features a mountain coaster, camping facilities, and extensive hiking and biking trails, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts in any season. Apart from that, Ellacoya State Park is home to a sandy beach and picturesque views of the Sandwich and Ossipee Mountains. Visitors come to the park to enjoy swimming, picnicking, and camping.

Back on its paved streets, the town holds various events all year round, including summer craft fairs and winter ice fishing derbies. Thus, it's easy to participate and feel connected to the community. Even if there aren’t any events, shoppers can also enjoy the Tanger Outlets in nearby Tilton, which provides a wide variety of stores to explore.

Wrapping Up

These nine underrated gems across New Hampshire's diverse landscape each deserve a closer look. They embody the allure of the underappreciated while showcasing the Granite State's variety. From Concord's Susan N. McLane Audubon Center and Silk Farm Wildlife Sanctuary to Gilford's Ellacoya State Park, where sandy beaches and picturesque views captivate every visitor, these towns offer fresh experiences far from the beaten path. So come explore and fall in love with New Hampshire, just as so many others have before.