These Historic Towns In New Hampshire Are Worth Exploring
As one of the original 13 Colonies (and the ninth state to ratify the Constitution), New Hampshire is undeniably one of the most history-rich places to visit in the United States. It also happens to be home to a collection of fun-to-visit small towns that aren't just gateways to stunning scenery but also serve as a virtual window into some of the country's most fascinating historical events. From the coastal elegance of Portsmouth with its maritime history and colonial architecture to the rustic charm of Hanover, home to prestigious Dartmouth College, New Hampshire's towns are as diverse as its people. Find out more about these historic towns in New Hampshire and start exploring.
Portsmouth
Named after the historic home port of Britain's Royal Navy, Portsmouth oozes that fabulous New England charm. Founded in 1653 on the Piscataqua River and the state's oldest settlement, this Atlantic Coast town also served as the state's first capital, a role it filled from 1776 to 1784. Among the best places to visit in Portsmouth for history buffs is Strawbery Banke Museum, a 10-acre outdoor living history museum that showcases over 300 years of American history. As well as exploring restored buildings and gardens, visitors can interact with costumed interpreters to learn more about how townsfolk once lived and worked in this historic seaport. Other highlights include Market Square, the heart of downtown Portsmouth; the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse and the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum (guided tours are available); and Prescott Park, located along the Piscataqua River where outdoor concerts and festivals are held.
Exeter
Head 20 minutes south of Portsmouth, and you'll find yourself in the history-rich town of Exeter. Named after the cathedral city in England, Exeter was founded in 1638 by exiles from the nearby Massachusetts Bay colony and was to play an important role in the American Revolution. Visits should start at the superb American Independence Museum with its large collection of artifacts and memorabilia from this pivotal period of US history, as well as an extremely rare original copy of the Declaration of Independence. The museum also hosts the annual American Independence Festival with its re-enactments.
The Exeter Historical Society & Museum provides further insights into the town's past, showcasing local history through interesting exhibits and collections. Another significant landmark is the Phillips Exeter Academy, one of the oldest secondary schools in the USA. Founded in 1781, the academy's picturesque campus is open for public tours, which include its library, designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn.
Hanover
Hanover is located along the Connecticut River in New Hampshire's Upper Valley region and is the epitome of the classic New England college town. Home to Dartmouth College, a prestigious Ivy League institution founded in 1769, the campus itself is a major attraction in Hanover for its elegant Georgian architecture. Other must-sees here include Dartmouth Green; the Hood Museum of Art, one of the oldest and largest college museums in the country featuring an impressive art collection; and the Hopkins Center for the Arts, a performing arts center offering everything from music and dance to theater and film. Enjoy outdoor activities? The 2,000-plus mile-long Appalachian Trail runs through the town, while the Connecticut River presents opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
Concord
Not to be confused with the famous supersonic jet aircraft, Concord is the present-day capital of New Hampshire and a great getaway destination for history fans. Highlights include the New Hampshire State House, built in 1819, and the oldest state capitol in the US, whose original chambers are still in use (be sure to take a free guided tour). The Museum of the New Hampshire Historical Society y is also worth visiting and displays artifacts and multimedia presentations chronicling the state's history. Those interested in literary history will want to include The Pierce Manse on their list of things to do in Concord. The historic home of Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States, offers guided tours that provide a glimpse into life here during the mid-19th century.
Peterborough
A scenic 90-minute drive from Boston, Peterborough was established in 1760 and named after the Earl of Peterborough who had been granted the land in 1737. The town later gained fame as the inspiration for Thornton Wilder's 1938 play Our Town, and today attracts visitors to attractions like the MacDowell artist Colony. The oldest such facility in the United States, the colony was founded in 1907 and can be toured during public open days.
The Mariposa Museum & World Culture Center is another standout attraction with interactive exhibits that celebrate global cultures by focusing on world arts and traditions. The town's location near Mount Monadnock, one of the most climbed mountains in the world, is a plus for outdoors types and features many hiking trails. The nearby Contoocook River also provides scenic spots for kayaking and fishing.
Meredith
Its location on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee certainly boosted Meredith's reputation among travelers. Settled in 1768, Meredith soon proved popular with vacationers, drawn here for its scenery and recreational activities. The largest lake in New Hampshire, Lake Winnipesaukee, is popular for boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking, with some of the best views being over Meredith Bay from the town itself.
If you like heritage train rides (who doesn't!), book a trip aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. This family-friendly scenic rail route follows the shoreline for a full two-hour adventure that presents some of the best views in New Hampshire. For art lovers, The Meredith Sculpture Walk is a year-round outdoor gallery with over 30 sculptures by local and national artists that's fun to explore.
Keene
Located close to the state border with Massachusetts, Keene was incorporated in 1753 and is a popular day trip destination for its attractive historic Main Street. Often cited as one of the widest such streets in the United States, this tree-lined thoroughfare stretches from the park-like Central Square to the grounds of Keene State College and is fun to explore on foot. Standouts along the route include the photogenic Colonial Theatre, a restored movie palace dating back to 1924 and used as a venue for live performances and concerts.
Keene is also known for its fun festivals, with the Keene Pumpkin Festival being one of the best. A previous Guinness World Record holder for the most lit jack-o'-lanterns in one place, this fun Halloween event features thousands of carved pumpkins, live music, and family-friendly activities. For nature lovers, Keene offers easy access to outdoor adventures, including the Cheshire Rail Trail, perfect for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.
America's rich history and heritage are everywhere evident in New Hampshire, especially in its many attractive small towns. From Portsmouth's maritime legacy to Concord's historic government roots, these communities exude that unique New England character and play a part in attracting upwards of 13 million tourists who visit the "Granite State" each year. Learn more with a visit to these seven historic New Hampshire towns worth exploring.
